Talking about the Dragoon is a challenge, as it’s essentially two models in one, depending on whether you choose to take the Mount – Lupus Rex. The unmounted version costs the standard 17 points—a solid mid-cost option that brings some interesting attributes to the table. The mounted version, however, comes in at 22 points, placing it squarely in the Strategem model cost bracket. Regardless of the version, you get the same Classes: Assassin for increased critical opportunities and Rider for the option to take a Mount.

Now, let’s talk stats. For the unmounted Dragoon, you get the classic, high Thenion OFF paired with the notoriously low Thenion DEF. AG is decent, though not quite up to Thenion standards, but an ARM of 5 and HP of 2 put this model in a tough, offensive light from the start. When you add the Mount—specifically, the Lupus Rex—the differences become even more pronounced. The Mount boosts SPD from 6 to an astonishing 9, which alone could be worth 5 extra Recruitment Points. It also adds +3 DEF, increases T, and reduces ARM slightly, but adds +1 HP. In short, the mounted Dragoon becomes a more well-rounded, albeit slightly more easily wounded, model that is far more survivable over the long run.

On the Skills and Traits front, the Dragoon comes loaded with offensive tools. Advantage (Large, Huge, Colossal) is a lifesaver when dealing with massive beasts. (The model is, in lore, a “Slayer” of beasts on the outskirts of Thenian land.) Dash expands your threat area, giving you better field control, while Follow-up ensures that once you engage your target, they can’t slip away. All of this pairs nicely with Assassination Combat Art I, which boosts the Dragoon’s deadly potential. If you opt for the Lupus Mount, the already impressive list expands further with Acute Senses and Vigilance—both valuable against Shrouded models and other sneaky foes—and the showstopper, Hit and Retreat, which gives even more mobility to an already extremely mobile piece.

Inventory-wise, the Dragoon is equally intriguing. You get a Short Sword for when you need a solid STK of 2, but the real weapon of choice is the Slayer’s Lance. This weapon boasts a STK of 1, RCH of 2, and PW equal to T+3—which, in the Dragoon’s hands, means a jaw-dropping PW of 19. It also comes with Cleave for double wounds, Knockback I, and Unwieldy, which gives you rerolls when on foot. The main drawback, however, is that the weapon’s STK remains 1. The Mount itself also brings a weapon— Bite—which essentially upgrades your Short Sword when you need to roll additional dice.

Everything about the Slayer Dragoon screams one thing: a proactive, aggressive piece that is fast, closes distance rapidly, and is nearly impossible to shake once Engaged. The unmounted version is an affordable, mid-table control piece that, with Dash, can threaten a significant portion of the field with its reliable, powerful attacks. The mounted version ramps things up even further—threat range can reach up to 20 inches, making it nearly impossible for opponents to hide. However, both versions are vulnerable during the Reactive Phase, and it’s all too easy to overextend such a mobile piece, so be sure to provide the proper support.