Skills Allocation For New Defender Build

[Alphidius]

Ok, so I'm doing a new character right now that I've decided to be Defense Mastery. Being a new build and a class that I've not yet played so far, can I have a few pointers in which skills should I invest my points in?

I know Armor Handling is pretty good but other than that?
Should I focus on Batter, Battle Awareness, Rally or Adrenaline tree?
Do note that this is a new character so it may take sometime to get those points up.

Thanks in advance!

[Lanced]

Batter with Rend Armor is a must.
Battle Awareness with Focus is also a must for the additional shield block.

You'll want Quick Recovery for times you get surrounded. Your shield will block much more, much faster.

Keep in mind Adrenaline and Rally work together. With a couple points in Adrenaline you get about 10 health per second, Rally kicks that to 25 (150% regen bonus). Both are worth a few points, but you don't need to pump them to the max early. Rally is also a nice way to heal yourself without guzzling potions constantly.

[Alphidius]

Thanks Lanced!
So I guess I'm on the right track for Batter and Battle Awareness.
Rally sounds pretty good for an alternative to Health Potions! Cool!
Thanks again!