At the deepest part of the Grotto, you'll find the Heartwood Shard, guarded by the 'Mire Guardian'. This is your first mini-boss. The Mire Guardian is a large, amphibious creature with two main phases.
Mire Guardian Strategy:
- Phase 1 (Land): The Guardian will primarily use powerful slam attacks and a corrosive spit. Its slams are slow and telegraphed; dodge them and counter-attack. The corrosive spit leaves puddles that deal damage over time; avoid standing in them. Lynx Form is excellent for hit-and-run tactics, while Bear Form can absorb hits and retaliate.
- Phase 2 (Water): Once its health drops to 50%, the Guardian will retreat into the water, summoning 'Mirelings'. These smaller creatures are weak but numerous. Focus on clearing the Mirelings quickly, using area-of-effect abilities if you have them (e.g., Bear Form's Roar). The Guardian will occasionally surface to spit corrosive projectiles. Use Owl Form to attack from a distance if you have it, or wait for it to re-emerge on land.
The Mire Guardian is vulnerable to fire damage. If you have any 'Fire Bombs', now is the time to use them. After defeating the Mire Guardian, interact with the Heartwood Shard to collect it. This completes Chapter 1.