Stormvermin (Sword & Shield)

Stormvermin (Sword & Shield) is a Skaven melee infantry unit in Total War: Warhammer II. Recognisably dark-furred, the Skaven military elite fight with a proud zeal unique to their class.

Description
Stormvermin are the fighting elite of the Skaven Warlord clans. They are distinguished from their scrawnier litter-matters - often standing a full head taller, with thick muscular necks and a powerful build. Most Stormvermin are marked at birth, as their size and darker fur colour is recognisable. As the largest and most aggressive, young Stormvermin-to-be typically outfight the rest of their litter for precious food. If the young warriors are particularly strong, the weakest of their litter actually become the food. Should they survive the traumatic politics and back-stabbing as their litter-pack jockeys for position, the strongest Skaven will be assigned to regiments of Stormvermin and outfitted with the best war gear. Their duties may include forming a retinue or bodyguard for anyone from a minor Chieftain to the mighty ruling Clan Warlord himself, which puts the Stormvermin at the vanguard of the army where they can ensure continued preferential treatment by fighting with ferocity and zeal for their leaders.

Strategy
Like their Halberd-wielding variant, Stormvermin with shields are quite costly and are not worth the price until the very late game of a campaign. However, they are suitable line infantry once cost becomes irrelevant and will be able to hold their own in combat much better than Clanrats. Keep them away from large enemy, as they are no match for enemies aside from other infantry. They do come in 160 model units, which helps mitigate their high cost and mediocre stats (for elite infantry).