And here I was thinking I was just warming up for my final boss fight...

Gehrman, the First Hunter is waiting for me. Got my Axe and my parry-pipe with me. I fought him for nearly an hour a couple nights ago, killed me over ten times! I was wondering if I was ever going to beat him in time for Halloween. His moves are so erratic and wide, and his third phase combos are unrelenting!

So I decide to go another round with him today. Felt like I needed to do some warming up for one or two fights. I take it easy and try to relearn his moves once again. Things go a little too well though... Halfway through his health bar during my second "warm-up", I decide to start using vials and bullets more liberally.

I keep close to him, stagger with my axe, parry with my bullets when I can, and...

I beat him on my second attempt today.

Man, this series can really play with your expectations sometimes!

GAME SLAUGHTERED

PS: Boy, that ending is not satisfying. I need to not miss an Umbilical Cord next time.