Crumbling Farum Azula’s Beastmen: A Deep Dive into Their Lore and Origins
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The Beastmen of Crumbling Farum Azula are a unique and formidable enemy type found exclusively within the shattered remains of the Dragonlord’s domain in Elden Ring. They are characterized by their bestial appearances, wielding weapons infused with storm magic, and their seemingly zealous devotion to the Ancient Dragons. They are essentially guardians, warriors, and likely even inhabitants of the floating city, deeply connected to its history and its turbulent fate.
## Unraveling the Beastmen’s Origins and Purpose
Understanding the Beastmen requires delving into the lore surrounding Crumbling Farum Azula itself. The city is a place outside of time, a nexus point where timelines converge and fracture. It served as a sanctuary for the Ancient Dragons before the age of the Erdtree, and it’s clear that the Beastmen are intrinsically tied to this draconic legacy.
### Servants of the Ancient Dragons
Evidence suggests that the Beastmen are not merely guards, but dedicated servants of the Ancient Dragons. Their weapons, often infused with wind and lightning, mimic the powers of dragons, suggesting a close relationship. The Gravel Stone Seal, which boosts Dragon Cult Incantations, is found in Farum Azula, hinting at a form of dragon worship or reverence practiced by the Beastmen. The fact that they are the main protectors of the area lends credence to the idea that they are here to protect the dragons.
### Inhabitants of a Fragmented Time
Living in a place outside of time has undoubtedly shaped the Beastmen. It’s possible their forms have been twisted and warped by the temporal anomalies of Farum Azula, leading to their bestial appearance. Their existence raises questions: Were they always like this? Did they evolve over millennia of temporal isolation?
### Guardians of the Storm
Perhaps the most evident role of the Beastmen is that of guardians of the storm. Farum Azula is constantly battered by violent winds and lightning, and the Beastmen appear perfectly adapted to this harsh environment. They harness the storm’s power in their weapons and utilize it to defend their home from intruders.
## Examining the Beastmen’s Characteristics and Combat Style
The Beastmen are easily identifiable by their hunched posture, animalistic features, and the distinctive weapons they wield. They come in various forms, with some wielding greatswords and others preferring dual-wielded curved swords.
### Variations in Appearance and Weaponry
The Beastmen exhibit variations in their physical appearance. Some are more heavily armored, while others are more agile and lightly clad. Their weaponry also varies, from the standard Beastman’s Curved Sword to larger weapons, such as the Beastclaw Greathammer wielded by the larger Beastman. All of these weapons are imbued with storm magic, dealing lightning damage and sometimes even launching gusts of wind.
### Agile and Aggressive Combatants
Beastmen are known for their aggressive and unpredictable attack patterns. They often use rapid movements and powerful strikes, making them challenging opponents, especially in groups. Their ability to infuse their weapons with storm magic adds an extra layer of danger to their attacks. They’re often encountered in groups, sometimes alongside other enemies, making them even more difficult to deal with.
### Connection to Maliketh, the Black Blade
While not explicitly stated, there’s a potential connection between the Beastmen and Maliketh, the Black Blade. Maliketh is a Beast Clergyman turned Shadowbound beast, and his presence in Farum Azula suggests a link to the bestial inhabitants. It’s possible the Beastmen are remnants of a larger group of Beast Clergymen or related beings, further twisted and adapted to the environment of Farum Azula.
## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Beastmen
### 1. Are the Beastmen related to Gurranq/Beast Clergyman?
There’s no definitive answer, but it’s highly plausible. Gurranq, also known as the Beast Clergyman, is a similar beast-like being. It’s possible they share a common origin or are part of the same species, with the Beastmen of Farum Azula evolving differently due to their unique environment.
### 2. Do the Beastmen worship the Dragonlord Placidusax?
While they don’t explicitly worship Placidusax, their devotion to the Ancient Dragons suggests they hold him in high regard, particularly as he was once Elden Lord. Their presence guarding Farum Azula, the home of Placidusax, speaks volumes about their loyalty to the dragon lineage.
### 3. What is the best strategy for fighting the Beastmen?
Due to their aggressive nature, employing parrying or utilizing guard counters can be very effective. Alternatively, using ranged attacks to pick them off from a distance is a viable tactic. Exploiting their vulnerability to certain status effects, like bleed or frostbite, can also help.
### 4. Are the Beastmen unique to Crumbling Farum Azula?
Yes, the Beastmen are exclusive to Crumbling Farum Azula. You won’t find them anywhere else in the Lands Between.
### 5. Do the Beastmen drop any unique items?
Yes, they drop various items, including the Beastman’s Curved Sword, the Gravel Stone Seal, and smithing stones. The larger Beastman can also drop the Beastclaw Greathammer.
### 6. Are the Beastmen affected by time distortions in Farum Azula?
It’s highly likely. The nature of Crumbling Farum Azula as a place outside of time suggests that its inhabitants are affected by temporal anomalies. This could explain the Beastmen’s unique physical appearance and perhaps even their seemingly unending lifespan.
### 7. What is the significance of the storm magic they wield?
The storm magic is significant because it highlights their connection to the Ancient Dragons and the turbulent environment of Farum Azula. It suggests they have learned to harness the power of the storm, perhaps through some form of draconic influence or tutelage.
### 8. Do the Beastmen have any settlements or structures within Farum Azula?
While there are no clearly defined settlements, the presence of altars and other structures within Farum Azula suggests they have some form of organized society or ritualistic practices.
### 9. Are the Beastmen intelligent creatures, or are they more like wild animals?
The Beastmen display a level of intelligence beyond that of simple wild animals. They wield weapons, coordinate attacks, and seem to follow some form of social structure, suggesting a degree of sentience.
### 10. Can the Beastmen be summoned as Spirit Ashes?
No, the Beastmen cannot be summoned as Spirit Ashes in Elden Ring.
### 11. Is there any connection between the Beastmen and the Godskins?
While both reside in Farum Azula, there’s no explicit connection between the Beastmen and the Godskins. They appear to be distinct groups with separate purposes and motivations.
### 12. Are the Beastmen guarding anything specific within Farum Azula?
They appear to be guarding the entire area, preventing anyone from disrupting the flow of time and the legacy of the Ancient Dragons. They are particularly prevalent near sites of power, such as the arena of Dragonlord Placidusax and the path leading to Maliketh.
### 13. Do the Beastmen respawn after being defeated?
Yes, the Beastmen respawn after being defeated, like most standard enemies in Elden Ring.
### 14. Are there different types or ranks of Beastmen?
Yes, there are variations in size, armor, and weaponry, suggesting different roles or ranks within their society. The larger Beastmen wielding the Beastclaw Greathammer are clearly more powerful than their smaller counterparts.
### 15. What role did the Beastmen play before Farum Azula began to crumble?
Before the shattering of Farum Azula, the Beastmen likely served as loyal guardians and protectors of the Ancient Dragons, ensuring the sanctity of their home and preventing any interference with their affairs. They would have maintained the balance of power within the city, upholding the draconic legacy.
In conclusion, the Beastmen of Crumbling Farum Azula are more than just enemies; they are integral to the lore and mystery surrounding the shattered city. Their connection to the Ancient Dragons, their adaptation to the storm, and their role as guardians make them a fascinating and important part of the Elden Ring experience. Understanding their origins and purpose adds depth to the already rich tapestry of the game’s world.