The Rook :contest:

My entry for 's 'Design a Swordsman' contest..
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The Rook

Specializing in the defensive arts, the rook is a rank held only by the most trusted elite soldiers. Their task: to defend the king. Often by the king's side, they are the first to respond to any hostilities. Though primarily being a defensive unit, in offensive situations however, they take command of sieges laid on the enemy.

Not only do their full plate armour offer ample protection, their tower shields are able to withstand heavy enemy fire. All the better to charge directly into enemy lines with. Also believing in the idea of divine protection, their equipment are heavy adorned with the holy cross.

Though rarely required, when the situation calls for it, the rook will take up his sword and fight. Their sword, individually named by the wielder, was designed with defense in mind, rather than offense. However, enemies may wish to be cautious, for the rook's swordsmanship skills are second to none.

Even being top of their class, they do still have a weakness. Due to the incredible size and bulkiness of their armour and shield, they are only able to move horizontally and vertically. They do not do particularly well with diagonal movement.