How do I find and defeat the Elder boss in the Black Forest?

The Elder is the second boss in Valheim and is found in the Black Forest biome. To locate the Elder, you must first find its summoning altar. This altar is marked by a glowing red rune stone found in Burial Chambers or occasionally on the surface in the Black Forest. Interacting with the rune stone will reveal the Elder''s location on your map. The altar itself is a large stone structure surrounded by ancient trees, making it easy to spot once you''re in the right area.\n\nTo summon the Elder, you need to offer three Ancient Seeds at its altar. Ancient Seeds are obtained by defeating Greydwarf Brutes or Shamans, or by destroying Greydwarf Nests in the Black Forest. These nests are small, glowing structures that spawn Greydwarfs when approached. Once you have the seeds, place them in the altar''s fire pit to summon the Elder. Be prepared for a tough fight, as the Elder is a formidable opponent.\n\nThe Elder has two primary attacks: a ranged vine attack and a stomp attack. The vine attack shoots out long, thorny vines that deal significant damage and can hit you from a distance. The stomp attack is a close-range AoE (area of effect) ability that can knock you back and deal heavy damage. To avoid these attacks, stay mobile and use the environment to your advantage. The Black Forest is filled with trees and rocks that can provide cover from the Elder''s vine attacks.\n\nFor the fight, it''s recommended to use a bow and arrows, as the Elder is weak to fire damage. Craft a Finewood Bow and stock up on Fire Arrows, which can be made using Resin, Wood, and Feathers. Fire Arrows deal extra damage to the Elder and are essential for a ranged strategy. If you prefer melee combat, equip a strong weapon like a Bronze Sword or Mace, but be cautious of the Elder''s stomp attack. Always keep your health and stamina high by consuming cooked meat, berries, and meads.\n\nOne common challenge during the fight is managing stamina. The Elder''s attacks are relentless, and running out of stamina can leave you vulnerable. To mitigate this, bring Stamina Mead, which can be crafted using Honey, Raspberries, and Yellow Mushrooms. Additionally, wear armor that balances protection and mobility, such as Troll Hide Armor or Bronze Armor. Troll Hide Armor is lighter and allows for better stamina management, while Bronze Armor provides higher defense.\n\nAfter defeating the Elder, you will receive the Swamp Key, which unlocks Sunken Crypts in the Swamp biome. These crypts contain valuable resources like Iron Scrap, essential for crafting stronger gear. The Elder also drops a trophy that can be placed at the starting altar to gain its power, which increases woodcutting speed. This is particularly useful for gathering wood quickly in the Meadows and Black Forest.\n\nPractical tips for the fight include clearing the area around the altar before summoning the Elder. Remove trees and rocks to create an open space for maneuvering. Bring a portal or materials to build one nearby, as dying far from your base can be frustrating. Finally, consider bringing a friend or two for co-op play, as the Elder''s attacks are easier to manage with multiple players distracting it.\n\nIn summary, defeating the Elder requires preparation, strategy, and awareness of its attacks. Gather Ancient Seeds, craft Fire Arrows, and equip appropriate gear before engaging. Use the environment to your advantage, manage your stamina, and consider co-op play for an easier fight. With these tips, you''ll be ready to take on the Elder and progress further into Valheim''s challenging world.