Dragonrider

The Dragonrider is a Halberd-Wielding Boss in Dark Souls II, Found in the Hilde's Tower section.

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The path to the Dragonrider is filled with Ancient Knights, often in multiple encounters and thus it is heavily advised that you proceed with caution, although running past every single one of them is an option as well, it is also advised that you kill one of the knights on the bridge (before the large, round circular 'arena' with 2 Longsword knights and 1 Greatsword in the center) to access the lever, to raise part of the arena in which you will fight his boss.

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After entering the fog gate you will begin the battle with the Dragonrider. Appearance wise he is clad in heavy red armour to match his crimson tinged skintone. Almost demonic in aesthetic. The actual bossfight itself is relatively easy, as his attack pattern is highly predictable, and the biggest threat is being knocked off the edge of the circular arena, a threat almost eliminated if you pulled the guarded lever. He bears a series of medium range attacks, No 'rage' mode (Such as the Last Giant ripping off it's limb to attack you) and takes quite a while to recover his composure if he misses, which he will. Blocking is also likely, and it should be noted that a dextrous warrior with good timing can always dodge roll away from his slow attacks. After beating the boss you are awarded with around 12000 Soft souls, and a door will open to a bonfire at the top of the tower where you can warp back and spend your new found earnings. It is worth noting that the Ancient Knights cannot fit through the fog gateway, so they will pose no issue unless you spend the entire fight right next to the door. Good luck.