PoE 2 Boss Guide: Candlemass, The Living Rite Strategy & Drops

Candlemass, The Living Rite is a grotesque, elemental boss encountered in the Waxen Chapel within the Ogham Countryside of Act 2 in Path of Exile 2. A horrifying fusion of human flesh and ceremonial tallow, this boss serves as the high priest of the corrupted village rituals. The fight is a battle against area denial, requiring players to manage spreading pools of molten wax while dodging searing fire magic.

Lore & Background

In the secluded villages of Ogham, the locals turned to strange idols to ward off the encroaching decay. Candlemass was once the village elder, who believed that bathing in sacred tallow would preserve his people's purity.

The corruption twisted this belief. The wax did not preserve them; it consumed them. Now, Candlemass is a hulking monstrosity of melting fat and burning wicks, eternally burning but never turning to ash. He seeks to "anoint" any traveler in his scorching wax to make them part of the eternal rite.

Core Mechanics

Candlemass deals primarily Fire Damage and Physical Damage. The arena floor is treacherous, filled with wax that can slow you down or burn you depending on the boss's state.

Phase 1: 

• 1. Candle Missile Swarm
  Description:

Pre-anim: Candlemass will crouch on the ground, with candles on its back burning intensely and emitting light.

Mechanic: Launches a large number of tracking fireballs/missiles into the sky, covering a wide area.
Strategy: When you see him crouch down, immediately move away and run sideways. Don't be greedy; if you try to take everything, you'll be killed instantly.

• 2. Flamethrower
  Description: He continuously spits out flames toward a fan-shaped or straight-ahead area.
  Strategy: This is a guiding skill. Use rolling to get behind him and then attack.
• 3. Leaping Slam
  Description: Jump into the air, then after a short delay, crash down onto the player's current position, dealing physical and fire damage.
  Strategy: Observe the shadow of the landing point on the ground and roll to dodge at the moment of landing.

• 4. Flaming Cleave 
  Description: Swing a giant sword for a wide-range sweep, with the blade tip leaving a trail of fire.
  Strategy: Positioning is key. Move sideways or roll across the blade.
• 5. Overhead Slash
  Description: Raise the giant sword high with both hands, charge up, then slash vertically downward.
  Strategy: Straight attack, dodge to the left or right side.

Recommended Builds

High mobility to escape the wax and Fire Resistance are mandatory.

• Sorceress - Ice Nova/Frost: Cold damage can "Chill" the boss. In this specific fight, chilling Candlemass can prevent him from using his fast "Wick Whip" attacks effectively.
• Monk - Wind Step: The Monk's ability to dash quickly allows you to navigate the wax-covered floor without getting bogged down.
• Key Stats: Fire Resistance (75%) is non-negotiable. Movement Speed boots are highly recommended to counter the slow effects.

Loot Table

Candlemass drops items related to Spirit and fire magic.