Stuck with Hornet’s curse in Hollow Knight: Silksong? The Infestation Operation wish is your key to freedom! This crucial side quest connects directly to the Rite of Rebirth storyline and requires careful navigation through the dangerous Bellhart region. Let’s break down everything you need to lift that pesky curse and get back to exploring Pharloom.

Hollow Knight Infestation Operation Quick Reference

Quest Detail	Information
Quest Type	Side Quest (Connected to Rite of Rebirth)
Location	Bellhart Region
Key NPCs	Doctor Yarnaby, Crull, Benjin
Required Items	Steel Spines (2 pieces)
Cost	260 Rosaries total
Reward	Witch’s Crest + Curse Removal
Alternative	Keep curse for Cursed Child ending

Understanding the Curse Situation

Before diving into the solution, here’s what led to your predicament: While exploring the Bilewater area, picking up the Twisted Bud triggers the Rite of Rebirth Wish. After talking with Greyroot in the Shellwood region, Hornet becomes cursed – and that’s where our Infestation Operation begins.

This isn’t just a minor inconvenience; the curse affects gameplay mechanics and potentially your ending, making this quest essential for most players.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Phase 1: Finding Doctor Yarnaby

Your quest starts in the Bellhart region, where you’ll encounter Doctor Yarnaby. Talking with him will kick off the follow-up quest, Infestation Operation, and he’ll explain exactly what you need to gather the Steel Spines for the operation.

Location Tips:

Navigate to Bellhart region from your current position
Look for medical equipment and surgical setup
Doctor Yarnaby is unmistakable with his distinctive appearance

Phase 2: Locating Crull and Benjin

Here’s where things get interesting. You will need to obtain the Steel Spines from two NPCs called Crull and Benjin, who you can find in the Sinner’s Road area.

Navigation Route:

Head right from Doctor Yarnaby – this is your starting direction
Enter Sinner’s Road area – watch for environmental changes
Navigate platforming challenges – expect some tricky jumps
Reach the Hanging Jail Cells – your destination marker

Pro Tip: The platforming sections can be challenging, so take your time and use Hornet’s full moveset to navigate safely.

Phase 3: The Purchase Transaction

Once you locate Crull and Benjin in their jail cell location, it’s time to make the deal. You will have to spend 260 Rosaries to obtain the Steel Spines from them.

Important Notes:

Ensure you have 260 Rosaries before attempting this quest
The Steel Spines come in two pieces from both NPCs
This is a one-time transaction – no refunds or second chances

Phase 4: The Operation

Return to Doctor Yarnaby with both Steel Spine pieces. Take them back to the Doctor in Bellhart, and he will operate on you, removing the curse and completing the Infestation Operation wish.

Rewards Upon Completion:

Curse removal – return to normal gameplay mechanics
Witch’s Crest – valuable item reward
Quest completion satisfaction

Strategic Decision: Keep or Remove the Curse?

Here’s where Hollow Knight: Silksong gets interesting. You have a choice that affects your entire playthrough experience.

Option 1: Remove the Curse (Recommended)

Complete normal gameplay experience
Access to standard game mechanics
Receive Witch’s Crest reward
Continue with typical story progression

Option 2: Keep the Curse (Advanced Players)

If you decide not to remove the curse and somehow manage to beat the final boss of the game, you will unlock the Cursed Child ending. This creates a completely different narrative experience but requires exceptional skill to complete the game while cursed.

Essential Tips for Success

Resource Management

Farm Rosaries beforehand – 260 is a significant amount
Stock up on healing items for the challenging platforming sections
Save your game before major quest decisions

Combat Preparation

The Sinner’s Road area contains dangerous enemies
Practice your platforming skills before attempting the jail cell section
Consider upgrading your abilities before tackling this quest

For more Hollow Knight: Silksong guides and indie gaming strategies, explore our comprehensive gaming section for expert tips and complete walkthroughs.

What Comes Next?

Completing the Infestation Operation opens up new possibilities in your Silksong journey. With the curse lifted and the Witch’s Crest in hand, you’ll be ready to tackle more challenging areas and continue Hornet’s epic adventure through Pharloom.

Play Hollow Knight: Silksong when it releases and stay updated with Team Cherry’s official announcements for the latest development news and release information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How much do the Steel Spines cost and where exactly do I find Crull and Benjin?

A1: The Steel Spines cost 260 Rosaries total from both Crull and Benjin, who are located in the Hanging Jail Cells area of Sinner’s Road. Head right from Doctor Yarnaby and navigate through platforming challenges to reach them.

Q2: Should I remove the curse or keep it for a different ending?

A2: For most players, removing the curse is recommended as it restores normal gameplay and rewards the Witch’s Crest. However, keeping the curse unlocks the Cursed Child ending if you can beat the final boss while cursed – a significant challenge for experienced players only.