Faith is the heroism of the intellect.
LOCATION: Shadow Temple - Sparring Arena | OBJECTIVE: Broken Gate | POST #: 1
TAG (ALLIES) : @
TAG (FOES) : @
In the heart of the Shadow Temple, under the dim glow of ancient luminaries, the vast sparring arena pulsated with anticipation. This was no ordinary training ground; it was a crucible of skill and a testament to the warrior spirit of the Jedi Order. The high, vaulted ceiling arched over the arena like the canopy of a primordial forest, and the buzz of eager young Jedi hung in the air. They had gathered to Learn from the Master—Caltin Vanagor—prepare them for the intricate dance of the martial art known as Broken Gate.
Caltin, a name spoken in reverent whispers throughout the galaxy, entered the arena with an assured grace. A Jedi Master of exceptional repute and famed as a “one-man wrecking crew,” he had helped liberate worlds from tyranny and righted countless wrongs. But today, he stood not as a warrior of might but as a teacher bent on imparting wisdom to the next generation.
The young Jedi, those who had arrived already, stood hopeful yet nervous, finding solace in his presence. Some had heard tales of him single-handedly taking on battalions of droids and emerging relatively unscathed; others revered him for his compassion and patience. There was also the story of his cybernetic eyes, his affinity for powerful lightning, also surviving his head being literally scalped. Here, though, they would learn the importance of humility and discipline through Broken Gate.
Caltin took a position at the center of the arena, Training Droids lining the outer walls, and his gaze swept over his audience, his piercing emerald eyes locking onto each apprentice. Welcome, young Jedi, he spoke, his voice deep and resonant, echoing against the walls. Today, we will explore Broken Gate—a martial art that teaches both offense and defense in perfect harmony. Harmony, that is a word you need to remember, as this is not going to teach you “fighting”. If you are here to “throw hands”... fee free and go to the dining hall, help yourself to as much food and drink as you like and wait for the next transport, there will be no hard feelings.
The assembled students shifted, their anticipation crackling in the air like static electricity. Caltin began to move, demonstrating a fluid sequence that illuminated the essence of Broken Gate. The motions flowed through him like water—each strike and block shaped by the targeted application of strength and finesse. He flowed through imaginary foes, and with each movement, he appeared to weave a tapestry of invisible threads that painted a masterpiece of combat.
This, he began, is not just about fighting; it is about understanding the deeper rhythm of conflict. Every external strike you deliver must mirror the internal peace you hold. Broken Gate teaches us to break through the barriers of our own limitations while simultaneously respecting those of others.
As he resumed his stance, the young Jedi could feel the weight of his words. Each lesson was laden with meaning, and they were enwrapped in the aura of something greater than mere combat.
Now, he continued, let us delve into the teachings of Broken Gate more thoroughly. He turned his gaze toward each padawan, his voice softening. This art is rooted in three fundamental principles: Intention, Breathing, and Connection.
As he spoke the first tenet, Caltin lifted his hand and demonstrated a simple strike with precision—a glowing beam of energy erupting from the hilt of his lightsaber. The image was striking; with his movements, he illustrated how intention defined purpose. When you strike with purpose, you create openings in your opponent’s defenses. However, intention must never be rooted in anger. It must flow from the depths of your connection to the Force.
With every word, Caltin drew the apprentices into the heart of his lesson. He moved amidst them, demonstrating his prowess, but also inviting them to feel the energy that sparked from his presence alone.
Next is Breathing. A Jedi’s true strength lies not only in their limbs but in mastering the breath that fuels those motions. Your breathing cultivates focus and clarity. It calms the storm within when conflicts rage around you. He paused, allowing them all to follow his example—slow, deliberate inhales and exhales that matched the rhythm of their hearts.
As the young Jedi practiced, individual struggles flickered across their faces. Some mastered the technique swiftly, while others stumbled. This, Caltin knew, was part of their journey. It was critical for them to confront their limitations and push through the barriers they self-imposed.
Finally, Caltin leaned closer to the young apprentices, his expression earnest. Connection—this is at the core of Broken Gate. It is the understanding that you are part of something far greater than yourself. When connected with your opponent, you see not the enemy before you but the challenges they face. In their weakness lies your strength, and in your kindness lies their redemption.
He beckoned two apprentices forward, eager to embrace the teachings. As they engaged in a friendly spar, their movements mirrored Caltin’s earlier demonstration, albeit a little more awkwardly. Observing closely, he guided them with gentle advice and corrections. As they battled, the audience watched, their collective breaths suspended, each of them enraptured by the display of skill intertwined with compassion.
Time passed, the light casting elongated shadows across the arena. The lesson unfolded with fervor, and one apprentice, Aeliana, struggled against her partner. She faltered, frustration painting her features. Caltin stepped in, graceful as a wisp of wind.
Aeliana, he said softly as he placed a hand on her shoulder, remember the principle of Breathing. It grounds you in clarity. When you give in to frustration, you lose connection—not just with your opponent but with your own discipline.
Caltin demonstrated a flow of basic movements, embodying the spirit of Broken Gate, and Aeliana watched with eyes wide in realization. She closed her eyes, inhaled deeply, and tuned into the rhythm of the arena. Moments later, they resumed the spar, and with newfound clarity and connection, she impressed those around her, weaving seamlessly through strikes.
You know what? Let me demonstrate the core of what Broken Gate is about. Jedi are about “defense”, are we not? This art uses your momentum, size, and skills against you. Looking over towards one of the walls, and finding a particular Knight standing watch. Come on over and attack me.
That individual was none other than Connel Vanagor, who was in full gear. He laughed. That’s what you wanted me to hang out for?? Alright.
Connel knew what his father wanted and moved in at a fast attack, grabbing a strong hold of Caltin’s shoulder. The big man grabbed his hand, pulled the Knight over his body to the floor and moved into a controlling position moving or “locking” the arm at the joint in full extension.
With the right training, and in the right situation, you can incapacitate an opponent non-lethally, even without throwing a punch. Getting up to a standing position. He looked around, as Connel was playfully adjusting his arm from a seated position. Let’s start with some basic loosening up, what I showed you earlier. We’ll move into this slowly and then get into “velocities”.
In the shadow of the temple, Caltin Vanagor stood, a silent sentinel of knowledge, having infused their spirits with an indomitable light. The arena, once a mere ground of competition, had transformed into a forge for heroes—warriors not just of combat, but of peace.
