The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREEClear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Maliketh is at the end of Crumbling Farum Azula. The fight begins against Beast Clergyman, then changes to Maliketh, the Black Blade, at about half health. Learn the first phase’s bestial attacks, dodge the second phase’s fast sword strikes, and take short openings rather than trying to trade hits. The Blasphemous Claw can counter certain attacks, but it is optional.
Where to find Maliketh
Maliketh is the boss at the end of Crumbling Farum Azula. Defeating him is required before progression to Leyndell, Ashen Capital, according to EIP Gaming’s boss guide. The Beside the Great Bridge Site of Grace is also the landmark for the optional Blasphemous Claw route.
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How the fight changes between phases
Phase one: Beast Clergyman
Beast Clergyman is quick and uses both close-range attacks and bestial incantations. Watch for Bestial Sling, Stone of Gurranq, Beast Claw, and ground attacks that send rocks up before they fall back down. Avoid rushing in while the falling rocks are still dangerous; wait for the attack to finish before taking a punish window. GameSpot’s Maliketh guide describes the phase’s attacks and openings.
Phase two: Maliketh, the Black Blade
At about half health, Beast Clergyman transforms into Maliketh. His greatsword attacks are fast, and a hit can reduce your maximum HP and keep draining health over time—even if you block with a shield. Dodging is generally safer than relying on a guard during this phase.
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Look for openings after Maliketh commits to an attack, then land a brief punish and retreat. The broken pillars can provide cover while you heal or refill FP, but they are not a substitute for avoiding his attacks.
How to beat Maliketh
- Prepare for survivability. GameSpot suggests level 120 or higher, ideally closer to 150, and at least 40 Vigor. These are guide recommendations, not entry requirements or a guarantee of success. Upgrade your weapon and bring a setup you can use reliably.
- Learn Beast Clergyman’s attack rhythm. Avoid reacting to every movement by attacking. Dodge the close-range strikes, keep clear of the falling rocks after his ground attacks, and use the recovery afterward for a controlled hit.
- Switch to evasion in phase two. Maliketh’s attacks can inflict both immediate damage and a lingering drain. Prioritize dodging, and do not assume a shield will prevent the effect.
- Take only brief openings. After a committed sword attack, move in for a hit or two if the recovery allows, then create space. Greedily extending a combo can leave you exposed to his next fast strike.
- Use support if it suits your build. Spirit Summons are available. A summon can help draw Maliketh’s attention and create room to attack; GameSpot particularly suggests one for ranged builds because he closes distance quickly. EIP Gaming also mentions options such as Mimic Tear and Black Knife Tiche.
Is Maliketh weak to bleed, Scarlet Rot, or an element?
There is no clear consensus in the reviewed guides on a specific elemental or status weakness. GameSpot says Maliketh is highly resistant to status effects and elemental damage and recommends high physical damage for melee. Windows Central instead recommends bleed and Scarlet Rot. Because those claims conflict, do not count on either status effect as a dependable shortcut. A well-upgraded weapon, careful dodging, and taking safe openings are a more cautious baseline.
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Should you get the Blasphemous Claw?
The Blasphemous Claw is optional, but it can briefly leave Maliketh vulnerable if used at the right moment against certain phase-two attacks. Watch for a gold glow on his sword: that visual cue signals an attack the Claw can parry when timed correctly. It does not mean every sword attack is parryable.
How to obtain it
Recusant Bernahl drops the Claw after an invasion near the Great Bridge route if the relevant Volcano Manor and Rykard progression conditions have been met. GameSpot’s guide to Maliketh explains the route and the item’s use. If you would rather not pursue or learn the timing, you can fight Maliketh without it.
What Maliketh drops
EIP Gaming lists 220,000 runes and the Remembrance of the Black Blade as rewards. The Remembrance can be exchanged for Maliketh’s sword or the Black Blade Incantation, as described by GameSpot. The rune amount is the reward stated in EIP Gaming’s guide, published in 2022 and updated in 2024.
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