Thorne "Ironhand" - Vampire Enforcer

Physical Description:
Thorne "Ironhand" retains the formidable appearance of his former city guard days, though now, his once vibrant eyes carry an otherworldly crimson glow. His armor, though still sturdy and reminiscent of his captain's uniform, has taken on a darker hue, complementing the pallor of his undead skin. The Ironhand, a signature gauntlet adorned with intricate patterns, now conceals a set of razor-sharp claws. Thorne moves with the same disciplined grace, his gaze reflecting both the lingering traces of his former nobility and the predatory instincts of his newfound vampiric nature.
Fighting Strategy:
Thorne "Ironhand" combines his former guard training with the vampiric abilities bestowed upon him. He prefers engaging foes in close combat, using his supernatural speed to close distances swiftly. Thorne's Ironhand gauntlet, now enhanced with vampiric strength, becomes a lethal weapon. He is adept at grappling and restraining opponents, feeding on their life force to replenish his own. Thorne's experience as a city guard provides him with tactical insight, allowing him to exploit openings in his adversaries' defenses.

STR	DEX	CON	INT	WIS	CHA
18 (+4)	16 (+3)	18 (+4)	12 (+1)	14 (+2)	16 (+3)

Statistics:

• Armor Class: 18 (studded leather and natural armor)
• Hit Points: 144 (17d8 + 68)
• Speed: 40 ft.

Skills:

• Perception +6, 
• Athletics +8, 
• Intimidation +6

Actions:

• Multiattack: Thorne makes two attacks: one with his Ironhand gauntlet and one bite attack.
• Ironhand Gauntlet: Melee Weapon Attack: +8 to hit, 11 (2d6 + 4) slashing damage.
• Bite: Melee Weapon Attack: +6 to hit, 9 (1d8 + 3) piercing damage plus 7 (2d6) necrotic damage. The target's hit point maximum is reduced by an amount equal to the necrotic damage taken, and Thorne gains hit points equal to that amount.
• Graple- when Thorne hits a target with his gauntlet attack, the target must make an opposing STR check. On failure they are grappled, and Thorne can obsorb 10HP from any target held in his grip. The target can make additional contested STR checks at the begining of thier turns until they break free, or Thorne lets go. 

Reactions:

• Parry: Thorne adds 3 to his AC against one melee attack that would hit him.

Equipment:

• Ironhand Gauntlet

Traits and Features:

• Night's Embrace: Once per long rest, Thorne can invoke the full power of the Ironhand Gauntlet, enveloping himself in an ephemeral shroud of darkness. During this state, he gains 20 temporary hit points, increased damage with the gauntlet by 1d6, and the ability to move through shadows, providing a potent advantage in nocturnal environments.
• Supernatural Speed: Thorne's vampiric nature enhances his speed, granting him an additional 10 feet of movement.
• Darkvision: Thorne can see in dim light within 60 feet as if it were bright light and in darkness as if it were dim light. He can't discern color in darkness, only shades of gray.

Weaknesses:

• Vulnerability to Sunlight:Exposure to sunlight weakens Thorne significantly, limiting his effectiveness during daylight hours.
• Repulsion by Holy Symbols:Holy symbols and consecrated ground can repel Thorne, disrupting his focus and causing momentary weakness.
• Familiar Guard Tactics:Thorne may exhibit predictable combat patterns rooted in his guard training, which astute opponents can exploit.

Ironhand Gauntlet:

• Description: Thorne's Ironhand Gauntlet is a masterfully crafted piece of enchanted armor that covers his right hand and forearm. Crafted with a darkened metal alloy, it exudes an otherworldly aura. The gauntlet is adorned with intricate runes that glow faintly when its magical properties are activated. Embedded within the palm are retractable, razor-sharp claws, and a vampiric symbol is etched on the back.

Abilities:

• Enhanced Strength: The Ironhand Gauntlet enhances Thorne's physical strength, granting a +2 bonus to his Strength score.
• Reinforced Defense: The gauntlet provides additional protection to Thorne, adding +1 to his AC when it's actively used in combat.
• Vampiric Resistance: The Ironhand Gauntlet renders Thorne resistant to necrotic damage, further bolstering his supernatural resilience.
• Retractable Claws: The gauntlet's claws can be extended or retracted at Thorne's will. When retracted, the gauntlet functions as a regular, albeit imposing, piece of armor. When extended, it transforms into a deadly melee weapon.
• Night's Embrace: Once per long rest, Thorne can invoke the full power of the Ironhand Gauntlet, enveloping himself in an ephemeral shroud of darkness. During this state, he gains temporary hit points, increased damage with the gauntlet, and the ability to move through shadows, providing a potent advantage in nocturnal environments.