Elden Ring: Blasphemous Blade Walkthrough

This is a base-game-only Elden Ring walkthrough built around one dominant build path. Every recommendation, route decision, and boss strategy is optimized for a single goal: make you as powerful as possible, as fast as possible, with the lowest possible friction.

This is not a wiki. It does not present multiple options and leave you to decide. It tells you exactly what to do, when to do it, and why it matters.

Who This Is For

You played Elden Ring near launch, got deep into the game, and either stalled out or drifted away. Now you want to come back, start fresh, and crush it. You want a clear path to dominance without wading through build debates, completionist bloat, or vague exploration advice.

You are comfortable using Spirit Ashes, Mimic Tear, and every strong tool the game offers. You want to win, and you want it to feel easy.

The Build in One Sentence

Start Vagabond, rush Bloodhound's Fang as your early carry weapon, pivot into Blasphemous Blade after defeating Rykard, pair it with Mimic Tear, and sustain-tank your way through the rest of the game with high Faith, high Vigor, and minimal complexity.

How to Use This Guide

  1. Read the Build Overview and Leveling Roadmap before you start playing.
  2. Open the Walkthrough section for your current phase and follow the steps in order.
  3. Before a boss fight, check the Boss Guide for loadout and strategy.
  4. For gear or upgrade questions, check the Reference sections below.
  5. Before major transitions (especially the Erdtree burn), check Missables & Route Safety.
  6. Use the Quick Reference Checklists to confirm you are on track before moving to the next phase.

Build Overview

Build Identity

A melee-dominant, high-sustain, low-complexity PvE build designed to overpower the base game with minimal mechanical burden.

ClassVagabond
KeepsakeGolden Seed
Early WeaponBloodhound's Fang (carry through early/mid game)
Permanent WeaponBlasphemous Blade (from Rykard onward)
Spirit AshMimic Tear
BuffsGolden Vow + Flame, Grant Me Strength
PlaystyleMelee-first, weapon skill burst, passive/active healing, Mimic Tear aggro sharing

Starting Setup: Vagabond

StatBase
Vigor15
Mind10
Endurance11
Strength14
Dexterity13
Intelligence9
Faith9
Arcane7

Starting Level: 9. Keepsake: Golden Seed gives an immediate flask upgrade at the first Site of Grace.

Weapon Progression

Early Carry: Bloodhound's Fang

Requirements: Str 18, Dex 17 • Type: Curved Greatsword (Somber) • Obtained: Defeat Bloodhound Knight Darriwil at the Forlorn Hound Evergaol, southern Limgrave.

High base damage, built-in bleed, Bloodhound's Finesse for repositioning, and cheap somber upgrades. Carries the build from Limgrave through Caelid.

Permanent Weapon: Blasphemous Blade

Requirements: Str 22, Dex 15, Fai 21 • Type: Greatsword (Somber) • Obtained: Trade the Remembrance of the Blasphemous (defeat Rykard) to Enia at Roundtable Hold.

Taker's Flames weapon skill deals massive AoE fire damage + HP recovery on hit. Passive HP recovery on every nearby kill. With Mimic Tear also wielding BB, the duo generates absurd sustain and overlapping AoE. Never nerfed across any patch.

The Pivot

The transition from BHF to BB happens in Phase 4 (Altus and Volcano Manor): defeat Rykard, trade his Remembrance for BB, respec at Rennala into Faith, equip BB. This is a planned transition the guide builds toward from the start.

Summon Plan

Early: Lone Wolf Ashes from Renna at the Church of Elleh. Placeholders until Nokron.

Primary: Mimic Tear from Nokron, Eternal City (requires defeating Radahn). Copies your exact loadout. With BB equipped, the Mimic also uses Taker's Flames and heals on kills, effectively doubling the build's damage and sustain. Push to +10 as soon as materials allow.

Final Stat Target (~RL 135–150)

StatTarget
Vigor60
Mind25
Endurance30
Strength22
Dexterity15
Intelligence9
Faith60
Arcane7

Core Endgame Talismans

TalismanEffectLocation
Shard of Alexander+15% skill damageFarum Azula — defeat Alexander (full questline)
Dragoncrest Shield +217% physical damage reductionFarum Azula — floating platform near Dragon Temple
Ritual Sword Talisman+10% attack at full HPLux Ruins, Altus Plateau
Erdtree's Favor +2+4% HP, +10% Stamina, +8% Equip LoadLeyndell, Ashen Capital (post-Maliketh)

Buff Package

BuffFaith ReqDurationEffect
Golden Vow2580 sec+15% attack, +10% damage negation
Flame, Grant Me Strength1530 sec+20% physical and fire damage

Both stack multiplicatively for roughly +38% fire damage combined, plus Golden Vow's damage negation. Physick adds another +20% fire and +15% negation. Total pre-fight routine boosts Taker's Flames by ~55–65%.

Why This Build

  • Fastest route to power: BHF available in the first hour, BB comes online at a natural midgame transition.
  • Easiest path to victory: Taker's Flames + Mimic Tear trivializes most encounters.
  • Lowest execution burden: No complex rotations. Spam the weapon skill, heal on kills.
  • Strongest endgame outcome: BB with Faith 60 and Mimic Tear remains one of the most dominant PvE setups across all patches.

Leveling Roadmap

Canonical stat plan from Vagabond start through endgame. Phase files reference these numbers.

Early-Game Priorities (RL 9–35)

  1. Vigor to 20. Most important early investment — outsized HP impact per point.
  2. Strength to 18, Dexterity to 17. BHF requirements. Meet ASAP.
  3. Endurance to 15. Comfortable stamina and medium equip load.

Do not invest in: Faith, Intelligence, or Arcane before the respec.

Mid-Game Priorities (RL 35–70)

  1. Vigor to 30–35. Enemies hit harder from Liurnia onward.
  2. Endurance to 18–20. More stamina and equip load.
  3. Hold Str at 18, Dex at 17. Reallocated at the respec.

The Respec (Post-Rykard, Phase 4)

Single most important stat transition. Trigger: you have BB and are at Rennala with a Larval Tear.

StatBefore RespecAfter Respec (~RL 70–90)
Vigor30–3540+
Mind10–1220–22
Endurance18–2020–22
Strength1822
Dexterity1715
Intelligence99
Faith930–35
Arcane77

Late-Game Priorities (RL 90–120)

  1. Vigor to 55–60. Soft cap at 60.
  2. Faith to 50–55. Primary BB damage scaling.
  3. Mind to 25. Comfortable FP for sustained Taker's Flames.
  4. Endurance to 25–30. Heavy armor with Erdtree's Favor.

Phase-by-Phase Summary

PhaseLevel BandKey MilestoneBuild State
1RL 9–35BHF acquiredBHF +2, Vigor priority
2RL 35–55Rennala defeatedBHF +4–5, respec available but held
3RL 55–70Mimic Tear acquiredBHF +5–6, Physick tears collected
4RL 70–90BB + RespecBB +6–7, Faith pivot complete
5RL 90–120Morgott + Fire GiantBB +8–9, endgame stats forming
6RL 120–150Shard of Alexander + Final bossesBB +10, game complete

Complete Walkthrough

Part 1: Limgrave & Weeping Peninsula

Get your carry weapon, maximize your flask, and clear the first legacy dungeon. You leave with Bloodhound's Fang online, two legacy bosses down, and a well-stocked flask.

Enter with: Vagabond, Golden Seed keepsake, Level 9.

Route Steps

  1. Stranded Graveyard → The First Step. Complete tutorial. Use Golden Seed for 5 flask charges (all Crimson).
  2. Gatefront Ruins. Clear soldiers for runes. Rest at grace — Melina gives you Torrent and leveling. First levels: Str to 18, Dex to 17, then Vigor toward 20.
  3. Church of Elleh — Night. After obtaining Torrent, rest at Church of Elleh at night. Renna gives Spirit Calling Bell + Lone Wolf Ashes.
  4. Somber Smithing Stone [1]. Corpse on broken carriage between Gatefront and Church of Elleh.
  5. Third Church of Marika. Northeast Limgrave. Pick up Sacred Tear + Flask of Wondrous Physick.
  6. Fort Haight. Southeast. Golden Seed near entrance + Dectus Medallion (Left) from tower chest.
  7. Forlorn Hound Evergaol. Defeat Bloodhound Knight Darriwil. Summon Lone Wolves for aggro. Reward: Bloodhound's Fang. Equip immediately.
  8. Weeping Peninsula. Cross Bridge of Sacrifice. Route: Church of Pilgrimage (Sacred Tear) → Fourth Church of Marika (Sacred Tear) → Callu Baptismal Church (Sacred Tear) → SE beach (Somber [2]) → Castle Morne approach (Golden Seed). Target RL 25–30.
  9. Upgrade BHF to +2 at Church of Elleh or Hewg.
  10. Murkwater Cave. Spare Patches. Buy Margit's Shackle (5,000 runes) — pins Margit twice in phase 1. Also works on Morgott later.
  11. Alexander at Saintsbridge. Hit from behind to free him. Exhaust dialogue. Starts questline → Shard of Alexander at endgame.
  12. Stormhill Golden Seed. Glowing sapling on road near Stormhill Shack.
  13. Stormveil Castle. Defeat Margit (use Shackle + wolves). Navigate castle. Defeat Godrick (summon Nepheli + Spirit Ash). Activate Great Rune at Divine Tower (optional, +5 all stats with Rune Arc).

Important Pickups

ItemLocationPurpose
Bloodhound's FangForlorn Hound EvergaolCarry weapon Phases 1–4
Somber [1] + [2]Gatefront carriage, SE beach WeepingBHF +2
Spirit Calling Bell + WolvesRenna at Church of Elleh (night)Spirit Ash summoning
Margit's ShacklePatches, Murkwater CavePins Margit and Morgott
Dectus Medallion (Left)Fort Haight towerGrand Lift of Dectus
Flask of Wondrous PhysickThird Church of MarikaPhysick flask
Sacred Tears (×4)Four churchesFlask potency
Golden Seeds (×3–4)VariousFlask charges

Exit Targets

StatTarget
Level~25–35
Vigor20+
BHF+2
Flask7–8 charges, 4 Sacred Tears
Do Not Skip: Forlorn Hound Evergaol (BHF), Alexander at Saintsbridge (questline), Dectus Medallion (Left) at Fort Haight. Do NOT invest in Faith/Int/Arc.

Part 2: Liurnia & the Academy

Defeat Rennala to unlock respec, upgrade BHF, collect a Larval Tear, and prepare for Caelid. Shorter transitional phase.

Enter with: BHF +2, Level ~25–35, Vigor 20+, Godrick defeated.

Route Steps

  1. Enter Liurnia. Cross broken bridge NW of Stormveil → Lake-Facing Cliffs grace.
  2. Roundtable Hold. Melina invites you. Buy Finger Seal (800 runes) from Twin Maiden Husks — needed for buffs after respec.
  3. Academy Glintstone Key. Near South Raya Lucaria Gate, behind Glintstone Dragon Smarag. Ride past on Torrent.
  4. Raya Lucaria Academy. Pick up Somber [3]–[4] inside. Defeat Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon.
Do NOT respec at Rennala yet. Your Str/Dex spread is correct for BHF. The respec happens in Phase 4 after obtaining Blasphemous Blade.
  1. Larval Tear. Village of the Albinaurics (SW Liurnia). Attack the large ball on the path — transforms into a Noble. Kill for Larval Tear (required for respec).
  2. Sacred Tears. Bellum Church (N Liurnia) + Church of Irith (E Liurnia).
  3. Carian Filigreed Crest (recommended). Buy from War Counselor Iji on the road to Caria Manor (5,000 runes). 25% skill FP reduction.
  4. Alexander Step 2 — Gael Tunnel. Limgrave/Caelid border. Talk to him inside.
  5. Upgrade BHF to +4 or +5.

Exit Targets

StatTarget
Level~40–55
Vigor25–30
BHF+4 to +5
Do Not Skip: Larval Tear (required for respec), Finger Seal (needed for buffs), Alexander at Gael Tunnel.

Part 3: Caelid, Radahn & Nokron

Defeat Radahn to unlock Nokron and obtain the Mimic Tear. Collect Physick tears and Flame, Grant Me Strength. By the end, you have everything needed for the BB pivot except the weapon itself.

Enter with: BHF +4–5, Level ~40–55, Vigor 25–30, Rennala defeated, Larval Tear collected.

Route Steps

  1. Enter Caelid. East from Limgrave, or teleporter chest in Dragon-Burnt Ruins. If skipped, visit Alexander at Gael Tunnel now (Step 2).
  2. Flame, Grant Me Strength. Behind Fort Gael, southern Caelid. Unusable until respec (Faith 15 req). Pick it up now — you pass through only once.
  3. Sellia Crystal Tunnel. Defeat Fallingstar Beast. Reward: Somberstone Miner's Bell Bearing [1] → unlimited Somber [1]–[2].
  4. Fort Faroth. Dragonbarrow (ride past overleveled enemies). Dectus Medallion (Right) from chest.
  5. Dragonbarrow Minor Erdtree. Defeat Putrid Avatar. Reward: Opaline Hardtear (+15% all damage negation, 3 min).
  6. North Caelid Minor Erdtree. Defeat Putrid Avatar. Reward: Flame-Shrouding Cracked Tear (+20% fire damage, 3 min). Physick is now build-complete. Equip both tears.
  7. Grand Lift of Dectus. Present both medallion halves. Ride up to Altus Plateau. Rest at first grace → triggers Radahn Festival.
  8. Radahn Festival. Fast travel to Impassable Greatbridge, southern Caelid. Talk to Castellan Jerren.
  9. Starscourge Radahn. Ride Torrent sideways to dodge gravity arrows. Summon every NPC sign. Punish during NPC aggro windows. Phase 2: meteor crash — dodge impact, re-summon, continue.
  10. Alexander Step 4. After Radahn, find Alexander near the grace. Exhaust dialogue completely.
  11. Nokron, Eternal City. Crater south of Mistwood. Drop in. Navigate to Night's Sacred Ground → imp statue fog gate → use Stonesword Key → chest: Mimic Tear Ashes.
Do NOT leave Nokron without the Mimic Tear. Most important Spirit Ash in the entire run. When paired with BB, the Mimic copies your weapon and healing, effectively doubling the build's power.
  1. Ghost Glovewort. Collect [1]–[4] throughout Nokron. Upgrade Mimic Tear at Roderika.
  2. Upgrade BHF to +5 or +6.

Exit Targets

StatTarget
Level~55–70
Vigor30–35
BHF+5 to +6
Mimic Tear+3 to +5
PhysickFlame-Shrouding + Opaline equipped
Do Not Skip: Mimic Tear, Ghost Glovewort, Alexander post-Radahn dialogue. Do NOT respec yet. Save at least one Stonesword Key.

Part 4: Altus Plateau & Volcano Manor

The most important phase in the guide. Defeat Rykard, obtain Blasphemous Blade, respec into Faith, and permanently establish the endgame identity. Everything before this was setup. Everything after is execution.

Enter with: BHF +5–6, Mimic Tear obtained, Level ~55–70, Vigor 30–35, both Physick tears, FGMS collected, Larval Tear.

Route Steps

  1. Altus Tunnel. SE of Erdtree-Gazing Hill. Defeat Crystalian duo. Reward: Somberstone Miner's Bell Bearing [2] → unlimited Somber [3]–[4].
  2. Ritual Sword Talisman. Lux Ruins cellar (NW Altus). +10% attack at full HP. Synergizes with BB's passive healing.
  3. Alexander Step 5. Artist's Shack area, eastern Liurnia. Throw Oil Pot first, then heavy attacks to free him.
  4. Route to Volcano Manor via Mt. Gelmir. Follow roads NW from Altus through Wyndham Ruins and up the trails.
  5. Golden Vow. Corpse-Stench Shack on the way. +15% attack, +10% damage negation (80 sec). Usable after respec.
  6. Alexander Step 6. Seethewater lava area, Mt. Gelmir. Talk and exhaust dialogue.
  7. Volcano Manor. Talk to Tanith. Contracts are optional and lock permanently when you kill Rykard.
  8. Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy. Pick up the Serpent-Hunter on the ground LEFT of the arena entrance. Two-hand it, then summon Mimic Tear (copies it). Spam heavy attack — ranged shockwave melts Rykard.
Critical: Do NOT fight Rykard without the Serpent-Hunter. Do NOT choose Rykard's Rancor from the Remembrance — choose Blasphemous Blade. Permanent, irreversible decision.
  1. Obtain Blasphemous Blade. Trade Remembrance to Enia at Roundtable Hold.
  2. Respec at Rennala. Use Larval Tear. Target: Vigor 40+, Mind 20–22, End 20–22, Str 22, Dex 15, Fai 30–35.
  3. Equip the new build: BB (weapon) → Mimic Tear (spirit) → Finger Seal (buffs) → Golden Vow + FGMS (incantations) → Physick → Ritual Sword + Carian Filigreed + defensive talismans.
  4. Upgrade BB to +6 or +7. Continue Mimic Tear toward +6–7.

Exit Targets

StatTarget
Level~70–90
Vigor40+
Faith30–35
BB+6 to +7
Mimic Tear+6 to +7
Build identity is now fully established. Push Vigor toward 60 and Faith toward 60 from here.

Part 5: Leyndell & Mountaintops of the Giants

Clear Leyndell, defeat Morgott, push through Mountaintops, defeat Fire Giant, and commit to the Erdtree burn. This phase contains a point of no return — the burn permanently transforms Leyndell.

Enter with: BB +6–7, Mimic Tear +6–7, Level ~70–90, Vigor 40+, Faith 30+, full build online.

Route Steps

  1. Draconic Tree Sentinel. Blocks Leyndell entrance. Apply buffs, summon Mimic, Taker's Flames while Mimic draws aggro. Stay on foot (Torrent despawns Mimic). Watch for red lightning at low HP.
  2. Navigate Leyndell. Follow main road NE. Grab Somber [7]–[8]. Push to Erdtree Sanctuary grace.
  3. Morgott, the Omen King. Margit's Shackle works on Morgott — two free stuns in phase 1. Full buffs, Mimic Tear, Taker's Flames during stun windows.
  4. Upgrade check. Push BB to +8, Mimic toward +8–10.
  5. Mountaintops of the Giants. Grand Lift of Rold. Route to First Church of Marika: Sacred Tear + Somberstone Miner's Bell Bearing [3] (unlimited Somber [5]–[6]). High-priority pickup.
CRITICAL — Pre-Fire-Giant Safety Check: After defeating Fire Giant and burning the Erdtree, defeating Maliketh (Phase 6) permanently transforms Leyndell. For this build, no critical items are locked — but collect all Somber Stones from Leyndell first. Do NOT interact with the Three Fingers door.
  1. Fire Giant. Longest boss fight. Summon Mimic, stay on foot. Target ankles/feet (splinted leg in phase 1). Taker's Flames healing sustains the war of attrition.
  2. Erdtree Burn. Proceed to Forge. Cutscene commits to the burn → transported to Crumbling Farum Azula.

Exit Targets

StatTarget
Level~100–120
Vigor55–60
Faith50–55
BB+8 to +9
Mimic Tear+8 to +10

Part 6: Crumbling Farum Azula & Endgame

Complete Alexander's questline, push BB to +10, clear all remaining bosses, and become Elden Lord. The final stretch.

Enter with: BB +8–9, Mimic +8–10, Level ~100–120, Vigor 55+, Faith 50+, full buff package.

Route Steps

  1. Alexander's Final Duel. Near Dragon Temple on a floating platform. Solo combat (no Spirit Ashes). Taker's Flames during his recoveries. Reward: Shard of Alexander (+15% skill damage). Equip immediately.
Do NOT miss Alexander. If you progress past his location, the opportunity may be lost. This is the most impactful single pickup remaining.
  1. Bell Bearings [4] + [5]. Farum Azula. Unlimited Somber [7]–[8] and [9].
  2. Dragoncrest Shield Talisman +2. Floating platform near Dragon Temple. 17% physical damage reduction.
  3. Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone. Stone gazebo near lightning dragon. Sneak past. Upgrade BB to +10.
  4. Godskin Duo. Summon Mimic, focus Apostle first. Taker's Flames AoE can hit both. Optional: Sleep Pots trivialize the fight.
  5. Maliketh, the Black Blade. Phase 1 (Beast Clergyman): manageable. Phase 2: fast, airborne, Black Blade attacks reduce max HP. Stay aggressive — Taker's Flames healing counteracts debuff.
After Maliketh, Leyndell permanently becomes the Ashen Capital.
  1. Ashen Capital — Erdtree's Favor +2. Lower section, requires dropping from upper roads. +4% HP, +10% Stamina, +8% Equip Load. Final talisman set is now complete.
  2. Sir Gideon Ofnir. Rush and spam Taker's Flames. Typically under 30 seconds.
  3. Hoarah Loux / Godfrey. Phase 1 (Godfrey): axe attacks, jump ground stomps. Phase 2 (Hoarah Loux): grappler — dodge grabs at all costs, roll sideways.

Final Loadout Confirmation

SlotItemState
WeaponBlasphemous Blade+10
Spirit AshMimic Tear+10
Talisman 1Shard of Alexander+15% skill damage
Talisman 2Dragoncrest Shield +217% phys reduction
Talisman 3Ritual Sword Talisman+10% attack at full HP
Talisman 4Erdtree's Favor +2+4% HP / +10% Stam / +8% Equip
PhysickFlame-Shrouding + Opaline+20% fire / +15% negation
Incantation 1Golden VowMemorized
Incantation 2Flame, Grant Me StrengthMemorized

Pre-fight routine: Physick → Golden Vow → Flame, Grant Me Strength → Summon Mimic Tear → Enter fog gate.

  1. Radagon / Elden Beast. Back-to-back, no rest between phases. Summon Mimic before fog gate. Radagon: aggressive melee, weak to fire. Taker's Flames during recoveries. Conserve flasks. Elden Beast: large, mobile. Sprint to close distance, Taker's Flames, sprint sideways from Elden Stars. Patience wins.
After the Elden Beast falls, the game is complete.

Final Stat Targets

StatFinal Target
Level~130–150
Vigor60
Mind25
Endurance30
Strength22
Dexterity15
Faith60
Arcane7

Boss Guides

Mainline Progression Bosses

Read before a boss fight. Each entry is short enough to review between attempts. Written for this build only.

Margit, the Fell Omen

Timing: RL 25–30, BHF +2 • Loadout: BHF two-handed, Margit's Shackle, Lone Wolf Ashes

Fight Plan

  1. Summon Spirit Ash immediately. Look for Sorcerer Rogier's gold sign.
  2. Use Margit's Shackle in neutral stance — he drops for several seconds. Land 3–4 heavy attacks.
  3. Shackle a second time. Same punish.
  4. After both uses, bait combo finishers. Punish with Bloodhound's Finesse — backstep dodges, follow-up hits clean.
  5. Phase 2 (~50% HP): adds hammer and tail. Longer combos, same recovery windows. One or two Finesse hits per opening.

Failure points: Shackling mid-combo (only works in neutral), overstaying stuns, not recognizing delayed attacks.

Godrick the Grafted

Timing: RL 25–35, BHF +2 • Loadout: BHF two-handed, Nepheli Loux summon + Spirit Ash

Fight Plan

  1. Summon Nepheli (gold sign near fog) and Spirit Ash.
  2. Finesse is ideal — dodge-back avoids horizontal swings.
  3. Bait overhead slams, punish recovery.
  4. Phase 2 (~60% HP): dragon head, fire breath. Roll to his side (not backward). Fire breath has long recovery — best punish window.

Failure points: Standing in front of dragon fire, getting caught by phase 2 transition slam.

Rennala, Queen of the Full Moon

Timing: RL 40–50, BHF +3–4

Fight Plan

Phase 1 (puzzle): Find 3 students with golden aura, hit each to break tether. Rennala crashes — sprint and unload. 2–3 knockdowns end phase 1.

Phase 2 (fight): Summon Spirit Ash immediately. Rush her — fragile in melee. Ignore summons (they despawn). Dragon summon: sprint from breath, re-close.

Do NOT respec yet. Save for Phase 4.

Starscourge Radahn

Timing: RL 55–65, BHF +4–5 • No personal Spirit Ash — arena provides NPC summons.

Fight Plan

  1. Ride Torrent sideways to dodge gravity arrows while closing distance.
  2. Summon every NPC sign (Blaidd, Alexander, Patches, others).
  3. Dismount when NPCs engage. Finesse for hit-and-retreat, 1–2 hits per window.
  4. Re-summon NPCs as they die (signs reappear).
  5. Phase 2 (~50%): flaming meteor crash. Ride away from impact. Re-summon, continue.

Failure points: Getting hit by opening arrows, trying to solo without NPCs, forgetting to re-summon.

Rykard, Lord of Blasphemy

Timing: RL 65–80, BHF +5–6

Look LEFT on entering. Grab the Serpent-Hunter from the corpse. Without it, this fight is brutally difficult.

Fight Plan

  1. Equip Serpent-Hunter, then summon Mimic Tear (copies it).
  2. Spam heavy attack — ranged shockwave with massive reach and bonus damage to Rykard.
  3. Medium range — close enough for shockwave, far enough from lava.
  4. Phase 2: skull rain + more lava. Stay mobile between attacks.

After: Trade Remembrance for Blasphemous Blade (NOT Rykard's Rancor). Respec into Faith.

Morgott, the Omen King

Timing: RL 85–100, BB +6–7 • Loadout: BB, Mimic Tear, full buffs, Margit's Shackle

Fight Plan

  1. Pre-fight: Physick → Golden Vow → FGMS → summon Mimic.
  2. Shackle immediately — Taker's Flames during stun. Shackle again.
  3. After Shackles, Taker's Flames at medium range during recoveries.
  4. Phase 2 (~50%): holy rain and thrusts. Mimic draws aggro. Punish with weapon skill.

Failure points: Forgetting Shackle, skipping buff routine (~55–60% fire boost).

Fire Giant

Timing: RL 100–110, BB +8–9 • Do not attempt under-upgraded.

Fight Plan

  1. Buffs → Mimic Tear. Stay on foot (Torrent despawns Mimic).
  2. Phase 1: Target ankles/feet — splinted left leg. Stay underneath. Taker's Flames at close range.
  3. He rolls away frequently. Sprint after, re-engage at feet.
  4. Phase 2 (~50%): more fire attacks. Keep targeting legs. Sprint out of eruption zones.
  5. War of attrition. Taker's Flames healing sustains you.

Failure points: Riding Torrent, hitting upper body, running out of FP, impatience.

Godskin Duo

Timing: RL 110–120, BB +10 • Optional: Sleep Pots trivialize the fight.

Fight Plan

  1. Buffs → Mimic Tear. Mimic engages one, you focus the other.
  2. Focus Apostle first — faster, more dangerous.
  3. Taker's Flames AoE can hit both if near each other.
  4. Shared HP bar — fight ends when total pool is depleted, not when one falls.

Sleep strategy: Sleep Pot on one → 1v1 the other → sleep the respawn → repeat.

Maliketh, the Black Blade

Timing: RL 115–125, BB +10 • One of the most aggressive bosses.

Fight Plan

Phase 1 (Beast Clergyman): Fast daggers and rock throws. Dodge combos, Taker's Flames during recovery. Let Mimic draw aggro.

Phase 2 (Maliketh, ~50%): Massive black blade, airborne attacks. Black Blade attacks reduce max HP + DoT. Stay aggressive — passive play lets DoT accumulate. Taker's Flames when he lands from aerials. Healing counteracts HP reduction.

After defeating Maliketh: Leyndell permanently becomes the Ashen Capital.

Sir Gideon Ofnir, the All-Knowing

Timing: RL 120–130, BB +10

Rush and spam Taker's Flames. Staggers easily. With Mimic, typically under 30 seconds. Only dangerous if you let him cast at range.

Hoarah Loux / Godfrey, First Elden Lord

Timing: RL 125–135, BB +10

Phase 1 (Godfrey): Axe attacks, ground-stomp AoEs. Jump ground stomps to avoid AoE. Taker's Flames at medium range.

Phase 2 (Hoarah Loux, ~50%): Bare-handed grappler. Dodge grabs at all costs — running grab, leaping grab, ground-pound grab. All near-lethal even at 60 Vigor. Roll sideways on windup. Taker's Flames from medium range during Mimic aggro windows.

Radagon / Elden Beast (Final Boss)

Timing: RL 130–150, BB +10, Vigor 60, Faith 55–60+

Pre-fight: Physick → Golden Vow → FGMS → summon Mimic → enter fog gate.

Radagon

Aggressive melee, Holy-infused hammer. Weak to fire. Bait slams, Taker's Flames during recoveries. Staggers under sustained pressure. Conserve flasks — need them for Elden Beast. Keep Mimic alive (carries to phase 2).

Elden Beast

Large, mobile. Primary challenge: chasing (it swims away constantly). Sprint to close, Taker's Flames, chase again.

  • Elden Stars: Sprint sideways until it dissipates. Do not spam rolls.
  • Grab: Roll sideways on windup. Catastrophic damage.
  • Ring of Light: Roll through at impact.

If struggling: swap Erdtree's Favor +2 for Haligdrake Talisman +2 for Holy resistance.

Optional Power Bosses

Not progression gates, but each guards a critical item for this build. Every boss here materially improves the run.

Bloodhound Knight Darriwil — Bloodhound's Fang

Timing: RL 12–20, ASAP • Summon: Lone Wolf Ashes

Enter evergaol. Summon wolves immediately. Punish recovery with charged heavy attacks. 1–2 hits per window. Cannot be skipped — BHF is first priority.

Putrid Avatar (Dragonbarrow) — Opaline Hardtear

Timing: RL 55–65, BHF +4–5 (Phase 3)

Bloodhound's Finesse hit-and-run. Stay at its side. Sprint away from Rot breath. Can delay until after Radahn with Mimic Tear. Reward: +15% all damage negation (3 min Physick tear).

Putrid Avatar (North Caelid) — Flame-Shrouding Cracked Tear

Timing: RL 55–65, BHF +4–5 (Phase 3)

Same enemy type as Dragonbarrow Avatar. Same strategy. Reward: +20% fire damage (3 min Physick tear). Both tears together = build-complete Physick.

Fallingstar Beast (Sellia Crystal Tunnel) — Bell Bearing [1]

Timing: RL 55–65, BHF +4–5 (Phase 3)

Tight arena. Roll sideways from charges. Sprint from gravity pull (purple effect). Target head for stagger. Reward: unlimited Somber [1]–[2].

Crystalian Duo (Altus Tunnel) — Bell Bearing [2]

Timing: RL 55–75, BHF +5–6 (Phase 4)

Highly resistant until poise breaks (visible crack). After break, they die fast. Summon Mimic, focus spear Crystalian first. Reward: unlimited Somber [3]–[4].

Draconic Tree Sentinel — Leyndell Access

Timing: RL 75–90, BB +6–7 (Phase 5)

Full buff package → Mimic Tear. Stay on foot. Taker's Flames when Sentinel targets Mimic. Dodge halberd sweeps sideways. Sprint from red lightning AoE at low HP.

Alexander, Warrior Jar — Shard of Alexander

Timing: RL 110–120, BB +9–10 (Phase 6) • Solo duel — no Spirit Ashes.

Near Dragon Temple, Farum Azula. Buff before engaging. Heavily telegraphed slams. Taker's Flames at medium range during recoveries. Moderate HP, highly predictable. Never skip. Reward: +15% weapon skill damage — best talisman for this build.

Reference

Gear & Upgrades Reference

Weapons

WeaponTypeRequirementsSourceRole
Bloodhound's FangCurved Greatsword (Somber)Str 18, Dex 17Forlorn Hound EvergaolEarly carry (Phases 1–4)
Blasphemous BladeGreatsword (Somber)Str 22, Dex 15, Fai 21Rykard Remembrance → EniaPermanent weapon (Phase 4+)
Serpent-HunterGreat SpearNoneInside Rykard's arena (left)Rykard fight only

Talisman Progression by Phase

PhaseRecommended Slots
1–3Best available defensive and damage talismans found along the route
4Ritual Sword + Carian Filigreed Crest + best defensive
5Same as Phase 4, adding better defensive options from Leyndell
6Shard of Alexander + Dragoncrest Shield +2 + Ritual Sword + Erdtree's Favor +2

Somber Stone Upgrade Economy

TierEarliest SourcePhase
[1]Carriage near Gatefront Ruins1
[2]SE beach, Weeping Peninsula1
[3]–[4]Raya Lucaria Academy2
[5]–[6]Caelid / Nokron3
[7]–[8]Leyndell / Volcano Manor4–5
[9]Mountaintops / Farum Azula5–6
Ancient DragonStone gazebo, Farum Azula6

Bell Bearings (Somber Stones)

BearingUnlocksSourcePhase
[1]Unlimited Somber [1]–[2]Sellia Crystal Tunnel (Fallingstar Beast)3
[2]Unlimited Somber [3]–[4]Altus Tunnel (Crystalian duo)4
[3]Unlimited Somber [5]–[6]First Church of Marika, Mountaintops5
[4]Unlimited Somber [7]–[8]Crumbling Farum Azula6
[5]Unlimited Somber [9]Crumbling Farum Azula (deeper)6

Weapon Upgrade Targets by Phase

PhaseBHFBBMimic Tear
1+2——
2+4 to +5——
3+5 to +6—+3 to +5
4Retired+6 to +7+6 to +7
5—+8 to +9+8 to +10
6—+10+10

Flask Upgrade Sources

Sacred Tear LocationPhase
Third Church of Marika (NE Limgrave)1
Church of Pilgrimage (E Weeping)1
Fourth Church of Marika (NW Weeping)1
Callu Baptismal Church (E Weeping)1
Bellum Church (N Liurnia)2
Church of Irith (E Liurnia)2
First Church of Marika (Mountaintops)5

Spirit Ashes, Buffs & Physick

Spirit Ash Progression

Spirit AshPhasesSourceCost
Lone Wolf Ashes1–2Renna at Church of Elleh (night)55 FP
Mimic Tear3+Night's Sacred Ground, Nokron (Stonesword Key)660 HP

Mimic Tear copies your exact loadout. With BB, it uses Taker's Flames and heals on kills — effectively doubling the build. Push to +10 ASAP.

Physick Crystal Tears

TearEffect (3 min)Source
Flame-Shrouding Cracked Tear+20% fire damagePutrid Avatar, north Caelid Minor Erdtree
Opaline Hardtear+15% all damage negationPutrid Avatar, Dragonbarrow Minor Erdtree

Buff Incantations

BuffFaithFPDurationEffectLocation
Golden Vow254780 sec+15% attack, +10% negationCorpse-Stench Shack, Mt. Gelmir
Flame, Grant Me Strength152830 sec+20% phys + fire damageBehind Fort Gael, S Caelid

Both stack multiplicatively: ~+38% fire combined. With Physick, total approaches +65% fire before talismans. Cast with a Finger Seal (800 runes, Twin Maiden Husks).

Pre-Fight Buff Routine (Phase 4 Onward)

  1. Flask of Wondrous Physick — 3 min duration (longest first)
  2. Golden Vow — 80 sec
  3. Flame, Grant Me Strength — 30 sec (shortest last, right before entering)
  4. Summon Mimic Tear — copies buffed loadout
  5. Enter the fog gate

Under 10 seconds. Combined with Shard of Alexander: Taker's Flames deals close to 2× unbuffed damage. Skipping buffs = skipping half your damage.

Missables & Route Safety

Everything you can permanently lose, lock out, or break. Check before every major boss kill and area transition.

Phase 1: Limgrave

  • Visit Church of Elleh at night (after Torrent) for Spirit Calling Bell. Miss it → buy from Twin Maiden Husks.
  • Start Alexander questline at Saintsbridge. Missing any step → Shard of Alexander lost permanently.
  • Spare Patches in Murkwater Cave. Buy Margit's Shackle.
  • Dectus Medallion (Left) from Fort Haight. Needed for Grand Lift.
  • Do NOT invest in Faith/Int/Arc before respec.

Phase 2: Liurnia

  • Do NOT respec at Rennala. Saved for Phase 4.
  • Collect Larval Tear. Required for respec. Cannot skip.
  • Buy Finger Seal. Needed for buff incantations.

Phase 3: Caelid & Nokron

  • Save at least one Stonesword Key for Mimic Tear door.
  • Do NOT leave Nokron without Mimic Tear.
  • Exhaust Alexander's dialogue post-Radahn (Step 4).

Phase 4: Altus & Volcano Manor

  • Complete contracts BEFORE killing Rykard if interested (locks permanently).
  • Choose Blasphemous Blade from Remembrance (NOT Rykard's Rancor). Permanent, irreversible.
  • Respec is NOT optional. Stat spread is wrong for BB without it.
  • Alexander Steps 5–6. Skip either → Shard lost permanently.

Phase 5: Leyndell & Mountaintops

  • Do NOT interact with Three Fingers door. Locks Frenzied Flame ending.
  • Morgott — use Margit's Shackle (same item, two free stuns).
  • Collect Bell Bearing [3] at First Church of Marika.
  • After Maliketh (Phase 6): Leyndell transforms permanently. Collect anything first.

Phase 6: Farum Azula

  • HIGHEST PRIORITY: Find and defeat Alexander in Farum Azula before progressing past Dragon Temple. Shard is permanently lost if missed.

Alexander Questline Summary

StepLocationPhaseAction
1Saintsbridge, Stormhill1Free him (hit from behind), exhaust dialogue
2Gael Tunnel1–2Talk to him
3Radahn Festival3Automatic attendance
4Radahn battlefield3Exhaust dialogue completely
5Artist's Shack, E Liurnia4Oil Pot → free him → exhaust dialogue
6Seethewater, Mt. Gelmir4Talk, exhaust dialogue
7Dragon Temple, Farum Azula6Solo duel, defeat him

Reward: Shard of Alexander (+15% weapon skill damage).

Quest-Break Summary

TriggerPermanently Locks Out
Killing RykardAll remaining Volcano Manor contracts
Wrong Remembrance choiceBlasphemous Blade (if you pick Rykard's Rancor)
Defeating MalikethAll items/NPCs in Leyndell Capital
Three Fingers interactionLocks Frenzied Flame ending (reversible but complex)
Missing any Alexander stepShard of Alexander
Using all Stonesword KeysDelays Mimic Tear
Respeccing before BBWastes Larval Tear, weakens current weapon

Quick Reference Checklists

Find your current phase. Confirm everything is checked before moving on.

Phase 1: Limgrave & Weeping Peninsula (RL 9–35)
  • BHF obtained from Forlorn Hound Evergaol
  • BHF upgraded to +2
  • Vigor 20+, Str 18, Dex 17
  • Spirit Calling Bell + Lone Wolf Ashes obtained
  • Flask of Wondrous Physick obtained
  • 4 Sacred Tears applied
  • Flask at 7–8 charges
  • Margit's Shackle purchased (5,000 runes)
  • Dectus Medallion (Left) from Fort Haight
  • Alexander met at Saintsbridge (Step 1)
  • Margit defeated
  • Godrick defeated
Phase 2: Liurnia & Academy (RL 35–55)
  • Academy Glintstone Key obtained
  • Rennala defeated — respec unlocked but NOT used
  • BHF upgraded to +4 or +5
  • At least one Larval Tear collected
  • Finger Seal purchased (800 runes)
  • Carian Filigreed Crest purchased (optional)
  • 2 Sacred Tears applied
  • Alexander visited at Gael Tunnel (Step 2)
  • Vigor 25–30
Phase 3: Caelid, Radahn & Nokron (RL 55–70)
  • FGMS collected (behind Fort Gael)
  • Bell Bearing [1] from Sellia Crystal Tunnel
  • Dectus Medallion (Right) from Fort Faroth
  • Opaline Hardtear obtained
  • Flame-Shrouding Cracked Tear obtained
  • Both Physick tears equipped
  • Grand Lift of Dectus activated
  • Radahn defeated
  • Alexander dialogue exhausted post-Radahn (Step 4)
  • Nokron accessed via crater
  • Mimic Tear Ashes obtained
  • Ghost Glovewort collected, Mimic upgrade started
  • BHF +5 or +6
  • Vigor 30–35
Phase 4: Altus & Volcano Manor (RL 70–90)
  • Bell Bearing [2] from Altus Tunnel
  • Ritual Sword Talisman obtained
  • Alexander freed in Liurnia (Step 5)
  • Golden Vow collected
  • Alexander visited at Mt. Gelmir (Step 6)
  • Rykard defeated — Serpent-Hunter picked up
  • Blasphemous Blade obtained (correct Remembrance)
  • Respec completed — Faith-heavy spread active
  • BB upgraded to +6 or +7
  • Mimic Tear +6 or +7
  • Golden Vow + FGMS equipped and usable
  • Vigor 40+, Faith 30–35
  • Build identity fully established
Phase 5: Leyndell & Mountaintops (RL 90–120)
  • Draconic Tree Sentinel defeated
  • Leyndell navigated — Somber [7]–[8] collected
  • Morgott defeated — used Shackle for 2 free stuns
  • Bell Bearing [3] from First Church of Marika
  • BB upgraded to +8 or +9
  • Mimic Tear pushed toward +10
  • Pre-burn safety check completed
  • Fire Giant defeated
  • Erdtree burned — transported to Farum Azula
  • Vigor 55–60, Faith 50–55
Phase 6: Farum Azula & Endgame (RL 120–150)
  • Alexander defeated — Shard of Alexander obtained (do NOT miss)
  • Dragoncrest Shield Talisman +2 obtained
  • Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone obtained
  • BB upgraded to +10
  • Mimic Tear at +10
  • Godskin Duo defeated
  • Maliketh defeated — Ashen Capital
  • Erdtree's Favor +2 obtained
  • Final talisman set equipped
  • Sir Gideon Ofnir defeated
  • Hoarah Loux / Godfrey defeated
  • Final loadout confirmed
  • Radagon / Elden Beast defeated
  • Game complete

Stat Benchmarks by Phase (Exit Targets)

PhaseExit RLVigorMindEndStrDexFaiBuild State
1~25–3520+1013–1518179BHF +2
2~40–5525–301016–1818179BHF +4–5
3~55–7030–3510–1218–2018179BHF +5–6, Mimic
4~70–9040+20–2220–22221530–35BB +6–7, respec done
5~100–12055–6023–2525–28221550–55BB +8–9
6~130–150602530221560BB +10, complete
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