Key Takeaways
- Not every mound at Three Saints Falls contains the clue
- A basic shovel is required to avoid interaction bugs
- The checkerboard puzzle in Duskwood is partially irrelevant
- The white stone hides the actual quest items
- Reading and flipping items is mandatory for progression
The Traces of Shadows Crimson Desert quest sends players across multiple locations with very little guidance on what actually needs to be done. Missing a single interaction or using the wrong tool can stop progress entirely. From digging at Three Saints Falls to uncovering hidden clues in Duskwood, every step matters. This guide explains the exact route, interactions, and puzzle steps needed to finish the quest smoothly.
How to Solve the Traces of Shadows Crimson Desert Quest
Image via YouTube/Gamerpillar.
The Traces of Shadows Crimson Desert quest is unlocked after completing the previous House Serkis and House Alfonso quests, including the intruder plot. Finish these quests, then talk to Graham Alfonso to begin the next stage.
Then the Crimson Desert Trace of Shadows objective splits into two investigation points. Players will have to find and read the thief notes in both locations for the final sequence to unlock. You won’t move forward in the quest by skipping the reading part. Always check your inventory after picking up clues.
Track The Traces At Three Saints Falls
Image via YouTube/Gamerpillar.
The first big step in Crimson Desert Traces of Shadows is under the bridge at Three Saints Falls. You will see several mounds of dirt spread around the area.
This is where most of the players get stuck.It won’t do to dig once or twice and then move on. You have to keep digging up piles until the right one gives you an item called the thief’s note..
Location is not necessarily obvious. Some players have reported seeing it by the bushes on the northeastern side, but the spawn seems inconsistent. The best way is to dig systematically every mound in the area.
Another common problem is using the wrong tool. Upgraded shovels can glitch the interaction and prevent digging prompts from appearing. Always bring a basic shovel before you start this section.
Once you find the right mound, pick up the note and read it from your inventory. This is a required step to advance the Crimson Desert Traces of Shadows quest.
Track The Traces At Duskwood
Image via YouTube/GuidingLight.
The second investigation in Crimson Desert Traces of Shadows takes you to Duskwood, which is close to the ruins by the river. There are a lot of stones in rows that make the area look like a checkerboard.
This part is confusing for players because it is similar to another puzzle that is used for quick travel. You don’t have to solve that puzzle to finish the quest.
Instead, look at the rows of stones. Go to the last two rows and look for a stone that is white. Using a lantern can help you find the right piece, especially the one with a dark mark.
If you pick up the white stone, you’ll find two things hidden underneath. This is the clue from Duskwood and a different piece that is connected to the quest.
Open both of the things in your inventory. You need to check one of them and turn the other one over. If you don’t do this interaction, you won’t be able to make any progress, even after you get the items.
This part is the main part of the Trace of Shadows Puzzle Solution, and if you do it right, the goal will be updated right away.
Trace of Shadows Puzzle Solution Explained
Image via YouTube/Gamerpillar.
If you ignore the mechanics that don’t have anything to do with the Trace of Shadows Puzzle, the answer is easy.
- The checkerboard area is close to the river in Duskwood.
- Find the white stone in the middle part.
- Pick up the stone to find two things.
- Look over the letter
- Turn the second item over to its back side.
A lot of players waste time trying to figure out the black and white stone puzzle next to them. That mechanic is part of the Abyss Cresset fast travel system and has nothing to do with the quest.
Doing the right things here will completely solve the Trace of Shadows Puzzle Solution and open up the last step.
Final Step and Quest Completion
Image via YouTube/Gamerpillar.
When you’re done with both places in Traces of Shadows Crimson Desert, go back to Oakenshield Manor in Hernand City. To start a cutscene, talk to Graham Alfonso and Alan Serkis.
The characters put the clues together, which brings the investigation to a close. The quest is over once the dialogue ends and the last goal is met.
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FAQs
Why is the Traces of Shadows Crimson Desert quest not progressing?
When clues aren’t read or used correctly, the game stops moving forward. Always check the items in your inventory after you pick them up.
Do I need to solve the full checkerboard puzzle in Duskwood?
No. The only thing that matters for the Trace of Shadows Puzzle Solution is the white stone interaction.
Why can’t I dig at Three Saints Falls?
This happens most of the time when you use a fine shovel. To fix the problem, use a simple shovel.
