Is Millicent a Malenia?
As an avid Elden Ring lore aficionado, one question has plagued me since my journey led me to the mysterious Millicent: is she actually Malenia herself, or another entity? After countless hours unraveling item descriptions, character dialogues and unlocking three endings, I present my verdict:
No, Millicent and Malenia are separate characters intrinsically connected by blood.
The Daughter Descendant Theory
The most popular theory is that Millicent directly descends from Malenia, likely a daughter or close blood heir. My reasons backing this conclusion are:
- Millicent directly states she is "of Malenia‘s blood" when asked of her origin
- She shares Malenia‘s vibrant red hair and similar facial features
- Her quest culminates in meeting Malenia in the Haligtree, implying a reunion
An excerpt from her armor description reads:
"Malenia awaited Millicent at the foot of the husk. To be embraced by the wings of her mother high atop the clouds."
This clearly paints a picture of a daughter returning to her mother or ancestor.
My Speculation
I speculate that Millicent was born after Malenia succumbed to Scarlet Rot and fell in battle with Radahn. Perhaps Malenia used her Aeonian Butterflies to produce an heir before her slumber, ensuring her lineage lived on.
The Scarlet Aeonia Clone Theory
Some argue Millicent sprouted like a budding flower clone from Malenia‘s Scarlet Aeonia power. This is backed by:
- Millicent refers to her captainless sisters as "buds" that stemmed from the same source
- The Scarlet Aeonia technique description details how it can create scarlet buds
One counterpoint is that the buds referenced are more akin to residual rot outbreaks, not sentient clones. Millicent also displays self-motivation to see Malenia rather than a mindless host.
My Rebuttal
While Malenia likely utilized her Scarlet Aeonia in unconventional ways before her slumber, I do not believe she produced a direct physical clone. Millicent plainly states her goal is to "meet the mother that gave her life" – not reunite with the source that spawned her.
Table Comparison of Key Characteristics
| Malenia | Millicent | |
| Hair Color | Red | Red |
| Facial Structure | High Cheekbones | High Cheekbones |
| Scarlet Rot | Afflicted From Birth | Progresses Over Time |
| Key Site | Haligtree | Seeks Haligtree |
So in summary, while Malenia and Millicent bear uncanny resemblances proving their shared blood, I contend they remain two minds with distinct goals forced together by destiny. Their poignant relationship leaves much to the imagination and plumbs intriguing questions about lineage, mothers and daughters that even Bloodborne would approve of!
I welcome all theories and insights from fellow tragic lore enthusiasts. Together we may unearth the enigma that is Millicent, rightful heir to the Scarlet Rot.
