Series & First Appearance
Andrew Gilbert Mills (アンドリュー・ギルバート・ミルズ) is a character from the anime and manga series Sword Art Online, created by Reki Kawahara. He makes his debut in the first volume of the Sword Art Online light novels and first appears onscreen in Sword Art Online: Episode 8 ("The Swordcraft Academy").
Profile at a Glance
Andrew Gilbert Mills, often called “Mills,” is a supporting character known for his role as a merchant in Aincrad’s city of Algate, located on the 50th floor. He is approximately 30 years old and stands at 180 cm tall. Mills is a notable axe-wielding warrior on the frontlines, demonstrating considerable combat prowess, despite his vocation as a merchant. His signature motto is “Buy cheap and sell cheap,” reflecting his straightforward business approach.
Personality & Motivations
Mills possesses a strong, pragmatic personality, characterized by a deep commitment to his business and a blend of gruffness mixed with good-natured annoyance, especially when characters like Kirito use his shop as a refuge. He is supportive and protective of his friends, as seen through his involvement in early boss fights. His motivation centers around surviving the dire circumstances of Sword Art Online and running a successful business that helps his fellow players, while he secretly values friendship and camaraderie.
Abilities / Powers
As a skilled warrior, Andrew specializes in wielding axes and has proven himself competent in battle, particularly during crucial boss fights. His expertise allows him to perform effectively in group scenarios, supporting his allies. Despite being a merchant, Mills possesses formidable combat skills that enable him to participate actively in the game’s frontlines. His powers evolve from that of a merchant to a formidable warrior as he showcases his competence in various battles across the series.
Major Story Arcs & Growth
Andrew’s character development is most evident during significant arcs such as the first-floor boss fight in the original Aincrad storyline. He contributes to the effort against the boss and supports Kirito, who is labeled a "Beater." Mills also plays a crucial role in the “Aria in the Starless Night” side story, further establishing his importance in Kirito’s journey. Throughout Sword Art Online and its sequels, his journey intertwines with both the struggle for survival and the formation of meaningful connections with various characters, showcasing a blend of growth in both combat and personal relationships.
Notable Relationships
Mills shares notable relationships with several key characters:
- Kirito: Their alliance begins during the first-floor boss fight, where Mills acknowledges Kirito’s status as a beta tester and later as a Beater, demonstrating supportive mentorship.
- Asuna: Mills enjoys her visits to his shop, and their relationship showcases mutual respect and camaraderie.
- Fellow Merchants: He maintains professional relationships with other NPCs and players, contributing to his hometown hub of activity.
Iconic Moments & Quotes
One of Andrew’s iconic moments occurs during the first-floor boss fight, where he stands alongside Kirito and demonstrates his commitment to the cause. This scene establishes him as a reliable ally in dire situations. A memorable quote that encapsulates his straightforward nature is, “Just buy cheap and sell cheap. That’s my rule.” This motto highlights his pragmatic outlook, resonating with many fans who appreciate his business-minded approach.
Trivia & Behind-the-Scenes
Andrew Gilbert Mills is voiced by Hiroki Yasumoto in Japanese and Patrick Seitz in English, providing a robust representation of his character. He appears in several Sword Art Online adaptations, including Sword Art Online II, Sword Art Online: Alicization, and various Progressive Movies. Notably, his character encapsulates the multifaceted relationships and survival struggles within the Aincrad scenarios, contributing significantly to the world-building of the series. He has also gained popularity among fans, securing his place as a memorable merchant-warrior in an expansive array of supporting characters.
Mills is frequently noted in fan polls and discussions as a beloved character, embodying both the resilience and community spirit that define the Sword Art Online experience.
