The ultimate challenge has finally arrived in the Wounded Hollow. With the release of the Monster Hunter Wilds first anniversary update, Capcom has unlocked the legendary "Proof of a Hero" optional quest, a gauntlet that separates the casual hunters from the Sapphire Stars. This HR 100 endgame challenge demands mastery over the new Arch-Tempered Arkveld and a strategic understanding of the devastating Gogma Artian weapons. If you are struggling to survive the onslaught of four Arch-Tempered apexes or need the best loadout to counter Arkveld's new "red explosion" mechanics, this guide covers everything you need to conquer the Forbidden Lands' hardest content.

How to Unlock the 'Proof of a Hero' Quest

Before you can step into the arena, you must prove your worth by reaching HR 100. However, rank alone isn't enough. You must also complete a specific chain of prerequisites introduced in the version 1.041 update:

  • Clear "Freedom from Solitude": This is the permanent 10-star Event Quest featuring the standalone Arch-Tempered Arkveld.
  • Complete the Apex Trio: Finish the three 9-star Special Environment quests: "Tango of Lives Ablaze," "Serenade of Scarlet Water," and "The Wind 'n' Sand Blues."

Once these conditions are met, speak to Alma at the base camp. She will offer the "Proof of a Hero" quest, which takes place in the Wounded Hollow arena.

Surviving the Gauntlet: Monster Spawn Order & Weaknesses

The "Proof of a Hero" quest is a continuous hunt against four Arch-Tempered monsters. Unlike standard multi-monster hunts, the spawn timers here are aggressive. As one monster nears death, the next will enter the arena, forcing you to manage simultaneous threats.

1. Arch-Tempered Rey Dau (Windward Plains Apex)

Weakness: Ice
The fight begins with Rey Dau. This Arch-Tempered variant charges its railgun attacks significantly faster. Focus on breaking the head specifically during its recharge animation to topple it early. Save your temporal mantles for later; you need to clear this phase using pure positioning.

2. Arch-Tempered Uth Duna (Scarlet Forest Apex)

Weakness: Thunder
Uth Duna spawns as Rey Dau falls. Its heavy water blight can ruin your stamina management, so bring Nulberries or slot in Blight Resistance 3. Its new "Tsunami Crash" move covers nearly the entire arena, so stay mobile.

3. Arch-Tempered Nu Udra (Oilwell Basin Apex)

Weakness: Water
The pacing shifts here. Nu Udra's sticky oil attacks can trap you for the incoming Arkveld. A crucial tip for this phase is to let Nu Udra and the spawning Arkveld damage each other. Their turf war animation deals massive percentage-based damage to both, shortening the final phase significantly.

Defeating Arch-Tempered Arkveld

The final hurdle is the White Wraith itself, now evolved into a terrifying 10-star threat. Arch-Tempered Arkveld differs from its standard counterpart in key ways:

  • Red Dragon Energy: Unlike the white explosions of the base version, AT Arkveld utilizes red Dragon element explosions that inflict a special Dragonblight, nullifying your elemental damage and reducing your affinity.
  • Chain Wing Slams: Its wing-chain attacks now have a delayed second explosion. Do not counter-thrust immediately; wait for the secondary blast.
  • The Wing Break Strategy: Your primary target must be the chainblades on its wings. Breaking them early significantly reduces the range of its AOE attacks.

Best Weapons: Mastering Gogma Artian Builds

To keep up with the DPS check of the "Proof of a Hero" quest, hunters are turning to the newly added Gogma Artian weapons. These are crafted by fusing Rarity 8 Artian bases with Tarred Devices dropped by Gogmazios.

Understanding the Focus System

When crafting a Gogma Artian weapon, you must choose a "Focus" that permanently alters its stats. For this quest, the Element Focus is generally superior for Dual Blades and Bows, while Great Sword users should stick to Attack Focus.

Recommended Build: The "Tarred Dragon" Great Sword
Using an Attack-Focus Gogma Artian GS with the "Dragonheart" armor skill is currently the meta for Arch-Tempered Arkveld. The massive raw attack of the Gogma weapons compensates for the negative affinity, which can be offset by the Critical Eye +7 and Weakness Exploit +3 skills common in current HR 100 builds.

Utilizing RNG Skills

Gogma Artian weapons come with random "Set Bonus" skills. Look for rolls that include Divine Blessing Secret or Guts. In a four-monster gauntlet where one mistake can lead to a cart, these defensive layers are more valuable than a marginal attack increase.

Final Tips for the HR 100 Walkthrough

Preparation is half the battle in Monster Hunter Wilds. Ensure your item loadout includes dust of life to support teammates during the chaotic transition phases. Remember, the Wounded Hollow has no camp restock unless you use a Farcaster, so ammo management for Bowgun users is critical. Good luck, Hunter—may the Sapphire Star light your way!