A Song of Birds and Flames
A Song of Birds and Flames
Shrine Quest| Type | Shrine Quest |
| Region | Eldin |
| Difficulty | Medium |
| Quest Giver | Environmental Puzzle |
| Est. Time | 25-45 min |
| Reward | Makurukis Shrine revealed |
Quest Overview
At dusk in the Eldin lava fields, a swarm of fire keese moves in a distinct directional pattern rather than attacking. Follow the swarm without disturbing it across the volcanic terrain to a concealed cave entrance. Inside the cave, activate the hidden shrine — one of TotK's more cryptic shrine quests requiring patience and observation.
Moderate
Shrine Quest
— Nothing a prepared adventurer can't handle.
Rewards
Makurukis Shrine revealed
Step-by-Step Walkthrough
1
Reach the Eldin Lava Fields at Dusk
Travel to the Death Mountain lava field area, accessible from Eldin Canyon Skyview Tower. The quest requires arriving at dusk — approximately 6 PM in-game time. Wear Flamebreaker Armor at minimum level 1 to resist the ambient heat; level 2 is recommended if you plan to stay in the area for an extended period. Look for the distinctive chorus of fire keese calls that signal the nightly swarm gathering near the central lava channel.
2
Observe and Follow the Fire Keese Swarm
At dusk, roughly thirty fire keese gather and begin flying in formation rather than scattering to hunt — a V-shaped flock pattern moving consistently northward. Follow at a distance of at least fifteen meters. Shooting a keese, activating any ability that generates wind (Ultrahand swinging large objects), or getting too close breaks the formation and the swarm disperses, requiring you to wait until the next dusk for them to regroup. Walk slowly and stay behind them.
3
Locate the Concealed Cave Entrance
The keese swarm leads north across three lava rivers (jump or use Zonai boards to cross) before turning sharply west into a cliff face. They disappear into what looks like solid rock — but a closer inspection reveals a narrow cave mouth hidden behind a column of steam. Step through the steam; Flamebreaker armor prevents burn damage. Inside the cave, the keese roost on the ceiling, their combined firelight illuminating the shrine ahead.
4
Activate Makurukis Shrine
The Makurukis Shrine sits dormant at the cave's rear. Approach and interact with the glowing seal to activate it — the shrine rises and the keese scatter to the cave ceiling as if startled. The shrine's interior puzzle involves fire-based mechanics: directing flame keese movements (in miniature) to light sequential braziers. Complete the puzzle for a Light of Blessing. The keese roost remains active in the cave; return here for fire-resistance material farming.
Pro Tips
1
Use Ultrahand to look for hidden objects or movable platforms you might have missed.
2
If stuck, try looking at the puzzle from a different angle — literally. Use Ascend to reach higher vantage points.
3
The Flamebreaker Set is essential. Buy it in Goron City if you have not already.
4
Use your Purah Pad Sensor+ to track quest-related items and materials as you explore.
Pinned Note
Notes make the best adventurers.
Nearby Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do I start the "A Song of Birds and Flames" quest?
The "A Song of Birds and Flames" quest begins in Eldin. Look for environmental puzzle clues in the area.
What rewards do you get for completing "A Song of Birds and Flames"?
Completing "A Song of Birds and Flames" rewards you with: Makurukis Shrine revealed.
How hard is the "A Song of Birds and Flames" quest?
"A Song of Birds and Flames" has a difficulty rating of Medium (2/3). You should bring adequate supplies and mid-tier gear.
How long does "A Song of Birds and Flames" take to complete?
"A Song of Birds and Flames" typically takes 25-45 min to complete, depending on your exploration style and preparation.
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