Astrid, The Indomitable Preview
Story
I will become your sword and cut through thorns for you.”
When Astrid knelt on one knee in front of Thane and took her vows, she was not yet 18. But as the bearer of the famous sword “Embertrail” and the only legal heir of the Duke of Roses, Astrid took up the mantle imposed upon her by history. She raised the Flaming Rose standard high and stood next to Thane, showing the world the allegiance of an old noble house to the new king.
With Astrid’s support, the doubts that followed Arduin’s death eventually quieted down and people started to reflect on the failure of Arctica sensibly. Even though Astrid’s father and brother died in the war, she did not pay any mind to gossip and the hints from the Temple. Her support in Thane’s ascension provided some much-needed stability in times of danger.
In return, Thane awarded unprecedented honor to the Rose Family, and Astrid became the kingdom’s first duchess. But before she could do anything with her territory, dark powers returned with Taara leading the charge, and Arduin and Mina, corrupted by dark power, in tow.
Astrid knew that the murderous leader was one of those responsible for her father’s and brother’s deaths. She could not wait to join the battle and avenge them, but Thane gently stopped her. Looking at the girl with affection and care, Thane said “You have done enough for me. Let me take care of the rest.”
“My lord, I don’t think you understand,” said Astrid with her head held high, showing such persistence that no man of her age would ever possess. “I took my vows as a knight. Dukes can wait in their castles for news of victory, but knights must charge into battle!” With that said, she unclasped her crimson mantle, unsheathed Embertrail and led her knights into battle.
“My resolve will never waver!”
Abilities
Bladed Guardian (Passive): When Astrid’s HP falls below 80%, she gains a shield for 4 seconds. The shield effect has a 24-second cooldown and will be reactivated when Astrid takes damage again. While the shield is active, it deals magic damage to surrounding enemies. Cooldown is reduced by 3 seconds every time Astrid hits an enemy hero with an ability or normal attack and by 1.5 seconds every time she hits an enemy minion or monster.
Spin Slash: Astrid swings her mighty sword around, dealing physical damage to surrounding enemies. If she hits an enemy hero, Astrid’s attack speed will increase and an additional 5% for every other hero hit (up to 25%) for 3 seconds.
Fearles Charge: Astrid charges forward, dealing physical damage, slowing enemy movement speed for 1.5 seconds, and decreasing target armor by 30% for 4 seconds. Her next normal attack will be a critical hit and will reduce Fearless Charge’s cooldown by 1 second. This effect cannot stack.
Dire Blow: Astrid powers up and becomes immune to all damage for 2 seconds. After 1.5 seconds, she swings her sword, dealing physical damage. Every 2% of HP lost will result in 1% more damage. The ability also slows the enemy’s movement speed by 50% for 1.5 seconds. If the enemy’s HP is higher than Astrid’s, then the ability also stuns the enemy for 1 second.
Tips: Dire Blow makes Astrid immune to all damage, which is invaluable when she has low HP. This allows Astrid to deal heavy damage and stun enemies while running to safety.