Throne & Liberty: Stop the Dark Ritual Exploration Codex Guide

If you want to 100% your exploration in Throne & Liberty, you must complete all the Exploration Codex in the game. That said, if you’ve come across the Akidu Valley, then you’re currently facing the “Stop the Dark Ritual” quest. Whether you’re aiming for smoother progression or simply want to optimize your exploration time for this Codex, my guide has you covered with all the tips and strategies you need to successfully complete it. 

Stop the Dark Ritual Exploration Codex Guide

This guide provides step-by-step instructions for completing the “Stop the Dark Ritual” Exploration Codex quest in Akidu Valley, including how to lower the drawbridge, defeat the Orc Shadow Elder, and collect Black Mana Stones:

• Lower the drawbridge to access the next area.
• Defeat the Orc Shadow Elder for the main objective of the quest.
• Collect Black Mana Stones required for the quest.

Upon entering the area, you’ll need to locate and lower the drawbridge to proceed. Approach from the side and jump to the elevated position where the “Drawbridge Lever” is located. If your vertical controls are not responsive, attempt a manual approach by adjusting your position. Once at the lever, interact with it to lower the drawbridge.

Collecting Black Mana Stones

After lowering the drawbridge, your next task is to collect the Black Mana Stones. These stones are scattered throughout the area. Contrary to the marked circles on the map, the stones are often found outside these zones. Explore nearby locations and follow the sky-blue markers you see on the map for them.

Upon finding a Black Mana Stone, approach it and interact to collect it. Stones respawn fairly quickly (within a couple of minutes), allowing for efficient farming.If attacked while collecting the stones, prioritize evasion and continue to gather as many as possible before engaging in combat.

Defeating the Orc Shadow Elder

Once you’ve collected enough Black Mana Stones, the Orc Shadow Elder will appear.

• Kiting Strategy: To avoid being overwhelmed by multiple enemies, kite the Orc Shadow Elder away from crowded areas. Lure him towards you by keeping a safe distance and avoiding any unnecessary engagements with other enemies.
• The Elder may throw projectiles like fireballs. Dodge these while maintaining your focus on drawing him away.
• Once the Orc Shadow Elder is isolated, initiate combat. If another enemy follows the Elder, handle them first before focusing on the boss.
• Targeting: Be careful of the game’s targeting mechanics, which may cause you to switch targets unintentionally. Adjust your aim manually to stay locked onto the Elder.
• Also, make sure you have healing abilities or items equipped, as prolonged combat can deplete your health quickly.
• If additional enemies join the fight, disengage and repeat the kiting process. Managing the number of enemies you face at once is important when it comes to surviving.

Completing the Stop The Dark Ritual Exploration Codex

After defeating the Orc Shadow Elder, you will have successfully completed the primary objective of the quest. If needed, continue farming Black Mana Stones in the area, as they respawn quickly. Lastly, make sure that you have healed and cleared any remaining enemies before proceeding to the next section of the exploration!