So, you've faced Maliketh, the Black Blade, and the world as you knew it has fundamentally shifted. That familiar, grand Leyndell, Royal Capital, has undergone a dramatic transformation, becoming the Ashen Capital. It's a stark, almost melancholic, echo of its former glory, and yes, it's where the ultimate challenges of the Lands Between await. But how do you actually get there, and what's changed?
Upon defeating Maliketh, a cutscene will play, and when you next regain your senses, you'll find yourself in this altered landscape. The first thing you'll likely notice is the "Leyndell, Capital of Ash" Site of Grace, a welcome beacon in the desolation. From here, the path forward isn't as straightforward as it once was.
Heading south from the Site of Grace, you'll find a sloping hill. At its base, near an open building and a sewer entrance, lies a Rune Arc. You can venture into the sewer for the Crimson Amber Medallion +2, but be prepared to warp back to the Site of Grace to exit. Inside the building, a Tarnished Golden Sunflower offers a small comfort.
Emerging from the building, you'll encounter the colossal dragon corpse, now largely buried by sand. Climbing its arm is your ticket to the ramparts. Look down to your right, towards where Roundtable Hold used to be, and you'll spot an item – a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone – near the front door. A patrolling gargoyle guards it, so a quick grab-and-run is advised.
Warping back to the Site of Grace and heading south again, bypass the Rune Arc body. You'll see a staircase in the distance. Before ascending, check the rooftops to your left for a Hero's Rune [4]. Then, it's up the staircase and via an elevator to the Erdtree Sanctuary. This familiar locale now houses a formidable foe.
The All-Knowing's Gambit
Sir Gideon Ofnir, the All-Knowing, stands in your way. He's a tough one, a veritable amalgamation of abilities borrowed from other powerful beings you've likely encountered. Think spells from Rennala, blood magic reminiscent of Mohg, and even Malenia's Scarlet Aeonia. His moveset is a dangerous dance of projectiles and potent magic. The pillars in the arena can offer temporary respite from his ranged attacks, but be wary of his "Law of Causality" buff – hitting him too many times while it's active results in a devastating explosion.
Despite his varied arsenal, Gideon shares the weaknesses of many humanoid foes. He's susceptible to being strafed, backstabbed, and stunlocked with swift weapons. Some have found rapid attacks, like the Rivers of Blood weapon art, to be particularly effective in dispatching him quickly.
Defeating Gideon grants you the Scepter of the All-Knowing and his armor set. The Erdtree Sanctuary Site of Grace reappears, allowing you to regroup. From here, you can ascend via the large root, just as you did after facing Godfrey previously, leading you to the Queen's Bedchamber Site of Grace, where the Erdtree Heal incantation awaits.
A Familiar, Yet Fiercer, Foe
With your strength renewed, you'll proceed to the boss arena where you once faced Morgott, the Omen King. And yes, it's time to confront Godfrey again, this time as the First Elden Lord. This encounter is largely similar to your previous battle, and he remains highly vulnerable to Guard Counters. Don't hesitate to summon Shabriri or any Ash Summons you possess; they can significantly ease this fight, sometimes even completing it with minimal player intervention.
As you enter the arena, Godfrey almost always initiates his assault with a powerful stomp, so be ready to dodge. His aggressive style, combined with the altered environment of the Ashen Capital, makes for a truly climactic encounter.
