If you've ventured through the perilous journey of Elden Ring, you know that the Tarnished ascends to the role of Elden Lord, at least in most circumstances. This monumental shift in power within The Lands Between brings with it profound lore implications, setting the stage for intriguing developments in this richly woven universe. With the vengeful demi-gods temporarily sidelined, Elden Ring fans have been delving into the game's secrets, theorizing about what might come next for the inhabitants of this mystical world.

Warning: This article contains spoilers for Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. If you haven't completed the DLC yet, consider bookmarking this page and returning later.

Bayle's Lingering Threat

One of the pivotal figures in the Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, Bayle the Dread, appears to have a lasting influence on the future of The Lands Between. While it may seem that the defeat of this monstrous dragon by the Tarnished and their loyal companion Igon concludes his tale, the reality might be far more complex.

The spell Bayle's Tyranny states: "Even after being consumed, the throbbing heart of Bayle continues to resist its subjugation, never weakening. One day, the fire within will consume the very body and soul of its Communion devourer." This ominous message suggests that the Tarnished, having consumed Bayle's heart, is not free from his influence. Instead, they may eventually succumb to the dragon's power, potentially leading to the Elden Throne becoming vacant and sparking another brutal conflict for dominance.

The Persistent Spread of Deathroot

Godwyn's "half death" initiated the spread of Deathroot across The Lands Between, leaving his mark wherever it took hold. A prevalent theory among fans is that the Deathroot continues its relentless spread, bringing a form of living death to the realm. In all endings except the Frenzied Flame (and possibly the Age of Stars), this creeping corruption is presumed to persist, as the Tarnished's ascension doesn't alter the land's fundamental nature.

Some argue that Godwyn could finally find true death now that the destined death has been unleashed again. However, others speculate that Godwyn's demise is not final and that he will not be truly dead until he is killed again, indicating that the Deathroot's blight may continue to plague The Lands Between for some time.

Malenia's Potential Rebirth and Challenge

"I am Malenia. Blade of Miquella. And I have never known defeat" is a phrase deeply ingrained in the minds of Elden Ring players, marking one of the game's most formidable challenges. Despite her defeat at the hands of the Tarnished, many believe that this is not the end for Malenia.

Fans speculate that Malenia, like a phoenix, will rise again from her flower, ready to challenge the Tarnished for the throne. This discussion, surprisingly not as prominent in some fan forums, highlights her potential for a dramatic return. Given that Malenia is believed to be in a comatose state within her flower, her rebirth could see her fully embrace her role as the goddess of rot, bringing new challenges and turmoil to The Lands Between.

The Tarnished's Reign and Future Conflicts

With the Tarnished assuming the role of Elden Lord, the power dynamics of The Lands Between are irrevocably altered. The once-contested lands may experience a period of relative stability, but the underlying threats and unresolved conflicts hint at future strife. Bayle's lingering influence, the spread of Deathroot, and Malenia's potential resurgence all suggest that the Tarnished's reign will be anything but peaceful.

The Tarnished's decisions and the paths they have taken will shape the world's fate, leaving room for numerous interpretations and speculations about what lies ahead. As the community continues to unravel the game's intricate lore and explore its expansive universe, one thing remains clear: the story of Elden Ring is far from over.

Conclusion

Elden Ring's rich narrative and complex characters provide a fertile ground for fan theories and discussions. The Tarnished's ascension to Elden Lord marks a significant milestone in the game's story, but it also opens up many questions about the future of The Lands Between. Whether it's the unresolved menace of Bayle, the persistent threat of Deathroot, or the anticipated return of Malenia, players can look forward to a world still teeming with mysteries and challenges. As new DLCs and updates continue to expand the lore, the tale of Elden Ring promises to remain as enthralling as ever.

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