To unlock certain skills in Phantom Blade Zero, such as Fluid Form Level 2, Quick Remedy, or Opening Strike, players will need to acquire Banyan Hearts. The first of these crucial items can be found near the end of the Crimson Forest area.
After activating the Parting Mists bell and defeating the boss Stone Fist Iron Fever, players should proceed to the island directly ahead of the bell, which features a prominent tree. Interacting with this tree will transport the player into The Banyan Tree's trial realm. This trial requires defeating three waves of enemies, culminating in a rematch against Jing Ye, the bleed bandit boss previously encountered in the Crimson Forest. If a player falls during the trial, they can return to a nearby bell to resume progress. Completing each stage of the trial saves progress, allowing players to restart at the next phase upon death.
For the fight against Jing Ye, equipping the Cavalrybane accessory for increased damage when he is mounted, and the Shieldbreaker talisman found in Weeping Creek Valley to more quickly break his shield, is recommended. Players should focus on drawing Jing Ye away from any additional enemies that spawn, dodging his bleed projectiles as blocking them still inflicts bleed, and using the Dread Axe Phantom Edge to break his shield. Charging a full attack with the Phantom Edge immediately after he is dismounted is an effective strategy. A video demonstrating the boss fight is available for those who continue to struggle, though players can also return later to attempt the trial again. Upon defeating Jing Ye, the Banyan Heart will be awarded.
Finding the first Banyan Heart initiates The Heart of the Banyan collectible quest, which tasks players with locating four additional Banyan Trees. The second Banyan Tree is situated in Pangzhen during its second chapter, near the Lion Dance Hall in the northwest section of the area. The third Banyan Tree is located close to the beginning of the Mandate Encampment. Another can be found on an island in Meigu Lake. The final tree is on the main path through the Mountain of Imprisonment, but reaching it requires the Illusory Pipa item.
Alternatively, Banyan Hearts can be purchased from Quickhand Zhang for 100,000 at his den in the Village of Lu and onwards. It appears he offers a new Banyan Heart for each new den discovered, though this may be tied to the completion of his treasure hunt quests.