What to know
- Kidnapping happens when a Jailer enemy traps Hornet in a cage.
- Zones with Jailer spawns include Deep Docks, Greymoor, Hunter’s March, and Bilewater.
- If you kill the Jailer early, it may not respawn and you can miss the event.
- Once inside The Slab, you must escape without your gear before progressing further.
In Silksong, the kidnapping mechanic is tied to special enemies called Jailers. These cage-carrying bugs have the ability to capture Hornet if you let them grab her. Instead of defeating them, you need to deliberately allow the capture. This results in Hornet being locked in a cage and transported to The Slab, a prison area where you begin stripped of your usual cloak and weapons.
The event is optional. You can access The Slab later using keys, but the kidnapping method provides a unique introduction to this location.
Where to find Jailer enemies
Jailer spawn points are scattered across multiple zones. Players have reported successful kidnappings in:
| Zone | Location detail | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Deep Docks | Eastern side tunnels | Most common capture area |
| Greymoor | West of a Bellway station | Known Jailer patrol route |
| Hunter’s March | Near the bench heading toward Far Fields | Reliable capture spot |
| Bilewater | Lower, deeper areas of the zone | Less common but still possible |
If you eliminate the Jailer in these areas, the opportunity for kidnapping may disappear.
How to get kidnapped step by step
Step #1: Enter a zone with a known Jailer spawn
Head to Deep Docks, Greymoor, Hunter’s March, or Bilewater. These are the areas most likely to contain Jailer enemies.
Step #2: Locate the Jailer enemy
Look for a bug carrying a cage. They stand out from standard enemies due to their slow, deliberate movement and the cage mechanism on their back.
Step #3: Do not attack
Avoid killing the Jailer. Stay close and allow it to approach Hornet. If you damage or kill it, the kidnapping won’t trigger.
Step #4: Allow capture
Stand near the Jailer until it traps Hornet in its cage. Once caught, a cutscene will play, and Hornet will be transported into The Slab.
How to escape The Slab after kidnapping
Once inside The Slab, Hornet has no cloak or weapon. The escape involves platforming, puzzle solving, and fighting once you reclaim your gear.
Step #1: Leave your starting cell
Look for a weak wall or opening and push forward into the first set of chambers. Avoid traps and basic enemies until you find the next section. Meet Grindle NPC in the Slab.
Step #2: Find the Key of Indolent
Explore until you locate a chained object containing this key. Use it to open a locked gate deeper in The Slab.
Step #3: Rest at the bench
Reach a bench checkpoint where you can save progress. Near this area, you can also find the map of The Slab, making navigation easier.
Step #4: Survive the ambush event
A wave of enemies will attack. Use traps in the environment, such as pressure plates and blades, to your advantage since your combat options are limited.
Step #5: Climb the vertical spiked shaft
Carefully ascend a long section filled with spikes. Precision jumps and dashes are critical here to avoid being knocked back.
Step #6: Reclaim Hornet’s gear
You will reach a chamber where Hornet retrieves her cloak and weapon. From this point forward, combat becomes easier. Defeat nearby enemies to obtain the Key of Heretic.
Step #7: Open the final gates
Use the Key of Heretic to unlock sealed doors. Push forward toward the Bellway station.
Step #8: Exit through the Bellway
At the end of The Slab, you’ll reach a Bellway fast-travel station. You’ll need Rosaries to activate it, but this serves as the final escape point.
Tips and alternate access
- The kidnapping mechanic is optional. If you miss it, The Slab can also be accessed later via keys, including the Apostate Key.
- Players often leave Jailer enemies alive intentionally to preserve the chance of being kidnapped.
- Once The Slab is unlocked via normal means, Jailer captures may no longer occur.
- Practice your movement before attempting the escape, as The Slab’s platforming sections are especially punishing.
Final thoughts on kidnapping in Silksong
Getting kidnapped in Silksong isn’t just a novelty—it’s a memorable way to experience The Slab for the first time. The challenge of escaping without your equipment adds tension and variety to the gameplay. Whether you allow it to happen or choose to bypass it, the mechanic deepens Silksong’s world and gives you a fresh challenge that rewards patience and skill.
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