Venture into the treacherous land of Caelid in Elden Ring, where the air is thick with decay and danger lurks around every corner. This guide uncovers the hidden locations of all Ashes of War and Spirit Ashes, essential tools for any Tarnished seeking to conquer the formidable foes of the Lands Between. From the eerie depths of the Selia Crystal Catacombs to the desolate War-Dead Catacombs, discover how to summon powerful allies like Latenna the Albinauric and Radahn Soldiers, enhancing your combat prowess in this unforgiving realm. Prepare yourself, for each Ash holds the key to survival in a world where every encounter could be your last.
Key points of Elden Ring Map – Caelid – Ashes
Ashes of War
Spirit Ashes
On this page of the Elden Ring guide, you can find locations of all Ashes of War and Spirit Ashes encountered in Caelid. Caelid is a region connected to Limgrave, located in the eastern part of the map.
Ashes of War are special items that allow you to change the active skill of your weapon. Thanks to them, you can exchange your weapon skill for a completely new one. You activate them by pressing the button responsible for using skills. Spirit Ashes, on the other hand, are items that, when activated, summon spirit companions that will help you in combat.
While traveling through Caelid, you will be able to find 13 Ashes of War and 9 Spirit Ashes .
Ashes of War – Flame of the Redmanes
The Flame of the Redmanes is an Ash of War skill found in the Caelid region of Elden Ring, specifically behind Redmane Castle. This powerful skill allows players to unleash a fiery attack that can inflict significant damage on enemies, making it particularly effective in combat scenarios. To acquire this Ash of War, players must defeat a specific scarab located in the graveyard area, which drops the skill upon defeat. Mastering the Flame of the Redmanes can enhance a player’s arsenal, providing versatility and strength against formidable foes throughout the game.
This ash is awarded for killing a camouflaged scarab found near Fort Gael North. You can locate it through white tracks that it lives behind. Attack when the tracks are right in front of your hero.
Ashes of War – Lion’s Claw
Ash of War – Lion’s Claw is a powerful skill in Elden Ring, granting players the ability to perform a somersault strike with their weapon. This skill is particularly favored by those utilizing heavy weapons, as it provides a Heavy affinity that enhances Strength scaling while excluding small weapons and thrusting swords. Players can acquire the Lion’s Claw by defeating the Lion Guardian located in the courtyard of Fort Gael, situated in the scarlet-rot-infested region of Caelid. This Ash of War not only adds a visually impressive maneuver to combat but also offers significant damage potential and posture-breaking capabilities, making it a valuable asset for melee builds.
Lion’s Claw can be obtained once you enter Fort Gael. There is a lion opponent in the middle of the fort. After defeating him, Lion’s Claw is yours.
Ashes of War – Lifesteal Fist
The Lifesteal Fist Ash of War is a unique skill found in the Caelid region of Elden Ring, specifically dropped by a Scarab located along the Caelid Highway North. This powerful ability allows players to regain health with each successful hit, making it an excellent choice for aggressive playstyles that prioritize sustaining health during combat. To acquire it, players must defeat the Scarab, which can be elusive but is essential for enhancing melee weapons with lifesteal capabilities. This Ash of War is particularly beneficial for builds focusing on survivability and sustained damage output in the treacherous landscapes of Caelid.
Lifesteal Fist is looted from a scarab found nearby Caelid Highway.
Ashes of War – Poison Flight Mist
Ash of War: Poisonous Mist is a unique ability in Elden Ring that allows players to infuse their melee armaments with a potent poison effect. When activated, this skill coats the weapon in poison and unleashes a toxic mist forward, creating a lingering area that inflicts poison buildup on enemies. The skill is particularly effective for those looking to enhance their combat strategy with poison damage, as it not only applies immediate effects but also retains the poison on the weapon for a duration, allowing for sustained attacks. This Ash of War can be found by defeating a teardrop scarab located in the Aeonia Swamp area of Caelid, making it an accessible option for players seeking to incorporate poison into their builds.
The first poison-based Ash of War is awarded for defeating Night’s Cavalry. This enemy only appears at night, so change the time of the day at a Site of Grace.
Ashes of War – Poisonous Mist
Ashes of War – Poisonous Mist In the treacherous lands of Caelid, the Poisonous Mist Ash of War can be found on a small landmass in the southern part of Aeonia Swamp, dropped by a Scarab. This unique skill allows players to envelop their weapons in toxic mist, creating a cloud that inflicts poison damage on enemies caught within its reach. Utilizing this skill effectively can turn the tide in battles, particularly against foes vulnerable to poison, making it a valuable addition to any Tarnished’s arsenal as they navigate the hazardous environment of Caelid.
The second poison-based ability is received for killing a scarab located in the southern part of Swamp of Aeonia.
Ashes of War – Cragblade
Ash of War – Cragblade is a powerful skill in Elden Ring that enhances melee armaments by granting them the Heavy affinity. When activated, the player buries their weapon into the ground, drawing forth rocks to reinforce it, which significantly boosts both attack power and stance-breaking capability. This skill is particularly effective for Strength-scaling weapons, allowing players to deal increased physical damage and making it easier to stagger opponents. The Cragblade skill can be found in Caelid, specifically near the Impassable Greatbridge, where it drops from a Teardrop Scarab located on a cliff near a soldier’s camp.
This ash is awarded for killing a scarab located west of the observation tower, close to the swords stuck in the ground.
Ashes of War – Flaming Strike
Ash of War – Flaming Strike is a powerful and versatile skill in Elden Ring, enhancing melee weapons with a fiery attack. When activated, it unleashes flames in a wide frontward arc, followed by a strong attack that performs a lunging, sweeping strike, effectively coating the weapon in fire. This skill not only adds fire damage but also provides a significant buff to subsequent attacks, making it particularly effective against various enemies. Flaming Strike can be equipped on most melee weapons (excluding colossal weapons and whips) and is obtained from defeating a Teardrop Scarab located in a small graveyard behind Redmane Castle in Caelid. Its combination of area damage and weapon enhancement makes it one of the most sought-after Ashes of War in the game.
This ash is looted from a scarab encountered in the southern part of Redmane Castle.
Ashes of War – Sacred Ring of Light
The Ash of War: Sacred Ring of Light is a powerful skill in Elden Ring, primarily used by the Cleanrot Knights. This skill allows players to gather a sacred ring of light and fire it forward, dealing holy damage to enemies. It can be executed in rapid succession, making it effective for both crowd control and single-target engagements. The skill is specifically usable on polearms, excluding great spears, and grants the armament a Sacred affinity, enhancing its Faith scaling while reducing base damage. Players can acquire this Ash of War by defeating a Teardrop Scarab located in the Aeonian Swamps of Caelid, providing a strategic advantage in combat scenarios with its unique projectile mechanics and rapid-fire capability .
This one is obtained from a scarab in the eastern part of Swamp of Aeonia.
Ashes of War – Double Slash
In Elden Ring, the Double Slash Ash of War is a powerful skill that players can acquire in the Caelid region. Specifically, it can be found in Sellia Town of Sorcery, where players must locate a Scarab hanging by a tree. This Scarab is known for its quick movements, making it essential to approach with caution; using ranged attacks can be an effective strategy to secure this Ash without losing it. The Double Slash skill allows for two swift slashes with a weapon, dealing significant damage and providing an advantage in combat situations against various enemies throughout the game.
The Double Slash is collected by reaching the building roof and killing a scarab found there. The easiest way to get to the roof is to climb the roots.
Ashes of War – Rain of Arrows
Ash of War: Rain of Arrows is a powerful archery skill in Elden Ring that allows players to unleash a barrage of arrows upon their enemies. When activated, the player fires a single arrow into the sky, which then rains down multiple projectiles over a targeted area, making it particularly effective against larger foes and groups. This skill can be applied to any bow and is especially useful for inflicting status effects quickly due to the volume of arrows released. To obtain this Ash of War, players must first find the “Redmane” Painting in Sellia, Town of Sorcery, and then locate the spirit of a painter near the Minor Erdtree in Caelid, where the skill will appear after interacting with him.
This ash is found in Sellia, Town of Sorcery. You need to find Redmane Painting. Once you get the painting, go to the marked location, and then, while near the chasm, jump down to the tree roots.
Continue the descent – after a moment, a gohst sitting on a chair will appear on the left. It will disappear in a while, leaving you with the ash.
Ashes of War – Bloodhound Step
Ash of War – Bloodhound Step is a powerful skill in Elden Ring, enhancing player mobility significantly. This Ash of War allows users to perform a high-speed dodge while becoming temporarily invisible, making it an effective tool for evading attacks and repositioning during combat. It can be applied to all melee weapons, granting the Keen affinity and utilizing only 5 FP per use. To acquire Bloodhound’s Step, players must defeat the Night’s Cavalry located on the lower Farum Greatbridge in the Dragonbarrow area of Caelid, which is accessible only at night. This skill is particularly useful in challenging boss fights, offering players a strategic advantage by enabling them to dodge attacks more effectively than traditional rolls, thus making encounters with formidable foes like Malenia more manageable.
Bloodhound Step can be obtained at night by visiting the location marked on your map. At the location, you’ll encounter Night’s Cavalry. Defeat it to receive the ash.
Ashes of War – Beast Roar
Ash of War – Beast Roar is a powerful weapon skill in Elden Ring that enhances melee armaments with the Keen affinity, improving Dexterity scaling. This skill allows players to unleash a formidable beastly roar, sending a forward-traveling projectile that can deal significant damage to enemies at range. To acquire the Ash of War – Beast Roar, players must offer Gurranq, the Beast Clergyman, a fourth Deathroot at the Bestial Sanctum located in Dragonbarrow, Caelid. This skill costs 10 FP to use and is applicable to all types of melee weapons, making it a versatile choice for various builds looking to incorporate ranged attacks into their combat strategy.
To get this one, visit Gurranq, found in Bestial Sanctum and deliver the fourth Deathroot.
Ashes of War – Sky Shot
Ash of War: Sky Shot is a unique archery skill in Elden Ring that allows players to fire arrows high into the air, striking enemies from above. This skill is particularly effective against stationary targets, making it a strategic choice for ranged combat. The Sky Shot does not grant any affinity to the weapon but enhances damage output by approximately 33% compared to standard shots, especially when targeting weak points like heads. To acquire this Ash of War, players must defeat a Teardrop Scarab located northwest of the Isolated Merchant’s Shack in Dragonbarrow, providing an opportunity to utilize this skill effectively in various combat scenarios.
The final Ash of War in Caelid is behind the Isolated Merchant’s Shack. Simply kill the encountered scarab to receive it.
Spirit Ashes – Mad Pumpkinhead Ashes
The Mad Pumpkinhead Ashes are a unique Spirit Ash summon in Elden Ring, obtained from the Minor Erdtree Catacombs after defeating the Erdtree Burial Watchdogs duo. This summon conjures a brawny warrior with a distinctive pumpkin-shaped helmet, which provides him with moderate durability against attacks. With an FP cost of 110, the Mad Pumpkinhead excels in melee combat and can inflict bleed damage, making him particularly effective against susceptible enemies. His chaotic nature, driven by bloodshed and the sounds of battle, allows him to act as a formidable distraction in combat scenarios, especially for players relying on ranged spells or strategies.
The Mad Pumpkinhead Ashes are found in Minor Erdtree Catacombs after killing Erdtree Burial Watchdog. You’ll have to face two watchdogs, one equipped with a sword and the other one with a scepter.
Spirit Ashes – Putrid Corpse Ashes
The Putrid Corpse Ashes are a unique Spirit Ash summon in Elden Ring, found within the Gaol Cave in Caelid. When summoned, they conjure the spirits of four putrid corpses that serve primarily as distractions for enemies. Although their movements are slow and erratic, their low moans effectively draw enemy attention, allowing players to maneuver more freely during combat. With a focus point (FP) cost of 40, these spirits can absorb damage and redirect aggression, making them particularly useful for players seeking to mitigate incoming threats while dealing damage from a distance or preparing spells. The ashes are dropped by the Frenzied Duelist boss at the end of the Gaol Cave, rewarding players who overcome this challenge with a strategic tool for their adventures in the Lands Between.
Travel to the Gaol Cave, then defeat the main boss of the dungeon – Frenzied Duelist.
Spirit Ashes – Kindred of Rot Ashes
The Kindred of Rot Ashes in Elden Ring are a unique Spirit Ash that embodies the themes of decay and resilience found throughout the Caelid region. When summoned, these spirits manifest as grotesque figures that can unleash a powerful rot attack, inflicting damage over time on enemies. Players can find the Kindred of Rot Ashes near the Church of the Plague, a location steeped in the lore of scarlet rot and its effects on the land. This spirit not only serves as a formidable ally in battle but also reflects the corrupted beauty of Caelid, making it an essential addition for players looking to harness the power of rot in their strategies.
Travel to the Caelid Catacombs, then defeat the Cemetery Shade. Defeating him yields the ash.
Spirit Ashes – Miranda Sprout Ashes
Miranda Sprout Ashes is a unique Spirit Ash summon in Elden Ring that allows players to call forth five Miranda Sprouts, which are carnivorous flowers known for their slow movement and toxic pollen. Unlike traditional summons that consume Focus Points (FP), using Miranda Sprout Ashes requires sacrificing health (HP), specifically 185 HP per summon. These spirits can be particularly useful in battle due to their ability to distract enemies, although they are vulnerable to fire. Players can find the ashes hidden behind an illusionary wall in the Caelid Catacombs, making them a valuable addition for those exploring the game’s darker regions .
Miranda Sprout Ashes are found in Caelid Catacombs. Proceed forward until you encounter stairs leading down. While descending the stairs, instead of going forward, attack a wall located behind the stairs on the right. It turns out to be an illusion created by a nearby opponent – defeat him and pick up a small flower and the ash.
Spirit Ashes – Battle Mage Hugues
Spirit Ashes – Battle Mage Hugues Battlemage Hugues Ashes serve as a powerful Spirit Ash summon in Elden Ring, allowing players to call upon the spirit of Hugues, a skilled battlemage from Sellia. He is known for his mastery of both ranged and melee combat, utilizing magic attacks like Great Glintstone Shards and the Gavel of Haima to deal significant damage. Players can acquire these ashes by defeating Hugues at the Sellia Evergaol, located south of the Dragonbarrow West Site of Grace. With a focus on magic and a tanky presence in battle, Hugues is particularly effective at drawing enemy aggro while providing substantial support to players in challenging encounters.
This ash is looted from Battle Mage Hugues’s body – you encounter him in Sellia Evergaol. The prison is on the hill.
Spirit Ashes – Rotten Stray Ashes
The Rotten Stray Ashes in Elden Ring allow players to summon a spirit of a stray dog that has been corrupted by scarlet rot. This agile spirit is known for its quick attacks, making it effective for distracting enemies and dealing rapid damage. However, it possesses low HP, which means it can be taken out of combat swiftly. The Rotten Stray Ashes are particularly useful for early-game encounters, especially against bosses vulnerable to scarlet rot, as the spirit’s attacks inflict this debilitating status effect, gradually draining enemy health over time. Players can find these ashes in Caelid, specifically in the ruins north of the Sellia Under-Stair Site of Grace, where they will discover a corpse alongside the spirit’s remains.
The ash is close to Sellia Under-Stair Site of Grace, in the middle of a destroyed building. There is a dog nearby.
Spirit Ashes – Crystalian Ashes
Crystalian Ashes are a unique type of Spirit Ash in Elden Ring, allowing players to summon the spirit of a Crystalian, a resilient entity wielding dual crystalline blades. This spirit is particularly effective as a tank, boasting high poise and the ability to withstand significant damage from slashing attacks, making it an ideal companion against foes that do not employ blunt weaponry. Found in the hidden depths of Sellia Hideaway in Caelid, the Crystalian Ashes can be located in a secret chamber, providing valuable support during challenging encounters. While its offensive capabilities may not match those of other spirits, its durability ensures it can draw aggro and absorb hits, allowing players to focus on dealing damage from a distance.
Crystalian Ashes are found in Sellian Hideaway. While in the cave, go forward. Once you see the statue of Marika, travel up by climbing the crystals. Jump back down and defeat three mages. After the area is clear, simply loot the chest containing the ash.
Spirit Ashes – Radahn Soldier Ashes
The Radahn Soldier Ashes are a powerful spirit summon in Elden Ring, allowing players to call forth two of General Radahn’s soldiers to aid in battle. These spirits are equipped with fiery weapons and shields, enabling them to perform formidable attacks and skills upon summoning. Notably, they exhibit aggressive behavior, immediately engaging enemies, which can be particularly advantageous during challenging encounters. The ashes can be found in the War-Dead Catacombs, located at the northern tip of Radahn’s arena, making them a valuable asset for players seeking to enhance their combat capabilities against formidable foes.
This ash is in War-Dead Catacombs, a location unlocked after defeating Radahn on the arena. As you enter the catacombs, go right up the stairs and walk past or defeat the encountered archer. Now turn right and jump through a small window. Go up the stairs, defeat a sword-wielding opponent and pick up the ash.
Spirit Ashes – Redmane Knight Ogha
The Redmane Knight Ogha Ashes are a powerful Spirit Ash summon in Elden Ring, allowing players to call upon the spirit of Ogha, a valiant knight skilled in the use of a greatbow. This legendary warrior is noted for his long service among the Redmane Knights and his studies in gravity manipulation alongside Radahn. Upon summoning, Ogha immediately engages enemies, utilizing both ranged gravitational arrows and melee attacks when foes approach. These ashes can be obtained by defeating the Putrid Tree Spirit in the War-Dead Catacombs, located northeast of Radahn’s boss arena. Ogha’s unique combat style makes him particularly effective against aggressive bosses, providing both distraction and support during challenging encounters.
What are the best strategies for defeating the bosses in Caelid
Defeating the bosses in Caelid requires a combination of strategy, timing, and understanding each boss’s unique mechanics. Here are some effective strategies for the notable bosses in this challenging region:
General Strategies
- Level Appropriately: Aim for a character level of 55-60 for most encounters in Caelid to ensure you can withstand damage while dealing enough to defeat the bosses.
- Summon Allies: Utilize Spirit Ashes or summon other players to help distract and deal damage to bosses, allowing you to focus on dodging and attacking when openings appear.
Boss-Specific Strategies
Starscourge Radahn
- Phase One: Maintain distance and let NPC allies draw aggro. Use ranged attacks and dodge his powerful melee strikes. When he charges, dodge towards his legs to avoid damage2.
- Phase Two: Watch for his gravity-based attacks; sidestep to avoid the gravitational pull and slam attacks. Keep moving to avoid being caught in his area-of-effect spells2.
Godskin Apostle
- Melee Strategy: Use weapons that inflict Hemorrhage, such as katanas, as the Godskin Apostle is weak to bleed damage. Avoid heavy strike weapons due to the boss’s resistance to physical damage.
- Ranged Strategy: If struggling, consider using powerful sorceries like Comet Azur for sustained damage. Equip the Cerulean Hidden Tear in your flask to extend your casting time during the fight.
Commander O’Neil
- Initial Engagement: Quickly eliminate summoned minions before focusing on Commander O’Neil. His sweeping halberd attacks can be parried, allowing you to counter with critical hits.
- Avoid Area Damage: Watch for his powered spinning attack, which has a wide area of effect; maintain distance when you see him preparing this move.
Crucible Knight & Misbegotten Warrior
- Focus on Misbegotten Warrior First: Deal as much damage as possible before the Crucible Knight joins the fight. Use Spirit Ashes early to help manage both foes.
- Learn Attack Patterns: Both bosses have precise attack patterns; familiarize yourself with their moves to effectively dodge and counterattack.
Frenzied Duelist
- Maintain Distance: The Frenzied Duelist has swift combos; keeping your distance allows you to learn attack patterns and dodge effectively. Look for openings after dodging their spinning attacks or uppercuts.
By employing these strategies tailored to each boss’s mechanics, players can increase their chances of success in the perilous landscape of Caelid.
What are the weaknesses of the Godskin Apostle
The Godskin Apostle in Elden Ring has several notable weaknesses that players can exploit to gain an advantage during the fight:
- Bleed Damage: The Godskin Apostle is particularly susceptible to bleed damage, making weapons like the Uchigatana or Cross-Naginata effective choices. These weapons can inflict significant damage over time, rapidly depleting the Apostle’s health as the bleed effect accumulates.
- Fire Damage: In addition to bleed, the Godskin Apostle also takes substantial damage from fire attacks. Using fire-infused weapons or spells, such as Fire Grease or Flame Sling, can significantly shorten the battle by dealing consistent damage.
- Status Effects: The Godskin Apostle has low resistance to various status effects, including sleep and poison. Utilizing sleep-inducing items like St. Trina’s Torch or Sleep Pots can incapacitate the boss, allowing for safe attacks while he is asleep. Poison spells can also be applied without waking him up, providing a strategic advantage.
- Mobility and Positioning: Maintaining strategic positioning is crucial. Staying on the Apostle’s left side allows players to avoid many of his attacks while still getting hits in after his swings. Using obstacles in the environment can help avoid projectiles and black flame attacks, creating opportunities for counterattacks.
- Attack Patterns: Understanding and anticipating the Godskin Apostle’s attack patterns is essential. After certain moves, such as his spinning attack or when he extends his body for a strike, there are brief windows where players can safely engage and deal damage before retreating.
By leveraging these weaknesses and maintaining awareness of the boss’s attack patterns, players can effectively defeat the Godskin Apostle with greater ease.
