Blocking

A “block” is an attempt to interpose
a shield, cloak, or similar large object
between yourself and an attack. This
requires a ready shield or cloak. (If
you’re strong enough to grab and lift
someone, you can block with his
body!)
Your Block active defense is 3 +
half your Shield or Cloak skill, drop-
ping all fractions. For instance,
Shield-11 would give a Block of 3 +
(11/2) = 8.5, which rounds down to 8.
In general, you can block any
melee attack, thrown weapon, project-
ed liquid, or muscle-powered missile
weapon. You cannot block bullets or
beam weapons . . . these come too fast
to be stopped this way.
You may attempt to block only one
attack per turn.