After triumphing over the Divine Beast Dancing Lion in Belurat, Tower Settlement, many players in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree may find themselves at a crossroads, unsure of the optimal path forward. The elevator beyond the boss arena leads to a seemingly impassable doorway, veiled by ominous shadow tendrils, creating a sense of obstruction rather than progression. So, where should the Tarnished adventurer venture next?
This guide will illuminate the diverse routes available to players following this significant boss encounter. We will explore both the intended progression path and alternative, hidden routes that unlock access to new and exciting areas within the Shadowlands. Be aware that the path currently blocked by shadow vines remains inaccessible until you advance further in the main narrative and achieve specific milestones within the DLC.
Great Rune Broken message after defeating a boss in Elden Ring Shadow of the Erdtree DLC
Charting Your Course After the Divine Beast Dancing Lion in Shadow of the Erdtree
Upon defeating the Dancing Lion, players will discover four primary paths they can explore, each offering unique challenges and rewards.
The Main Path: Castle Ensis
To follow the main story progression, head northeast from the Three-Path Cross Site of Grace. This is the location where you first encounter Needle Knight Leda near Miquella’s Cross. Proceed towards Ellac Greatbridge, which directly connects to Castle Ensis. Castle Ensis serves as the second major region within the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC. Here, you will face Rellana, Twin Moon Knight, a crucial boss whose defeat opens the intended route to Scadu Altus. Progressing through Scadu Altus will eventually lead you towards the imposing Shadow Keep, the domain of the formidable Messmer the Impaler, a key figure in the DLC’s narrative.
Exploring the South: Jagged Peak
For an alternate route that unlocks a significant portion of the map, venture south from Castle Ensis. Follow the road until you reach the Dragon’s Pit cave. Delving into this dungeon and overcoming the Ancient Dragon-Man boss at its conclusion will grant you access to the Jagged Peak region. Jagged Peak offers branching paths: heading north will lead you to a confrontation with the boss Bayle the Dread, while the southern route opens up access to the Grand Altar of Dragon Communion, Charo’s Hidden Grave, the Cerulean Coast, and the Southern Shore Map Fragment. Choosing this path allows exploration of the entire southern area of the Shadowlands map.
If you intend to challenge Bayle the Dread, consider speaking with the Priestess located at the Grand Altar of Dragon Communion beforehand. She offers a questline that, upon completion after Bayle’s defeat, allows you to transform into a dragon, adding a unique gameplay element.
Bypassing Castle Ensis: Scadu Altus via Spiritspring
For players seeking a quicker route to Scadu Altus and perhaps aiming to circumvent Castle Ensis entirely, a hidden path exists. South of the Castle Front Site of Grace, you can discover and unlock a sealed spiritspring. Utilizing this spiritspring will launch you to a previously inaccessible section near the Fort of Reprimand, specifically near the Behind the Fort of Reprimand Site of Grace. From here, descend into the Ramparts to reach the main Fort. Entering through the front door of the Fort provides direct access to Scadu Altus.
Just north of the Fort’s entrance, be prepared for a challenging encounter between Messmer’s soldiers and a Ghostflame Dragon. Defeating this dragon yields valuable rewards: a Dragon Heart and a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone. Alternatively, for a safer passage, you can navigate around the outskirts of this area while mounted on Torrent to avoid the dragon encounter altogether.
Late-Game Exploration: Ancient Ruins of Rauh
A secret route from Scadu Altus leads directly to the Ancient Ruins of Rauh, even without defeating any intermediate bosses. However, proceed with caution. This area is designed as an end-game zone, intended for players who have significantly progressed and are well-equipped, ideally after defeating Messmer within the Shadow Keep. The enemies in the Ancient Ruins of Rauh are formidable and may prove excessively difficult if you haven’t amassed a sufficient number of Scadutree Fragments to enhance your character’s strength within the Shadowlands.
