Go for 21/15, then i am a bit more faster than you and can hit you better in the back.
I'll bring an axe for that buckler of yours 

Please show some class and use a real sword, not ugly crap like scimitar or arabian cav sword.  The Italian sword and the eslavonas are underused, use them and show that you have style.
 The Italian sword and the eslavonas are underused, use them and show that you have style.   
 
Using a Langes Messer atm. I'm a templar, so I don't use eastern style equipment. I only use the eslavonas without a shield. They look silly with a shield.
18/18 for sure.
The difference from 5 shield to 6 shield is quite noticeable.
Cheers
If I would go for 18/18, it would be because of the 6 athletics, as I find the difference between 5 and 6 shield skill negligible. If my shield breaks with 5 shield skill (using knightly heater shield), it's either enemy #3 or more or I'm doing something wrong.
Keep the tips comming. Much appreciated.