Set centuries before the events of Dark Souls, this tale draws the player back into the distant past through the power of Manus, Father of the Abyss, a primeval human who was resurrected and tortured by the sorcerers of Oolacile in their reckless attempt to unlock his dark potential. His power spiraled out of control, giving rise to the Abyss, a spreading void of darkness that threatens to swallow the entire land of Oolacile. In desperation, the golden city of Anor Londo dispatched the renowned Knight Artorias to slay Manus and stem the tide, but even he was overwhelmed by the encroaching dark. Possessing the rare gift of Humanity, the player is better equipped to resist the Abyss, and must venture into the corrupted realm to confront the horror at its source.