#136 - Vanguard

[Lazarus Carter]

VANGUARD

SPECIALISED ANGEL OF AKRASIEL

Name: Vanguard
Aliases: Beastangel, Guardians, Progeny of Retribution

Sphere: Station of Retribution
Tier: Elite

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Abilities: The Vanguard is an Angelic titan of incredible proportions. Towering at almost eight feet tall, they bear a human visage; but everything about them otherwise is distinctly supernatural. Similar to most Angels, they possess wings; however theirs are joined and furrowed down the back by a system of metal joints that culminate in a visible "ring" suspended from the Vanguard's spine. This is a support framework which actually renders the bones of their wings reinforced by blessed metal, meaning that, not only are they exceptionally resilient, the fact that the metal is indeed engraved with holy charms means that the wings themselves are dangerous to typical Demons.

The Vanguard's primary aptitude is frontline combat. They utilise grand greatswords which are heavy enough that they can be used as a hulking blade, wide shield, and powerful hammer-type weapon all at once. The flat of the blade is resilient enough that it can deflect most blows and easily glance off typical gunshots, and the impressive strength with which the Vanguard can haul its heavy blade means that its physical assaults are unmatched by many. The Vanguards wear no armour over their chest, but their skin is naturally strengthened to be as resilient as a thin sheet of metal - whilst still penetrable, it gives them an advantage when closing in on enemies who prefer ranged combat.

Additionally, the Vanguard possesses armoured gauntlets, greaves, and boots, choosing to don a battle-kilt of sorts. This armour is all highly reinforced and can prove lethal should the Angel lose their typical weapon, prompting a slightly more brutal assault. The left-handed gauntlet is actually topped with a protruding blade large and wide enough to shear through most human-sized Demons with a single slash. The Vanguards hold a numbing sensation that most Angels don't possess and can shake off the most debilitating of wounds, and hold, similar to their progenitor, Akrasiel, a formidable drive and intensity when it comes to eliminating the Host's enemies without prejudice.

Miscellaneous Notes: - The ultimate guardsmen; once set upon a goal be it for guarding or retribution, much like their master, the Vanguards will not relent unless he - or Michael, the only other superior force in their eyes - tell them otherwise.
- The greatest of Vanguards also in battle serve as an elite praetorian guard force. These variants are known as the "Starguards" - and number approximately five. Their abilities are no different: but their skill is unparalleled.