Shield grog

A Shield Grog is a concept introducted in ArM3 and kept in ArM4. Although the concept does not exist officially in Ars Magica Fifth Edition, the basic idea is still sound and useful.

A Shield Grog is simply a Grog - that is, a minor character that is strongly tied to the Covenant but not to any specific player - who has agreed to fulfill a martial role to the Player Characters, acting mainly as a bodyguard and to some extent as a trusted warrior as well.

Because Shield Grogs are so important for the continued survival of Magi and Companions, they tend to be valued and respected above what their social status would otherwise imply.

From a character design standpoint, Shield Grogs tend to have specific Virtues such as Custos, Tough and Warrior, as well as generally positive (above average) physical attributes (strength, stamina, quickness and dexterity).