Defence

From FFa2Wiki

Defence trait is calculated by taking the lower of your Physical or Mental attribute and subtracting your size. This does mean smaller than normal creatures do get a bonus to their Defence.

Some special abilities (such as Powers and Talents) can increase your Defence, as can Shields.

Defence is primarily used as the Difficulty penalty to anyone performing a melee action against the user. This does not apply to ranged attacks unless the person uses Acrobatics for their defence, or possesses the Alacrity power.