Hua, the Deadly Betrothed, presents a significant optional challenge early in Phantom Blade Zero, located below the Sha-Chi Tower in the Weeping Creek Valley. Defeating her is necessary to obtain a Flesh Lily, a key item for the quest involving Yu'er.
The primary difficulty in this encounter stems from avoiding Hua's various spider lily attacks. Players are advised to maintain mobility throughout the fight and learn to recognize and counter her distinct lily patterns.
There are three types of lilies to watch out for. The first type blooms periodically and during some of Hua's attacks before exploding. The second type patrols the arena, converging and exploding when they meet. The most dangerous are the white lilies she fires, which track the player and can lead to a follow-up red grab attack if they connect. These lilies are often preceded by Hua teleporting to attack, making distance and timely dodges or blocks crucial.
Hua's red grab attack is her most lethal move, signaled by a red flash. Successfully parrying this attack requires precise timing, typically with the right bumper, though a dual-button press can be used if confusion arises. It's also noted that getting hit by the red flying lilies can trigger this grab attack.
To extend damage opportunities after stunning Hua, players can utilize the Dread Axe's Phantom Edge ability. Charging it to its first level, indicated by a blue ping, before Hua recovers can stagger her, allowing for additional attacks.
Preparation is key. It is recommended to upgrade a weapon to Level 5 to unlock its special ability, though the effectiveness of specific weapon types, like Jagged Steel which deals bleed damage, should be considered as bleed does not affect Hua. Weapon upgrade materials can be purchased from the outpost merchant. Enhancing the healing art and acquiring the Focus Pill medicine from a chest found after The Axemaster's Holding Cell bell are also advised.
Fundamental combat mechanics remain vital. Standard attacks with X consume no stamina, but Y combos should be prioritized when Hua is stunned for greater damage. Special combos, activated with LT when the weapon is charged, offer significant offensive potential. Parrying Hua's attacks not only negates damage but also preserves stamina for essential actions like attacking, dodging, and blocking.
Players should also be aware of Hua's stamina-draining attacks. A downward slam, indicated by a smoky black aura, signifies that her subsequent attack will deplete all player stamina. Dodging this and the accompanying lilies is generally the safest approach.
While Hua's attack patterns may seem daunting, her combos are not overly complex, and her parriable blue attacks typically appear at the end of a four-hit sequence. The core strategy for success lies in careful arena awareness to avoid lily hazards and mastering the counter to her potent red grab attacks.
Upon defeating Hua, players will be rewarded with the Scarlet Wraithblade weapon, which possesses the ability to summon exploding lilies.