How to Find and Solve the Windmere Manor Strongbox Puzzle for the Mark of Darkness Ring in Crimson Desert

A split image shows a close-up of a gloved hand with an ornate ring on the left and a serious, rugged character with face paint on the right in medieval armor.
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By Alexandria LopezStaff Writer

A split image shows a close-up of a gloved hand with an ornate ring on the left and a serious, rugged character with face paint on the right in medieval armor.
  • Primary Subject: Crimson Desert
  • Key Update: Players can obtain the Mark of Darkness Ring, a top-tier accessory providing a +2% Stamina Regen boost and increased attack speed, by solving a painting puzzle at Windmere Manor.
  • Status: Confirmed
  • Last Verified: April 10, 2026
  • Quick Answer: To get the Mark of Darkness Ring, go to Windmere Manor north of Demeniss, climb the back window, and solve the whale painting strongbox puzzle.

Looking for an item to boost your weapons in Crimson Desert? Then get the Mark of Darkness Ring.

The Mark of Darkness Ring buffs your weapons with additional attack and attack speed. When wearing it, you also get +2% Stamina Regen. This makes journeying for the item worth it, as it can make your combat in Crimson Desert lean in your favor.

And here's how to get it.

How to Find the Mark of Darkness Ring in Crimson Desert

To find the Mark of Darkness Ring, head to the Windmere Manor. If you can't find it, it's north of the "M" in Demeniss.

Map interface from a fantasy game showing "Windmere Manor" on the left. It displays a photo of a grand estate, description, and house affiliations. Various icons and roads marked on map indicate locations, missions, and travel paths. Neutral, informative tone.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

Once at the manor, you'll notice hostile guards patrolling the area. You can kill them without getting a bounty. However, if you want to avoid conflict, head to the backside of the manor and climb up a window to get to the second floor.

A dark, rainy night scene from a video game shows a character climbing a stone building. Two lit windows are visible, with game HUD elements displayed.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

READ MORE: How to Get the Righteous Verdict Sword in Crimson Desert

Now that you're inside the Windmere Manor, head upstairs and enter the last room on the left. You'll find a strongbox here, which contains the Mark of Darkness.

How to Solve the Windmere Manor Strongbox Puzzle

To solve the strongbox, you'll need to turn the painting fragments to the right locations. When done correctly, they form a picture of a whale.

Ornate wooden door with intricate carvings and a central panel featuring a fragmented, abstract painting. The scene conveys a sense of mystery and elegance.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

Here's how many turns you need to do for each painting fragment:

  • Top left - One turn clockwise
  • Top middle - Two turns clockwise
  • Middle - Two turns clockwise
  • Middle right - Two turns clockwise
  • Bottom left - One turn clockwise
  • Bottom right - One turn clockwise

READ MORE: Free Crimson Desert DLC Announced Amid Major Gameplay Update

Once the strongbox is open, equip your mask to steal the Mark of Darkness Ring.

Video game scene featuring a character in a dimly lit room, using blue magic on a cabinet, next to shelves with vases and flowers. Text indicates a theft.
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Credit: Pearl Abyss

Ta-da! The Mark of Darkness is now officially yours.

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