Just to see who all would consider this as fun.

Precognition: Perception Book

Removes the requirement to have weapon/shield out. Ranks in shield/parry/evasion/defense/armor still play full role in countering attacks. Spell/cantrip simply changes messaging to a more mystical defense.

Possibly,


* A quartz gargoyle bites at you. You gesture deftly, stopping the attack as if deflected by a shield.
[You're solidly balanced and in better position.]


Just seems a bit more fun for those who would want to RP a pure magic role in combat.