Godfrey's Hidden Sword and Hoarah Loux's Bare-Handed Battle in Elden Ring

In the world of Elden Ring, players have become enthralled by the exhilarating battle against Godfrey, the First Elden Lord. However, there's a curious aspect of Godfrey's design that has left many fans puzzled – his hip-attached sword, a weapon he never draws during the encounter with the Tarnished.

Despite the sword's presence, Godfrey exclusively wields his axe throughout the fight in Elden Ring. This design choice has prompted speculation among players, and it's likely that there's a deeper lore reason behind this decision.

To understand why Godfrey refrains from using his sword, even for a quick attack, it's crucial to consider the significance of his axe. The Axe of Godfrey, as described in its item description, symbolizes Godfrey's vow to uphold a kingly demeanor as long as he bears the title of Elden Lord. Since the battle commences against "Godfrey, First Elden Lord", his consistent use of the axe is a testament to his unwavering dedication to his original title and the Golden Lineage represented by his weapon.

This dedication to the axe also ties into the presence of the spectral lion, Serosh, mounted on Godfrey's shoulder. Serosh serves a deeper purpose than mere ornamentation; it plays a crucial role in restraining Godfrey's battle-hungry temperament, allowing him to embody the noble demeanor expected of an Elden Lord. The fact that Godfrey initiates the fight with his axe and Serosh in place underscores his commitment to representing the esteemed crown he holds.

Furthermore, though not explicitly stated in any armor or weapon description, it's possible that the sword serves a ceremonial rather than combat-related function for Godfrey. The sword's hilt features a circular rune at the end, reminiscent of the Elden Ring itself, just as the Golden Order Greatsword bears a reflection of the Elden Ring. While the Axe of Godfrey symbolizes the Golden Order and the First Elden Lord's vow, the sword could be a gift from Marika, acting as a reminder of his position—one he chooses not to wield, even when abandoning the axe.

In the second phase of the battle, players face Hoarah Loux, the Warrior. Unlike Godfrey, Hoarah Loux opts to fight with his bare hands instead of using the sword. However, the explanation for this choice is straightforward and aligns with Hoarah Loux's character. He craves battle fervently and is drawn to fight with his bare hands.

There may also be a secondary layer to Hoarah Loux's decision, tied to the ornamental design of Godfrey's sword. Having abandoned his axe and defeated Serosh by the second phase, Hoarah Loux might avoid using the sword due to its potential connection to Marika. This could stem from feelings of repentance for renouncing his kingship to secure victory or from lingering resentment between Godfrey and Marika over time.