Elden Ring's Shadow of the Erdtree expansion finally reveals the fate of Dragonlord Placidusax, a long-standing mystery. The expansion explains the absence of two of the boss's three missing heads.
**Spoiler alert:** This discussion contains significant lore and boss spoilers for Elden Ring and Shadow of the Erdtree.
Dragonlord Placidusax, a notoriously difficult secret boss in Crumbling Farum Azula, is encountered in a weakened state, missing three heads and a wing. The recent discovery sheds light on this: two of Placidusax's missing heads are found embedded in the neck of Bayle the Dread.
Placidusax and Bayle the Dread's Epic Battle
Reddit user Matrix_030 highlighted this revelation. The damage inflicted on both creatures is extensive; Bayle also lacks wings and limbs, apparently torn off in the fight.
The Talisman of the Dread, located in Elder's Hovel near Fort of Reprimand, further details the ancient battle. It describes Bayle's challenge to Placidusax, resulting in "grievous mutual injury."
Despite their wounds, both dragons remain formidable foes in Elden Ring, possessing massive health pools and challenging movesets. Bayle's initial aggression makes summoning Spirit Ashes difficult, requiring strategic use of effects like the Opaline Bubble Tear in a Wondrous Physick.
While the location of Placidusax's third head remains unknown, many fans speculate that Bayle is also responsible for its removal.