Spellsword

Overview
There are many paths one can take in order to survive. Some walk the path of the warrior, others the path of a mage. Sometimes though, there are those who walk both.

A spellsword is a fighter who dabbles in magic, mixing both martial prowess and arcane might. With this diverse skill set they can wander many paths, being a mage who can fight even when they are out to spells, or a warrior who can throw fireballs when out of melee range of their enemies. They are a great addition to any organization.

Statistics
While paladins follow a more defensive role, spellblades follow a more offensive role. They typically using arcane spells, spellblades cast magic more so to help support themselves, countering their weaknesses, be it range or lack of defense.

Advantages
Sword and spell, a powerful combination indeed. Spellblades can be a destructive force of power against an enemy. With the right weapon and spells, they can endure combat and strike down their enemies with ease.

Disadvantages
They are frail compared to most fighters, and unless they compensate for their lack of defense with higher armor or defensive spells, they can fall rather swiftly. Those who choose this path should be weary of what abilities they take.

Presence in the Shatterstorm
Realms with magic are not unfamiliar with spellblades. They have a varied history from world to world. Some even taking the path to be a counter to the paladin. As such, some paladins and spellblades have a bit of distrust depending from where each originated.

Alternate Names
Blackguard: The paladin counter. Blackguards are know to be used to fight against paladins, and many fallen paladins may choose a new path as a blackguard. The name does not mean one is evil, just simply the walk the night to the paladin's day. Arcane to the paladin's divine.

Spellsword: The usual mix of sword and spell. Those who simply wish to use both styles take this name, making it easier for those to recognize what they can do.

Duskblade: Warrior-casters that use the darkness to supplement their combat skills. Duskblades are known to work with dawnblades, the two working together to overwhelm their enemies. As some run from light, other run from the dark. Both are needed to bring balance.