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Unveiling the Shadow: What Creature is Maliketh, the Black Blade?

Maliketh, the Black Blade, from Elden Ring is a complex and tragic figure. While initially appearing as a beastly warrior, his true nature is multifaceted. Maliketh is essentially a Shadowbound Beast, a loyal shadow and half-brother to Queen Marika the Eternal. The “beast” part is often interpreted as wolf-like, fueled by in-game lore that links wolves to Empyreans’ shadows. Therefore, while he is not literally just a wolf, his connection to the shadow archetype and the bestial qualities he exhibits are undeniable, making “wolf-like beast” a reasonably accurate, if simplified, description of his nature.

Delving Deeper into Maliketh’s Identity

To fully understand what creature Maliketh is, we must consider his various roles and attributes within the world of Elden Ring. He is not just a monster to be slain; he is a guardian, a warrior, and a victim of circumstance. His story is intertwined with the fate of the Lands Between, the Elden Ring, and the shattering itself. He is more than just a wolf.

The Shadowbound Beast and Marika’s Empyrean Shadow

The concept of “shadow” is crucial to understanding Maliketh. Empyreans, those chosen to potentially become gods or vessels of the Elden Ring, often have shadow beasts bound to them. These shadows are fiercely loyal protectors, extensions of the Empyrean’s will. Maliketh is Marika’s shadow, tasked with safeguarding the Rune of Death. This bond defines much of his existence and motivations. The description of the Raging Wolf set “According to the old legends, wolves are the shadows of the Empyrean.”, gives players some perspective on his nature.

Protector of the Rune of Death

Maliketh’s primary duty was to guard the Rune of Death, a fragment of the Elden Ring that governs mortality. He was incredibly powerful, having defeated the Gloam-Eyed Queen, the leader of the Godskin Apostles who wielded the forbidden god-slaying black flame. His failure to protect the Rune of Death, which led to the Night of the Black Knives, weighs heavily on him.

The Transformation and the Black Blade

The theft of the Rune of Death shattered Maliketh, both literally and figuratively. To prevent further theft, he bound the remaining fragment within his own flesh, transforming him and his weapon into the Black Blade. This act solidified his connection to death and imbued him with immense power, but also caused him immense suffering. This sacrifice and dedication highlight his loyalty and the tragic circumstances surrounding his role.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Maliketh

Here are some frequently asked questions that go into greater detail about Maliketh, his motivations, and his place within the world of Elden Ring:

Is Maliketh just a boss fight? No, Maliketh is a character with a deep and tragic backstory. He is a key figure in the lore of Elden Ring, and understanding his role is essential for appreciating the game’s narrative.
What is the significance of the Black Blade? The Black Blade is Maliketh’s weapon after he imbued it with the Rune of Death. It represents his power, his burden, and his connection to mortality. Its description states it is only a “sad shadow of its former glory”.
Why is Maliketh so aggressive? His aggression stems from his unwavering loyalty to Marika, his guilt over the theft of the Rune of Death, and the pain he endures from containing it within himself.
How does Maliketh relate to Gurranq? Gurranq, the Beast Clergyman, is Maliketh. After the Night of the Black Knives, he adopted a new identity to atone for his failure and seek out Deathroot, remnants of Godwyn’s death that symbolize the stolen fragment of the Rune of Death. His hunger for the Deathroot is likely a desire to be complete.
What is Deathroot, and why does Maliketh/Gurranq need it? Deathroot is a manifestation of the Rune of Death’s power spreading through the Lands Between after Godwyn’s assassination. Gurranq consumes it, likely as a way to reconnect with the power he lost and perhaps to alleviate his suffering.
Is Maliketh evil? Maliketh is not inherently evil. He is a protector driven by loyalty and regret. He is tasked with defending the Golden Order and is a powerful figure who suffered a great loss. His actions, while aggressive, are ultimately motivated by a desire to fulfill his duty.
What is the Night of the Black Knives? The Night of the Black Knives was a pivotal event where assassins, wielding weapons imbued with the stolen Rune of Death, murdered Godwyn the Golden, a demigod and Marika’s son. This act triggered the Shattering and plunged the Lands Between into chaos.
Why did Marika shatter the Elden Ring? Marika’s motivations for shattering the Elden Ring are complex and debated. Some theories suggest she was rebelling against the Greater Will, while others propose she was trying to break the cycle of fate and destiny. Regardless, her actions had devastating consequences. However, the story suggest she was against the greater will.
What are Maliketh’s weaknesses in combat? Maliketh is vulnerable to Frostbite and Bleed damage. Weapons and spells that inflict these status effects can significantly shorten the fight. The article also notes that his high resistance to status effects and elemental damage means that physical damage is the best bet.
What happens to Leyndell after defeating Maliketh? Defeating Maliketh triggers a significant change in the game world. Leyndell, Royal Capital, is covered in ash, transforming into Leyndell, Ashen Capital. This change reflects the release of the Rune of Death and locks players out of certain areas.
Who is the Gloam-Eyed Queen? The Gloam-Eyed Queen was the leader of the Godskin Apostles, a group of powerful beings who wielded the forbidden black flame. She was defeated by Maliketh before the events of the game.
Is Maliketh’s wolf-like appearance just aesthetic? While his appearance contributes to his intimidating presence, it also reflects his role as a shadow beast, connected to the primal instincts and protective nature associated with wolves.
How does Maliketh’s story connect to the themes of loyalty and betrayal? Maliketh’s unwavering loyalty to Marika ultimately leads to his downfall. The betrayal of the Rune of Death and the subsequent events highlight the devastating consequences of broken trust and the corrupting influence of power.
What are some good strategies for defeating Maliketh in battle?
- Utilize weapons or spells that inflict Frostbite and Bleed.
- Focus on dodging his fast and erratic attacks.
- Take advantage of openings after his long attack animations.
- Consider using Spirit Ashes to distract him.
- Use physical damage for builds, and High-Faith builds can use Lightning Spear.
What is the importance of Elden Ring’s lore and storytelling? Elden Ring’s intricate lore provides a rich and immersive experience, encouraging players to explore the world, piece together the story, and form their own interpretations. This approach to storytelling fosters a deeper connection to the game and its characters. Research into these types of gameplay experiences can be found at GamesLearningSociety.org, a website dedicated to the study of learning through games.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Beast

Maliketh is a tragic figure defined by his loyalty, his failure, and his self-sacrifice. He is a wolf-like shadow beast, a guardian of the Rune of Death, and a victim of the events that shattered the Elden Ring. Understanding his complex nature enriches the experience of playing Elden Ring and appreciating the depth of its lore. He’s a far more complex character than simply a “wolf”. His story is a cautionary tale of unwavering loyalty and the devastating consequences of power struggles within the Lands Between.

What creature is Maliketh?