Elden Ring retains the notorious difficulty that From Software has come to be known for through its past games like Bloodborne, Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, and the Souls games. However, From Software has managed to make Elden Ring a bit more accessible thanks to the large open world and the freedom it gives players. Instead of following mostly linear paths where a boss typically blocks progress, Elden Ring gives players the ability to change course, get stronger, and return to areas that once gave them problems.
Like past Souls games, Elden Ring gives players multiple ways to improve and get stronger. In addition to spending runs to increase various stats, or finding loot in the world or by finishing quests, players will likely need to turn to Smithing Stones in order to improve their gear. While some can be purchased at various NPCs, many are found or earned for taking down bosses. There's also a variety of Smithing Stones, many of which focus on improving certain gear or have stronger upgrade abilities.
One of the more rare, yet powerful variants is the Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones. Considering how valuable this crafting item is, Elden Ring players will need to work a bit before they get their hands on it. Here's where Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones can be found as well as what they do.
Where to Find Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stones
In order to locate this upgrade material, there are a few locations players need to go. The first can be found in a chest under a huge statue in Mohgwyn Palace by the Dynasty Mausoleum Midpoint. Another can be obtained in a hidden chest between two columns near a roof that has a corpse carrying an item. This can be found after the Prayer Room Site of Grace in the Haligtree.
For many players, there's a spot near the Dragon Temple Rooftop Site of Grace that involves a bit of stealth and luck. This area is swarmed with bird enemies and a dragon, but behind it is a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone that can be picked up in the middle of a covered area. At the Site of Grace, players can slowly work their way around behind the dragon to grab the item without needing to engage in combat.
Alternatively, a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone can be obtained after completing a quest line for the NPC known as Latenna. She can be found in front of the Slumbering Wolf's Shack in Elden Ring's Liurnia of the Lakes region, though players will need to first beat the Lakeside Crystal Cave dungeon in order to gain access. Essentially, players promise to take Latenna to the Haligtree where she willingly becomes a Spirit Ash summon. After arriving at the Apostate Derelict in the Consecrated Snowfield, players should summon Latenna at the foot of the giant Albinauric woman, where she will reward the player with a Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone.
What the Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone Does
With one Somber Ancient Dragon Smithing Stone in hand, players will want to head to the Blacksmith at Roundtable Hold. While these stones are worth 2000 runes, players shouldn't be tempted to sell them as they upgrade special armaments to the highest level in the game (+10). Special weapons are typically unique versions that are rewarded for beating bosses or discovering them through secrets.
Speaking to the Blacksmith, a new line of dialogue will be available regarding a God Slaying Armament. Selecting this option allows players to upgrade a compatible weapon to its highest level, while also granting the "God Slaying Armament" achievement as well.
Elden Ring is now available for PC, PlayStation 4 and 5, and Xbox One and Series X/S.
Source: Elden Ring Wiki
