Stage 6': The Underground Garden

Welcome to the treacherous Underground Garden, an alternate path that diverges from Stage 5. This stage is known for its unique environmental hazards and challenging enemy placements. Be prepared for a test of your platforming and combat skills!

Navigating the Caverns

Upon entering, you'll find yourself in a cavernous area. Proceed forward, dealing with the various plant-based enemies and bats that inhabit this damp environment. Keep an eye out for hidden items within destructible blocks.

First Section: Immediately after the entrance, you'll encounter a series of small platforms and water hazards. Watch for the Merman enemies that leap from the water. A well-timed whip or sub-weapon can dispatch them before they become a nuisance.
Hidden Heart: Near the beginning, look for a breakable block on a higher ledge to the left. Destroy it to reveal a Large Heart, useful for replenishing your sub-weapon ammunition.
Descending Path: You'll soon reach a downward slope. Be wary of Fleamen that often appear in groups here. Use your whip's extended range or a well-placed Holy Water to clear them out.

The Waterwheel Gauntlet

This section is the defining feature of Stage 6' and requires precise movement.

Initial Descent: You'll descend into an area with large, rotating waterwheels. The goal is to use these wheels as platforms.
First Waterwheel: Jump onto the first waterwheel. It will carry you across a gap. Be mindful of the Bone Pillars on the opposite side that fire projectiles. Destroy them quickly or time your jumps to avoid their attacks.
Second Waterwheel and Beyond: Continue across a series of waterwheels. The timing here is crucial. Some wheels will submerge briefly, so plan your jumps carefully.
Item on a Ledge: After the second or third waterwheel, you'll notice a small ledge above with a breakable block. Inside is a Rosary, which can clear all on-screen enemies, providing a brief respite.
Navigating the Currents: The water below the wheels will push you, making recovery from a fall difficult. Try to stay on the wheels as much as possible.

The Submerged Passage and Boss Approach

After the waterwheel section, you'll enter a more submerged area.

Underwater Enemies: Expect to encounter more Mermen and potentially some Fishmen in this watery environment.
Candle for Sub-Weapon: Look for a strategically placed candle on a small platform or above the water. It often contains a valuable sub-weapon like the Axe or Holy Water, which can be very effective against the upcoming boss.
Final Stretch: The path will lead you upwards towards a large, open chamber. This signifies the approach to the stage boss. Ensure your health and sub-weapon count are optimized before proceeding.

Boss: The Hydra

The Hydra is a multi-headed serpent that emerges from the water. This boss fight demands quick reflexes and strategic positioning.

Hydra Attack Patterns:

Head Strikes: Each head will lunge forward to bite Richter. These attacks are telegraphed, so watch for the heads to pull back slightly before striking.
Spit Attack: Some heads will spit projectiles, often in a spread pattern. These can be difficult to avoid if you're caught off guard.

Strategy:

Target the Heads: The Hydra's weak points are its heads. Focus your attacks on one head at a time to eliminate it.
Whip and Sub-Weapon Combo: Use your whip for consistent damage. The Axe sub-weapon is highly effective here, as its arc can hit multiple heads or reach higher ones. Holy Water can also be useful for continuous damage if you can land it on a head.
Movement is Key: The arena is relatively open. Continuously move to avoid the head strikes and spit attacks. Don't stay in one place for too long.
Prioritize Threat: If one head is particularly aggressive or positioned awkwardly, focus on taking it out first to reduce the incoming damage.
Patience: This fight can be a war of attrition. Don't rush, and prioritize avoiding damage over dealing it if your health is low.

Defeating the Hydra will clear Stage 6' and allow you to proceed to the next challenge!