The Locust Preacher is a recurring and unsettling enemy found throughout The Ringed City. These gaunt, robed figures are not direct combatants in the traditional sense but rather serve as dangerous environmental hazards that can significantly complicate your progress. Their primary threat lies in their ability to summon swarms of aggressive Hollows and inflict status effects.
Understanding the Locust Preacher's Mechanics
Locust Preachers are typically found in elevated or secluded positions, observing the player. They do not directly attack You with physical weapons. Instead, they emit a distinctive, unsettling chant. This chant has two main effects: it summons waves of Hollows to attack you, and it can inflict the "Hollow" status effect, which gradually reduces your maximum HP if you are not careful. The longer you are within earshot of their chant, the more potent these effects become.
Prioritizing the Preacher
Your primary objective when encountering a Locust Preacher is to eliminate it as quickly as possible. The summoned Hollows can be overwhelming, and the constant HP drain from the Hollow status can be deadly. Look for opportunities to close the distance and attack the Preacher directly. They are often found in areas with limited cover, making them somewhat exposed once you engage them.
Dealing with Summoned Hollows
While you're closing in on the Preacher, you'll inevitably have to deal with the Hollows it summons. These are typically the standard Hollow soldiers found throughout the game, but in large numbers, they can be a serious threat. Use area-of-effect attacks or weapons with wide swings to manage the crowds. If you have a shield, blocking can be effective, but be mindful of your stamina.
Breaking Line of Sight and Interrupting the Chant
If direct engagement is too risky, try to break line of sight with the Locust Preacher. This will temporarily halt its chanting and the summoning of Hollows. However, this is often a temporary solution, as you'll likely need to proceed through the area eventually. Some players have found that using ranged attacks or spells to hit the Preacher from a distance can also interrupt its chant, but this requires precise aim and can be difficult due to their positioning.
Recommended Gear and Strategies
Weapons that excel at crowd control, such as those with wide sweeps or AoE weapon arts, are highly recommended. If you're a spellcaster, spells like Great Soul Arrow or Crystal Soul Spear can be effective for quickly dispatching the Preacher from a distance. Consider bringing items that cure status effects, such as Purging Stones, though the Hollow status can be managed by simply moving away from the Preacher's influence.