Bladesong

Bladesong raises attack speed for the Vanguard for as long as it is toggled on. It is the class's answer to a slow, heavy rhythm.

Effect

Attack speed does exactly one job: it quickens the basic attack's swing, so more of them land in the same span of time. It does not shorten any ability's cooldown, and it does not hasten casts.

Every point of attack speed turns into swings landed, so what the prayer is worth rises with whatever the greatsword is hitting for.

Toggling

Prayers switch on instantly and lock out briefly after being switched off, a flat window that nothing shortens.

Strategy

• It stacks with Battle Trance, so the two together transform the greatsword's rhythm.
• Because the Vanguard has no shield, killing faster is a defensive choice as much as an offensive one.
• Longpoint is the alternative when enemies are outranging you rather than outlasting you.
• The bonus applies to the basic attack only, so it does nothing for a Whirlwind-heavy rotation.