[quote=Tatsua Aiisen]
In a combat scenario, how does one protect themselves against a direct magical assault? I'm talking snapping somebody's neck with telekinesis, rather than shooting fire at their face.
[/quote]

I'm sure you could get inventive. Magical objects imbued with protective charms that would make one immune to something like telekinesis, but at the same time be powerless to ward against incoming fire. 
But check out the FAQ for more info, once its put up. 
I guess I'll just make that a question while I'm at it. 
What about the existence of runes and magical charms for protection or augmentations?