Optional DLC · Updated 2026-10-24
How to beat Laurence
Laurence is the optional boss in the Hunter's Nightmare Grand Cathedral. Reaching his resting body is not enough: collect Laurence's Skull from the altar elevator after Ludwig, then return to the cathedral to trigger the fight.
The important preparation is fire protection and room to move, not Fire Paper. Laurence resists fire. The NG reward is 29,500 Blood Echoes and Beast's Embrace; defeating him is not required to finish the DLC's main route.
Get the skull first
After Ludwig, reach the Recovery Room altar elevator. Send the altar lift upward and inspect the lower altar revealed beneath it for Laurence's Skull. Return with the skull to the body in the Nightmare Grand Cathedral.
Before the lower body breaks
Keep the fight away from the cathedral corners. Dodge a committed combo, land a short punish and leave enough stamina to escape the follow-up fire. Damage to the head can produce a visceral opening. Do not stand in front using a vial while he is ready to lunge.
The crawling lava phase
Once his lower body breaks, do not chase through the lava trail behind him. When he begins the long lava-spitting attack, move to his right side for a brief attack or healing window, then reposition before the next turn. The molten pools linger, so remaining behind him is no longer the safe answer.
Summoning Valtr
Meet Valtr in the Forbidden Woods, obtain and equip Impurity, keep him alive, and obtain Laurence's Skull. With the Old Hunter Bell and sufficient Insight, use the summon sign near the cathedral entrance. Equipping the rune alone does not replace these prerequisites.
Questions
Is Laurence required?
No. The wiki lists him as the optional DLC boss. Ludwig, Living Failures, Lady Maria, and the Orphan are the main DLC sequence.
What does he drop?
Beast’s Embrace, and 29,500 blood echoes on a new game.