I think we could discuss ancient/medieval weaponry until the end of time, heh. (Also, the mention of pilum was geared toward my mention of "If they even stabbed with it." I wasn't referring to you, Callia, as I assumed that you didn't really utilize pilum too much in your skill development as pilum are meant to be thrown)

The only real point of my realism post was #4, mainly because I believe realistically spears would be too inaccurate for using the way you've put them together. As in, going from piercing the arm to switching styles completely and breaking a jaw, followed by a swift stabbing of the heart. But, as I said, Lusternia doesn't gun for realism (which is good, otherwise it wouldn't be fun at all. Permadeath ftl).

Again, suspension of realism leads to me liking the overall skill (as I mentioned before). It's funny, because our whole derail stems from me not knowing how the game handles polearms, as in whether or not they are one or two handed.

Anyways, I only ever meant to help you out a little bit by suggesting some things I think it is lacking/tweaking it a bit:
1) Since shields can't raze, you'd need to include an ability akin to Axelord/Pureblade's Cleave, otherwise you could just keep shielding and never get hit.
2) Since this would be treated differently than the current specializations, you might have to include the ability to poison the shield with the affixing spikes skill.
3) The skill already has the shield parry stun, the riposte with the spear-parry should be removed.

As for 1. I do not think that will necessarily be a good idea, they can raze with the spear still, and hit with the shield. The idea here is that there needs to be some trade off for the extra protection of the shield. This was one of them.
2.) See above.
3.) While I see your point, I see it is more important to keep this skill, especially if the shield is kept no poison like I would like... this extra hit against two classes could be very useful.

From my view, which is inexperienced and unprofessional, this looks like a decent skillset.

Regarding a bit about spears. Short spears would be the ones used here. Anything longer than...what, ten feet, becomes a pike, I believe. Blocking with a spear is difficult, but can be done while holding it two handed. You use the shaft. Just don't hope for it lasting too long. Besides, if someone gets too close while you have a spear, that's what the sword is for. you drop the damn spear, or use it offhand as a shield and use your sword or dagger.

Remember, I'm not a professional, this is just what I remember. Pikes are used to counter charges and horsemen, and where essentially spears on steroids. Anyone who wants to try wielding a pike in one hand with a shield deserves the shield bash and gut swing.



Edit: Puncture: Punch a hole through someone's magical barrier, destroying it.

OP variation: Super Puncture: Punch a hole through someone's magical barrier and strike the victim.