Astel, Naturalborn of the Void is a cosmic horror hiding in the depths of Lake of Rot. It teleports, fires gravity beams and calls down meteors. This guide shows how to reach Astel and survive its most dangerous attacks.
Quick facts
| Location | Grand Cloister, Lake of Rot (underground) |
| Nearest Site of Grace | Grand Cloister |
| Required? | Optional, but required for Ranni’s ending (access to the Moonlight Altar) |
| HP (NG) | 11,170 |
| Runes (NG) | 80,000 |
| Drops | Remembrance of the Naturalborn |
| Weak to | Physical damage (Standard, Slash, Strike, Pierce) |
| Resists | Magic, Fire, Lightning and Holy |
| Immune to | Frostbite, Sleep, Madness |
| Spirit Ashes / Co-op | Allowed (Spirit Ashes and co-op) |
| Recommended level | 100–110 (community estimate) |
| Difficulty | ▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▱▱▱ 7/10 |
Overview
Astel is a giant insect-like being from the void. Its attacks cover huge areas and several of them can kill in one hit.
Its crystalline body has higher defence, so aim for the head and limbs. Astel cannot be parried, but it can be critically hit after a stance break.
How to reach Astel
Reach the Lake of Rot through Ranni’s questline (Ainsel River). From the Grand Cloister grace, head west to the broken ledges, drop down, cross the Scarlet Rot river heading west and south, and use the coffin that carries you to the arena.
Preparation
- Bring Preserving Boluses for the rot lake on the way.
- A tanky Spirit Ash such as the Mimic Tear draws aggro.
- Physical damage is your best option; elemental damage is resisted.
Moveset and how to counter it
Do not stay locked on unless you are attacking. Free camera makes it easier to see its teleports and grabs.
Cosmic burst (purple beam)
Dodge sideways or forward.
Waves of darkness
Shockwaves along the ground. Run away or jump over them.
Diving grab
Astel teleports above you. Tilt the camera up and dodge into it as it descends.
Meteorite of Astel
Around 50% HP it calls meteors. Run to the sides and dodge through the projectiles.
Bite
When its mandibles glow purple, dodge toward its head.
Reverse gravity grab
When a white-pink glow appears, run away from it; you can dodge the grab.
Best builds and tools
- Strong physical weapons; target the head.
- Avoid relying on magic, fire, lightning or holy damage.
- Frostbite does not work: Astel is immune.
Rewards
- 80,000 Runes
- Remembrance of the Naturalborn (trade for Ash of War: Waves of Darkness or Bastard’s Stars)
Difficulty rating
▰▰▰▰▰▰▰▱▱▱ 7/10 – Hard. Many attacks are one-shots, but good camera control and staying mobile make it very learnable.
Frequently asked questions
Is Astel required?
Only for Ranni’s Age of the Stars ending. Otherwise it is optional.
What is Astel weak to?
Physical damage. It resists every element and is immune to frostbite.
How do I avoid the grab?
Look up when Astel teleports and dodge into it as it comes down.
Beaten Astel?
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