Lichdragon Fortissax stands as one of the most memorable hidden encounters in Elden Ring, tucked deep within the subterranean reaches of the Lands Between. Accessing this powerful boss requires players to progress through interconnected side quests and venture into subterranean zones. Understanding the necessary steps ensures you do not accidentally miss this grand battle during your playthrough.
Starting Fia's Questline in Roundtable Hold
Your journey toward encountering Fortissax begins by interacting with Fia, the Deathbed Companion, at Roundtable Hold. Accepting her embrace and speaking with her periodically triggers key story events that set her journey in motion. Eventually, she will give you a key item that leads to her departure from the hold.
After Fia leaves Roundtable Hold, you must continue her narrative path by exploring new underground areas. Progression requires advancing far enough in the game to unlock access to deep subterranean locations. Keeping track of major NPC interactions is essential for seamlessly advancing her storyline.
Obtaining the Cursemark of Death
To unlock the final stage of Fia's quest, you must secure the Cursemark of Death key item. This item is retrieved by progressing through Ranni the Witch's questline and exploring the Carian Study Hall. Reaching the top of the inverted study hall allows you to collect the required mark.
Once you hold the Cursemark of Death, you can deliver it to Fia in her final sanctuary. This step is critical because without giving her the mark, the boss encounter cannot be triggered. Ensuring you complete Ranni's initial stages first saves valuable time.
Reaching the Deeproot Depths
Locating the Deeproot Depths is a major requirement for finding Fortissax's arena. Players can reach this hidden zone by defeating the Valiant Gargoyles in Nokron and resting in a stone coffin. Alternatively, navigating through the subterranean shunning-grounds beneath Leyndell provides another route.
Once inside the Deeproot Depths, travel toward the Prince of Death's Throne site of grace. Defeating Fia's Champions in this arena clears the path to speak directly with her. This location serves as the definitive staging ground for the secret boss fight.
Entering the Deathbed Dream to Fight Fortissax
After presenting the Cursemark of Death to Fia, exhaust all of her available dialogue options. Reload the area by resting at a Site of Grace to update her status. You will eventually find her sleeping peacefully at the throne.
Interacting with her sleeping form gives you the prompt to enter the Deathbed Dream. Transporting inside immediately initiates the battle against Lichdragon Fortissax. Defeating this legendary dragon rewards you with its Remembrance and unlocks a unique ending path.
