How can I use the map to find the nearest source of black metal in the Plains?

Finding black metal in Valheim requires venturing into the Plains biome, a dangerous area filled with powerful enemies like Fulings and Deathsquitos. Black metal is a valuable resource used to craft high-tier weapons and armor, making it essential for late-game progression. To locate the nearest source of black metal, you must first understand how the map works and how to navigate the Plains biome safely.\n\nBefore heading to the Plains, ensure you are well-prepared. Equip yourself with strong armor, such as wolf or padded armor, and bring a powerful weapon like a silver sword or frostner. Stock up on healing meads, stamina potions, and food that boosts health and stamina. Additionally, craft a portal at your base to establish a quick escape route if needed. Preparation is key to surviving the Plains and successfully gathering black metal.\n\nTo find black metal, you must locate Fuling camps in the Plains biome. Fulings are goblin-like creatures that drop black metal scraps when defeated. These camps are marked by wooden structures, totems, and often a large bonfire. Use your map to scout for Plains biomes near your current location. Plains biomes are typically found far from the starting area, often near the edge of the map or adjacent to other biomes like the Swamp or Mountains.\n\nOnce you identify a Plains biome, sail or travel there using a longship or other fast transportation method. Upon arrival, explore the area carefully, keeping an eye out for Fuling camps. Use the map to mark any camps you discover, as this will help you track your progress and plan your route. Be cautious of Deathsquitos, which can deal massive damage if you are not careful. Use a bow to take them out from a distance.\n\nWhen you find a Fuling camp, approach it strategically. Fulings often travel in groups, and their shamans can cast powerful spells. Use terrain to your advantage, such as hiding behind rocks or trees to avoid ranged attacks. Engage enemies one at a time if possible, and use your shield to block incoming attacks. After clearing the camp, loot the black metal scraps from the fallen Fulings. You may also find black metal in chests within the camp.\n\nIf you are struggling to locate Fuling camps, consider using a cartography table to share map markers with other players in multiplayer mode. This can help you coordinate exploration and cover more ground efficiently. Additionally, you can use the Wishbone, obtained by defeating Bonemass in the Swamp biome, to detect buried treasure in the Plains, which may include black metal.\n\nOnce you have gathered enough black metal scraps, return to your base and smelt them in a blast furnace. The blast furnace requires iron, stone, and surtling cores to craft, so ensure you have these materials ready. Smelted black metal can then be used to craft powerful weapons like the black metal sword, axe, and shield, as well as the padded armor set.\n\nIn summary, finding black metal in Valheim involves exploring the Plains biome, locating and defeating Fulings, and smelting their scraps into usable metal. Prepare thoroughly, use the map to mark key locations, and approach Fuling camps with caution. With persistence and strategy, you can gather the black metal needed to craft top-tier gear and dominate the late game.\n\nPractical tips: Always carry a portal for quick escapes, use ranged weapons to deal with Deathsquitos, and mark Fuling camps on your map for future reference. Consider teaming up with other players to make exploration and combat easier.