How to Defeat Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze in Elden Ring

 Elden Ring continues to test players' patience and precision in its Shadow of the Erdtree DLC, and one optional challenge that has proven deceptively difficult is the Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze. Found deep within Belurat Gaol, Onze is a nimble, katana-wielding foe who shouldn't be underestimated. While defeating him isn't required to progress the main story, doing so rewards you with valuable Elden Ring Items and a solid amount of Elden Ring Runes, making him a worthwhile adversary for any serious Tarnished.

 

In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about locating, fighting, and defeating Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze, along with tips on the best summons, spells, gear, and more.

 

Where to Find Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze

 

The Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze is located in the depths of Belurat Gaol, a dungeon hidden in the western region of the Shadow of the Erdtree expansion. The area is crawling with aggressive demi-human enemies and contains several ambushes, so it's wise to enter prepared with area-of-effect spells or high-endurance armor.

 

Once you reach the bottom of the gaol, you'll find Onze waiting in a dimly lit cell, katana in hand, and far more agile than his bestial appearance would suggest.

 

Who is Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze

 

Though a demi-human by appearance, Onze possesses swordsmanship and magical prowess that rival the finest warriors in the Lands Between. Wielding a magic-infused katana, he blends fast melee strikes with occasional magical projectiles, making the fight feel like a duel rather than a brute-force encounter.

 

This battle is a test of reaction time, spacing, and stamina management, especially if you choose to go one-on-one.

 

Recommended Elden Ring Items for the Fight

 

Going into this battle unprepared can quickly lead to frustration. Here are several Elden Ring Items you should bring with you:

 

1. Greatshield or 100% Physical Block Shield

 

    Onze attacks fast and hard. A Greatshield, like the Erdtree Greatshield or Beast Crest Heater Shield, can absorb his rapid combos without draining your stamina too quickly.

 

2. Bleed-Resistant Armor

 

    Though not a pure bleed enemy, Onze's katana can inflict high chip damage quickly. Wearing Medium to Heavy armor like the Bull-Goat Set or Veteran's Set can offer vital protection.

 

3. Flasks of Crimson Tears + FP Flask Mix

 

    Since the fight can be drawn out, bring 5–6 Crimson Tears and at least one Flask of Cerulean Tears if you're using summons or casting spells.

 

4. Buffs & Consumables

 

    Flame, Grant Me Strength or Magic Grease will enhance weapon performance.

 

    Consider carrying Throwing Daggers or Sleep Pots if you want to interrupt Onze's casting or stagger him at range.

 

Recommended Summons and Spells

 

While veteran players might take pride in soloing this fight, bringing a Spirit Ash summon can significantly tip the odds in your favor. Some of the best choices include:

 

Mimic Tear

 

    Your clone mirrors your equipment, making it a top-tier tank or damage dealer. Be sure to equip high-damage gear before summoning.

 

Black Knife Tiche

 

    Her quick movement and high aggression distract Onze effectively and can wear him down with her consistent attacks.

 

Greatshield Soldier Ashes

 

    These tanky summons can form a defensive wall, giving spellcasters or ranged builds room to operate.

 

Best Spell: Glintstone Pebble

 

    Simple yet effective, Glintstone Pebble lets you maintain pressure without heavy FP use. Time it between Onze's combos or when he recovers from a heavy attack.

 

Battle Strategy

 

Onze's strength lies in his unpredictability and speed. He doesn't telegraph many of his moves, and his magical katana combos can shred unprepared players.

 

1. Learn His Rhythm

 

    Onze uses a mix of light and heavy slashes, often chaining into magical follow-ups.

 

    Watch for a glow on his katana before he releases a projectile, this is a key opening to strike.

 

2. Keep Your Distance (If Ranged)

 

    Ranged builds should kite him around the arena. Use pillars to block his line of sight when he casts.

 

    After he performs a long combo, you'll have about 2 seconds to get a spell off.

 

3. Use Guard Counters

 

    With a good shield, you can absorb his flurry of attacks, then immediately counter with R2 (on controller) to break his stance.

 

4. Manage Stamina Carefully

 

    Never let your stamina drop to zero. If you're out of stamina when he begins a combo, you're likely to be staggered or finished off quickly.

 

Rewards for Defeating Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze

 

While Onze doesn't drop a remembrance or major story item, defeating him earns several valuable Elden Ring Items and a healthy pool of Elden Ring Runes, which makes this encounter worth your time:

 

    Thousands of Elden Ring Runes (exact amount scales with NG+ and your Rune-boosting gear)

 

    Possible Weapon Drop or Sorcery

 

    Improved access to Belurat Gaol's hidden areas or shortcuts

 

    Prestige and challenge completion (for bragging rights and full map clears)

 

Final Thoughts

 

Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze may be an optional boss in Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree, but he's anything but a pushover. With high agility, dangerous combos, and surprising magical abilities, Onze can easily overwhelm the unprepared. However, with the right strategy, well-timed use of Elden Ring Items, and a few thousand Elden Ring Runes on the line, this battle becomes a rewarding and satisfying milestone for any Tarnished.

 

Whether you're hunting every boss in the DLC or just looking to farm valuable runes and rare drops, Demi-Human Swordmaster Onze is a challenge worth conquering.