Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter – Guide to Locating and Defeating Harat Bluefang

The sequel, Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter, introduces a formidable optional boss named Harat Bluefang, paralleling the challenging encounters found in the original title with Ratnor Rodentson. Players will face not only the boss but also the significant task of retrieving four Runestone Keys to access his Tomb, making this adventure thrilling yet demanding.

These keys are cleverly concealed and often require considerable quest progression to unlock new areas for exploration. This comprehensive guide outlines how to locate each key and offers strategic advice for conquering Harat Bluefang in the heart of his Tomb.

Locating Harat Bluefang in Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter

Guide to Defeat Harat Bluefang in Tails of Iron 2 Whiskers of Winter

To initiate the journey, players must uncover four Runestone Keys scattered across the northern realms of Ratdom:

Silver Runestone Key Location

Ancient Runestone from a pillar that surrounds the Tomb. The worm symbol represents metal, or treasure.

The first key is earned automatically during the main story as you progress to the left of the Castle gate in the Outskirts. Upon your first arrival at the Tomb, you’ll notice a blue shimmer on the ground, marking the location of the Silver Runestone Key. The key can be utilized at any stage of the game.

Earth Runestone Key Location

Ancient Runestone from a pillar that surrounds the Tomb. The worm symbol represents the depth of the earth.

The second key is unlocked after completing the “A Farmer for the Keep“main quest, which involves a lengthy mission to rescue a Badger. Once you finish the quest, you’ll obtain the Elder WereOwl Skull.

Travel to the Slither Scale Pit using fast travel and choose the left path until reaching a pedestal where you can place the Skull. This action opens the door behind it, granting access to the Earth Runestone Key along with a chest containing a Sapphire.

Death Runestone Key Location

Ancient Runestone from a pillar that surrounds the Tomb. The worm symbol represents the dead.

To unlock the Death Runestone Key, complete the quest “Tuck’s Emporium.”Once accomplished, you will have the ability to construct a Shop using the Builder, allowing you to acquire the Runestone from Tuck for 10 Coins. Upgrading the Shop to its maximum level opens a Trophy/Achievement and expands the item selection available from Tuck.

Life Runestone Key Location

Ancient Runestone from a pillar that surrounds the Tomb. The worm symbol represents life.

The final key is received by collecting all Tarot Cards in the game and completing Merlin’s quest for their return. Merlin offers the Life Runestone Key as your reward. Most Tarot Cards are obtainable from various merchants throughout the game, with the exception of the Knight Card, which can be found on a corpse located in The Rift. Note that some merchants only become available after specific quests are dealt with.

Strategies to Defeat Harat Bluefang in Tails of Iron 2: Whiskers of Winter

After gathering all the Runestone Keys, return to the Tomb of King Harat Bluefang and position the keys in their respective slots. This action will unlock the path to confront the boss. If you attempt this battle post-story completion with level 3 gear, expect the challenge to feel significantly more manageable. Be prepared for poison and electric damage; thus, wearing armor that offers resistance will help mitigate the damage from his attacks.

Since Harat Bluefang takes increased damage from fire, equipping a high-tier fire weapon and setting up fire traps can tilt the battle in your favor.

This boss is relatively non-aggressive, relying on slow, straightforward attacks that are easy to dodge. Stay vigilant for his Poison Spit, which can cover significant portions of the arena with poison, restricting your movement. Employ your ranged weapon effectively when maintaining distance from the boss.

As he diminishes in health, Harat switches to a bow for ranged combat and a Two-Handed Axe for close encounters. He will also call down lightning strikes from above — these are manageable to avoid. Be mindful of your health during the fight; it’s wise to block with your Shield rather than risk damage by attempting extra hits once he starts firing arrows.

During certain moments, the boss may shout a warning and charge forward. Remember to dodge into the boss rather than away, as moving backward can still lead to a hit from his charge.

Upon his defeat, expect the following rewards: