Where to Go After Defeating the Beast Clergyman in Elden Ring

▶

After defeating the Beast Clergyman, Gurranq, in Crumbling Farum Azula, you’re essentially set on a linear path towards the end of Elden Ring. Your immediate next objective is to continue exploring Crumbling Farum Azula, progressing through the legacy dungeon. Ultimately, you’ll need to defeat the boss at the end of this area: the Dragonlord Placidusax. This boss is optional, but highly recommended, and is also the most common ending point for the Crumbling Farum Azula path.

Crumbling Farum Azula: Your Immediate Destination

Navigating the Crumbling Ruins

Following your victory over Gurranq, you’ll find yourself further into Crumbling Farum Azula. The environment is treacherous, filled with strong enemies and intricate platforming sections. Be prepared to face Beastmen, Dragonkin Soldiers, and the occasional Ancient Dragon.

• Prioritize exploration: Thoroughly explore each area to discover valuable items, upgrade materials (like Somber Smithing Stones and Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones), and optional encounters.
• Watch for falling debris: As the name suggests, Crumbling Farum Azula is literally crumbling. Be wary of falling debris and unstable platforms.
• Utilize Spirit Ashes: Spirit Ashes are invaluable for diverting enemy attention and providing extra damage output. Experiment to find which ones work best for your playstyle.
• Look for Sites of Grace: Make sure to activate all the Sites of Grace you find. These serve as checkpoints and allow you to fast travel back and forth.

The Path to Dragonlord Placidusax

The route to Dragonlord Placidusax is somewhat hidden. Instead of facing directly towards the direction of the last Site of Grace, the path to this boss involves a series of careful jumps down crumbling platforms. The key point to look for is a specific area that allows you to descend into the heart of the storm. This area is identified by lying down in a specific spot. Doing so triggers a cutscene where you are transported to the arena of Dragonlord Placidusax.

Proceeding to the Final Bosses

Defeating Dragonlord Placidusax, while providing you with valuable runes and a remembrance, does not end your journey. After slaying Placidusax, the critical path picks up near the Beside the Great Bridge Site of Grace. From here, you will proceed towards Maliketh, the Black Blade, the true final boss of Crumbling Farum Azula. Maliketh’s defeat triggers a significant change in the Leyndell, Royal Capital environment, paving the way for the final encounters.

• Remember to Level Up: Before facing any of these bosses, make sure you’re adequately leveled. Farm runes if necessary to improve your stats and upgrade your weapons.
• Prepare Your Build: Adjust your equipment, talismans, and spells to optimize your build for the challenges ahead.
• Learn Enemy Attack Patterns: Observe enemy attack patterns carefully to learn when to dodge, block, or parry.

Beyond Crumbling Farum Azula: Towards the Elden Throne

With Maliketh defeated, you’ll return to a transformed Leyndell, now the Leyndell, Ashen Capital. Your journey continues through this altered landscape towards the Elden Throne. You’ll face Sir Gideon Ofnir, the All-Knowing and Godfrey, First Elden Lord.

• Prepare for challenging fights: These final bosses are among the most difficult in the game. Be patient, learn their attack patterns, and don’t give up.
• Consider using summons: Summoning other players or utilizing powerful Spirit Ashes can significantly aid you in these battles.
• Enjoy the culmination of your adventure: You are nearing the end of your arduous journey, savor the moment and prepare to claim the Elden Throne.

FAQs: Elden Ring Post-Beast Clergyman

Here are 15 frequently asked questions related to the game following the defeat of the Beast Clergyman in Elden Ring.

1. Is Dragonlord Placidusax a mandatory boss? No, Dragonlord Placidusax is an optional boss located in a hidden area of Crumbling Farum Azula. Defeating him is not required to complete the main story.

2. What level should I be before fighting Maliketh? A recommended level range for facing Maliketh is 120-150, with weapons upgraded as high as possible. This ensures you have sufficient stats and damage output.

3. What are the best Spirit Ashes to use in Crumbling Farum Azula? Popular choices include the Black Knife Tiche, Mimic Tear, and Lhutel the Headless due to their high damage output, survivability, and ability to distract enemies.

4. How do I get to the Dragonlord Placidusax arena? You need to find a spot near the cliff edge where you can lie down. The game prompts you to “lie down” in a specific location. Doing so triggers a cutscene that transports you to the boss arena.

5. What happens to Leyndell after defeating Maliketh? Defeating Maliketh transforms Leyndell, Royal Capital into Leyndell, Ashen Capital. The environment changes drastically, and new enemies appear.

6. Where can I find Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones in Crumbling Farum Azula? Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones are scattered throughout Crumbling Farum Azula. Explore thoroughly, particularly in the areas with the large dragons.

7. What’s the best way to deal with the Beastmen in Crumbling Farum Azula? Beastmen are weak to fire damage and can be staggered easily. Use fire-based weapons or spells and focus on breaking their poise.

8. Should I complete all side quests before finishing Elden Ring? It’s recommended to complete any side quests you’re interested in before triggering the final boss fight, as the ending will lock you into the final sequence.

9. Can I return to areas after defeating the final boss? Yes, you can choose to either start New Game Plus or continue exploring the world in its current state.

10. What are the different Elden Ring endings? There are multiple endings to Elden Ring, each determined by the choices you make throughout the game and the specific Mending Runes you acquire.

11. Is there anything missable in Crumbling Farum Azula? Yes, some items and even entire areas can be missed if you don’t explore thoroughly. Be sure to check every corner before progressing too far.

12. What are the key differences between Leyndell, Royal Capital, and Leyndell, Ashen Capital? Aside from the visual changes (ash and debris everywhere), new enemies and items appear in Leyndell, Ashen Capital. Some areas are also altered, requiring different approaches.

13. What are the recommended stats for fighting the final bosses? Aim for at least 40-60 Vigor, depending on your playstyle. Other important stats depend on your build (Strength, Dexterity, Intelligence, Faith, Arcane), but ensure you have enough to effectively use your chosen weapons and spells.

14. What is New Game Plus, and should I play it? New Game Plus allows you to replay the game with your character, levels, and most items intact. It’s a good way to experience the game with a powerful character or try a different build. It increases difficulty for the earlier sections of the game.

15. What are the best weapons to use against Maliketh? Weapons that inflict holy damage are particularly effective against Maliketh, as he is a being of Destined Death. Those able to inflict status effects like bleed or frostbite can also provide significant advantages.