Ruin Guard

The Ruin Guard is the final boss of the Moonlit Forest, standing vigil in Moonlight Meadow — Zone 10 and the deepest part of the dungeon. This ancient, towering automaton is a multi-phase boss with the most complex attack patterns in the game, and it will decisively punish players who arrive unprepared. Defeating the Ruin Guard is the culminating requirement for the Expert Explorer certification, and upon its defeat players can activate the nearby altar with 3 Moonstone, 3 Spirit Berry, and 1 Prayer to obtain the legendary Luna Deer mount.

The Ruin Guard has four primary attack phases: a Flying Ore Throw that exposes its head during the windup; a lunging Spin Slice melee attack requiring a full retreat; a sustained Flame Beam that slowly tracks the player with its head exposed; and Green Charge Vines that spawn damaging zones underfoot. Its weak spot is the top of its head — Bomb Arrows to the head can stun it, causing it to crash down and present a massive damage window at the center of the arena. Do not bring a slingshot to this fight. A bow with a large stockpile of Bomb Arrows is essential, as are full consumable stocks.

Downing the Ruin Guard is one of the most satisfying achievements in Starsand Island. It unlocks the Expert Explorer tier, grants access to the Luna Deer mount, and marks the completion of the entire Moonlit Forest dungeon sequence. Players who have struggled through every boss from the Runebird to the Glintortle will find this final encounter the ultimate test of everything the forest has taught them. Bring your best gear, your best arrows, and your best patience.