Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Thank you all for coming to our monastery. Before we begin, I will once again remind everyone that this gathering is one of peace, tranquility, and learning. Any who break this compact will be forcibly removed." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "I would also ask that you keep chatter and fidgeting to a minimum. As our discussion and lesson is heavily centred around discipline, please demonstrate some of it yourselves." Jaeide ponders Smashy with a contemplative expression. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Now, we shall begin presently." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Here in the monastery, we have always taught that the way of the monk is more of a lifestyle than a mere class or occupation. A way of life, if you will." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "To embrace our ways is to adhere to a particular state of being, one that demands unparalleled clarity of mind, body, and spirit in order to combine those three elements of the self into a deadly force." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "We are, you might agree, aptly located - the surroundings gift us with a serene and placid environment in which to perfect our craft." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Meditating among the crisp mountain air is an experience unlike any other - something I encourage anyone seeking peace of mind and enlightenment to practice for themselves in their own time." Grandmaster Kevadrin says dryly, "Cigar smoke notwithstanding, of course." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Discipline is the foremost tenet of our ways; a well-disciplined mind strives to ever remain calm and at peace, without the vagaries of discord and strife to distract it." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Rarely will you see a master monk roused to irrational anger, or blind rage. Yet they - we - are no less deadly as a result of it." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "It is through this idea of discipline, tempered with proper calm and caution, that mastery over the self is attained." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The katas are a demonstration of this skill and mastery, honed through years of contemplative meditation and martial practice. This month we will be practising three of them - Jakata, Tykorima, and Krull - one basic, one intermediate, and one advanced." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Each morning we rise with the sun and ready ourselves with a series of breathing exercises and stretches. We take in the mountain air, adequately preparing both mind and body for physical activity and exertion." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "So it shall be here. I will demonstrate some of our breathing exercises, which you may attempt to mimic yourselves." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "There are three in total. Please maintain your quiet discipline until instructed to practice." Grandmaster Kevadrin raises his arms until they are level with his shoulders, where they remain utterly still. Closing his eyes, the Grandmaster inhales a long, deliberate breath, his chest rising visibly. Several moments pass as Grandmaster Kevadrin holds his drawn breath before his eyes open and he releases it slowly, his arms maintaining their perfect poise even as his chest falls. Grandmaster Kevadrin makes a sweeping gesture before you, indicating for you to follow his actions. Veldrin emulates Kevadrin. Uristt extends his arms outward, making sure to distance himself appropriately from the others. He closes his eyes, taking a deep breath and slowly releasing it. Exivus raises his arms till they are awkwardly level with his shoulders. Closing his eyes, he inhales a long breath. Liena mimics the sweep. Smashy raises his arms until they are level with his shoulders, where they remain utterly still. Closing his eyes, the blind Troll inhales a long, deliberate breath, his chest rising visibly. Yen raises her arms until they are level with her shoulders, attempting to hold them still, but wavering somewhat. Closing her eyes, she draws a deep breath. Stepping off of a blood steed, Reyson follows Grandmaster Kevadrin's guidance, breathing in long and closing his eyes as he does so. After a moment's hesitation, Shirszae raise her arms to the level of her shoulders, keeping them still as she too draws a deep breath. Jakiro takes a few steps away from the crowd and raises his arms to shoulder level. He closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, his chest rising as he does. With a look of concentration on her face, Dyffenia raises her arms up and slowly inhales. As she tries to hold it for as long as the Grandmaster did, she starts looking visibly fidgetty and cannot help but exhale. Liena takes in a deep breath to mimic Kevadrin, closing her eyes. Jaeide glances around at the others gathered, before he gaze returns to the Grandmaster. Raising her arms, she closes her eyes and inhales deeply, her nose wrinkling as the stench of Smashy filters past. Smashy looses a held breath, exhaling loudly. Exivus exhales slowly, though his arms move a little despite his best efforts. Yen releases her breath after several moments, exhaling. Andraste stands up. Grandmaster Kevadrin looks around at the gathered crowd, nodding approvingly as his eyes pass from head to head. Jakiro slowly exhales, a few moments after, opening his eyes as he does. Yavenah raises her arms in mimicry of the grandmaster and inhales in a controlled manner, her chest ouffing out in the process. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The short period of held breath can often be enlightening in and of itself, a brief moment of repose as all is still and calm." Liena exhales as well followed by a sheepish smile on her lips. Reyson breathes out slowly, the sound somewhat muffled by the steel of a menacing wyvern helm. Grandmaster Kevadrin exclaims, "The second is somewhat more dramatic, allow me to demonstrate, and feel free to follow my action immediately!" Grandmaster Kevadrin raises his arms over his head and brings his palms together, once more remaining perfectly still. Tilting back his head, the Grandmaster breathes in through his nose and out through his mouth five times in rapid succession. Yen raises her arms over her head, touching both palms as she aims to remain perfectly still. Tilting back her head, she breathes in and out through her nose five times. Uristt mimics the gesture, his braided beard swaying to and fro as he takes the rapid breaths. Smashy raises his arms over his head and brings his palms together, trying his best to remain prefectly still. Staring forward with milk-white eyes, Smashy breathes in through his nose and out through his mouth five times in rapid succession. Exivus raises his arms and brings his palms close together. Tilting his head, he breathes in through his nose rapidly. Durzaan raises his arms over his head and brings his palms together, remaining perfectly still. Tilting back his head, Durzaan breathes in through his nose and out through his mouth five times in rapid succession. This one is easier for Dyffenia, and she is able to hold the same position as the Grandmaster without any difficulty as she breathes in and out quickly through her nose. Jakiro raises his hands over his head, entwining his fingers together, and tilts his head back. He mimics the grandmaster and breathes in and out give times in rapid succession. Palms together over his head, Reyson follows suit, the rhythm of his breathing matching Grandmaster Kevadrin's in cadence and speed. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods his head slowly in approval as his gaze wanders over the group. Liena slowly raises her hands up with her palms together, stretching her body out as she remains as still as possible. She breathes in quickly and then out five times in a row. Jaeide lifts he arms over her head, copying the Grandmaster's movements exactly. Once she's in position she tilts her head back and inhales through her nose, exhaling through her mouth quickly. Studying Grandmaster Kevadrin for a moment, Shirszae raises her arms over her head, the flat of her palms together as she strives to remain still. Then she breathes in through her nose and out through her mouth five times in a row. Veldrin brings his palms together and breathes in through his nose five times. Yavenah places her palms together and raises them above herself, before tilting her head back and attempting to breathe five times in the same manner, albeit at a slower pace. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Very good, very good. There is just one more of these..." Grandmaster Kevadrin spreads his legs apart and folds his arms behind him, arching his back in a powerful stretch. As he keeps the position in a statesque display, he exhales fully before inhaling deeply, holding the breath for an interminable length before finally releasing it quietly. Veldrin stretches languidly. Berlewen holds her harp with both hands behind her back and breathes in deeply, exhaling moments later. Smashy spreads his legs wide and stretches his arms behind, arching his back in a poweful stretch. Uristt adopts a similar wide-legged stance, looking even shorter and squatter in the unusual pose. He follows the motions dutifully, looking significantly less at ease than the grandmaster. Exivus awkwardly tries to spread his legs apart, though the pain of doing so is plain on his face. Shaking slightly as he tries to maintain the pose, he exhales and inhales in quick succession before exhaling loudly as his pose finally breaks. Liena follows along, arching her back with her arms folded behind and her legs in position. She exhales and then inhaling, holding her breath for a moment before exhaling quietly. Yen widens her stance and folds her arms behind her as she arches backward. A few moment later, she exhales, slowly inhales, then releases her breath once more. Smashy holds the position and then exhales his long held breath - relaxing as he does. Taking care to keep his distance from the others, Jakiro spreads his legs wide and folds his arms behind him. He arches his back, exhaling fully as he does, and inhales deeply. He holds his breath in for a few moments before once again exhaling slowly. After rolling his shoulders and craning his neck this way and that, Reyson mimics Grandmaster Kevadrin's posture carefully, a frown furrowing his brow for a moment as he settles in to the closest approximation he can manage, to then take a long, deep breath. Taking a wider stance to mimic Grandmaster Kevadrin's, Shirszae folds her arms behind her back, arching her back in a stretch in the process. Then, doing her best to keep in position, she draws in a deep breath, holding it for as long while before finally exhaling. Likewise, Dyffenia spreads her legs a shoulder's width and stretches her body out with her arms behind her back, not quite as fluidly as the demonstration. She carefully breathes out and then in, deeply, looking more determined this time to hold it in for longer. She manages - somewhat; not nearly as long as the Grandmaster, but a respectable showing, and she doesn't take any ungainly gasps for breath. Grandmaster Kevadrin's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "This stance is somewhat more pronounced, a moment of discomfort leading to relaxation." Yavenah crosses her arms behind her back, spreads her stance, and attempts, with some success, to bend backwards. Settling on a much shallower angle, she exhales, inhales, and holds the breath. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "I think most will agree that struggle often leads to great rewards in life." Grandmaster Kevadrin claps his hands together loudly. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Now then, now then." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "As we are all adequately prepared, we may begin the kata demonstration proper." Yavenah finally exhales and returns to a normal stance. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Jakata is the most basic of forms, and is always the first of the katas learned by our novitiates. Is there a monk professional present who would like to assist me?" Reyson nods his head at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Smashy says with a thick and Trollish accent, "Smashy!" Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "I will need three volunteers in total." Drefan points accusingly at Jaeide. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "All of whom should be monks themselves, of course." Smashy's mouth turns up as his face breaks into a smile. Insid'atori Reyson Aristata starts to wield a twisted oaken staff in his hands. Reyson rapidly spins his weapon in a circular pattern, almost too fast for the eye to see, before dropping into a ready stance. Jaeide blinks and looks at Drefan aghast, "What? Me? No.." she whispers harshly at him. Smashy says to Jaeide with a thick and Trollish accent, "Ahh, dare dat makes tree of us!" Reyson says to Jaeide in a smooth, drawling voice, "Monks know a Monk, I'm afraid." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "There have been a few that question why we spend our lives up here, cut off from the majority of the world. I simply tell them that each of us has his own path, and happiness can be found on all of them." Jaeide says in a hushed voice, "Alright." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "You will need the ability to practice the Tekura forms, I am afraid." Smashy smiles and whispers to Jaeide with a thick and Trollish accent, "Or her path." Jaeide steps forward with the others, her glance shifting once more to stare at Drefan. Reyson nods his head at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Reyson says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a smooth, drawling voice, "I assumed as much, Grandmaster." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The art of Shikudo is one with many merits, yet this is, in principle, a Tekura demonstration, after all." Smashy smiles and says with a thick and Trollish accent, "Jaeide'girly has volunteered ta go first and help out!" Reyson gives a pleasant smile and drives one end of a twisted oaken staff into the ground, nodding. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Jaeide, "If, then, you would wish to demonstrate the Jakata form to those here? A formal demonstration, for the crowd." Uristt flashes Jaeide a quick thumbs up. Jaeide says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a hushed voice, "Of course, Grandmaster." Jaeide presses her palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Jakata. Jaeide swivels around and steps to the side. Jaeide takes a step backwards and tenses her legs. Jaeide throws a firm snap-kick forward and steps back into position. Jaeide adopts a defensive stance, arms raised ready to block incoming blows. Jaeide twists her waist and pulls her left arm up and around in a warding block. Jaeide continues the motion by throwing a firm punch with her right hand. Jaeide dodges nimbly backwards as if to evade an imaginary foe. Jaeide demonstrates her strength by performing a string of front kicks in swift succession. Jaeide presses her palms together and bows, the Form of Jakata complete. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "As you can see, Jakata involves a blend of rudimentary defensive and offensive manoeuvres. Simple motions, but these are at the foundation of our art. There is little use in a complex strike if you lack the fundamentals to understand the how and why of its effectiveness." Jaeide offers a quick small smile to the crowd as she wanders back into it. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Try it for yourselves, then, if you can recall the motions with accuracy." Exivus takes a step back and tries to do a kick before nearly falling. Shirszae chews on her lip as she considers, glancing around the hall with some interest. Yavenah holds her journal and notes something down. Exivus raises both his arms and covers his face in an exaggerated defensive posture. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Exivus, "Do not forget the initial movement. Place your weight behind the kick, rather than striking too high and risking collapse." Jaeide's eyes sparkle with amusement. Comprehension flashes across Exivus's face. Yen presses her palms together and bows low, ready to attempt to perform the Form of Jakata. Yen turns around, taking a step to the side. Yen steps backwards, holding her legs tense. Reyson walks to a wall and leans a twisted oaken staff against it. With the practiced air of one returning to a long-lost exercise, he goes through the motions, beginning with the opening stance and progressing to the snap kick, the stance again, and adopting a defensive posture. A quick breath out, and he's blocking imaginary blows, twisting at the waist for the warding block, and transitioning into the right-handed punch; from there, the spring back, and then the front-kicks follow, until he pauses and bows, palms together, if somewhat out of breath. Yen snaps her foot forward in a kick, stepping back. Exivus pauses a moment to recompose himself. This time, he steps back with a more confident motion, placing his weight into the foot and driving forward and launching a kick. Uristt presses his hands together and takes a short bow, ready to attempt the form. He swivels with dexterity, though his feet stomp heavily on the ground with every motion. The stances are not well-balanced, and though the wide punches and low kicks lack finesse and proper form, there is certainly a solid weight behind them. He bows once more, concluding the botched kata. Yen lowers herself in a defensive stance, arms up. Exivus says to Grandmaster Kevadrin, "Ah, much better." Yen twists her waist, pulling her left arm up in a block. Smashy presshes his palms together and bows low before beginning the form of Jakata as he has done many times before. As he moves from stance to kick, he makes sure his feet are always positioned in a way to give him control and balance. Yen throws a punch with her right hand. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "You have the expected air of one long out of practice, but it is never a flaw to re-study the fundamentals in this manner. Recall breathing exercises." Yen dodges backwards as if assaulted by an imaginary foe. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods at Smashy. Yen follows up by performing a series of front kicks. Yen presses her palms together and bows. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Uristt, "You are not attempting to cause an earthquake with each step. Force will come with proper application of strength." Reyson nods to Grandmaster Kevadrin and closes his eyes, bringing his palms up over his head anew to repeat the five breaths in quick succession, in through the nose and out through the mouth. Uristt says sheepishly to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a loud, baritone voice, "Noted. Thank you for the feedback, Grandmaster." After watching some of the others with a pensive air, Shirszae shrugs off her baldric and scabbard. Frowning, she does her best to mimic the Form of Jakata, pressing her palms together and bowing low before stepping back and tensing her legs, then launching into an enthusiastic forward kick that nearly takes her out of position. Offering an embarrassed cough, she adopts a defensive stance, arms raised, then twists her waist and around with a mildly uncertain expression, before throwing a sudden punch with her right hand. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Shirszae, "You have the basic movements, but lack the confidence to employ them." Smashy congratulates Shirszae with some wild clapping. Smashy smiles and whispers to Shirszae with a thick and Trollish accent, "Donut worry, confidence comes wid practice!" Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Shirszae, "It may help to visualise your strikes emanating outward as you make them. Accompany this with a sharp exhalation to contribute additional force of motion, while maintaining the discipline to keep each one in its proper form." Veldrin takes a deep breath then shakily follows the form, falling down on his rear end as he tries the snap kick and then stands up with a nervous cough. Shirszae pause briefly to listen to Grandmaster Kevadrin's words, acknowledging them with a brief nod. "...Thank you, Grandmaster. I shall strive to do so." Her gaze then flickers briefly to Smashy, the corner of her lips quirking upwards. Jaeide remains still, her gaze roaming over the crowd and watching with interest their attempts at performing the kata that comes as naturally as breathing to the small mhun. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Veldrin, "Do not forget balance. It is crucial to the foundation of all combat forms." Veldrin nods his head emphatically. Veldrin says, "Thank you." Veldrin takes the basic stance and just focuses on maintaining his balance. Jaeide's eyes sparkle with amusement at Drefan. Jaeide whispers to Drefan in a hushed voice, "They're doing really well though. It takes a while before you can master those." Drefan nods his head in agreement. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "I see some here with the talent of long practice. Others with talent that has fallen out of practice, perhaps, but will no doubt return with proper renewal of their awareness. Still, as this is only a demonstration, we shall not tarry any longer, but move on to the second form, Tykorima." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "As before, if I might have a volunteer to demonstrate?" Drefan urges Smashy onwards. Jaeide nudges Smashy forward. Smashy stands up. Smashy says with a thick and Trollish accent, "Smashy is here!" Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Very well. When you are ready." Smashy says with a thick and Trollish accent, "Smashy volunteers!" Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself, faces Smashy, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Smashy closes his eyes and takes a deep breath, hands in front of him while he centers himself. Smashy eases himself out of the Dragon stance. Smashy presses his palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Tykorima. Smashy draws himself back into a well-formed Cat stance. Smashy begins to circle with wary precision, muscles tensed and ready to spring into action at any moment. Smashy hurls himself backwards through the air, and lands, surprisingly, on his feet. Smashy launches into a devastating combination of jab and hook punches, fists flying. Smashy complements the punches with a pair of snap-kicks. Smashy fakes a step backwards and lets fly with an elegant, arcing moon-kick. Smashy forms a blade with his hand and slices it firmly through the air ahead of him. Smashy completes his motions and stands at rest. Smashy presses his palms together and bows, the Form of Tykorima complete. Drefan gives Smashy a wild cheer! Exivus nods his head slowly at Smashy, looking very wise. Maelyn congratulates Smashy with some wild clapping. Smashy opens his eyes and smiles before taking a seat. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods. Smashy blushes furiously. Uristt flashes Smashy a quick thumbs up. Smashy sits down. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "This is a form far more aggressive than Jakata. While blending fist and foot as one, note that central to its motions is the stance of the Cat." Smashy clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The majority of weight is maintained on the balls of the feet, allowing quick response and range of motion to respond to even the most formidable offense." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Key, then, is the ability to move from that stance, strike, and then subsequently maintain it. After all, throwing oneself through the air and then landing properly does require the agility, naturally, of a cat." Grandmaster Kevadrin's eyes sparkle with amusement. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Try it for yourselves." Exivus tilts his head to one side while looking at nothing in particular, rubs his chin, and thoughtfully mumbles "Hrm." Uristt brings his hands together with a small bow, ready to attempt the form. He glances down as he begins circling, clearly making an effort to be lighter on his still-heavy footsteps. His hops and jumps are short and low, but there is much energy and enthusiasm behind every punch. The kicks are significantly less fluid, and fail to reach their proper height. He concludes the form with another bow. Grandmaster Kevadrin nods at Uristt. Reyson breathes in slowly and out again, frowning. He settles into a stance that resembles the cat perfectly, in posture, but the grace and the languid movement is missing, replaced instead by a technical surety and heavy, defensive setting that does not lend itself to easy transition. Sensing this, perhaps, he relaxes, closes his eyes, and tries again after a few moments, achieving a more languorous cat, but not by much. Reyson says irritably in a smooth, drawling voice, "Mmn." Shirszae stretches her large black wings forward, looking upon them with someathing approaching skepticism before turning towrds Grandmaster Kevadrin. "...Any Atavian who can manage such a graceful backward leap has my deepest admiration, truly." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Uristt, "This form does require height to be achieved with certain kicks. Practice how to turn your leg muscles into a makeshift spring to launch yourself into motion." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Shirszae, "Simply an awareness of your surroundings. If you know what is behind you, you do not need to look through wings." Exivus bows and steps into an approximation of the Cat stance. He tries to move in a circle on tiptoes, trying to step as lightly as he could. Exivus then jumps in the air and lands, though he wobbles slightly upon impact. He then launches into a barrage of random punches and kicks before standing completely still again, completing his demonstration. Shirszae nods thoughtfully as she watches the practice of those around her. Veldrin presses his palms together and bows low before assuming something that looks like the Cat stance. He starts circling around and then hurls himself backwards through the air, landing squarely on his back. Standing up with a nervous cough he then starts doing a variety of punches and kicks until he trips and stands up again. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "You are making progress." Yen's movements suddenly become distinctly catlike as she paces in a wide circle, muscles tensed. Uristt nods at Grandmaster Kevadrin, tentatively bouncing a few times on the balls of his feet, and following those with some leg stretches. Yen flips herself backward, landing hard on her left foot and skidding back slightly, but remains standing. Yen delivers a rapid succession of jab and hook punches, punctuating with snap kicks. Reyson breathes out slowly, holding the stance for a longer moment than before. Rather than launching into the kata, he progresses through a more basic series of movements, timing each with an exhale on extended muscles and an inhale when drawing limbs back to the body in a slow and deliberate process to get used to the movements again. Yen steps back and kicks out in a long, slow arc. Jakiro tries to get into a pretty good Cat stance. Taking care not to trip he starts to circle the area around him as he tries to maintain his posture. He jumps back, sliding a bit further than intended, and launches himself forward as he jabs and kicks wildly. He finishes with a barely passable arcing kick followed by a slicing chop of his right hand. He faces towards the front as he straightends up and bows hesitantly towards Grandmaster Kevadrin. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Veldrin, "Maintain the form, first and foremost." Yen raises her hand and slices it through the air, as if striking with a sword. Veldrin nods his head emphatically. Yen presses her palms together and bows. Reyson says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a smooth, drawling voice, "It's been a long time since I pressed forward like this. My practice of Shikudo is more reactive, and absorbing." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "Both Shikudo and Tekura have distinct benefits. To master each at once is certainly beyond all but the masters, yet there is still much that a practitioner can learn from the parallel path despite that." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "One such master meditates within the glade, if he could ever be convinced to speak on the subject." Grandmaster Kevadrin's eyes sparkle with amusement. Smashy nods his head emphatically. Smashy says with a thick and Trollish accent, "Wise words." Reyson nods again, bowing his head in acknowledgement of the truth in Grandmaster Kevadrin's words. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Jakiro, "Your motions are there at the core, intellectually. Practice is necessary, however, so you are not mistaking a certain effusiveness for proper strength in application." Jakiro says to Grandmaster Kevadrin with an Eleusian accent, "Thank you for the advice, Grandmaster." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Now, if there are no objections, we shall move on to the final form to be demonstrated here today." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Krull." The corners of Smashy's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "It is the capstone of all forms, and the final kata to be studied and learned on the path of Tekura. Might I have a final volunteer to demonstrate?" Smashy whispers with a thick and Trollish accent, "Dis mesah favorite!" Kaios says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a silvery voice, "I would be glad to assist, Grandmaster." Smashy gives Kaios a wild cheer! Grandmaster Kevadrin nods. Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself, faces Kaios, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Kaios clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Jaeide lets out a slow exhale and presses her palms together with a low bow, as she readys her body and mind to perform the kata, but at the Grandmasters words, she halts mid pose, her glance shifting around the crowd as she moves back to watch. Kaios eases himself out of the Dragon stance. Kaios presses his palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Krull. Kaios assumes a perfect Dragon stance, seemingly focused and calm. Kaios performs a breathtaking somersault into the air and lands confidently several feet away. Kaios flips backwards, lashing out with both legs simultaneously and handspringing back onto his feet. Kaios launches into a bewildering series of lightning fast hand motions, showing off his impressive dexterity. Kaios twists into the air once more, with a gravity defying whirlwind kick. Kaios drops straight down to the floor and into the splits. Kaios places a single hand on the ground and with incredible effort, swings his body up into a one-handed handstand. With a cry of effort, Kaios launches himself off the ground and springs back onto his feet. Kaios presses his palms together and bows, the Form of Krull complete. Kaios nods. Jaeide smiles softly. Uristt blinks. Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself, faces Kaios, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Kaios clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Dyffenia looks surprised and says, "That is a very athletic one." Jakiro whistles appreciatively. Exivus says skeptically, "I don't know if I can even do the first move on that one.." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The form of Krull is far more aggressive than Tykorima, and similarly requires commensurately greater agility and athleticism. Many initiates here think to try without adequate mobility, and manage to rip most of the muscle in their legs the first time they attempt the split, for example." Veldrin says, "I'll just stick to the Dragon stance." Veldrin coughs softly. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "It adopts the stance of the Dragon, requiring mastery of Tekura and a flawless mental equilibrium. Yet what it will gain, too, is at the highest levels an instinctual, perfect defence." Kaios adopts a strange position and a look of pure menace flashes in his eyes. Reyson purses his lips, deep in thought. Jaeide sinks back into the menacing stance of the Scorpion. Smashy takes a deep breath and closes his eyes as he stands, ready to do what he's done a thousand or more times before. Reyson drops into a lower stance, his weapon snapping up into an aggressive guard. Jaeide glances over at Smashy. Smashy clasps his hands before himself, faces Jaeide, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Jaeide nods her head emphatically. Smashy clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Smashy stands up. Smashy presses his palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Krull. Exivus says to Grandmaster Kevadrin, "Not that I do not want to Grandmaster, but I feel that this one is simply far too complex for me to even attempt." Jaeide eases herself out of the Scorpion stance. Jaeide presses her palms together and bows low, ready to perform the Form of Krull. Smashy assumes a perfect Dragon stance, seemingly focused and calm. Reyson sets a twisted oaken staff against the wall once more after transitioning into a more serene-looking form, himself. Jaeide assumes a perfect Dragon stance, seemingly focused and calm. Smashy performs a breathtaking somersault into the air and lands confidently several feet away. Jaeide performs a breathtaking somersault into the air and lands confidently several feet away. Smashy flips backwards, lashing out with both legs simultaneously and handspringing back onto his feet. Jaeide flips backwards, lashing out with both legs simultaneously and handspringing back onto her feet. Smashy launches into a bewildering series of lightning fast hand motions, showing off his impressive dexterity. Dyffenia nods her head at Exivus, showing her acceptance. Jaeide launches into a bewildering series of lightning fast hand motions, showing off her impressive dexterity. Smashy twists into the air once more, with a gravity defying whirlwind kick. Jaeide twists into the air once more, with a gravity defying whirlwind kick. Smashy drops straight down to the floor and into the splits. Jaeide drops straight down to the floor and into the splits. Jakiro says to Exivus with an Eleusian accent, "It does look very hard, doesn't it?" Aliede arrives, following Kshavatra from the ether. Smashy places a single hand on the ground and with incredible effort, swings his body up into a one-handed handstand. Reyson says in a smooth, drawling voice, "Let's see if the relentlessness of Willows in Rain Storm can make do in place of Dragon's instinct in defence." Jakiro ponders the situation. Jaeide places a single hand on the ground and with incredible effort, swings her body up into a one-handed handstand. With a cry of effort, Smashy launches himself off the ground and springs back onto his feet. Exivus nods his head slowly at you, looking very wise. With a cry of effort, Jaeide launches herself off the ground and springs back onto her feet. Smashy presses his palms together and bows, the Form of Krull complete. Jaeide presses her palms together and bows, the Form of Krull complete. Shirszae says with a faded Kamleikanese accent, "I... am not entirely confident in my ability to do those splits, to be sure." Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself, faces Smashy, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself, faces Jaeide, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Uristt observes the pair of monks demonstrating the kata again, a look of appreciation on his face. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Well done to you both." Jakiro says with an Eleusian accent, "I mean, we don't get that many opportunities to do this.. Might as well give it a shot?" Smashy clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. After a few attempts, Jakiro manages to position himself into what looks like a shaky Dragon stance. He launches forward into a barely successful sommersault which drops him a couple of feet away. As he tries to do the next step, a backwards flip, his hands fail to support the rest of his body and he ends up landing on his back with an audible 'THUD'. Dyffenia nods her head at Shirszae, showing her acceptance. 'Oof,' Jakiro exclaims. Jaeide clasps her hands before herself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. "Erk!" Exivus says with a grimace. Jaeide clasps her hands before herself, faces Smashy, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Grandmaster Kevadrin's eyes sparkle with amusement at Jakiro. Jakiro stands up, rubbing his rear and wincing as he does. Yen attempts to look calm and focused. Yen dives forward into a somersault, landing several feet away. Kaios ceases to favour his torso. Shirszae gives Jakiro a wry smile. Jakiro says with an Eleusian accent, "Yeah, I feel like that's out of my reach for now." Exivus laughingly says to Jakiro, "Your attempt is enough for me I think." Yen flips backward, landing on the floor in a roll and standing up again. The corners of Jakiro's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously. Yen rapidly slices through the air with her hands, attempting to recall the motions. Yen jumps up and kicks an arc through the air, landing on her feet. Kaios ceases to favour his right leg. Placing both hands on the ground, Yen lifts herself up into a handstand, then springs back onto her feet. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to you, "There is no harm in the attempt, only in failure to apply lessons learned in it." Jakiro nods his head in agreement. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Well. Minor harm, and a few aches that will diminish in time, anyway." Jaeide's eyes sparkle with amusement. Exivus grins mischievously at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Uristt finds an empty corner of the room and attempts the somersault step of the kata repeatedly, frowning in concentration as he tries to get the motion right. After a while of this, he faces Grandmaster Kevadrin and bows, shaking his head with a small smile. The corners of Smashy's mouth turn up as he grins mischievously. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Uristt, "If you recall the agility required of Tykorima, it will assist in practicing some movements of Krull." Uristt nods his head emphatically. Uristt says in a loud, baritone voice, "These exercises seem quite valuable for any walks of life. I will continue working at it." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "For those who might struggle with certain motions, such as the handstand, it is not simply about the raw physical force. Proper balance will obviate some of the strength required, as the risk of overcompensating can cause the pose to collapse all on its own." Reyson quiets his breathing and stays stock-still for a moment, head bowed, before suddenly opening into what certainly seems close to a Dragon stance. The flash of menace is there, if not the resilient expectation of incoming harm, but he proceeds anyways, launching into an arcing somersault which he lands with just the slightest hint of a wobble at the shoulders. The backwards flips that follows is more confident, the lash of his legs swift and ferocious, though the handspring is heavy, and slower than the other Monks'- but he's soon bringing his hands through the air with a quick and sure velocity that might just pass muster. The whirlwind kick that follows is nearly all muscle, strength poured into the momentum of the heel, and he's quick enough to drop into splits. And when he brings himself up into that one-handed handstand, there's only the smallest tremble in his forearm and shoulder with the effort of keeping his balance. Still, he does so without his body wiggling too much, and the launch upwards is almost perfect, even if his landing is somewhat heavy and his breathing out of synch by the time he's done and brings his palms together to bow. Reyson says raggedly in a smooth, drawling voice, "Damn." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Some initiates practice the handstand against a wall in early attempts, to ensure they have something solid to brace against." Smashy smiles and says with a thick and Trollish accent, "It is important to know ones limitations so dat one may den learn ta smash dem." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "You are close. But again, where you are faltering is in the application of breathing. Inhalation and exhalation throughout the form. It is contributing, I suspect, to slower motions even though you have the necessary muscle to apply enough force." Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Reyson, "Each individual error is small, but as the form progresses they begin to accumulate." Reyson says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a smooth, drawling voice, "The long control of Tekura is different from the quick bursts of Shikudo. Staying in one style has been a disservice." Grandmaster Kevadrin nods at Reyson. Reyson frowns and says in a smooth, drawling voice, "Holding movements and stances is... difficult." Her expression relaxed, Shirszae takes a step back from the rest, drawing a deep breath as she attempts to mimic the Dragon Stance. Tucking in her black wings, the Atavian then launches into a sudden somersault, landing with barely a stumble a short distance away. Flipping backwards immediately afterwards, she aggressively lashes out with both feet before pushing back onto her feet. The moment she is back upright the Atavian launches into a series of fast hand motions, though it becomes obvious she is more intent on being fast than on following the exact pattern of the Form, perhaps betraying her lack of practice in unarmed combat. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Still, if you can maintain a stance for long enough, it will become second nature to rest within it. Then you may garner the benefits of instantaneous transition to the appropriate stance that you will see in Shikudo's quick changes, balanced by the mastery of each stance in long form for Tekura." Grandmaster Kevadrin shakes his head at Shirszae. Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Shirszae, "Speed will come with knowledge of the motions. Learn the exact patterns and follow those." Reyson nods at Grandmaster Kevadrin, bowing once more with his hands clasped and withdrawing to pick up a twisted oaken staff with a pensive mien in his walk. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Improvisation will only engender bad habits that your teacher will then have to break." Veldrin says, "So you should first focus on learning to maintain ones balance at all times?" Grandmaster Kevadrin says to Veldrin, "Proper balance and the foundation of a stance, coupled with regulated breathing, to where it is second nature, is as firm a base as could be asked for." Veldrin nods his head emphatically. With a look of chagrin, Shirszae ceases trying to mimic the fast hand motions exhibited by the practicing monks, nodding instead to Grandmaster Kevadrin. "...A fair point, Grandmaster. My thanks." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "You cannot perform a form if you are perpetually losing your balance in each motion, after all. You will continually need to pause to recover and adjust." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "And that will ruin the flow of each movement into its subsequent action." Veldrin nods. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Now, what has been demonstrated today are but three of the forms. There are many more. True masters dedicate their lives to the pursuit of the ultimate discipline in tranquillity - achieving mastery over mind, body, and spirit all in one." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "Advanced kata will often supersede some foundational forms in practical combat, but it is also worth remembering that forgetting the lessons of youth is an unwise undertaking." Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "The need for versatility cannot be overstated." Grandmaster Kevadrin nods at Reyson. Exivus nods his head affirmatively at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Smashy nods his head at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Grandmaster Kevadrin says, "With that, I thank you all for attending this lesson and demonstration, and I hope that you have learned something to carry you forward in the future. The monastery will keep a list of all attendees, and provide participants with tokens of their contribution." Grandmaster Kevadrin clasps his hands before himself and performs a simple, respectful bow. Smashy clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Reyson clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Yen's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile. Kaios clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Liena's mouth turns up as her face breaks into a smile. Veldrin lowers his head respectfully before Grandmaster Kevadrin. Exivus bows respectfully to Grandmaster Kevadrin. Berlewen bows respectfully to Grandmaster Kevadrin. Reyson says in a smooth, drawling voice, "An illuminating lesson, teacher." Uristt bows respectfully to Grandmaster Kevadrin. Liena says, "Thank you Grandmaster!" Kaios says in a silvery voice, "Thank you kindly, Grandmaster." Shirszae says to Grandmaster Kevadrin with a faded Kamleikanese accent, "...Thank you for your invitation, Grandmaster." Maelyn beams broadly at Grandmaster Kevadrin. Exivus says to Grandmaster Kevadrin, "Thank you for the lessons Grandmaster." Durzaan clasps his hands before himself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. Uristt says to Grandmaster Kevadrin in a loud, baritone voice, "Thank you for your time. This was a very helpful experience." Akri gives the world a smart salute. Jaeide clasps her hands before herself, faces Grandmaster Kevadrin, and performs a simple, respectful bow. With a small nod of reverence, Reyson makes a sign with his left hand. Jakiro bows respectfully before Grandmaster Kevadrin. Dyffenia beams broadly. Dyffenia thanks Grandmaster Kevadrin profusely. Yen inclines her head politely. Smashy says to Grandmaster Kevadrin with a thick and Trollish accent, "Many tanks Grandmaster. It has been years since Smashy been here, dis was a needed remindah of mesah roots." Jakiro says with an Eleusian accent, "Thank you, those were wonderful demonstrations." Grandmaster Kevadrin nods at Smashy. Exivus says, "Pleasure meeting you all." Exivus inclines his head politely. Jakiro smiles and says with an Eleusian accent, "Glad we were able to try it for ourselves."