how to get parry ash of war

Table of Contents

Understanding Parry and the Ash of War

Locating the Parry Ash of War

Applying the Ash of War to Your Shield

Mastering the Parry Technique

Strategic Considerations and Advanced Tips

Conclusion: The Path to Perfection

In the unforgiving realms of the Lands Between, survival often hinges on a single, perfectly timed deflection. The Parry Ash of War stands as a quintessential tool for any Tarnished seeking to transcend mere combat and embrace true mastery. This guide delves into the essential steps of how to get Parry Ash of War, equip it effectively, and deploy it to turn an enemy's greatest strength into their most devastating weakness.

Understanding Parry and the Ash of War is fundamental. Parrying is a defensive maneuver that, when executed at the precise moment an enemy attack lands, deflects the blow, staggering the attacker and opening them for a critical riposte. While some shields possess a native parry skill, many do not. The Parry Ash of War is a transferable skill item that can be applied to a wide range of shields and even certain weapons, granting or enhancing this vital capability. It represents not just a technique, but a strategic choice that fundamentally alters one's approach to encounters, especially against formidable humanoid foes and bosses.

Locating the Parry Ash of War is the first concrete step. Unlike rare treasures hidden in deep dungeons, this Ash of War is readily accessible from the very beginning of your journey. It can be purchased from a specific merchant. The nomadic merchant located at the Church of Elleh in Limgrave, just west of the starting area, sells the Parry Ash of War for 600 Runes. This early availability underscores its importance as a core combat mechanic the game encourages players to learn. Simply travel to the Site of Grace at the church, find the merchant seated near the ruins, and browse his wares to make the purchase.

Applying the Ash of War to Your Shield requires a visit to a Site of Grace. Rest at any Site of Grace and select the "Ashes of War" menu option. From here, you can choose the Parry Ash of War and then select the shield you wish to equip it to. It is crucial to note that only shields categorized as "Small Shields" or "Medium Shields" can effectively use the Parry skill. "Greatshields" typically cannot parry with this Ash. The application process also allows you to choose an affinity if you have the necessary Whetblade, but for the pure parry function, the standard setting is sufficient. This customization empowers you to tailor your primary defensive tool to your preferred playstyle.

Mastering the Parry Technique is where knowledge transitions into skill. Equipping the Ash is simple; using it effectively demands practice. The parry window—the few frames during which an incoming attack can be deflected—is intentionally tight. Success relies on timing the button press so the parry motion connects with the attack just before it hits you, not when the enemy begins their wind-up. It is advisable to begin practicing on slower, predictable enemies, such as the soldiers near Gatefront Ruins. Focus on their weapon arm, not their body, and press the parry button as their strike begins its forward momentum towards you. Failure will result in taking full damage, so patience and repetition are key. Each enemy type has unique attack timings, making parry a skill of continuous learning.

Strategic Considerations and Advanced Tips elevate parrying from a neat trick to a cornerstone of combat strategy. Not all attacks can be parried; generally, most physical attacks from human-sized weapons can be, while massive elemental strikes, bites from gigantic creatures, and attacks from enormous weapons often cannot. The "Buckler," a small shield found early in the game, has a unique native parry with a slightly more generous active window, making it a favorite for parry specialists. Furthermore, the "Golden Parry" and "Carian Retaliation" Ashes of War are enhanced variants that offer larger parry windows or additional magical effects, but they are acquired later. Managing stamina is also vital, as a failed parry consumes stamina and leaves you vulnerable. Ultimately, integrating parries into your flow requires observation, calm nerves, and the understanding that a successful parry is the prelude to a fight-ending counterattack.

The journey of how to get Parry Ash of War is a journey toward profound combat proficiency. It begins with a simple purchase from a Limgrave merchant but unfolds into a deep mechanical skill that rewards precision and game knowledge. By securing the Ash, applying it to a suitable shield, and dedicating time to practice its timing, any Tarnished can transform their defensive posture into an aggressive opportunity. In the high-stakes battles that define the Lands Between, the power to negate a deadly blow and instantly retaliate with overwhelming force is not merely an advantage—it is the mark of a true lord.

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