Enter the north eastern cottage.

Don't get surprised by the guards in the niches.

Bring down this armour for an axe.

Find a cross in the bedroom.

Go through here and find the bronze key in the veranda.

Find a 1-up behind a nearby secret door. You may want to leave it for the time being.

Enter the south western cottage.

Do away with the guards in the hallway.

Find a cross in the bedroom.

Go through here and find the silver key in the veranda.

Continue.