Paladin shield is +4def, tower shield is +5def on 5level creatures; i was after def, some extra bonus against undead from paly shield was not important. Did you try 14fights with vampires or just regular playthrough with single stack? 14fights playthrough is very demanding KBscanner might really be needed. At least 90% phys. res is needed = 50% without stone skin, which will be your first spell in most cases anyway. As you know, difference between having 10% or 20% phys. res and 80% or 90% phys. res is very big when you get hit for massive damage by those huge endgame stacks.
getting to 50% phys. res = scaly set + twinkling boots + crystall ball (or leather dress) + slippery cuirass. In previous challenges you job is made easier by natural resistances which lower the req = droids (20%), BK (30%) and bone dragons (10-15% I think).
You mentioned hating kiting; I was going to give a savegame with zero fights and all maps uncovered, but my PC packed up completely on Thursday
and now i am on holiday, so you'll have to wait for two weeks
