Round 5: Rink of Frozen Blood – Matriarch Runa
Overview
This is the first real wall for most players in Maelstrom Arena. The fight is not about damage — it’s about pacing. If you burn the boss too quickly, you’ll be overwhelmed by adds and mechanics faster than you can handle. Slow down, manage the room, and focus on control.
Mechanics
Trolls – Rule number one. Interrupt the troll immediately and kill it. If a troll destroys even one platform, it’s a wipe. They spawn throughout the fight, usually from the middle. Keep track and deal with them first every single time.
Fear – The boss occasionally fears you and tries to push you into the ice. The ice inflicts constant damage over time, so break free immediately if this happens.
Slam – Matriarch Runa performs a heavy slam that causes large knockback and heavy damage. Avoid this if possible, or block if you get caught.
Swipe – The boss swipes in a frontal arc, knocking players back and sending debris across the arena. Stay at her back when possible and block or sidestep this attack.
Adds – As the fight progresses (around 80%, 60%, and 40%), two adds will spawn each time. One of these may come with a troll pet. Always kill adds before pushing the boss to the next phase. Overlapping adds with the jump mechanic will cause chaos fast.
Jump – At 75% and 50%, Matriarch Runa glows red and jumps to a platform. If she lands on you or an exploding pad, you’re dead. After she lands, a Nerid or Leminid will spawn and must be killed immediately before refocusing on the boss. Once the jump phase is over, continue to clear adds first before re-engaging the boss.
Tips & Strategy
- Start on the speed pad: Face the center, take position, and note the add spawn to your right.
- Burn with control: Push the boss just enough to spawn adds, then focus all damage on them before returning to Runa.
- Watch jump cues: When she glows red, get out of the way fast to the NEXT pad — she always follows to your platform after she has smashed the last one.
- Stay calm: If your DPS is low, it’s fine. Pace the fight. Adds and trolls first, boss last.
Final Note: In Short, the method is, boss, adds, boss, next pad/platform, rinse repeat! Always kill the troll. No matter what else is happening.