Elden Ring: Mastering Martial Arts with the Shadow of the Erdtree Expansion
With the release of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion for Elden Ring Items *Elden Ring*, Tarnished adventurers now have the chance to harness the power of martial arts in their battles. This expansion introduces two new Hand-to-Hand weapons: the Dryleaf Arts and Dane’s Footwork. For those who have longed for a return to the bone-crushing power of the Bone Fist from *Dark Souls 2*, these new weapons deliver even more devastating potential. Embrace your inner monk with these exciting additions and prepare to conquer challenges with finesse and strength.
#### **Obtaining the Dryleaf Arts**
To acquire the Dryleaf Arts, progress through the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion until you reach the Scadu Altus region. At the Highroad Cross Site of Grace, you'll find a gesture titled "May the Best Win" and a note labeled "Monk's Missive." Follow the directions on the note to head east towards Moorth Ruins. Once you reach the Moorth Ruins Site of Grace, you'll encounter Dryleaf Dane, who challenges you to a duel using the “May the Best Win” gesture.
Dryleaf Dane employs a mix of martial arts and Holy magic, making the duel quite perilous. Be especially cautious of his Palm Blast attack, which can be lethal if not avoided. Having high poise will help you withstand his attacks and effectively counter with your own. Defeat Dryleaf Dane to claim the Dryleaf Arts and Dane’s Hat.
#### **Acquiring Dane's Footwork**
To get Dane’s Footwork, you need to complete most of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion's content. This weapon becomes available during the penultimate boss fight, where you will face Miquella's Followers, including Needle Knight Leda and Dryleaf Dane. The presence of these NPCs may depend on your quest progression, so ensure you’ve fulfilled the necessary requirements.
In this battle, Dryleaf Dane will wield Dane’s Footwork, replacing his previous arsenal. Pay attention to Needle Knight Leda’s Needle Piercer, which can catch you off guard. Summoning Pureblood Knight Ansbach can be highly beneficial to manage the multiple foes. Defeat these enemies to loot Dane’s Footwork from Dryleaf Dane.
#### **Comparing the Hand-to-Hand Weapons**
The Dryleaf Arts and Dane’s Footwork each offer distinct advantages. The Dryleaf Arts provides a balanced approach with both punches and kicks, making it versatile and straightforward for players to use. In contrast, Dane’s Footwork emphasizes kicks, which can be more challenging to master but are highly effective when utilized correctly.
The Ashes of War for these weapons, Palm Blast and Dryleaf Whirlwind, can be equipped to either weapon. For Dane’s Footwork, Dryleaf Whirlwind is particularly effective as it boosts kicking attacks. On the other hand, Dryleaf Arts benefits from Palm Blast, which enhances single-target damage—ideal for weapons typically weaker in that area.
#### **Optimizing Your Build**
Both Hand-to-Hand weapons can be wielded in either hand, allowing for flexibility in any build. Infusions for the Dryleaf Arts should align with your current build. For instance:
- **Flame Art Infusion** adds Fire damage and Faith scaling.
- **Magic Infusion** introduces Magic damage and Intelligence scaling.
- **Flame Art Infusion** adds Fire damage and Faith scaling.
- **Magic Infusion** introduces Magic damage and Intelligence scaling.
Enhance the Dryleaf Arts’ base damage to maximize the impact of Palm Blast.
For your talismans, consider the following:
- **Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman**: Boosts physical damage negation.
- **Rotten Winged Sword Insignia**: Increases attack power by 13% at maximum stacks.
- **Lord of Blood’s Exultation**: Raises attack power by 20% when blood loss occurs nearby, which complements the frequent use of Dryleaf Whirlwind.
- **Dragoncrest Greatshield Talisman**: Boosts physical damage negation.
- **Rotten Winged Sword Insignia**: Increases attack power by 13% at maximum stacks.
- **Lord of Blood’s Exultation**: Raises attack power by 20% when blood loss occurs nearby, which complements the frequent use of Dryleaf Whirlwind.
Additionally, the **Shattered Stone Talisman**, a new item in this expansion, enhances kicking attacks by 10%, further bolstering your martial prowess.
With these martial arts weapons and tips, dive into the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion and enjoy a fresh, exhilarating combat experience. Embrace your monk build and let your fists and elden ring items buy online feet pave the way to victory!