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Elden Ring DLC: Shadow of the Erdtree Scadutree Blessings Guide

Last Updated: October 20, 2025

A player character in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree using a Site of Grace to view their Scadutree Blessing level in the Land of Shadow.

As Tarnished everywhere venture into the Land of Shadow, a new challenge has emerged that has nothing to do with rumored roguelite modes or mythical expansions like "Nightreign." The true key to survival in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree lies in mastering its unique, area-specific progression system: Scadutree Blessings. While online theories once speculated about Relic systems and inventory caps, the reality is a far more integrated mechanic that is essential for overcoming the DLC's punishing difficulty.

This guide clarifies the official progression system, leaving behind the fan-made "Nightreign" concept, and provides the authoritative information you need for an uninterrupted expedition through Miquella's domain.

From 'Nightreign' Myth to Shadow of the Erdtree Reality

For a time, community discussions and speculation gave rise to the idea of an Elden Ring roguelite expansion titled "Nightreign," complete with a "Relic" system and a strict inventory cap that would halt progress. This concept, while intriguing, is not part of any official release from FromSoftware.

The developer's actual and far more ambitious addition is Shadow of the Erdtree, which introduces its own novel method for character empowerment. Instead of temporary, run-based Relics, the DLC features a permanent, cumulative upgrade system that is active only within the Land of Shadow. Understanding this is not just helpful—it is mandatory for survival.

The Core of DLC Progression: Scadutree Fragments and Revered Spirit Ashes

Your base level and stats from the main game are only part of the equation in Shadow of the Erdtree. To stand a chance against the formidable new bosses and enemies, you must seek out two new critical upgrade materials:

  • Scadutree Fragments: These are the most important new items in the DLC. By consuming them at a Site of Grace, you increase your Scadutree Blessing level. This powerful blessing grants you a scaling bonus to both the damage you inflict and your damage negation. This effect is crucial, as it directly counteracts the immense damage output of enemies in the Land of Shadow.
  • Revered Spirit Ashes: Found in similar locations, these items are used at Sites of Grace to upgrade your Revered Spirit Ash Blessing. This separate blessing enhances the combat effectiveness of your Spirit Ashes and the survivability of your spectral steed, Torrent, exclusively within the DLC area.

These two blessings work in parallel, forming a progression system that rewards thorough exploration and ensures players engage with the new map on its own terms, rather than simply over-leveling in the base game.

Why Scadutree Blessings are Essential for Your Expedition

Unlike a theoretical inventory limit that would force you to discard items, the challenge in Shadow of the Erdtree is one of accumulation. The difficulty is intentionally tuned around the assumption that you are actively seeking out Scadutree Fragments. Ignoring them will result in a brutal, often insurmountable, experience where even minor enemies can kill you in one or two hits, regardless of your Vigor stat.

This design has several strategic implications:

  1. Exploration is Non-Negotiable: The system fundamentally encourages and rewards meticulous exploration. Scadutree Fragments are often found at the base of Miquella's Crosses, in ruined churches, dropped by glowing pot-wielding enemies, and offered as rewards for defeating area bosses. You must actively hunt them down.
  2. A New Power Curve: It creates a fresh sense of progression, even for veteran players with high-level characters. Your journey through the Land of Shadow is a new climb, where finding the next Scadutree Fragment can feel as significant as leveling up five times in the base game.
  3. Difficulty as a Guide: If you find yourself hitting a wall and enemies feel impossibly strong, it is not a signal to give up; it is the game's way of telling you to explore more thoroughly and increase your Scadutree Blessing level before proceeding.

Navigating the Land of Shadow: Tips for Tarnished

To ensure your journey through the Land of Shadow is challenging but fair, adopt these strategies for managing your new power progression:

  • Prioritize Miquella's Crosses: These glowing, golden crosses are landmarks that almost always have a Scadutree Fragment nearby. Make them your primary exploration targets when entering a new region.
  • Clear Dungeons and Catacombs: Many bosses within the DLC's smaller dungeons will reward you with Scadutree Fragments or Revered Spirit Ashes upon defeat. Don't skip them.
  • Check Your Blessings Regularly: Keep an eye on your Scadutree Blessing level in the status menu. For major bosses like the Divine Beast Dancing Lion, a level of 4-6 is recommended, while later-game bosses may require a blessing level of 10 or higher for a manageable fight.
  • Don't Hoard Fragments: There is no benefit to holding onto Scadutree Fragments or Revered Spirit Ashes. Use them immediately at the next Site of Grace you find to gain their benefits. There is no inventory cap to worry about, only the urgent need for more power.

Ultimately, the Scadutree Blessing system is a clever and integral design from FromSoftware. It enriches the expansion by grounding the player's power in the act of discovery within the new world. By focusing on this real and essential mechanic, you can leave behind myths and conquer the dark secrets awaiting you in the Land of Shadow.