Hollow Knight: Silksong is filled with decisions that impact Hornet’s journey, and one of the earliest choices you’ll face comes after defeating the Bell Beast. In the far top-right corner of The Marrow, you’ll discover a prison holding an NPC named Grindle. The game doesn’t force you to act, so many players wonder: Should you free the prisoner?
This guide breaks down everything we know about Grindle, the rewards for freeing him, and whether there are any risks involved.
Where to Find the Prisoner
After taking down the Bell Beast, head to the right of the arena. Keep moving through the connected rooms until you spot a building marked with a unique sign — this is the Marrow Prison. Inside, you’ll meet Grindle, who claims he was locked up for “a little light thievery.”
To open his cell, simply strike the door. Hornet can also climb above the cell to access an important reward.
What Happens If You Free Grindle?
Freeing Grindle has multiple immediate and long-term effects:
1. Unlock the Straight Pin Tool
Above his cell, you’ll find the Straight Pin, a Tool that lets Hornet fire a forward projectile dealing normal damage. This early offensive upgrade helps with ranged chip damage, especially against airborne or evasive enemies.
2. Grindle Becomes a Vendor
Once released, Grindle won’t just vanish. If you leave the prison, rest at a bench, and return later, you’ll find him offering secrets and information in exchange for Rosaries (the game’s currency).
- The first hint costs 10 Rosaries.
- Each subsequent secret increases in price.
These secrets can reveal upcoming zones, boss fights, and world lore.
3. Adds a Layer of Replay Value
Grindle’s information shop functions differently from traditional merchants. Instead of selling items, he acts as an intelligence broker, giving curious players optional guidance while keeping exploration rewarding.
Are There Any Downsides?
So far, freeing Grindle seems safe. His role provides useful tools and optional guidance without clear penalties in the early game. However, because Silksong emphasizes mystery and evolving world states, some fans speculate that Grindle’s actions might influence later story beats.
At present, there’s no evidence of betrayal or negative consequences, but Team Cherry is known for surprises — so the full picture might only emerge after players push further into Pharloom.
Should You Free Him?
For most players, the answer is yes:
- You gain an early offensive Tool.
- You unlock access to secrets and world hints.
- There are no known risks in the early hours.
Unless later updates reveal hidden consequences, freeing Grindle is a net benefit for Hornet’s adventure.
The choice to free Grindle highlights Silksong’s emphasis on player agency. Decisions feel small at first — one thief in one cell — but they ripple out through mechanics and story. By choosing to help him, you’re rewarded with both practical upgrades and new ways to engage with Pharloom’s secrets.
So, when you reach The Marrow prison, don’t hesitate: free the thief, grab the Straight Pin, and see what knowledge Grindle is willing to sell. Play Now!
