Exploring the many mini-dungeons of Elden Ring to take on their bosses and recover their riches is certainly one of the great charms of the game.
This is the case for the Murkwater Catacombs, which are quite easy to find. Follow the river north of Agheel Lake. You'll have to deal with the Bloody Finger Nerijus on the way.
It's theoretically possible to descend to the bottom of the canyon directly, using the giant tombstones, but it's really not worth the risk.
Preparation
- The Murkwater Catacombs are very short, but the Jade Goblins you'll encounter are highly aggressive. Watch out for pressure plates that trigger trap -- you can use them to easily defeat the Goblins by intentionally stepping on the plate, then flattening yourself against the sides of the hallway.
- Once the area has been explored, we'd advise resting at the Site of Grace before rushing to the boss without taking part in any other encounters. You ideally want to preserve your Flasks of Crimson Tears.
- If you have enough FP, summoning the Northern Mercenary makes this fight completely trivial.
Combat
- Unless you rely on summons, this fight isn't easy. His weapons are on chains, meaning he can greatly alter the distance at which his attacks can land.
- Be mindful of a sweeping AoE attack, as it covers a large area around him. Also watch out for him launching his weapons forward, and a giant leap that results in a powerful shockwave.
- He will also enrage, enveloping him in a red aura. He'll deal increased damage in this form.
- A good way to deal damage to this boss is to perform a heavy attack to make him wince, then back off with a dodge. You can also turn him using dodges, or by blocking. When he finishes his attack chain, the Grave Warden will be temporarily exposed..
- Ultimately the Grave Warden is a pretty basic fight, but is good practice against an enemy who strikes hard and fast, but more infrequently.
Rewards
Defeating the boss grants Ash of War: Storm Blade, which unleashes a powerful wind attack several yards in front of you and has the added benefit of tripping enemies hit.
Be mindful, however, that the Warrior class begins with this Ash.
Make sure to thoroughly search all rooms in the Catacombs before taking on the the boss, as it would be a crying shame to miss out on the Northern Mercenary Ashes!
