Black Guard

Archetype: Tank

Special Mechanic: Hatred

Blackguards are the Dark Elf Tank. FIghters specializing in magical defense, Black Guard hate everyone and everything, and use the force of their hate to boost their skills to powerful levels. As the Witch King's elite bodyguards, the Black Guard are highly trained in neutralizing and eliminating magical attacks, so that they can help prevent an ancient prophecy which claimed that Malekith would be slain by a Sorcerer.

Specialty
The Blackguard uses "Hatred" as a mechanic for building up more powerful attacks. As the Blackguard attacks his enemies and is attacked, his hatred increases. Hatred is considered to mirror the Ironbreaker's grudgemechanic, with a few significant differences. The Blackguard gains hatred for attacking enemies as well as from being attacked. A Blackguard's hatred can rise from 0 to 100, just as an Ironbreaker's grudges can. Various abilities can be triggered by using hatred instead of action points, while others are more effective with more hatred built up.

Path of Malice
Following the path of Malice means mastering one's rage and molding it into a powerful weapon. The Black Guard who embrace Malice are capable of unleashing powerful attacks fueled by their Hatred. Frequently seen on the front lines, these Black Guard traditionally wield powerful halberds which allow them to cleave through steel and flesh alike.

Path of Loathing
The Path of Loathing is one of disdain for others, and embracing the belief that none can defeat you on the field of battle. As such, Blackguard of this mastery become unconquerable obstacles that even the most potent of offense will break against. Those who embrace Loathing prefer to work with a tall shield and a strong sword so they can relish in the ringing sound of futile blows falling on hardened steel.

Path of Anguish
Those who master the Path of Anguish master pain itself. This allows the Black Guard to shrug off even the most potent of magical attacks that would normally pierce their finely crafted armor. Masters of Anguish are traditionally chosen to serve as the Witch King's personal executioners seeking out and destroying the arcane powers that would wish to strike their liege down.