Most characters won't go down without a fight! It's time to defend and live another day!
There are multiple ways to defend yourself:
-Talent and Skill... and we don't mean any skill you can buy. One of your best defenses will be your very own hands, use them!
-Shields. To use a shield in combat you must have the appropriate shield proficiency and wear it on your arm; if a shield is on your back or chest it will not protect you. A properly worn shield will protect you from melee weapon, thrown weapons, or ranged weapons (unless there is a feat used specifically against the shield). A shield will not defend against magical attacks, explosives, falls, walls, or ceilings.
-Potions, spells and buffs.