This skill applies to Buckler and Small Round Shield. The character gains a bonus to defense (DEF) of 2% per rank of Buckler (minimum 5%) or 3% per rank of Small Round Shield (minimum 8%).
The minimums apply only if the character has at least one rank of shield. Otherwise the shield provides no defense (i.e., the character does not know how to use it effectively).
Example: Delana is rank 1 with Small Shield and is wielding a Buckler. Her rank gives her a 2% DEF but since the minimum is 5%, her DEF is 5% (plus base DEF from DEX of 16, giving her a final DEF of 21%). Once she gets to rank 3, where her rank gives her a 6% DEF, she will use her shield DEF instead of the minimum.
Anti-Archer Maneuver - Someone skilled with shield can also employ their shield more effectively against archers. The character cannot attack, or take any other action except moving at base TMR (no running). Bonus is 1% per rank for Small Round Shield, and 1% per two ranks for Buckler. Note that this bonus is in addition to normal shield bonus for defense. |