If you don't want to pick up the items, head back to the main path and go straight through the gate; the boss arena is right ahead.
Come over to fight the boss. This time, the boss is Axe Boss: Peng Meng.
You should also use Right Click Perfect Parry frequently against it, otherwise its Killing Intent gauge will decrease very slowly.
It also has a unique mechanic. After taking a certain amount of damage, it triggers a self-protection mechanism, roaring around us. We get pushed back, but take no damage (the author hasn't managed to dodge this move).
Let's take a look at some red, blue, and black light attacks to watch out for.
Blue Light Attack 1: A simple upward slash followed by a downward slash; the second downward slash is a blue light attack.
Blue Light Attack 2: It frantically scrapes the ground with its axe, with the final hit being a blue light attack.
Blue Light Attack 3: It kicks forward, followed by two slashes, and finishes with a blue light giant axe thrust.
Blue Light Attack 4: It quickly slashes forward twice, follows with a kick, then slashes twice more, with the final hit being a blue light attack. This blue light attack is higher up, so it might be easy to miss.
Black Light Attack 1: This is the first time we encounter this type of attack, called Black Light Attack due to the black glow. While it can be blocked, our Killing Intent gauge will usually drop to zero, so it's best to dodge these attacks.
Black Light Attack 2: It charges its axe and leans back before falling down, which is very obvious.
Red Light Attack 1: Pay attention when it stands still, as it may suddenly perform a red light grab. This red light attack requires quick reflexes.
Red Light Attack 2: It stands still for a moment, then slams down with its axe in a red light grab attack. Requires quick reaction.
Red Light Attack 3: It stomps twice, then uses a red light axe grab on the third stomp.
Also watch out for its sideways lunge attack where it charges forward while lying on its side. This attack consumes a lot of Killing Intent, so it's recommended to dodge it.
For other attacks, just use Perfect Parry as usual. There will be QTEs towards the end of the fight.
Finish it off after the QTE to obtain the "Shadow Armament" Giant Fierce Axe.
