Clearing Claimed Sanctuaries
While exploring the treacherous world of Salt and Sanctuary, you'll inevitably stumble upon Sanctuaries already claimed by rival creeds. These hostile outposts, marked by their distinctive banners, offer a unique challenge and reward for the determined player. Clearing them allows you to claim the Sanctuary for your own creed, gaining access to its services and a valuable resting point.
Identifying a Claimed Sanctuary
A Sanctuary is considered "claimed" if it displays a banner other than your own chosen creed. For instance, if you're a follower of The Devara, claimed Sanctuaries might show the banners of The Iron Ones, The Stone Roots, or any other creed. The NPC within will also be hostile, often a Creed Leader or a powerful guard.
The Process of Clearing
Clearing a claimed Sanctuary involves a direct confrontation with its current occupants. There are two primary methods, each with its own risks and rewards:
- Direct Assault: The most straightforward approach. Engage the hostile NPC(s) within the Sanctuary in combat. Be prepared for a tough fight, as these guardians are often stronger than regular enemies in the area.
- Stained Page: A more subtle, and often safer, method. If you possess a Stained Page item, you can use it at the altar of a claimed Sanctuary. This will instantly clear the Sanctuary without combat, allowing you to claim it for your creed immediately. Stained Pages are rare drops from certain enemies and found in specific chests throughout the world.
Combat Strategies for Direct Assault
If you opt for a direct assault, consider the following strategies:
- Preparation is Key: Before entering, ensure your health and stamina are full. Equip your best gear, and consider using buffs like Stone Alchemists for increased damage or Blessed Pages for elemental weapon enchantments if applicable to your build.
- Enemy Types: The most common hostile NPCs in claimed Sanctuaries are Creed Leaders (e.g., Iron One Leader, Stone Root Leader). These enemies often have unique attack patterns and can be quite aggressive. Some Sanctuaries might also feature regular creed guards.
- Lure and Isolate: If there are multiple enemies, try to lure them out one by one if the Sanctuary layout allows. This prevents you from being overwhelmed.
- Utilize the Environment: Some Sanctuaries have ledges or obstacles you can use to your advantage, either for ranged attacks or to create distance.
- Healing: Don't be afraid to use your Flask of Crimson Tears during the fight. If you're low on healing, consider retreating and returning later.
Rewards and Consequences
Rewards:
- New Sanctuary: Once cleared, you can claim the Sanctuary for your own creed, gaining access to its specific vendors and services (e.g., Blacksmith, Merchant, Stone Guide).
- Salt and Gold: Defeating the hostile NPCs will award you a significant amount of Salt and Gold.
- Creed-Specific Items: Hostile Creed Leaders often drop unique items associated with their creed, such as Creed Relics or specific weapons/armor.
Consequences:
- Creed Hostility: Repeatedly clearing Sanctuaries of a specific creed will make that creed hostile towards you. This means any non-hostile NPCs of that creed you encounter in the world will become aggressive. This can be a significant drawback if you rely on their services or wish to join that creed later.
- Loss of Reputation: Your reputation with other creeds may decrease, making it harder to join them or receive their blessings.
Strategic Use of Stained Pages
Given the potential for creed hostility, Stained Pages are invaluable. They allow you to clear a Sanctuary without incurring the wrath of its former occupants, preserving your standing with their creed. Save these rare items for Sanctuaries belonging to creeds you wish to remain friendly with, or for particularly challenging combat encounters you'd rather avoid.
By understanding these mechanics, you can strategically navigate the world of Salt and Sanctuary, making informed decisions about which Sanctuaries to clear and how to approach them.