Yeah. Those stupid lizards. Not a fan of them at all. I actually think I had near the same issue as you with the bridge one, Ultima.

Progress Update:
(SPOILER) After beating the Pursuer, I went through Heide's Tower and beat the Dragonrider. Continued that way and found the Miracle woman, Lucatiel, and then Gavlan in No Man's Wharf. Beat the Flexile Sentry on Davey Jones' ship ('cause pirates). Made my way back to the Blue Cathedral and beat the Old Dragonslayer after two tries. That stupid AoE attack he did kinda ended me quickly. Stayed human throughout all of that until that damn AoE. The well area was a bit of a pain due to falling down so much. The rat area... that was interesting and the hardest part of the game so far for me. I walked into an area and was immediately summoned as a gray spirit to fight some guy that was set up waiting to kill me. Didn't end well. After that, I fought the Rat Vanguard. Whatta dick. So many rats. Beat him after about 4 tries. Joined that covenant too.

Next was Lost Bastille, which was easier to navigate than anticipated. Stopped at the fog before the boss because I've gotta improve my equipment. To do that, I'm at the second bonfire in Huntsman's Copse. From there, I hope to explore more and hopefully find that stupid ember.

But man, I'm loving this game.