Mastering sword combat in Elden Ring requires finding effective weapon skills that deal high stance damage and quick strikes. The Unsheathe Ash of War is widely considered one of the best early-game skills for katana users, allowing players to execute rapid light or heavy slashes directly from a sheathed stance. Understanding how to acquire this valuable item will instantly improve your combat capabilities in Limgrave.
Exact Location of Unsheathe Ash of War
To acquire this skill, players must head directly to the southern waters of Agheel Lake in the starter region of Limgrave. Fast travel to the Agheel Lake South Site of Grace and travel north toward the edge of the shallow water. Look closely for a glowing creature known as a Teardrop Scarab resting near the water.
How to Defeat the Scarab Safely
While the Teardrop Scarab itself poses no danger, the surrounding environment presents a serious threat to early players. Giant crabs lurk beneath the surface and will immediately ambush anyone approaching the scarab directly. Using a ranged attack like a bow or spell allows you to eliminate the scarab from a safe distance before the surrounding enemies reach you. Alternatively, you can charge in quickly using Torrent to strike the scarab before galloping away to safety.
Combat Benefits and Skill Mechanics
Defeating the scarab rewards you with the item, granting the Keen affinity and the powerful Unsheathe skill. Holding down the skill button places your character in a composed stance, from which you can choose between a fast light sweep or a heavy overhead strike. The heavy follow-up attack delivers high stance damage, making it exceptionally effective at staggering tough bosses and knights.
Compatible Weapons and Usage Tips
The Unsheathe Ash of War is exclusive to katana weapons like the Uchigatana or Nagakiba. Although the Samurai class starts with this skill equipped by default, obtaining the standalone Ash of War allows you to apply it to other katanas or modify its affinity. Equipping it gives melee builds immense versatility during tough encounters throughout the Lands Between.
