Primary Location: The Kweiden Region (Snow Mountains)
Key Unlocks: Cold-Weather Gear, Advanced Climbing Tools, Level 2 Axiom Force.
Hazard Warning: The "Freezing" status effect will drain your stamina and health if you don't wear appropriate armor or carry warming items.
1. Preparing for the Ascent
Before heading into Kweiden from the northern Demeniss border, you must prepare. If you attempt to climb the mountain in standard armor, Kliff will freeze to death within 10 minutes of gameplay.
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1
Acquire the Bear-Pelt Mantle
Stop at the Border Outpost. Speak to the huntsman, Torald. He will ask for 3x Dire Wolf Pelts. You can hunt them in the nearby forest. Bring them back to receive your first cold-weather gear.
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2
Craft "Spicy Crimson Stew"
Use the campfire near Torald to cook. Combine 1x Boar Meat + 1x Fire Pepper + 1x Spring Water. This stew grants 30 minutes of complete immunity to the Freezing status, giving you a massive advantage during exploration.
2. The Ascent & The Ice Caves
The climb to the Dragon's peak is treacherous. You will need to rely heavily on the climbing mechanics and your stamina management.
Halfway up the mountain, the main bridge is destroyed. You must navigate the Ice Caves underneath to cross the chasm.
- The Slippery Floor: Running on ice causes Kliff to slide uncontrollably. Use the crouch/stealth button to walk carefully over slick surfaces.
- The Crystal Reflection: You will find a locked door powered by a frozen Abyss Node. Equip a torch and stand near the node to thaw it out. Once thawed, use your Axiom Force to rotate the crystal mirror twice to the right to bounce the light into the door switch.
Inside the caves, you will encounter Ice Trolls. They are completely immune to physical stagger unless you use Fire. Coat your sword in pitch or use Fire Arrows before engaging them, otherwise their heavy swings will break your guard instantly.
3. Chapter Boss: Ancient Frost Dragon
At the summit, you will face one of the most spectacular encounters in the game. This is an aerial and environmental battle that tests your mastery of the Axiom Force.
| Phase | Boss Mechanic | Winning Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Phase 1 (Grounded) |
Tail Sweeps & Frost Breath | Stay near its front legs. When it inhales deeply, slide dodge underneath its belly to avoid the Frost Breath. Attack the glowing blue scales on its ankles to stagger it. |
| Phase 2 (Aerial Assault) |
Flight & Ice Barrage | The dragon takes to the sky. Do not use your bow. Wait for it to swoop down, then use your Axiom Force (L2 + R2) to grapple onto the glowing hook-points on its wings. |
| Final Phase (Rodeo) |
Mid-air Struggle | While hanging onto the dragon mid-flight, climb toward its head. You must manage your stamina. When it tries to shake you off, hold the grip button. Once at the head, equip a heavy weapon and strike the horns to ground it permanently. |
Defeating the Ancient Frost Dragon rewards you with the "Heart of Winter". This upgrades your Axiom Force to Level 2, allowing you to grapple onto moving targets and enemies from much further away.
4. Chapter 3 Hidden Collectibles
Kweiden Relic #1
Found at the very start of the region. Instead of going up the main path, look for a frozen waterfall on the left. Break the ice with a heavy attack to find the chest.
The Frostbane Greatsword
After the bridge puzzle in the Ice Caves, drop down onto a hidden ledge below the exit door. This sword deals innate ice damage and slows enemies.
Lost Mercenary's Pack
During the dragon fight, look around the edges of the summit arena. There is a frozen skeleton holding a pack containing 20x Expansion Tools.
💬 Community Strategies & Discussion
Did you find a hidden chest? Struggling with a boss? Share your tips and questions with other Pywel mercenaries below!