The Enigmatic Black Blade: Unveiling Maliketh, the Death Boss of Elden Ring
The question of who the black death boss is in Elden Ring can be answered with the formidable figure of Maliketh, the Black Blade. This pivotal boss encounter is not only a challenging combat trial but also a crucial point in the game’s narrative, making him a character of immense significance. Maliketh’s presence is shrouded in mystery, and his true identity is initially concealed behind the guise of Beast Clergyman Gurranq. As players progress through Crumbling Farum Azula, the true nature of this character is revealed, making the fight with Maliketh a dramatic and unforgettable experience.
Maliketh, the Black Blade: Unveiling the Truth
From Beast Clergyman to Black Blade
The journey to confront Maliketh begins with an encounter with Gurranq, the Beast Clergyman, a figure shrouded in mystery and residing in the Bestial Sanctum in Caelid. He’s an NPC who tasks the Tarnished with retrieving Deathroot. It is during the final stage of Crumbling Farum Azula that Gurranq transforms into his true, terrifying form – Maliketh, the Black Blade. This transformation occurs after you have dealt significant damage to the Beast Clergyman. This metamorphosis marks a turning point, not just in the battle but also in the game’s storyline.
The Significance of Maliketh
Maliketh’s significance stretches far beyond his role as a boss. He is Marika’s shadow-bound beast, tasked with guarding the Rune of Death. This role positions him as a key figure in the events that shape the Lands Between. His very existence is intertwined with the fundamental forces of life and death, and his actions have far-reaching implications for the game’s world. Defeating Maliketh is not optional; it’s a necessary step to access Leyndell, Ashen Capital, and continue towards the game’s ultimate conclusion.
Understanding Maliketh’s Lore
Understanding Maliketh’s lore adds layers of depth to the encounter. He is a loyal servant of Queen Marika, but this very devotion is ultimately betrayed by her. Maliketh was tasked with sealing the Rune of Death, a task that resulted in a state of pseudo-immortality for many demigods. Marika’s betrayal is a significant plot point that highlights the complex and often tragic nature of Elden Ring’s characters.
Combatting the Black Blade
A Two-Phase Battle
The fight against Maliketh is a demanding encounter that unfolds in two distinct phases. The initial phase as the Beast Clergyman tests players with a variety of beastial attacks, while the transformed Maliketh wields the power of the Rune of Death, unleashing terrifying and swift strikes with his black blade. This duality requires adaptability and mastery of combat mechanics.
Strategies for Success
Overcoming Maliketh requires players to be prepared. Recommended levels range from 120 to 150, with a focus on boosting Vigor to at least 40 points. A fully upgraded weapon is also crucial. While ranged builds may face difficulties, melee builds have options for using specific items like the Blasphemous Claw to parry some of his attacks. Additionally, Frost and Bleed damage are considered effective strategies against him.
The Impact of Maliketh’s Defeat
Opening the Path to Leyndell, Ashen Capital
Defeating Maliketh has immediate consequences within the game world. It triggers the transformation of Leyndell into the Ashen Capital, altering the landscape and limiting access to certain areas. Despite this, this shift is critical to progressing through the story towards the endgame and confronting the final boss.
Rewards and Recognition
Upon his defeat, players are rewarded with 220,000 runes and the Remembrance of the Black Blade. This Remembrance can be used to obtain Maliketh’s sword or the Black Blade Incantation, powerful tools that reflect his formidable nature. The victory over Maliketh is not just a milestone in progression; it also grants access to potent weaponry.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Maliketh
1. Is Maliketh the Beast Clergyman?
Yes, Maliketh and Beast Clergyman Gurranq are the same character. Gurranq is Maliketh’s disguised form before revealing his true identity during the battle in Crumbling Farum Azula.
2. What is the Rune of Death, and how does it relate to Maliketh?
The Rune of Death is a powerful artifact whose sealing by Maliketh stripped the demigods of their fated deaths, making them effectively immortal. Maliketh is the guardian of this rune.
3. What is the connection between Maliketh and Queen Marika?
Maliketh is Marika’s shadow-bound beast and loyal enforcer. He was tasked with guarding the Rune of Death. However, their relationship is complex, and Marika ultimately betrays him.
4. What level should I be before fighting Maliketh?
Aim for at least level 120, ideally closer to 150, with at least 40 points invested in Vigor. Make sure your weapon is fully leveled up.
5. What are Maliketh’s weaknesses?
Maliketh is weak to Frost and Bleed damage. The Hoarfrost Stomp Ash of War or weapons with Bleed can be effective.
6. What happens after defeating Maliketh?
Defeating Maliketh transforms Leyndell into the Ashen Capital, and you gain access to the final areas of the game. This is also a point of no return.
7. What rewards do you get for defeating Maliketh?
You receive 220,000 runes and the Remembrance of the Black Blade, which can be used to acquire his sword or the Black Blade Incantation.
8. Can Maliketh be parried?
Yes, Maliketh can be parried using the Blasphemous Claw. This requires precise timing and is particularly effective during certain attacks.
9. Is Maliketh’s fight skippable?
No, the fight against Maliketh is not optional. He must be defeated to progress the main story and reach the final boss.
10. Why is Maliketh so powerful?
Maliketh’s power stems from his connection to the Rune of Death and his role as Marika’s shadow. He’s a legendary warrior with access to the power of death itself.
11. Does killing Maliketh lock you out of any areas?
Yes, killing Maliketh locks you out of certain areas in the Royal Capital by covering it in ashes. This is a necessary step to progress the story.
12. Is Maliketh the secret boss of Elden Ring?
No, Maliketh is not a secret boss. He is a mandatory boss encounter in Crumbling Farum Azula.
13. Are Maliketh and Gurranq the same person?
Yes, Maliketh and Gurranq are the same person. Gurranq is the Beast Clergyman who is later revealed to be Maliketh.
14. What does Maliketh guard?
Maliketh guards the Rune of Death. His purpose is to protect it and maintain the order established by the Elden Ring.
15. Did Marika betray Maliketh?
Yes, it is implied that Marika betrayed Maliketh. Despite his loyalty, she did not return it and was willing to betray him.
Maliketh, the Black Blade, stands as a testament to the complex and challenging world of Elden Ring. He is not just a boss fight; he is a pivotal character whose story is interwoven with the very fabric of the Lands Between. Understanding his lore, his role, and how to defeat him is crucial for any Tarnished seeking to become Elden Lord.