Who is the Companion in the Death Bed in Elden Ring? Unraveling the Mystery
The identity of the companion in the death bed scene witnessed by the Tarnished in Elden Ring is a subject of much debate and speculation. While not explicitly named, the prevailing theory and compelling evidence points to this figure being Queen Marika the Eternal. The scene depicts a figure slumped over a deceased body within the Elden Ring, and various in-game items, dialogue, and environmental clues strongly suggest Marika as the grieving individual.
Deciphering the Clues: Why Marika?
Several factors contribute to the widespread belief that Marika is the companion in the death bed:
- The Setting: The death bed is located within the Elden Ring, the very core of the Erdtree and Marika’s divine domain. This proximity strongly suggests Marika’s involvement.
- Physical Characteristics: While the figure’s face is obscured, their hair and attire bear a striking resemblance to Marika’s in other depictions throughout the game.
- Symbolism and Lore: Marika’s shattering of the Elden Ring is a central event in the game’s narrative. This act would undoubtedly cause immense grief, particularly if it involved the death of a loved one connected to the Ring.
- Dialogue Hints: Certain NPC dialogues, particularly those related to the Golden Order and the shattering, imply a deep connection between Marika and the events surrounding the death bed.
- Radagon’s Connection: Given that Radagon and Marika are the same being, Radagon is also implicated in the death bed scene. This reinforces the connection to Marika’s divine status and her crucial role in the narrative.
While other theories exist, such as the figure being Ranni or another Empyrean, they lack the comprehensive supporting evidence that links the companion to Marika. Understanding this scene is crucial to unraveling the complicated lore behind the Golden Order, the Erdtree, and the fate of the Lands Between.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Death Bed Companion
Here are some frequently asked questions that further explore the mystery surrounding the companion in the death bed in Elden Ring:
Who is the deceased in the death bed scene?
Most theories suggest that the deceased in the death bed is Godwyn the Golden, the first demigod to die and a son of Marika. The lore strongly connects the death bed scene with the events surrounding his assassination and the subsequent shattering of the Elden Ring.
What is the significance of Godwyn’s death?
Godwyn’s death is a pivotal event that triggers the Shattering, the war between Marika’s demigod children for control of the Elden Ring. His death breaks the Golden Order and throws the Lands Between into chaos.
Is there any definitive proof that the companion is Marika?
No, there is no explicit confirmation within the game that the companion is Marika. However, the cumulative evidence from item descriptions, dialogue, and environmental context heavily points to this conclusion. FromSoftware deliberately leaves the interpretation open to encourage player speculation and discussion.
Could the companion be Ranni the Witch?
While Ranni is involved in Godwyn’s death through the Night of the Black Knives, it is less likely she is the companion. Ranni’s motives and actions align more with opposing the Golden Order than mourning its consequences in the Erdtree. Her Empyrean status is also a point.
What is the purpose of the death bed scene in the game?
The death bed scene serves as a narrative hook, drawing the player into the mystery of the Shattering and the events that led to the Lands Between’s current state. It also highlights the grief and consequences of Marika’s actions.
How does the death bed relate to the Great Runes?
The shattering of the Elden Ring resulted in the scattering of the Great Runes amongst Marika’s demigod children. The death bed scene represents the origin of this fragmentation and the subsequent power struggle.
Does the death bed influence the player’s quest as the Tarnished?
Yes, the death bed and the events it represents directly influence the player’s quest. As the Tarnished, your ultimate goal is to collect the Great Runes, mend the Elden Ring, and become the Elden Lord, resolving the chaos stemming from Godwyn’s death and the Shattering.
Are there any other theories about the identity of the companion?
Some less common theories suggest the companion could be another Empyrean, a member of the Greater Will, or even a manifestation of the Elden Ring itself. However, these theories lack the compelling evidence supporting Marika’s involvement.
What is the Golden Order and how does it relate to the death bed?
The Golden Order is the dominant religious and political system in the Lands Between, established by Marika and the Greater Will. Godwyn was a key figure in maintaining the Order, and his death and the subsequent Shattering represent its collapse, causing the great powers to fight. The scene is a reminder.
Is it possible that Radagon is present in the death bed scene, considering his connection to Marika?
Since Marika and Radagon are revealed to be two halves of the same being, it’s plausible to interpret Radagon as also being present in the death bed scene, albeit as a part of Marika. The suffering displayed by the figure could be seen as a shared burden.
How does the Erdtree play a role in the death bed scene?
The Erdtree is the source of life and grace in the Lands Between, and it is intimately connected to the Elden Ring. The death bed is located within the Erdtree’s core, symbolizing the decay and corruption that have spread throughout the land following Godwyn’s death.
What is the significance of the figure being slumped over the deceased?
The slumped posture suggests immense grief, despair, and a sense of helplessness. It visually emphasizes the devastating impact of Godwyn’s death on the companion, further supporting the theory of Marika being the figure.
Does the death bed have any connection to the Rune of Death?
The Rune of Death, wielded by the Black Knife Assassins, was used to kill Godwyn. The death bed scene serves as a visual reminder of the Rune’s destructive power and its role in the events that unfolded.
Could the Black Knife Assassins be involved in the death bed scene?
While the Black Knife Assassins are responsible for Godwyn’s death, it is unlikely they are present in the death bed scene. The scene primarily focuses on the aftermath of their actions and the emotional toll on Marika, the ruling godess, or whatever she turns out to be.
How does understanding the death bed scene enrich the player’s experience of Elden Ring?
Understanding the death bed scene provides valuable context for the game’s narrative, motivations of key characters, and the overall lore of the Lands Between. This enhances the player’s appreciation of the intricate story and encourages deeper engagement with the game world. It provides insight into the despair the world is in.