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Where Does Bernahl Invade You in Elden Ring? A Comprehensive Guide

Bernahl, also known as Recusant Bernahl, is a significant character in Elden Ring, deeply intertwined with the Volcano Manor questline. One of the key aspects of his involvement is his role as an invader, presenting a challenging, but potentially rewarding, fight.

Bernahl invades you in Crumbling Farum Azula, specifically in the area just before the Godskin Duo boss fight. To trigger the invasion, you must have joined Volcano Manor and completed at least one assassination request. This area is recognizable by its shattered architecture, strong winds, and the presence of Beastmen.

Understanding Bernahl’s Invasion: A Deep Dive

To fully grasp the mechanics behind Bernahl’s invasion, several factors need to be considered. These include your progression in the Volcano Manor questline, your location within Crumbling Farum Azula, and whether you’ve already defeated the area boss. Let’s break it down:

Volcano Manor Questline: The Foundation

Joining Volcano Manor is the first essential step. This occurs by accepting Tanith’s invitation after reaching the manor, located on the western side of Mt. Gelmir. Once you’ve joined, you’ll receive assassination requests.

Assassination Requirements: Paving the Way

You must complete at least one assassination request given by Tanith. These requests involve invading other players’ worlds as a Recusant and eliminating them. Completing these requests signifies your alignment with Volcano Manor’s cause and triggers Bernahl’s invasion later.

Crumbling Farum Azula Location: The Specific Spot

The invasion occurs in Crumbling Farum Azula, a late-game area accessible after defeating the Fire Giant in the Mountaintops of the Giants. More precisely, it takes place in the area leading up to the Godskin Duo boss fight. Look for the broken bridges and windswept debris. The Dragon Temple Transept site of grace is a close and useful landmark. Bernahl will not invade if you have already defeated the Godskin Duo.

Invasion Conditions: Putting it All Together

In summary, Bernahl’s invasion requires the following conditions to be met:

You must have joined Volcano Manor.
You must have completed at least one assassination request given by Tanith.
You must be in the Crumbling Farum Azula area before the Godskin Duo boss fight.
You have not defeated the Godskin Duo.

Preparing for the Fight: Strategies and Tips

Bernahl is a formidable opponent, wielding the powerful Devourer’s Scepter and wearing heavy armor. Here are some tips to prepare for the fight:

Equip a strong weapon: Choose a weapon with good damage output and range, preferably one that can stagger him.
Consider your armor: Balance protection and mobility. Heavy armor offers better defense, but lighter armor allows for quicker dodges.
Use Spirit Ashes: Spirit Ashes can distract Bernahl and provide openings for attacks. Strong options include Mimic Tear or Black Knife Tiche.
Learn his moveset: Bernahl uses a variety of attacks with the Devourer’s Scepter, including powerful slams and ranged spells. Practice dodging and identifying his attack patterns.
Exploit his weaknesses: Bernahl is vulnerable to backstabs and critical hits. Use opportunities to exploit these weaknesses.

Rewards for Victory: What You Get

Defeating Bernahl grants you the following rewards:

Devourer’s Scepter: Bernahl’s signature weapon, a great hammer with powerful weapon art that consumes health to unleash a devastating attack.
Beast Champion Armor Set: A heavy armor set offering excellent protection.
(If not already obtained) Raging Wolf Set: Unlocks the opportunity to aquire this set.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Bernahl’s Invasion

Here are 15 Frequently Asked Questions regarding Bernahl’s invasion, covering various aspects of the encounter and its context within the game:

1. Does Bernahl invade if I haven’t joined Volcano Manor?

No, Bernahl will not invade if you haven’t joined Volcano Manor. Joining the manor and accepting Tanith’s invitation is a prerequisite.

2. Do I have to complete all the Volcano Manor assassination requests?

No, you only need to complete at least one assassination request. Completing more doesn’t affect whether Bernahl invades.

3. Can I summon help for the Bernahl invasion?

Yes, you can summon other players or use spirit ashes to assist you during the Bernahl invasion.

4. What level should I be when fighting Bernahl?

It’s recommended to be around level 90-120 when tackling Crumbling Farum Azula and facing Bernahl.

5. I’m in Crumbling Farum Azula, but Bernahl isn’t invading. What’s wrong?

Make sure you have:

Joined Volcano Manor.
Completed at least one assassination request.
Not defeated the Godskin Duo.
Are in the specific area leading up to the Godskin Duo.

6. Does defeating Rykard affect Bernahl’s invasion?

No, defeating Rykard does not prevent Bernahl from invading, as long as you’ve completed at least one assassination request before defeating him.

7. Can I still get the Devourer’s Scepter if I miss the invasion?

Yes. After progressing far enough in the game, Bernahl will appear as a merchant NPC at the Warmaster’s Shack in Stormhill. You can purchase it from him then.

8. What are the stats of the Devourer’s Scepter?

The Devourer’s Scepter requires 32 Strength, 12 Dexterity, and 21 Faith. It scales primarily with Strength and Faith.

9. What makes the Devourer’s Scepter so good?

Its unique weapon art, “Devourer of Worlds,” consumes your own HP to unleash a powerful area-of-effect attack that heals you for a portion of the damage dealt. It’s especially effective against groups of enemies.

10. Is the Beast Champion Armor Set any good?

Yes, the Beast Champion Armor Set is a solid heavy armor option, offering high physical and magical defense.

11. Where can I find more assassination contracts after the first one?

Tanith will offer additional assassination contracts after you complete the initial one. Return to her to receive new targets.

12. Is it possible to miss joining Volcano Manor?

Yes, it is possible to miss joining Volcano Manor if you progress too far in the game without encountering Tanith. However, you will not be able to acquire his armor set this way.

13. Does Bernahl’s invasion have any impact on the ending I get?

No, Bernahl’s invasion and the Volcano Manor questline do not directly affect the available endings in Elden Ring.

14. I’m having trouble dodging Bernahl’s attacks. Any specific advice?

Focus on dodging into his attacks, rather than away. This can help you avoid the full impact of his swings and create opportunities for counterattacks. Watch for the wind-up of his Devourer of Worlds attack – it’s a prime time to create distance.

15. What happens if I kill Bernahl at the Warmaster’s Shack?

If you kill Bernahl at the Warmaster’s Shack before he relocates to Volcano Manor or before his invasion, you will obtain his weapon and armor, but you’ll miss out on the Volcano Manor questline and any associated rewards. You’ll still get access to the Raging Wolf set, though.

Where does Bernahl invade you?