Orc Vanguard
"Come on ya apes! You wanna live forever?"
- "Roughneck" Rasczak, Orc Vanguard
The vanguard are the front of any orcish force, leading with fervour and fury. While no two look exactly alike, all are recognisable by the spark in their eyes that betrays their lust for battle. The vanguard's enthusiasm for combat is so intense it inspires their allies to even greater acts of brutality.
Orc Vanguard
Medium humanoid (orc), chaotic evil
- Armor Class 15 (studded leather, shield)
- Hit Points 136 (21d8 + 42)
- Speed 30 ft.
STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA 17 (+3) 13 (+1) 15 (+2) 9 (-1) 13 (+1) 13 (+1)
- Skills Intimidation +3
- Senses darkvision 60 ft., passive Perception 11
- Languages Common, Orc
- Challenge 3 (700 XP)
Aggressive. As a bonus action, the orc can move up to its speed towards a hostile creature it can see.
Charge Forward. If the orc moves at least 30 feet straight toward a creature and then hits it with a weapon attack on the same turn, it can deal an extra 7 (2d6) damage.
Shot Caller. When the orc hits a creature with a weapon attack the next attack roll made against this target before the end of the orc's next turn has advantage.
Actions
Longsword. Melee Weapon Attack: +5 to hit, reach 5 ft., one target. Hit: 7 (1d8 + 3) slashing damage.
Reactions
Tip of the Spear. As a reaction when the orc takes damage, it can allow up to three allies within 30 feet of it to make one weapon attack as a reaction.
Frontline Fighter. The orcish vanguard are specialist fighters that are always found leading the charge. The vanguard know how to crash into a shield wall and open a creature's defenses for their allies to strike.
The vanguard often take leadership positions in smaller hordes, but in larger armies they serve as battalion leaders for war chiefs. The vanguard inspire those around them to charge headfirst into battle and attack relentlessly.
Artwork: "Orc" by kikicianjur