Can Malenia be infected with Scarlet Rot?
Malenia, the fascinating and enigmatic character from the world of Elden Ring, is shrouded in mystery. Her peculiar condition, adorned with the Scarlet Rot, has left us with many questions. So, can Malenia indeed be infected with the scourge of the Lands Between?
Early Signs
The initial Scarlet Rot burst, followed by a violent explosion, can be bypassed by rolling away and dodging the attack promptly. This brief window reveals the boss’s vulnerable states. Malenia’s overall fragility and dependence on these brief moments to damage the player make her significantly easier to defeat. Employing the right strategy enables a swift victory over her powerful form.
Is Scarlet Rot a curse, a blessing, or the manifestation of her power?
Malenia’s infected body is a manifestation of the Scarlet Rot’s pervasive presence. Her transformation was sparked by the initial confrontation, where she unleashed it against the player. Through the course of her interaction, the Scarlet Rot amplified and intensified, taking residence within her. As evidence of her connection to Scarlet Rot, her ability as an Incantation proves this bond.
Possible Weaknesses
Weakening Malenia further via careful positioning and swift targeting the vulnerable areas could weaken her Scarlet Rot infection in addition to her health gauge. This approach provides added incentives for players seeking both her defeat and potential clues towards the mysteries of Malenia’s curse status.
Potential Linkage to Radagon Segrerio’s Weakness
Radagon despises his own red color due to the influence it gained from the fiery giants‘ intervention, as revealed through several dialogue snippets. Ragnold, a minor story detail, hints at such knowledge. This detail bears witness to Radagon detesting his own fiery influence as a result of Marika’s curse, much like how Malenia seeks escape from her cursed birth through her cocoon structure. Radagon was likely aware of this malaise.
Gleanings from Eldrid, the Ringleading Mystic
Eldrdis, the chief expert of the Lands Between magic and the Scarlet Rot specialist, is well-acquainted with the dark intricacies of the Eldritae. In multiple sessions, Eldrid delved into the concept behind Radagon’s connection with Malenia’s curse.
Furthermore, Eldrid discussed certain ‘unseen patterns present throughout the Lands Between" to Radagon through which the Scarlet Rot began taking hold.
Considering Malenia’s status both within and outside of those "unseen patterns” will provide valuable insight; therefore, it’s an opportunity to explore both contexts of her existence and see whether she can indeed carry and spread the Scarlet Rot further among those in the Lands Below.