Cleanrot Knights
Devoted warriors corrupted by the Goddess of Rot yet bound by honor.
The Cleanrot Knights are a formidable faction of warriors dedicated to Malenia, Goddess of Rot. They served as Malenia's personal knights and were afflicted by the Scarlet Rot during the Battle of Aeonia. Despite their physical corruption, they remain steadfast guardians of the Haligtree.
- Status
- Living Knights Corrupted by Scarlet Rot
Lore & Background
These knights represent a tragic intersection of martial discipline and biological decay. As Malenia's personal guard, they fought alongside her during the Shattering and were corrupted by the Scarlet Rot that bloomed from her. Their armor, once gleaming gold or silver, now bears the tell-tale signs of rot: greenish discoloration and fungal growths that cling to the metal like moss.
In Their Own Story
The spear tip trembled, not from fear, but from the rot consuming the bone beneath. He stood motionless amidst the pale trees of Elphael, his breath a wet rattle in the humid air. An intruder approached, steel glinting against the gloom. The knight raised his weapon, ignoring the pain that flared where flesh met metal. There was no command to give, only the instinct to protect what remained of the Goddess's sanctuary. He struck before he could think, driven by a duty older than life itself.
Reader's Guide
The Cleanrot Knights serve as elite guardians loyal to Malenia, Blade of Miquella. Though infected by Scarlet Rot during the Shattering, they maintain their martial discipline with unwavering dedication. Players encounter them across Caelid and within the Haligtree's depths, guarding paths only the devoted would walk. Their combat style emphasizes relentless spear strikes mixed with corrosive magic that drains stamina over time. These warriors represent a tragic devotion, sacrificing their health to uphold Malenia’s will against all invaders. Unlike standard enemies, they often appear in groups or as formidable mini-bosses requiring precise dodging and parrying skills. Their armor bears the distinct greenish hue of decay while retaining the structure of traditional knightly plate. Overcoming them grants significant Runes, reflecting their high status as elite warriors of the Haligtree. Their presence signals the encroaching influence of the Scarlet Aeonia within the Lands Between, marking zones where the Goddess’s bloom has taken root permanently. They are both obstacles and symbols of a loyalty that transcends physical corruption.
Did You Know?
- Some variants of these knights ride horses that are also afflicted by rot.
- Their weapons often apply Scarlet Rot buildup to enemies upon contact.
- They can be found guarding the path leading directly to Malenia's chamber.
- Their armor set is a popular choice for players seeking high poise defense.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the Cleanrot Knights?
They are a devoted faction of warriors who pledged loyalty to Malenia after witnessing her power in battle. Originally serving the Golden Order, they now act as undead guardians corrupted by Scarlet Rot.
Why are these knights infected with Scarlet Rot?
Their corruption stems from the Battle of Aeonia where Malenia unleashed her rot to defeat General Radahn. Although physically decayed, their loyalty to the Haligtree remains unbroken despite the affliction.
Where do Cleanrot Knights appear in the game world?
Players encounter these enemies primarily within Caelid and the depths of Elphael, Brace of the Haligtree. They patrol the areas surrounding Malenia's shrine and the swampy outskirts of her domain.
What weapons are used by Cleanrot Knights in combat?
These warriors favor polearms such as spears and halberds alongside standard swords for close-quarters fighting. Their weaponry highlights their disciplined background before they succumbed to the Goddess's influence.
Are Cleanrot Knights hostile toward the player character?
Yes, they are aggressive undead sentinels that attack any Tarnished attempting to approach Malenia or enter her sanctuary. They fight with relentless fury regardless of their deteriorating physical state.
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