Knee-Deep in the Ground is one of the earliest quests that quietly tests how well you understand navigation, combat pacing, and NPC assistance in Of Ash and Steel. The game does not highlight the path or mark objectives, so the quest can feel more confusing than it actually is. This guide walks you through each step—from finding Mix to safely recovering all three buried chests—using clean routes and reliable survival tactics.
Quest Overview
Mix, an NPC resting among a set of ruined walls, tasks you with unearthing three buried treasures scattered across Bellwright. Each site is guarded by creatures stronger than most early-game players can handle, so your success depends on luring enemies to friendly NPCs or avoiding fights entirely.
Before setting out, make sure you have:
- Three shovels (one for each dig spot)
- Space in your inventory for consumables and gold
- Daytime visibility if you want nearby NPCs active and helping
How to Start the Knee Deep in the Ground Quest
From Nerest’s House, head toward the puddle in the center clearing and take the left-side path. This trail leads to a cluster of broken stone walls where a lone figure—Mix—leans against a brick surface.
Speak with him to begin Knee-Deep in the Ground. You’ll be asked to dig up three treasures located in:
- A cave in the hollow
- Behind a windmill in the abandoned village
- The ruins near the Woodcutter’s Camp
Each area has enemies blocking the dig sites, so your approach matters.
Treasure 1 — Cave in the Hollow
How to Reach the Cave
Stand facing Mix and follow the left-side trail. The path bends toward a rocky hollow where the cave entrance sits on the western ledge.
What’s Inside
A Woodwalker patrols the cave interior—slow but extremely durable. Fighting it straight-up is risky this early.
Safest Strategy
- Step inside long enough to pull aggro, then immediately retreat.
- Lead the Woodwalker back to Mix, who can eliminate it quickly.
If Mix gets knocked out mid-fight, the creature usually returns to the cave with reduced health, allowing you to finish it.
Where to Dig
Walk to the back of the cave where bones and loose dirt cover the floor. Dig here to reveal the first chest.
Reward: Camp Supplies, 3 Torches, 30 Gold
Treasure 2 — Behind the Windmill in the Abandoned Village
Navigating to the Village
Return to Mix, face him, and take the right-hand path. This trail leads across a wooden bridge toward the abandoned village.
Move straight ahead until you reach the shack with the faint purple glow, then turn left toward the windmill standing at the far edge of the settlement.
Enemy to Expect
A Young Woodwalker roams near the mill. It is weaker than the cave monster but still worth pulling toward nearby NPCs if you’re under-leveled.
Where to Dig
Walk behind the windmill, near the cliffside. A patch of bare dirt marks the dig spot.
Reward: 2 Lockpicks, 50 Gold
Treasure 3 — Ruins Near the Woodcutter’s Camp
This is the trickiest part of the quest due to both navigation and the strength of nearby enemies.
Step 1: Reach the River Crossing
From the windmill, head right, follow the path past the fishing spot, and continue until you reach a wooden bridge. Cross it to reach the opposite bank.
Step 2: Climb Toward the Camp
Go left after crossing the bridge until you reach the fallen plank. Cross it, then sprint-jump to the higher ledge. Even if you slip, you can climb your way back up using the rocks.
Continue upward until you reach the Woodcutter’s Camp.
Step 3: Defeat Rover (Safely)
A powerful beast named Rover guards the area near the ruins. Rover cannot realistically be beaten in a fair fight at this stage.
Safe Method:
- Aggro Rover and lure him directly into the Woodcutter’s Camp.
- Multiple woodcutters will easily overpower him.
- Try to land the final hit to secure full EXP.
Reward from Rover: 10 Raw Meat
Step 4: Clear Remaining Rats
Two or more rat enemies roam the ruins. Like the earlier creatures, lure them toward the workers for quick cleanup.
Step 5: Digging Location
Climb the stone steps into the ruins. Enter the interior, turn left, and look for the dirt patch inside a small chamber.
Reward: 5 Peasant Lass, 100 Gold
Completing the Knee Deep in the Ground Quest
Return to Mix with all three treasures uncovered. He’ll give you his cut of the profits and reward you with:
- 90 Gold
- 300 EXP
Players with 10 INS or higher can negotiate for a better personal share, though this is optional.
Pro Tips for Players
- Do the quest during the day so Mix and the Woodcutters can assist in combat.
- Always pull monsters to an NPC instead of fighting directly—this quest is built around that mechanic.
- Check ruins for extra weapons, including an Old Claymore near where Mix stands.
- Carry extra shovels in case you miss a dig spot or want to explore more buried treasures later. Play Now!
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