How to Romance Caldarus in Fields of Mistria
Caldarus, the dragon knight and protector of Fields of Mistria, is finally romancable in the latest update of the game. Having him as a romance option isn’t easy, though. His human form is tied to a rather intimidating task, wherein players are required to gather special resources and explore the mines extensively. Patience, dedication, and a bit of insight into his gift items of choice are needed in order to effectively win his affections.
Unsealing Caldarus’ Human Form
The unlocking of Caldarus’ human form and his status as a romance interest both relate to the quest Breaking the Fire Seal. The quest was introduced with Fields of Mistria’s second big update and consists of much mining. Specifically, the Fire Seal and the tablet one must use to begin the quest are both found on level 60 of the mines.
Since the quest requires emeralds, sapphires, and rubies, it’s essential to gather and store these valuable gems while mining. Once you obtain the required tablet, you must show it to Juniper in the bathhouse, who will help initiate the quest.
When you shatter the Fire Seal, Caldarus will then appear and assume his human form. Breaking the seal also triggers a disaster, however, and Caldarus exhausts all his energy in rescuing you. This leaves him weakened, so he must return to his residence in the Deep Woods to recover. He provides you with a new spell known as Dragon’s Breath, a necessary skill needed in order to progress further in the game, before he departs.
Accessing the Deep Woods and Caldarus’ Residence
The Dragon’s Breath spell is particularly useful in removing the vines which previously hindered entry into the Deep Woods. It also allows one to access hidden caves, where they can acquire crafting recipes for the sprinkler and auto-petter. As you are about to enter the Deep Woods, you need to upgrade your tools. You will need:
- A copper grade axe or higher to chop down the stumps in the forest
- A copper pickaxe or higher to chop out the large rock blocking the road next to the carpenter’s store
With all these obstacles dispensed with, you can make your way up to the upper-right of the Deep Woods to Caldarus’ home. Speaking with him here introduces him as a possible romance option to your journal at last, and he becomes available as a compatible partner.
Caldarus’ Heart Level and Affection System
After the update was released, players initially found that their connection with Caldarus automatically started on the maximum level of six hearts. But a later adjustment by NPC Studio ensured Caldarus’ first affection level is now in line with your progress in the story.
This is to say that if you have done most of the quests in the main story, Caldarus can still begin with six hearts. But if you are not as far in the story, he might begin with fewer hearts, and it takes more effort to develop a relationship.
For new players of Fields of Mistria, for those who desire to naturally romance Caldarus, it is perhaps a better idea not to advance too far in the main story and simply complete the required missions to advance to the point where the Fire Seal quest unlocks. This way, Caldarus’ love level will have a chance to build up organically through speaking and gift giving.
Caldarus’ Favorite Gifts
Like all romanceable in Fields of Mistria, Caldarus also has favorites when it comes to gifts. He adores some, likes others, and dislikes others. Giving him loved gifts significantly increases his love, while liked gifts provide a lesser boost.
Loved Gifts
- Caldarus Statuette
- Veggie Sub Sandwich
- Apple Honey Curry
- Spring Galette
Liked Gifts
- Fish Tacos
- Ice Cream Sundae
- Vegetable Quiche
- Golden Cookies
- Chocolate Cake
Currently, not all of Caldarus’ favorite gifts are known, but these are sure bets to increase his love.
Caldarus’ Disliked and Hated Gifts
Of particular note is that the only attested hated gift is Dragon’s Claw. This makes sense, as it would be the equivalent of giving a person a severed finger as a gift. In line with this, he is highly likely to hate Dragon’s Scale as well, but this is unattested.
Interactions Between Statue Caldarus and Human Caldarus
One cool thing about romancing Caldarus is that his dragon statue avatar still functions normally on your farm even when his human avatar moves to the Deep Woods. That is, he still provides his usual farm bonuses, but in addition, is available for interaction in his human avatar.
This dual presence is an interesting mechanic that makes him stand out from the rest of the romanceable characters in the game. It also allows players to still benefit from his original role while pursuing a relationship with him.