Private The Art of Form

[Braze Kai'el]

Form : 1
Shii-Cho
The Way of the Sarlacc
The Determination Form
The blade is only as steady as the hand that wields it.
To master the blade, you must first master yourself.
Without roots, the tree cannot stand.
Without a strong foundation, you are no more than your flaws.​

Zone	Target	Meaning
Zone 1	Head	Represents decisive strikes aimed at the head or neck, often to finish a bout.
Zone 2	Right Arm	Targets the opponent's weapon arm (right side), aiming to disarm or disable.
Zone 3	Left Arm	Focuses on the non-dominant arm (left side), often used to limit defense options.
Zone 4	Back	Strikes aimed at the upper back, typically used in flanking or surprise attacks.
Zone 5	Right Leg	Attacks the right leg, designed to destabilize or limit the opponent's mobility.
Zone 6	Left Leg	Focuses on the left leg, creating opportunities by attacking the foundation.

Command	Description	Zones Targeted	Notes
Kee-ray	Diagonal upward slash to the right.	5 → 2 or 6 → 3	Canon. Covers rising diagonal strikes to the right.
Kee-say	Diagonal downward slash to the left.	2 → 5 or 3 → 6	Canon. Covers descending diagonal strikes to the left.
Kee-zay	Diagonal downward slash to the right.	3 → 6 or 2 → 5	Proposed. Complements Kee-say for symmetry.
Guy-kee	Horizontal slash (any direction).	2 ↔ 3	Canon. General horizontal sweeping motion.
Guy-ray	Horizontal slash from left to right.	3 → 2	Proposed. Adds directional clarity to Guy-kee.
Guy-say	Horizontal slash from right to left.	2 → 3	Proposed. Balances Guy-ray for specific horizontal strikes.
Yo-kee	Forward and downward slash.	1 → 5 or 4 → 6	Canon. A powerful downward strike aimed forward.
Yo-ray	Upward vertical slash.	5 → 1 or 6 → 1	Proposed. Adds upward motion for counters.
Tor-ray	Forward thrust or stab.	1 or 4	Proposed. Precision-based direct attack.
Set	Neutral stance/reset.	N/A	Canon. Used to regain balance and prepare for the next move.
Yah-tay	Halt or end session.	N/A	Canon. Signals the conclusion of a sequence or bout.

Braze stood in the center of the practice room, two blades drawn for Jar'Kai. The hum of his lightsabers filled the air, a steady pulse of energy that mirrored the young Jedi's focus. Today's lesson revolved around Shii-Cho, the Way of the Sarlacc—the foundational form upon which all saber techniques were built. Though its motions were often seen as rudimentary, Braze knew better. Mastering the basics was the foundation upon which all other forms were built.

The training room was alive with activity as several training remotes hovered around the air in the room. There were twelve of these specialized remotes made from sleek silver metal. Each of these training remotes carried an internal reservoir of water designed for releasing water droplets at varying intervals and angles. The floor beneath Braze was marked with faint circles made from chalk and directional arrows for orientation and guiding his footwork.

Aether, the Iron Knight, moved along the perimeter of the chalk lines observing the young Echani Padawan. The droid body's photoreceptors surveyed Braze's stance. Aether's voice held an oddly mechanical tone as it cut through the room.

"Shii-Cho is control, precision, and flow. Build your foundation, and the rest will follow."

With a subtle hand signal, the remotes began to hum. A soft click echoed as the first droplet fell—a single bead of crystalline water descending slowly, directly above Braze's left shoulder. Aether called out the first command.

"Kee-say."
Braze's left blade flashed in a controlled diagonal downward arc, slicing cleanly through the droplet. The water met the heated saber blade and misted away, disappearing before it reached the floor.

Another droplet fell, this time from the opposite side. Aether's voice came again:
"Guy-kee."
Braze pivoted, his right blade sweeping horizontally, cleaving through the water with ease.

The remotes began to shift, their patterns more complex as they floated to new positions. Droplets began to fall in pairs, then trios. Aether's commands continued, building in intensity as the pace quickened.

"Kee-ray."
A diagonal upward slash to the right.

"Yo-kee."
A powerful downward strike aimed forward.

At first, Aether kept the rhythm slow, ensuring Braze's footwork and blade angles were exact. The Iron Knight paced as he scanned Braze's movements. Occasionally, he paused, tilting his head to observe more closely.

"Your right blade is lagging," he remarked, his tone sharp but not unkind. "Adjust your timing, Padawan. Again."

Braze inhaled deeply, adjusting his stance. The remotes shifted again, their hum rising in pitch. The droplets now came faster, falling from unpredictable angles. Aether's commands followed suit, a fluid stream of orders:

"Kee-say, Kee-ray, Guy-kee. Set."
Braze's blades moved in a blur, the water droplets vanishing into faint mists. Sweat began to bead on his brow as the tempo increased.

Aether finally stepped to a halt, crossing his arms as his photoreceptors narrowed. "Good. Now, we'll add complexity." He raised a hand, and the remotes altered their patterns, releasing droplets at varied heights and trajectories. Some fell from directly above, while others arced toward Braze's sides or legs.

"Tor-ray!" Aether barked.
Braze lunged forward, thrusting his right blade to puncture an arcing droplet mid-fall.

"Yo-ray!"
An upward vertical slash, catching a low-dropping bead and sending its remains into the air as a fine spray.

The speed became relentless, the remotes testing Braze's stamina and reflexes. His twin blades formed a whirling shield of light as he struck at the droplets from all angles.

As the session neared its end, Aether raised his hand again. The remotes slowed their movements, hovering into a holding pattern. Droplets fell one last time, slower now, as Aether gave the final command.

"Yah-tay."
Braze stopped mid-motion, extinguishing his lightsabers. The room fell silent save for the faint hum of the remotes retreating to standby mode. Aether approached, slowly.

"You're improving," the Iron Knight said, his tone calm yet critical. "But improvement is not mastery. You hesitate in transitions—small, but enough to cost you in real combat. We'll address that next time."

Braze nodded, catching his breath. Aether's mechanical hand rested briefly on his shoulder. "Rest now, Padawan. The Way of the Sarlacc demands patience as much as precision."

The young Jedi exhaled slowly, his mind already reviewing the session. Today had tested his limits, but he knew that beneath the sweat and effort, his foundation was growing stronger.

 

[Ko Vuto]

​

Tag: Braze Kai'el

To not get in the way, Ko stayed back. Naturally he was interested in the lesson since he’d taken to specializing in Shii-Cho as his favored combat style. He’d dabbled and familiarized himself with the others, except for Juyo, but never quite gravitated to them like he has with the determination form. Right now he had his rather gnarled saber hilt hovering above his hand. Seensing its internals and mechanics, brainstorming an idea for the future of his weapon.

It seemed as though Braze was once more guilty of Valor’s criticism. Adding to their training in a way that Ko found unnecessary and even counter intuitive to the entire lesson. Ko wanted to suspect that Aether may have thought so as well. Knowing that if the boy had a way they wanted to do something, then they would.

As Braze began to rest Ko grabbed his saber and fastened it to his belt before approaching the boy. “Certainly an… interesting evolution for shii-cho exercises. I’ve heard accounts that historic masters describe blade work of the form like that of flowing water.” Ko explained before crossing his arms over his chest.

“It is simple, and its simplicity is strength. That’s a direct quote from an ancient master of the Jedi arts. Although I don’t know who first said it. I know it’s not really your style, but recommend playing into that. No need to reinvent the wheel you know. I think there’s a modest beauty in the bladework of Shii-Cho. Where many might find unremarkable clumsiness. Others find a raw and straightforward kind of wisdom in the fighting style. Pushing aside nuance and complexity to get to the heart of something.” The Kel Dor further elaborated. Sharing more of the philosophy around The Way of the Sarlacc.

Ko knew that he still had a long way to go in developing himself into a true master of Form 1. There weren’t many examples in history of Jedi who truly specialized and dedicated themselves to the Form 1. That paired with historical deterioration made finding first hand accounts a bit difficult for Ko to piece together.​

​

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Ko Vuto

Braze wiped the sweat from his brow, Aether's critique still echoing in his mind as Ko approached. He met the Kel Dor's gaze with a faint grin, one corner of his mouth quirking up. He'd grown accustomed to the scrutiny of mentors and peers alike—sometimes it bristled his pride, but he knew its purpose.

"'Raw and straightforward,' huh?" Braze repeated, his tone light but threaded with reflection. He leaned casually against one of the practice room's railings, extinguished sabers hanging loosely from his hands. "Simple is easy, fast—it's the basics for a reason. I'm just building on the foundation, making it stronger."

He gestured faintly toward the hovering remotes. "The droplet exercise is meant for reading motion, refining instincts, making reactions so sharp they're second nature. In a fight, you don't always get the luxury of simplicity."

Braze paused, "But I'll admit, Shii-Cho feels less like a scalpel and more like a hammer. And I know—I know—I need to master it first. Without a strong foundation, I'm no more than my flaws."

He straightened, his gaze meeting Ko's mask. "Shii-Cho is the beginner's form, but that's exactly what makes it the hardest to truly master. It's raw and direct—there's no room to hide behind flourishes or advanced techniques. You either understand it, or it exposes you.

"Advanced techniques are just the basics done perfectly. If your foundation is weak, nothing else matters. It's repetition until instinct becomes precision—until every strike flows without hesitation."

Braze took a brief breath, "Shii-Cho lies at the core of saber combat, embodying a graceful equilibrium. It blends simplicity with intent, forming a balanced foundation that underpins all other techniques. It all starts with balance. Your stance is your anchor. Without it, your strikes lose power. Your defense crumbles. Master the foundation, and everything else will follow..." He trailed lightly before adding,

"I don't just want to master Shii-Cho. I want to become it. Like a river—constant, relentless. I'll carve my path through stone, wear down anything that stands in my way. A river doesn't stop for obstacles; it flows over them, through them—until there's nothing left."

​

 

[Ko Vuto]

​

Tag: Braze Kai'el

“You’re making excellent points, sounds like you’ve been studying some holocrons lately to get a better understanding of the form. Since I’ve heard many similar sentiments about Shii-Cho. I like what you’re saying about it being blunt and direct. Because of that it can often fall short in fights against a single opponent. Be cautious of that, but not discouraged as there have been masters of Form 1 that can best even some of the most skilled makashi duelists.” The Kel Dor said, ‘looking’ down at Braze as he continued to elaborate. “Now to comment on the more technical side of the form, it practices offense and defense in equal measure. Many times the simple moves can be done both for attacking and defending. It consolidates them both to where they’re essentially the same. Reflective of how, in The Force, all things are one.”

Ko smiled under his mask and nodded at Braze’s comments on wanting to embody Shii-Cho to the fullest extent. “I’m sure you can with dedication and determination. It’s not something I myself have truly accomplished yet. To open myself so immensely to the energies and currents of The Force.” Although Ko has taken a more dedicated specialization in The Force he didn’t consider himself to have harnessed it to its highest degree. “Every river starts out as a narrow little creek. Growing in size and power until they reach the ocean. Becoming one with something so vast and infinite in scale that it dwarfs even the largest rivers.” Ko knew that technically not all rivers reach the ocean but he thinks it’s a good metaphor for representing a Jedi’s journey.

Then Ko’s voice took a slightly more stern turn. To emphasise importance. “Don’t be reckless however, for The Way of the Sarlacc can be wild and raw. In moments of battle it can be difficult to distinguish between the chaos of the situation, chaos in The Force, and the chaos within yourself. The draw to kill is deceptively strong with Form 1. Which is why disarming is often emphasized. Since it’s easy to take things further.” After all, the preservation of life was one of the most crucial goals of any Jedi. "I think I've rambled off enough to ya now. No need for me to waste anymore of your break here."​

​

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Ko Vuto

Braze wiped the sweat from his brow as he listened intently to Ko's insights, absorbing every word. A momentary, gleefully devious grin spread across his features when he began to sense the similarity between Shii-Cho and Juyo. From what he had been studying, it made perfect sense—Juyo was almost the natural conclusion of Shii-Cho—and that realization gave him plenty to ponder.

Despite knowing Ko could not see it, the young Echani placed one hand over his fist and bowed, wanting to show respect to the elder Keldor. It was clear Braze's interest in other lightsaber forms had begun to expand beyond his original single-minded fascination, and he was gradually appreciating each form's philosophy and the best moments to employ them. That growing perspective revealed a touch of humility that was uncharacteristic for the plucky and arrogant Echani youth, yet still the drive of obsession had gripped the boy.

"Thank you for sharing your wisdom and insighst Knight Vuto. "

​

 

[Braze Kai'el]

Form: 2
Makashi
The Way of the Ysalamiri
The Contention Form
Perfection in fencing is not found in aggression,
but in control—of blade, distance, and self.
As the sword is a weapon, so too is the mind:
Wiithout intellect, the blade is but a clumsy stick.
When you master control, you master the duel.
​

Where Shii-Cho is a blunt hammer of raw power, Makashi is the scalpel—precise, elegant, and measured. It is the dance of blades where footwork and finesse reign supreme, a refined artistry that elevates dueling into a realm of cunning tactics, where every move on the board of conflict can lead to a decisive outcome. It is a game in which wits and nerve are tested with each exchange. Makashi demands finesse, artfulness, and an economical use of thrust-and-parry technique, occasionally punctuated by broader, sweeping attacks. Its guiding principle is to exploit any fleeting gap in an opponent's defense with a swift, well-placed strike, proving that a single poised thrust often speaks louder than a flurry of wild slashes.

Taking the path of least resistance is a recurring theme within Makashi, emphasizing economy of movement and minimal wasted effort. Rather than meeting an opponent's attack head-on, a Makashi practitioner redirects or deflects it, sidestepping the clash of brute force. This approach conserves energy and exploits gaps in the adversary's defense, turning even their own momentum into a liability. In this way, Makashi's methodical precision thrives on seeking and creating openings where the slightest shift or pivot can prove decisive.

Makashi's focus on precise angles, graceful footwork, and rhythmic timing cements its status as the most physically disciplined lightsaber form. The strict control demanded by each thrust and parry forces the practitioner to refine every motion until there is no wasted movement. Every shift of the blade or subtle pivot of the body must be deliberate, requiring rigorous training and natural muscle memory. This dedication to detail is what allows a Makashi master to execute strikes as if they were choreographed, turning raw combat into a refined art form.
However, physical discipline alone does not suffice; one must hone the mind as much as the saber. Practitioners are drilled to constantly scan for openings, adjusting their stance and timing with precision. These ceaseless observations sharpen the intellect like a weapon of its own, allowing a Makashi duelist to remain ever-ready in the flowing tide of battle.

Braze knew this form like the back of his hand. Each and every saber Form derived from time-honored katas, stories of motion and action passed down through the ages, that catalogue every move set associated with a particular style. Though small evolution have crept in over the centuries, these ancient sequences provide a roadmap to the subtle complexities and hidden depths of Makashi. Mastering them is an ongoing pursuit of balance between body and mind, power and precision, practice and insight.

How does one test and drill all the skills needed to become a proficient Makashi practitioner? While training with another duelist is ideal, it isn't always practical. To address this, Braze developed the Pendulum Circle.

In the Pendulum Circle, metal balls swing in fixed patterns from above, creating moving obstacles around marked lines on the floor. The fencer moves along these lines, carefully adjusting their steps to avoid the swinging balls while keeping their guard steady. Small candles or targets are placed at various points, requiring the fencer to perform gentle thrusts aimed precisely to hit these targets without disturbing the pendulums.

Each movement in this drill must be smooth and intentional, eliminating any unnecessary motions—a core principle of Makashi. By threading their thrusts between the swinging orbs, practitioners learn to execute precise attacks at the right moments while maintaining complete control of their blade and body. The Pendulum Circle is a focused exercise that builds the graceful, methodical precision essential to Form II: Makashi.

---

Key Components:

• Balance and Footwork: Move carefully along marked lines to maintain stability and control.
• Navigating Obstacles: Swinging metal balls create a dynamic obstacle course that tests agility and awareness.
• Precision Targeting: Aim for small candles or targets with controlled thrusts to develop accuracy.
• Controlled Movements: Execute smooth and deliberate actions, avoiding wasted energy and flailing.
• Skill Enhancement: Develop the ability to attack accurately while maintaining full control of blade and body.

---

Additional Suggestions:

1. Mirror Practice:
   • Setup: Use a full-length mirror or record yourself while practicing Makashi techniques.
   • Drill: Perform your thrusts, parries, and footwork while observing your movements in real-time.
   • Objective: Identify and correct any unnecessary motions, ensuring each movement is precise and graceful.
2. Timed Precision Drills:
   • Setup: Use a stopwatch or timer.
   • Drill: Set specific time intervals (e.g., 30 seconds) to perform as many precise thrusts and parries as possible without compromising form.
   • Objective: Improve speed and accuracy under time pressure, enhancing your ability to maintain control during fast-paced duels.
3. Shadow Fencing with Focus Points:
   • Setup: Define specific focus points around you (e.g., head, torso, legs).
   • Drill: Perform shadow fencing moves, concentrating on striking each focus point with precision.
   • Objective: Enhance target accuracy and mental focus, ensuring each movement is deliberate and controlled.
4. Breathing Coordination:
   • Setup: Incorporate controlled breathing techniques.
   • Drill: Synchronize your breath with your movements—inhale during preparation, exhale during thrusts and parries.
   • Objective: Maintain calmness and control, ensuring your body moves fluidly in harmony with your breath.
5. Flow Drills:
   • Setup: Create a sequence of Makashi moves.
   • Drill: Perform the sequence continuously without pausing, focusing on smooth transitions between each move.
   • Objective: Develop fluidity and consistency in your techniques, making your movements appear effortless and connected.

---

 

[Jasper Kai'el]

...
Tags: Braze Kai'el

Lightsaber
​

"Right. There's a long road ahead, one that doesn't stop when you become a knight. I think you grapple the idea well. This... is certainly an intensive training method."

Makashi was Jasper's favored form. In a way it was the very form that had built up his instincts. It was a tactile form, one which did not rely heavily on the Force for success. Braze was taking the steps to build up his talent in the form, which Jasper could respect. Being pragmatic was important.

"I'd like to offer a few new conditions, however..." the Jedi Master added. "If anything, Makashi is the closest lightsaber form to total control. Not of the Force, but rather of the physical self and the duelist's surroundings. The footing that you maintain as a practitioner of the second form is a position of power, one which dictates the pace of the battle. In the same way a mountain doesn't bend to the wind, a master of Makashi is not to yield to the gate of their opponent's blade. They must stand their ground, tactfully meet the blade of their opponent, and take action to turn the battle on it's head. It may appear graceful, but this fencing is fast-paced and brutal, intent on dictating the course of an entire battle with a single hand-stroke. All of this, then, is at the mercy of your footwork."

Jasper would toss a roll to Braze... a roll of tape. A gentle, perhaps even myschevious smile would play across his face.

"Tape your feet to the ground," he instructed. "That will establish your footing. Consider it your 'high-ground,' the position that you must maintain to see through a successful battle. One must become comfortable minimizing their movements while using the movements of their enemies against them. It will be your job to keep that tape from peeling up as long as you can. Sound fair to you?"

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Jasper Kai'el

Braze caught the roll of tape with a quick, fluid motion, his brow quirking as he studied it. The challenge wasn't lost on him, though the practicality of it seemed, at first glance, a little absurd. Still, Jasper wasn't one to waste time on frivolous exercises. There was purpose in everything he did.

Lowering his gaze, Braze aligned his feet carefully, the weight of Jasper's words hanging in his mind. A master of Makashi doesn't yield to the gate of their opponent's blade... They dictate the battle's pace. He let the thought simmer as he crouched, unspooling strips of tape with sharp tugs. His first attempt at securing the soles of his boots felt clumsy, the tape curling awkwardly before he managed to smooth it down. A muttered sigh escaped him as he worked, layering a few strips over the insteps for good measure. By the time he straightened, his movements had taken on a sense of ritual, as if anchoring himself to the ground were a symbolic step toward mastering the form.

"Okay," Braze declared, tossing the roll of tape back toward Jasper. His tone carried a subtle edge of humor, a playful acceptance of the challenge. "But let's be real—nothing's ever 'fair' in the heat of battle."

His gaze flicked up to meet the Jedi Master's, his lips curving into a faint smirk. "So... what's next?" he asked, the question laced with curiosity.

​

 

[Jasper Kai'el]

...
Tags: Braze Kai'el

Lightsaber
​

"But let's be real—nothing's ever 'fair' in the heat of battle."

"Then all the more reason to be prepared to be on the backfoot."

Jasper examined the ring, nodding as he did so. It was well constructed.

"What's next is that you begin your training as usual," Jasper stated. "Seems like you got a good rig here for refining your skill, yeah? A few... additional stipulations shouldn't change too much. I'll leave the rest to you. Just let me know what starts this thing and we'll begin, yeah?"

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Jasper Kai'el

Braze smirked. "They're voice-activated," he remarked, his voice carrying an air of haughty confidence. Shifting into his poised stance, he prepared to defend his ground without yielding an inch. Every detail of his posture was calculated to balance strength with flexibility.

To be a bulwark, even in this moment, was a clever escalation of his approach. To hold his ground, to embody precision, efficiency—becoming a finely tuned machine in both form and execution that was fueled by the Force as it flowed through him.

These aspirations were lofty, but every hour of experience sharpened his instincts, honed his reaction time, and aligned his thoughts with his muscle memory.

The training was grueling, a relentless trial that pushed his body and mind to their limits. The ache in his muscles and the weight of exhaustion were constant companions, yet they were reminders of why this discipline mattered. Only through enduring the grind could he sharpen himself into something greater—someone capable of overcoming anything that came his way.

"Overwhelm the enemy,
Outwit the adversaries,
Outlast the trials,
Overcome the hardships,
Outlive the storm,
Outmatch the impossible."​

 

[Braze Kai'el]

Form III: Soresu
The Way of the Mynock
The Resilience Form
"A fortress need not attack to defend; patience is its greatest weapon."
(Old Friends Not Forgotten)
​

The art of survival lies in endurance, in the calm within the storm. Soresu is the bastion of defense, a shield against chaos, and the ultimate test of patience. It is not the path of conquest, but the art of preservation, where the wielder's resolve shapes an impenetrable bulwark against any assault.
To master Soresu is to embody tranquility under fire, for the greatest victory is often to remain standing when all else has fallen.

The training chamber hummed with latent energy as Aether's droid form loomed in the center. Around him, specialized training remotes hovered, their reflective surfaces catching the faint light as they orbited in tight, erratic patterns akin to humming birds.

"Braze," Aether intoned, "I've synced the remotes to my tactical subroutines. Their strategies will mirror live opponents, adapting to your every move. You'll find no predictability here... We will start with one and work our way up every minute. Should you fail you will drawn back and start where you left off. "

Braze exhaled with a curt nod, tightening his grips on his lightsabers. The remotes began shifting positions with unnerving precision, their movements erratic yet calculated, as if choreographed by a master tactician.

"Let's see if you can handle it, Padawan Kai'el," Aether said, his tone almost teasing.

Before Braze could reply, the first remote fired a volley of stinging bolts, followed by another and another, their patterns converging in a relentless storm. Braze's blade ignited with a snap-hiss, the chalcedony teal-green energy thumming to life as he spun into a defensive stance.

"Keep moving," Aether instructed, stepping back to monitor. "Soresu isn't about standing still—it's about survival under siege."

As the remotes' attack intensified, Braze gritted his teeth, his lightsaber weaving a near-impenetrable shield. Sweat beaded on his brow as he adjusted his stance, absorbing Aether's words like a mantra.


"Again!" Aether called, as the remotes regrouped for another, even faster assault.

 

[Kahlil Noble]

"Soresu isn't about standing still—it's about survival under siege."

"Not entirely true, my droid friend."

There were rumors abound of Braze's quest to learn the different forms. It took a lifetime to master one, but there was no doubt for Kahlil that in time this boy could master them all. If he had the patience, at least. He stepped over to the droid controller, humming as he glanced it over and looked over the settings. "The eye of the storm is the calmest part in most cases. A clarity where no matter the sheer chaos around you, you move without urgency or panic."

The droids halted before Kahlil stepped over to the center of the ring. He traced out a circle there using the runic chalk he carried, eerily perfect from his decades of practice.

"If you truly wish to grasp Soresu, stand here and close your eyes. You will not be allowed to leave here during the exercise."

Braze Kai'el

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Kahlil Noble

Aether stepped back, offering a slight bow of his head as he relinquished control of the droids. With practiced ease, the Iron Knight moved to the side, of the training room his mechanical frame shifting into a parade rest. His glowing blue photoreceptors whirred softly, focusing on Master Kahlil as the Jedi assumed command of the training floor.

Braze straightened reflexively, his jade-green eyes alight with curiosity as they followed Kahlil's every move. His gaze lingered on the chalk in the Master's hand, recognition flickering across his face. He'd seen his adoptive father and master, Jasper Kai'el , use chalk in the past, though the intended purpose alluded him. Braze had no true understanding of the intricacies behind alchemical runes, but he could recognize one of the tools used to craft them. Now, curiosity bubbled up with in the youth as a wellspring of unanswered questions were held in check as he observed in rapt attention.

"Alright," Braze said simply, his tone steady despite the undercurrent of anticipation accompannying his curiosity.

Extinguishing his lightsabers with a hiss of energy, he clipped them to his belt. From a small pouch at his side, he drew a long, silken black sash—an heirloom left to him by his father, one of the few tangible connections to the man he had thought lost. The fabric slipped smoothly through his fingers, as he held it taut between his thumb and forefinger, sliding it through to striaghten it out.

Braze closed his eyes, white lashes fluttering shut. Carefully, Braze wrapped the sash around his head, encircling his eyes thrice before knotting it securely at the back of his head. He adjusted the cloth with practiced fingers, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit, plunging himself into complete darkness.

Taking a deep, steadying breath, he let it out slowly. His body visibly relaxed as he focused inward, his breathing deliberate and measured, a rhythm meant to quiet his nerves and center his mind. Reaching for the sabers at his hips, he drew them both once more, though the blades remained unlit.

"Will this be okay?" Braze asked.

​

 

[Kahlil Noble]

"That should be fine. You've been learning a lot about the different forms, yes? Shii-cho involves tapping into the Force, letting it guide you with your senses blocked." Kahlil stepped back to the controls, idly toying with them to get the settings he preferred for this sort of training. He smiled after he was certain before he looked towards Braze, observing him.

"This is the same. But your goal isn't to become a raging river. Instead, the calm of the storm. A master can stay in that circle and barely move. Micromovements, just dodging, deflecting what is most dangerous. Trusting in the Force to let you distinguish which is what. You're not going to defeat your opponents, you outlast them or set up another way to. So, defend yourself. Don't leave that circle. Don't over exert yourself."

Kahlil hit go. The system was still the same, more or less, but rather than starting with one it started with two, different angles, different targets. Some grazing, some 'lethal' at least where they'd hit.

"Above all, trust the Force. Let go."

Braze Kai'el

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Kahlil Noble

Braze nodded curtly, feeling a sense of understanding wash over him. The concept was eerily similar to how he practiced Faalo's Cadences, a blend of focus and intuition. He realized he might not even need his sabers this time. His skills in deflecting and precision attacks had been honed, but this lesson pushed him to a new depth of concentration—one he hadn't considered before.

In a way, this training felt like breaking things down into smaller, more manageable parts, and he found himself appreciating Kahlil's approach. "This is a clever method; Thank you." he offered, sincere admiration lacing his words.

As the targets began to move in varying angles, Braze centered himself, drawing on the calm that Kahlil had spoken of. He focused on allowing the Force to guide his movements. Merging with the Force itself, becoming one with the flow of energy around him. It was calming to let go.


Braze took a slow, steadying breath, centering himself as he immersed in the lesson. He was intent on embodying the wisdom being imparted, recognizing the new depth to his training—a delicate interplay of defense and awareness that he was eager to master.

To dodge as skillfully as he deflected and dismantled was a fundamental tenet of Soresu, yet one he had often overlooked in favor of an offensive approach to combat. This oversight made Soresu more elusive for him than the elegance of Makashi, a form that resonated more naturally with his instincts.

Defense Above All Else
The bamboo bends in the storm, but it does not break.

Efficiency of Movement
The river flows smoothly because it follows the path of least resistance.

Patience and Endurance
The mountain does not seek to conquer the wind; it simply outlasts it.

Observation and Precision
The hawk sees all from above and chooses its prey wisely.

Adaptability
The willow bends with the breeze; it adapts to survive.

Mindfulness
The still pond reflects the sky clearly, while troubled waters show nothing.

Dodge, Deflect, and Dismantle
The storm rages fiercely, yet in its eye lies stillness. Move with the calm, and the chaos cannot touch you.​

 

[Braze Kai'el]

Form: 4
Ataru
The Way of the Hawk-Bat
The Aggression Form

Strength without motion is a tree bound by roots; motion without strength is a leaf blown astray.
To master Ataru, you must become both.
Speed without control is reckless.
Might without agility is rigid.
Power without purpose is wasted.
But when all move as one,
The Force flows, and nothing can stand in your way.

​

Ataru is the embodiment of freedom of motion, of energy, and unrelenting momentum. Where other forms ground themselves in precision or defense, Ataru defies gravity and convention alike, channeling the practitioner's body as an extension of the Force. It thrives on boldness and adaptability, wielding speed and power to overwhelm opponents with relentless, unpredictable strikes.

Ataru is the dance of the acrobat. In its movements lie leaps, spins, and flourishing arcs. Practitioners transform the battlefield into their stage, striking from near-impossible angles while evading counterattacks with fluidity and grace.

Yet Ataru is not without its limits. It consumes energy at a punishing rate, demanding immense stamina and clarity of mind to sustain its intensity. When executed properly, it is an awe-inspiring whirlwind of speed and ferocity. When misused, it becomes reckless, leaving the practitioner exposed.

To wield Ataru is to balance aggression with finesse, turning raw motion into controlled power. It is the art of harmonizing boldness with precision, where freedom becomes discipline and motion becomes mastery.

Ataru is a form that uses the full body as a weapon. While many techniques treat a weapon as an extension of the body, Ataru elevates this philosophy by integrating the entire body into a seamless combative flow. Every leap, spin, and strike builds and sustains momentum, driving the practitioner forward with immense energy. However, this building of momentum can turn attacks into overcommitted strikes, leaving the practitioner exposed and vulnerable if mistimed. Once initiated, these motions are difficult to abandon, making skill and precise timing essential to execute Ataru effectively without compromising defense.

For this purpose, practitioners may employ Jar'Kai dual blades or saber staffs to provide additional coverage, complementing the spinning techniques inherent to Ataru. These weapons enhance the practitioner's ability to control multiple angles of attack and defense. However, the saber staff can limit the precision of individual blade work due to its design, making intricate strikes and adjustments more challenging. To maximize effectiveness and avoid interference during complex maneuvers, weapons should be held at inverse angles, ensuring smooth transitions and preventing tangling during rapid movements.

Ataru harnesses agility, momentum, and the practitioner's full physicality to overwhelm opponents with relentless, high-energy attacks. This dynamic style relies on constant motion, acrobatics, and a deep connection to the Force to execute gravity-defying leaps and rapid strikes from unpredictable angles. Ataru excels in open spaces, where practitioners can build momentum and maintain a relentless offense, making it ideal for decisive, fast-paced battles. However, its high energy demands and minimal defensive focus require exceptional stamina, timing, and precision to master.

Ataru is a tempest unleashed—a form best wielded against those too slow or too rigid to adapt, for it strikes with the speed of the living Force itself, leaving no room for hesitation, only devastation.

Braze was immersed in his training, his body a blur of motion as he worked on his spins and acrobatics. Cartwheels transitioned into round-offs, front flips, and corkscrews, each movement building on the last as he pushed his limits. The rotund room around him was designed to challenge every aspect of his agility and precision. Its walls could rotate at varying speeds, throwing off his equilibrium, while adjustable modular sections jutted out unpredictably to simulate obstacles and create ever-changing targets.

As the walls spun, Braze darted forward, committing to a corkscrew that carried him over a sudden outcropping. His lightsaber, set to training mode, ignited mid-air as he aimed to strike a moving target just ahead. The effort was a blend of focus and instinct—he had no time to calculate every move. The modular wall shifted again, forcing him to adjust mid-flip, transitioning into a backflip to avoid slamming into the next obstacle.

Breathing heavily, he landed in a crouch and launched into another series of flips, striking two more targets in quick succession. The spinning walls and unpredictable targets demanded total awareness, and the speed of it all left him no room for error. Each leap was a gamble, his momentum building with every motion, making it increasingly difficult to stop or redirect once committed. This was Ataru at its core: freedom of motion, relentless energy, and unyielding aggression.

But Braze wasn't quite there yet. As he flipped toward a final target, his stomach lurched. His breakfast—a hearty meal his master Jasper Kai'el had insisted on—turned into a leaden weight in his gut. He completed the flip, slashing the target in two, but landed poorly, stumbling to the side. The room's walls slowed their rotation as Braze doubled over, clutching his stomach.

A moment later, he heaved, losing his breakfast onto the polished floor of the training room. Wiping his mouth with the back of his hand, he muttered a string of curses under his breath, aiming them squarely at his master. "Eat before training, he says. It'll keep you focused, he says. Kriffing Jasper."

Still panting, Braze pressed a hand to the wall for balance. This session was far from over, but the room wasn't the only thing spinning now. Forcing himself upright, he stared at the targets still left unstruck. "Guess I'll take a moment," he muttered, trying to will away the nausea and prepare himself to continue.... he went to fetch soem cleaning supplies...

 

[Jonyna Si]

TAG: Braze Kai'el

"Food is good, yes." The sound of the cathar master rang through the room, as she walked in with a plate of waffles covered in syrup. "I got you some Maclunkee's if you wanna take a moment."

Jonyna had always been one to keep an eye on Braze from a distance. They came up around the same time in this new Order, even if she had a decade of age on the boy. While Braze was Jasper Kai'el 's padawan and son, Jonyna always saw herself as the cool wine aunt that taught the boy cool tricks on the side.

And now he was practicing her wheelhouse.

Ataru.

The form of acrobatic and athletic skill was one she was wholly familiar with, and one she knew he had already trained with pretty extensively. Some of that was with her, some of it elsewhere. The boy never seemed to be able to stand still, she knew. Always off somewhere on an adventure.

She hoped one day he'd settled down, Sylvar knew it had helped her.

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Jonyna Si

The sweet scent of syrup drifted through the air, reaching Braze even from across the room. He straightened up, rubbing a hand over his face before glancing over at Jonyna.

"No… no, thank you. Not right now," he said, shaking his head slightly. "I'm, uh… still a little off from all the spinning." His voice carried a sheepish edge, as if admitting it aloud made the dizziness worse.

"I've been thinking about other ways to train—stuff that might help me get used to G-forces, maybe make those spinning moves less awful... possibly taking a trip to peek at what the Flight academy has..." He exhaled, rolling his shoulders as if trying to shake off the lingering nausea. Then, a thought struck him, and his brow furrowed.

"What even is a… Maclunkees?" he asked, only now realizing he had no clue what establishment she was talking about.

By now, he'd thoroughly cleaned up the mess he'd made. Still, he looked a little worse for wear—worn down, his color slightly off, like he might still be fighting the urge to be sick.

​

 

[Jonyna Si]

TAG: Braze Kai'el

"Fair enough, more for me." Jonyna said with a smirk as she took a waffle with a claw, picking it up and dropping it idly in her mouth. She seemed to talk with her mouth full, despite any objection otherwise. "I did a lot of parkour to get me used to it. Your body adapts when you've got more space to run around." Munch munch munch. "Macklunkee's! It's my new restaurant chain. We got one down near the temple on Coruscant now. Breakfast and Lunch, 24/7."

She watched the boy find his bearings, before swallowing down her waffle and smiling "I could take you free-running if you want."

 

[Braze Kai'el]

TAGS: Jonyna Si

The thought of food turned Braze's stomach, and he fought the urge to add anything heavier to the knot already twisting in his gut. Instead, his focus shifted—free running. The idea of tearing through the streets of Coruscant, untethered and wild, sent a rush of excitement through him. Risky? Absolutely. But thrilling all the same.

He'd done it before—sneaking out, sprinting across rooftops, leaping between sky bridges—but keeping up with a Master whose reflexes were near feline? That was a different challenge entirely.

His grin sharpened, eyes alight with mischief. "Tell you what—if I catch you, you're paying for dinner."

​