In the vast and intricate world of Elden Ring, players encounter a myriad of memorable characters, each with their own stories and quests. Among these is the gentle giant, Smithing Master Iji, later known as War Counselor Iji. If you’re wondering Where Is Iji and how to find him to progress through his questline, this guide will provide you with all the necessary details to locate this key NPC in Elden Ring.
First Meeting – Road to Caria Manor
Your initial encounter with Iji will be on your path towards the imposing Caria Manor, located in the northwestern region of Liurnia of the Lakes. As you navigate through the Kingsrealm Ruins in western Liurnia, keep an eye out for an illusory wall situated in the northwest section. Striking this hidden wall will reveal a passage leading to the Road to the Manor Site of Grace.
It’s here, right beside the Site of Grace, that you’ll meet Smithing Master Iji for the first time. He offers words of caution about the dangers that lie ahead in Caria Manor. Beyond his warnings, Iji also provides valuable blacksmithing services and operates a shop. If you have already interacted with Blaidd and initiated his questline, speaking to Iji about Blaidd will unlock a special talisman for purchase, the Carian Filigreed Crest, reducing FP consumption of skills.
Iji’s initial inventory includes an infinite supply of Somber Smithing Stone [1] and [2], along with limited quantities of Somber Smithing Stone [3] and [4], and the Carian Filigreed Crest. This makes him a crucial NPC for upgrading special weapons early in Liurnia.
| Item | Description | Stock | Runes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Somber Smithing Stone [1] | Upgrades special weapons | Infinite | 2000 |
| Somber Smithing Stone [2] | Upgrades special weapons | Infinite | 3000 |
| Somber Smithing Stone [3] | Upgrades special weapons | 3 | 4000 |
| Somber Smithing Stone [4] | Upgrades special weapons | 3 | 6000 |
| Carian Filigreed Crest | Lowers FP consumed by skills | 1 | 5000 |
Second Meeting – After Ranni’s Rise
As you delve deeper into Elden Ring and begin the questline for Ranni the Witch, you will encounter Iji again, now known as War Counselor Iji. This time, he is found at Ranni’s Rise, one of the towers in the Three Sisters area behind Caria Manor.
Speaking with Iji at Ranni’s Rise provides insights into Ranni’s character and the history of the Carian royal family. After this meeting, returning to Iji at the Road to the Manor Site of Grace will unlock new dialogue options. You can inquire further about your tasks related to Ranni’s quest, the path to Nokron, or Blaidd’s whereabouts, enriching your understanding of the unfolding narrative.
Third Meeting – After Freeing Blaidd
Continuing Ranni’s questline beyond Nokron and acquiring the Cursemark of Death will lead you to the next stage involving Blaidd. You’ll discover Blaidd imprisoned within the Forlorn Hound Evergaol in Limgrave.
After freeing Blaidd from his confinement, a return visit to Iji at Road to the Manor becomes crucial. Questioning Iji about Blaidd’s imprisonment will reveal significant information about Blaidd’s nature and his connection to the Carian royals, deepening the lore surrounding these characters.
Final Meeting – After Completing Blaidd’s Quest
Your last interaction with Iji occurs after you have concluded both Ranni’s questline and witnessed the culmination of Blaidd’s quest. Following these significant events, revisit Iji at his usual spot by the Road to the Manor Site of Grace.
Engage in conversation with Iji and press him about Blaidd’s fate. During this dialogue, Iji expresses a sense of foreboding about his own end. After this conversation, rest at the nearby Site of Grace to refresh the area. Upon returning to Iji’s location, you will find that he has passed away.
Beside his anvil, you can collect Iji’s Bell Bearing and Iji’s Mirrorhelm. Iji’s Bell Bearing allows you to purchase Somber Smithing Stones from the Twin Maiden Husks at the Roundtable Hold, ensuring you can still access these vital upgrade materials. Iji’s Mirrorhelm is a unique helmet offering magic damage negation.
Finding Iji and progressing through his associated dialogues and quest stages is essential for fully understanding the intertwined narratives of Ranni, Blaidd, and the Carian royal family within Elden Ring. His services and story contribute significantly to the rich tapestry of the game, making the question of where is Iji an important one for any Tarnished venturing through the Lands Between.
