The Sanctum of Expiation is one of the key sanctum challenges tied to Areciel, the Witch of Strength, in Crimson Desert. This area combines combat, exploration, and a multi-step puzzle that many players find confusing at first.
Sanctum of Expiation Location
You can find the Sanctum of Expiation in the northwest region of Demeniss. It sits across a river and is easiest to reach if you have unlocked the Abyss Nexus near Leafshade House.
Before you start, make sure you have:
- Spoken to Areciel (Witch of Strength)
- Accepted her sanctum-related request
Without this step, the sanctum cannot be purified.
Step 1: Clear the Sanctum (Liberation Phase)
When you arrive, the area is overrun with Antumbra enemies.
Focus on:
- Clearing all ground enemies first
- Taking down flying enemies quickly (they interrupt progress)
Your goal is simple:
Bring the enemy control percentage down to 0%.
Once you clear the area, the sanctum becomes active and you can proceed to the puzzle.
Step 2: Find the First Core (Fusion Core)
Move toward the entrance near the broken machine.
- The doorway is blocked by vines
- Use Blinding Flash to burn through them
- Enter the interior path
Inside:
- Look up at the ceiling near the entrance
- You will see a floating core
Use Axiom Force to grab it and store it in your Kuku Pot
Step 3: Install the First Core
Return to the machine:
- Place the core into the socket
- Use Force Palm to push it into position
This activates part of the mechanism.
Step 4: Find the Second Piece (Fusion Reactor)
Now head toward the main ruins structure.
To locate it:
- Climb to the top of the building
- Look for a breakable floor
- Drop down inside
Inside the room:
- Locate the pillar piece behind stone or window structures
- Use Axiom Force to grab it
- Store it again in the Kuku Pot
Step 5: Install the Second Piece
Return to the main device again.
Steps:
- Open your Kuku Pot
- Drop the reactor piece back into the world
- Lift it using Axiom Force
- Align it with the broken pillar
Important:
- Rotate it until visual cues (like leaves/glow) show correct alignment
- Jump and use Force Palm to lock it into place
This completes the machine restoration.
Step 6: Solve the Dial Puzzle
Once the device activates, a dial puzzle appears.
How it works:
- Use Blinding Flash on glowing crystal points
- Move in a continuous direction around the dial
- Avoid hitting empty gaps (this resets progress)
If done correctly:
- The dial completes a full rotation
- You receive the Core of Expiation
Bonus Reward: Frostcursed Plate Cloak
You can also find an optional reward inside the sanctum.
To get it:
- Go to the central area with three archways
- Take the middle path
- Burn vines using Blinding Flash
- Follow the path to the end
You will find a chest containing the Frostcursed Plate Cloak.
This puzzle is less about complexity and more about execution. Once mastered, it becomes one of the easiest sanctum challenges in Crimson Desert. Play Now!
