An available Shield prevents one step of its bearer’s Position loss, once per combat. Choose after comparing Clash totals and before applying the resulting Position consequence. Mark it Used until a new combat begins.

Without protection	After using the Shield
Lose one Position step	Prevent that loss.
Lose two Position steps	Lose one step instead.

Shields add no Power to a Clash, whether their bearer initiated the fight or is responding. A Shield does not directly block a Wound, prevent an armor-break trigger, or grant a separate defense draw.

A buckler, round shield, tower shield or established Thread manifestation can provide the same basic protection when the Hero can meaningfully use it. Their appearance and handling may change what is possible in the scene, but they have no rating ladder or tag list.

Carrying multiple Shields does not provide multiple uses. A used Shield remains a physical object; its once-per-combat Position protection has been spent.