Rule: Shield types

Shields come in many different shapes and sizes, but their function is universal: take the damage intended for the bearer. Each Shield Type has :

Resistance : The Shield’s health. When you Parry, you lose 1 Resistance per Heart of damage prevented (any excess damage after Resistance reaches 0 is dealt to you).
When Resistance reaches 0, the Shield Break.
Defense Bonus : Like Armor, the Shield improves your Defense Rating.

How to use Shields :

If you would be successfully hit during combat, and you are armed with a Shield, you can choose to Parry (once per turn) the blow and avoid taking the Damage.
If you have Combat gear allowance, the first 1 Heart of damage you Parry per Fight doesn't cause Resistance reduction to your shield.
The type of Attacks you can Parry are limited by your Shield Type.
You can only use 1 Shield at a time.
If you are Ambushed, you cannot Parry and you cannot benefit from your Shield's Defense Bonus.

Combat gear allowance :
Your Class and Species size limit the Shield Types you are able to use without penalty.

Using a restricted Shield means…

You can Parry and gain the Shield’s Defense Bonus, but you must either use your Action this turn to prepare your Shield, or give up your Action on your next turn instead.

You don't get the free Resistance usage once per Fight (see above in How to use Shields).

Removing/Equiping during fight :

During a Fight, removing/equiping a shield takes an Action, unless otherwise stated.

Shield Types

Shield (Small)

Favored by fighters who want to use both hands, Small Shields are worn on your arm rather than held.

Can Parry Melee Attack only.
You may still use both hands when equipped with a Small Shield.
Resistance: 1.
Defense Bonus: +0.

Slot: 1

Cost: 15

Shield (Large)

Enormous bulwarks that are large enough to obscure their bearer completely. Effective, but large and difficult to carry.

Can Parry Melee or Missile Attack (including spells).
Large Shields require one hand to use, so they affect your ability to use two-handed weapons.
Your Speed is reduced by one step when using it.
Resistance: 3.
Defense Bonus: +2.

Slot: 2

Cost: 35

Shield (Standard)

The most common shields are sturdy pieces of wood or metal that are held in place by a grip or strap along their back side.

Can Parry Melee or Missile Attack (including spells).
Standard Shields require one hand to use, so they affect your ability to use two-handed weapons.
Resistance: 2.
Defense Bonus: +1.

Slot: 1

Cost: 25