After beating Morgott, you attempt to enter the Erdtree only to be blocked by some vines, after realizing it was futile you head back to a grace to rest

“Hello again… old friend.”

You look up and see your old Maiden, Melina who had left after you reached Leyndell Royal Capital

Melina: “Allow me a moment to converse with you… You were unable to enter the Erdtree no? Prevented by the mantle of barbs. The thorns are impenetrable. A husk of the Erdtree’s being, that spurns all that exists without. The only way to stand before the Elden Ring… and become the Elden Lord, is to past the thorns… my purpose serves to aid in that very act. So i’d like you to undertake a new journey, with me. To the flame of ruin, far above the clouds. Upon the snowy mountain top of the giants… then i can set the Erdtree aflame. And guide you. Down the path to becoming Elden Lord.”