PHB p. 281 Cover Rules Question

[hudarklord]

On p. 281 there's a diagram showing who has cover and who doesn't in the graphic. Assuming that the bugbears are allies and that all bugbears are enemies of the attacker, isn't the bugbear in the lower left corner behind cover (his ally). The bugbear closest to the interior black wall seems like he provides cover to his bugbear ally in the lower left corner.

Right or wrong? Please explain why?

By my reading the bugbear in the lower left corner has cover from his ally but no cover with regards to the wall or the statue.

Thanks in advance.

 

[baberg]

Under the bullet "Creatures and Cover" in the "Cover" block p.280:

"...neither allies nor enemies give cover against melee, close, or area attacks."

I admit, until I read that I thought you were right as well. But the illustration is correct because it's an area attack.

 

[hudarklord]

Thanks very much. Good find. Didn't know that rule existed.

Thanks again.

Cheers,
Lee