Elden Ring: How to activate Rykard’s Great Rune

One of the bosses in Elden Ring is named Rykard Lord of Blasphemy, and you can put an end to him in Volcano Manor. Now, while you do acquire his Great Rune, you’ll end up going on a long trek just to find some use for it. Here’s our Elden Ring guide to help you activate Rykard’s Great Rune all the way in the Divine Tower of West Altus.

Note: For more information, check out our Elden Ring guides and features hub.

Elden Ring guide – How to activate Rykard’s Great Rune in the Divine Tower of West Altus

To activate Rykard’s Great Rune in Elden Ring, you’ll need to travel to the outskirts of Leyndell Royal Capital. In the southwestern section, you should find a location called the Sealed Tunnel. The tunnel itself can be reached by traversing the hillside path outside the capital and reaching a shallow river.

Inside, you’ll see a Site of Grace and what seems to be a blocked path. But, if you hit the wall, it will reveal a secret cavern that has Glintstone Miners.

This isn’t the end, though, as the right side of this cavern also has a fake wall. In fact, you’ll encounter many illusory walls in quick succession.

Eventually, you’ll end up in a chamber with large branches. Try to avoid falling down below because an Iron Virgin mob is waiting there.

Continue along the branches until you reach the opposite side.

Once you’re there, the section seems to be blocked off. But, if you drop to your right, you’ll be able to go through. There are Exploding Rocks here, though, so beware of them.

Keep advancing until you see a pit with more branches. You can use those, as well as ledges, to get down safely.

In the final room, you’ll fight an Onyx Lord (i.e., someone who likes like a Dark Elf). To be fair, it took me a while to find this location, so I was already leveled way beyond what’s suggested. As such, the Onyx Lord just melted. Be forewarned that it might pose a challenge if you’re still at a lower level since it has the Gravity Well and Rock Shower attacks. Once you’ve killed the miniboss, you’ll get the Onyx Lord’s Greatsword. The path beyond will also be open.

Congratulations! You’ve made it to the Divine Tower of West Altus, and you should now be able to activate Rykard’s Great Rune in Elden Ring. Just head all the way to the top and interact with the Erdtree branch to do it.

When equipped and upon using a Rune Arc, Rykard’s Great Rune provides healing when you attack enemies. It’s great for clearing mobs and boss fights for the extra heals.

Elden Ring is available via Steam. For more information, check out our guides and features hub.