I discovered this by accident while backtracking through the level and noticing that you can see this third area from the second. I've always hated the third reaper. He has a guard right in front and you have to turn quickly and accurately to target him instead of the guard.
There is a sniper's perch about two stairs up from the platform where the second reaper hides behind the wall. Once you've taken him down, wait for the female ninja shadowlurker and take her out. Keep you shield up and your eyes open and she won't hurt you. If you then go back to the stairs you can see the reaper and his shadowlurker guard by looking perpendicular to the stairs and down a bit. The shot will be blocked by stalagmites, however.
Here's the trick: go through the next fog gate back onto the cliffside (down the stairs and around from the ninja shadowlurker) and then come back. The stalagmites will be gone and you will have a clear shot at the reaper. He will wander about about when you hit him but he'll fall as easily as the first one otherwise. Beats risking all your souls on your melee timing…
lol you cant block a backstab from the female ghosts……..
lol run at the third reaper and turn and do your roll attack, or your run attack and hes as good as dead
she needs to be behind you to backstab. The crappy loot is on the floor to put your guard down so she can strike. If you stand there with guard up she materializes and usually just hits the shield for some stamina loss and is as good as dead.
The point of the post is that if you're feeling lazy or slow on your way to Old Hero, here's an easy trick so you don't have to pull off a tight maneuver.
she killed me in one hit when i was getting the broken sword by the 2nd reaper
So dont get the broken sword! Ita a trap. guard up and wait for her
she's super easy….you just need to LISTEN!…she makes a laugh before she makes he appearance and strikes…so use that to your advantage