FromSoftware’s Elden Ring is packed with hidden stories, branching NPC quests, and rewards that can shape your journey through the Lands Between. While weapons and armor often steal the spotlight, several questlines also grant rare or unique runes—bonuses that go beyond the usual loot drops. For players looking to enrich their arsenal without simply grinding, these NPC paths are worth following from start to finish.

Below are nine memorable NPC questlines that stand out for their rune rewards, along with tips on how to see them through.

1. Ranni the Witch

Ranni’s quest is one of the game’s most elaborate, spanning multiple regions and bosses. Completing her story grants access to the Age of Stars ending and a set of runes tied to her dark, moonlit fate. While the journey is long, the rune reward adds both lore depth and practical value for late-game builds.

2. Fia, Deathbed Companion

Fia’s melancholic questline leads deep into the underground depths, culminating in a confrontation that reveals her true purpose. Players who follow her path can acquire unique Deathbed Runes, perfect for builds that balance damage with survivability.

3. D, Hunter of the Dead

D’s short but dramatic story intertwines with Fia’s. By assisting him in hunting the undead and later retrieving his armor and items, you unlock a rare Hunter’s Rune. It’s a nice addition for faith-based characters.

4. Brother Corhyn

The traveling priest offers incantations and guidance, but if you follow his path through Altus Plateau and the Mountaintops of the Giants, you can earn a rare Holy Rune. It’s a subtle but powerful upgrade for players who rely on divine spells.

5. Bloody Finger Hunter Yura

Yura’s quest revolves around hunting down dangerous invaders. Completing his arc rewards a rune associated with blood arts, ideal for those running dexterity and bleed-focused builds.

6. Millicent

Helping Millicent battle the Scarlet Rot not only earns her trust but also unlocks a unique Rot Rune. This is one of the more challenging questlines, but for status ailment specialists, the payoff is worth the effort.

7. Goldmask

The stoic Goldmask works closely with Brother Corhyn. By pursuing his philosophical quest to its end, you obtain the Mending Rune of Perfect Order—a critical key for unlocking an alternate ending.

8. Gowry

This eccentric sorcerer ties directly into Millicent’s fate. While Gowry’s rune reward isn’t as potent as others, it provides a rare buff that can be situationally valuable in boss fights.

9. Tanith of Volcano Manor

Tanith’s assassination contracts grant access to multiple rune rewards, including the Taker’s Rune, which can restore health on defeating enemies. It’s a strong choice for aggressive melee builds.

Why These Runes Matter

Unlike standard loot, these unique runes can alter endings, shift build strategies, and even enhance certain farming routes. For players aiming to optimize without excessive grinding, they’re a smart alternative to simply farming mobs or hunting for cheap elden ring runes from other sources. Similarly, pairing these with cheap Elden Ring Items—whether found in-game or traded—can give you a significant edge without breaking immersion.

Mastering NPC questlines takes patience, attention to dialogue, and sometimes a willingness to revisit old areas. The payoff is not only the runes themselves, but also a richer understanding of the Lands Between’s tangled stories. If you’re planning another run through Elden Ring, consider prioritizing these nine characters. Their rewards may reshape the way you play.