Post by Erebus Kenobi on Oct 9, 2016 21:34:44 GMT -6
Lightsaber Forms
Single Saber Proficiency
● Youngling: This is the first level of Proficiency. So named because this is usually the
level that Younglings start at. It’s a fairly minimal understanding of lightsaber combat
and requires much room for expansion before a Forcesensitive can be expected to safely
wield a lightsaber in combat.
○ Prerequisites: None
● Padawan: This is the second level of proficiency. So called because it is normally the
level achieved by a Jedi Padawan, Sith Apprentice, or Forcesensitive pupil of any order.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level proficiency with one form other than ShiiCho is
preferred. Level I of all attributes is also required.
● Knight: This is the third stage of proficiency. Named because this is the typical level of
proficiency displayed in Jedi Knights, Sith Lords, or equivalent Forcesensitives.
○ Prerequisites: Achieved after acquiring Padawan level proficiency in two forms
other than ShiiCho and Level Two in all attributes
● Master: This is the fourth level of proficiency named for being the proficiency of Jedi
Masters and other equivalent beings.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level proficiency in ShiiCho and three other forms.
Shii-Cho
Overview: This is the form required to know before any attempt at mastering the others
can be made. ShiiCho was designed to allow the Jedi a means of transitioning their ancient
skills with a metal katana into the thennewly made lightsabers without much adjustment needed.
This form is extremely adept at handling groups of people surrounding the wielder and key
disarmament tactics are included in the form. Its weakness is that it is a rather pathetic dueling
form and leaves the wielder vulnerable to recklessness.
can be made. ShiiCho was designed to allow the Jedi a means of transitioning their ancient
skills with a metal katana into the thennewly made lightsabers without much adjustment needed.
This form is extremely adept at handling groups of people surrounding the wielder and key
disarmament tactics are included in the form. Its weakness is that it is a rather pathetic dueling
form and leaves the wielder vulnerable to recklessness.
● Youngling: Basic understanding of the forms. Knows the stances of the form but not
how to apply them to combat. Training in how to use it in combat situations is nowhere
near beginning.
○ Prerequisites: None
● Padawan: Proficient to be chosen by a mentor for further training in skills that the
character may later specialize in. The user will likely have yet to see combat and it should
be no surprise when there are still those with greater experience than character. Training
in blaster deflection has begun here but must be refined with Form III Soresu. Combat
situations may also be likely but a mentor must be nearby to rescue if a task is too
difficult. Disarming techniques are known here but might not be used.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling Single Saber Proficiency and Youngling ShiiCho
● Knight: Proficient understanding to use it in combat and apply to the situations where it
is most useful. This can include crowd control and the disarmament techniques are likely
to be known and/or practiced.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan Single Saber Proficiency and Padawan ShiiCho
● Master: Displays complete competence in the form and can use it in every situation
applicable with roughly the same result.
○ Prerequisites: Knight Single Saber Proficiency and Knight ShiiCho
Makashi
Overview: The second form of lightsaber combat, Makashi is a style that emphasizes
precision and fluidity in one’s footwork whilst also conserving dueling space. This style
succeeds where ShiiCho does not in being a superb dueling but with this comes several
weaknesses of its own. A Master of Makashi is also more likely to overcome an equal in Form
III Soresu or Form VI Niman. For example, where ShiiCho is excellent with fighting mobs,
Makashi is usually only good for fighting formal duels with no more than three opponents at a
time. It also lacks sufficient defenses against bursts of agility characteristic of Form IV Ataru or
great feats of power found in Form V Shien or Djem So. Among the weapons which specialize in
Makashi are the lightfoils (which anyone can use even if Forcesensitivity improves skill) and
saber canes (a preference for Supremacy nobles who prefer to have their blades convenient yet
camouflaged even if they know other forms of combat).
Overview: The second form of lightsaber combat, Makashi is a style that emphasizes
precision and fluidity in one’s footwork whilst also conserving dueling space. This style
succeeds where ShiiCho does not in being a superb dueling but with this comes several
weaknesses of its own. A Master of Makashi is also more likely to overcome an equal in Form
III Soresu or Form VI Niman. For example, where ShiiCho is excellent with fighting mobs,
Makashi is usually only good for fighting formal duels with no more than three opponents at a
time. It also lacks sufficient defenses against bursts of agility characteristic of Form IV Ataru or
great feats of power found in Form V Shien or Djem So. Among the weapons which specialize in
Makashi are the lightfoils (which anyone can use even if Forcesensitivity improves skill) and
saber canes (a preference for Supremacy nobles who prefer to have their blades convenient yet
camouflaged even if they know other forms of combat).
● Youngling: Character displays rudimentary understanding of the form and can recognize
it when seen in combat. Dueling at this stage is unwise.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency.
● Padawan: Character displays competence in using the form and recognition of all proper
footwork. Dueling at this stage is still no recommended but is feasible if forced.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level of Makashi.
● Knight: Character displays advanced understanding of the form and can use it to
perfection in traditional duels of oneonone opponents. Can fight two opponents with
strain but anything above this is unwise and impossible.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Makashi and Single Saber Proficiency
● Master: Character displays nearperfect understanding of the form and is nearly
invincible in traditional duels. They can also fight three opponents with strain but this is
not recommended.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Makashi and Single Saber Proficiency
Soresu
Overview: Soresu is the third form of lightsaber combat and the ultimate expression of
Jedi pacifism. Such is the extent of its defensive emphasis that it trades any amount of offensive
capacity for defense. It shares the precision of Makashi and can withstand the strength and power
of Form V as well as the the agility of Form IV and the aggression of Form VII. However, due to
the similarities between them, Makashi is the best form for piercing these defenses. Nonetheless,
it is even superior to Makashi in conserving space and is an excellent tool to refine the art of
blaster deflection.
Overview: Soresu is the third form of lightsaber combat and the ultimate expression of
Jedi pacifism. Such is the extent of its defensive emphasis that it trades any amount of offensive
capacity for defense. It shares the precision of Makashi and can withstand the strength and power
of Form V as well as the the agility of Form IV and the aggression of Form VII. However, due to
the similarities between them, Makashi is the best form for piercing these defenses. Nonetheless,
it is even superior to Makashi in conserving space and is an excellent tool to refine the art of
blaster deflection.
● Youngling: Character displays rudimentary understanding of the form and can recognize
it when seen in combat. Dueling at this stage is unwise.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency
● Padawan: Character displays competence in using the form and recognition of all proper
footwork. Dueling at this stage is still no recommended but is feasible if forced.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level of Soresu.
● Knight: Character displays proficient understanding of the form to utilize it in combat.
Here, the character is superb with blast deflection and has some capacities for applying it
to the duel
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Soresu and Single Saber Proficiency
● Master: Character displays advanced understanding of the form to utilize in combat.
Here, the character is nearinvincible with blast deflection and has expert capacities to
apply the principles of the form to lightsaber combat. To attain Councilor level in this
form is to be so close to invincible that there are only a handful of individuals can defeat
the character. Force powers and/or equal mastery of Makashi is required to counter a
Soresu user at this level.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Soresu and Single Saber Proficiency
Ataru
Overview: In this form, where one would exercise nothing but defense in Soresu, one
exercises complete offense via spedious acrobatics and wild slashes of agility. Usually only good
in bursts and requires a larger circle of space in order to be performed where Soresu and Makashi
are both extremely conservative. Better suited for dwarf species who would be difficult to corner
and would have a difficult time running out of sufficient space. It is also normally only good
against one opponent, as ShiiCho was though the acrobatics do help with evading a crowd.
Overview: In this form, where one would exercise nothing but defense in Soresu, one
exercises complete offense via spedious acrobatics and wild slashes of agility. Usually only good
in bursts and requires a larger circle of space in order to be performed where Soresu and Makashi
are both extremely conservative. Better suited for dwarf species who would be difficult to corner
and would have a difficult time running out of sufficient space. It is also normally only good
against one opponent, as ShiiCho was though the acrobatics do help with evading a crowd.
● Youngling: At this stage, one understands the rudimentaries of Ataru. Capable of
performing some the cartwheels and flips but has no knowledge of how to apply them to
combat. Also has knowledge of the slashing stances but also no knowledge of how to
apply it to combat.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency.
● Padawan: Understands the basics, how to apply them to combat and can do so if pressed.
Not recommended at this stage due to training but not improbable.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level Ataru
● Knight: Not only understands the basics and how to apply them to combat but also
knows and accepts the weaknesses of Ataru, not to mention has some understanding of
how to avoid falling into the trap of having too little space
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level Ataru and Knight Single Saber Proficiency
● Master: In addition to knowing how best not to fall into the traps that can get an Ataru
user killed, the practitioner also can prolong their performance and accelerate themselves
at a nearimperceptible speed and dexterity that ensures a smaller chance of defeat.
People who are this level can still become reckless and it is wise to not remain in the
spirit of the duel for very long, if avoidable. To achieve Councilor level or above on this
form is to be able to move with similar speed and dexterity to the famous Master Yoda.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level Ataru and Master Single Saber Proficiency
Form V, Branch I: Shien
Overview: The first branch of Form V to evolve, Shien was a form invented by duelists
who felt that Soresu took too long to end a duel and left much risk to injury. So rather than
remain on the defensive, Shien developed a philosophy of strong defense followed by quick,
powerful counterattacks. In this case, although capable of being a dueling form, it actually
emphasizes on deflecting blaster bolts and reflecting them right back at the source.
Overview: The first branch of Form V to evolve, Shien was a form invented by duelists
who felt that Soresu took too long to end a duel and left much risk to injury. So rather than
remain on the defensive, Shien developed a philosophy of strong defense followed by quick,
powerful counterattacks. In this case, although capable of being a dueling form, it actually
emphasizes on deflecting blaster bolts and reflecting them right back at the source.
● Youngling: At this stage, one understands the rudimentaries of Shien. Capable of
understanding the basics but not yet capable of understanding how to apply them in
combat. Usually, duels are not advised and more training is needed before a Padawan can
hope to survive, a background in Soresu is also recommended.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level Soresu
● Padawan: At this stage, a character displays a great enough understanding of Shien to
apply it to the situations best suited for it (i.e. groups of blasterwielding beings) and can
still defend themselves very well. Power attacks here will be limited but feasible.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level Soresu
● Knight: In this stage, the character displays nearcomplete perfection in the use of Shien
for its most ideal situations and is advanced in their capacities of defense should they be
forced to rely more upon it. Power attacks here will be less limited is still not the most
ideal for dueling though it can be done.
○ Prerequisites: Master level of Soresu and Single Saber Proficiency
● Master: At this stage, the character displays such proficiency in Shien that they have not
only perfected the blast deflection techniques emphasized to the point of being able to
walk from one side of the battlefield, emerge unscathed on the other, and cause
tremendous damage to the enemy but can also use it in dueling.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Shien.
Form V, Branch II: Djem So
Overview: The second branch of Form V, Djem So was developed by Shien practitioners
who shared the philosophy of their form’s creators but noticed that it was not particularly great
for dueling without a great deal of training. Rather than remain with it, they took the principles
of defense followed by strong counterattack and applied it not to blaster but to the lightsaber
duel. The Falling Avalanche, a massively wide overhead strike, is one of the stances found here.
However, given their similarities, one who has learned Shien needs only refine their expertise of
Soresu and apply the Form V principles within Shien entirely to the art of the duel. This is the
form that Anakin Skywalker used, most chiefly, to defeat Makashi wielder Count Dooku in their
final battle. The reason this famous duel is mentioned is because both Djem So and Shien have
an inherent weakness of not only requiring sheer physical strength and power to be practiced but
users can be (and have been) more vulnerable to more volatile emotions as a result of the
aggressive nature inherent in either branch: to control one’s emotions here is to set the stepping
stones for safe usage of Form VII, should one choose to explore that. Something else worth noting is that once one masters Shien or acquires expertise, Djem So usually comes naturally. Therefore, due to the similarities between the two, they are not considered two separate forms so much as two manifestations of the same principles.
Overview: The second branch of Form V, Djem So was developed by Shien practitioners
who shared the philosophy of their form’s creators but noticed that it was not particularly great
for dueling without a great deal of training. Rather than remain with it, they took the principles
of defense followed by strong counterattack and applied it not to blaster but to the lightsaber
duel. The Falling Avalanche, a massively wide overhead strike, is one of the stances found here.
However, given their similarities, one who has learned Shien needs only refine their expertise of
Soresu and apply the Form V principles within Shien entirely to the art of the duel. This is the
form that Anakin Skywalker used, most chiefly, to defeat Makashi wielder Count Dooku in their
final battle. The reason this famous duel is mentioned is because both Djem So and Shien have
an inherent weakness of not only requiring sheer physical strength and power to be practiced but
users can be (and have been) more vulnerable to more volatile emotions as a result of the
aggressive nature inherent in either branch: to control one’s emotions here is to set the stepping
stones for safe usage of Form VII, should one choose to explore that. Something else worth noting is that once one masters Shien or acquires expertise, Djem So usually comes naturally. Therefore, due to the similarities between the two, they are not considered two separate forms so much as two manifestations of the same principles.
● Youngling: At this stage, one recognizes stances like the “Falling Avalanche” but will
have no idea how to safely apply it to combat nor will have the Endurance to practice the
form without some prior knowledge of Shien at least.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Shien
● Padawan: At this stage, a character is more likely to take care of themselves in a duel
with Anakin Skywalker yet again providing another good example. When he arrived to
this stage of his training, he was able to defeat Dark Jedi Asajj Ventress. However, while
one should not expect to be his equal at this same stage, this form is one of perhaps only
two that is a solid dueling form at this point. Defense is still recommended and so Soresu
refinement is still advised.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Shien
● Knight: At this stage, one displays an advanced enough understanding to power through
duelists like those who wield Makashi, Jar’Kai, and Niman to name a few. However, this
form is still no match for a master of Soresu whose defenses semiimpervious even to a
strong opponent. It is also somewhat useless against an Ataru user who can simply leap
over the Form V practitioner and slash them in the back from behind without prior
fatigue from the defensive half.
○ Prerequisites: Master level of Shien
● Master: At this stage, one has the patience to weed out an opponent’s offensive attacks,
whether they come from Ataru, Niman, Makashi, or any other and taking the first
opportunity they see to make a powerful counter. They are also less vulnerable to the
recklessness associated with either branch of Form V but can still be taunted into it by a
master Dun Möch user. Darth Vader, Anakin’s Sith identity, provides a good example of
someone who had the mastery to avoid being reckless yet chose it out of a combination of
guilt, fear, anger, and hatred which is condemned as heresy by the Supremacy.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Djem So
Form VII: Niman
Overview: In a time where the galaxy had again seen the diminishment of the Sith,
Niman was created out of a combination of factors. The first and greatest was the fact that
ShiiCho was found by some to be highly aggressive and immoderate for handling blaster users.
Next was the fact that there had been an order of Forcesensitives known as the Kashi Mer who
had a pair of triad gods that they worshipped which they called the “Niman” on which their
combat was based. Lastly, just as there were six gods called the Niman in Kashi Mer society, so
would the sixth form of lightsaber combat acquire the name Niman. The form’s strength is its
moderation but this is also its weakness. It doesn’t have much of Form V’s strength, carries little
agility from either Forms III or IV, lacks Form II’s precision, or ShiiCho’s ability to fight
groups.
It’s lack of defense was best proven at the Battle of Geonosis where most Jedi who died
had high emphasis in Niman usage. The form is, however, also a great exercise in incorporating
Force powers into lightsaber attacks with famous stances being the “Pushing Slash” and the
“Draw Closer” maneuver. Its moderation also serves as a great prelude to studying Jar’Kai, the
twobladed lightsaber form that was also the original name of Kashi Mer sword combat in the
years before the First Great Schism of the Jedi Order. For the reasons cited, it is also known as
the Diplomat’s Form and is sometimes considered among the weaker dueling forms. The form is,
in fact, considered more educational than physical even in spite of physical and mental exercises
still required.
Overview: In a time where the galaxy had again seen the diminishment of the Sith,
Niman was created out of a combination of factors. The first and greatest was the fact that
ShiiCho was found by some to be highly aggressive and immoderate for handling blaster users.
Next was the fact that there had been an order of Forcesensitives known as the Kashi Mer who
had a pair of triad gods that they worshipped which they called the “Niman” on which their
combat was based. Lastly, just as there were six gods called the Niman in Kashi Mer society, so
would the sixth form of lightsaber combat acquire the name Niman. The form’s strength is its
moderation but this is also its weakness. It doesn’t have much of Form V’s strength, carries little
agility from either Forms III or IV, lacks Form II’s precision, or ShiiCho’s ability to fight
groups.
It’s lack of defense was best proven at the Battle of Geonosis where most Jedi who died
had high emphasis in Niman usage. The form is, however, also a great exercise in incorporating
Force powers into lightsaber attacks with famous stances being the “Pushing Slash” and the
“Draw Closer” maneuver. Its moderation also serves as a great prelude to studying Jar’Kai, the
twobladed lightsaber form that was also the original name of Kashi Mer sword combat in the
years before the First Great Schism of the Jedi Order. For the reasons cited, it is also known as
the Diplomat’s Form and is sometimes considered among the weaker dueling forms. The form is,
in fact, considered more educational than physical even in spite of physical and mental exercises
still required.
● Youngling: At this stage, one has an academic understanding of the Form, knows the two
famous aforementioned stances when seen, but has no practical knowledge. Therefore,
one cannot know how to duel with it or survive the situations for which it is ideal.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency,
Youngling level of Makashi, Soresu, Ataru, and both branches of Form V.
● Padawan: At this stage, one can apply the famous stances mentioned before but has not
yet perfected it. Using it for the ideal situations is still difficult and dueling is far from
recommended. Jar’Kai (which in turn can be used to learn Saberstaff) can be achieved
here but it is usually not recommended, if for no other reason than the fact that one is still
learning Niman.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level of Niman
● Knight: At this stage, there is only some difficulty in using it for the situations most ideal
and while dueling is feasible, it is still not recommended. Nonetheless, one is proficient
enough to usually know when to apply the “Pushing Slash” or “Draw Closer” stances
correctly and how to do them correctly when the time comes. Beginning Jar’Kai studies
is safe now and one may find it better suited for them than continuing Niman.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Niman and Knight Single Saber Proficiency.
● Master: At this stage, one has nearly perfected the use of Niman for its most ideal
situations and has some capacity to rely on this in dueling if this be their exclusive form
of expertise. However, it is still wiser to have a backup form with Soresu being the best
one as Lord Vader’s Jedi mentor ObiWan Kenobi proved when he mastered a
combination of Soresu, Ataru, and became expert with Niman which led to also
mastering Jar’Kai as demonstrated against both Asajj Ventress and Darth Maul.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Niman and Master Single Saber Proficiency.
Form VII, Branch I: Juyo
Overview: The most ancient variant of this form, Juyo came into being sometime after the other
six and is often known as the most savage and ragefilled of the forms. Until Luke Skywalker’s
day, which told that all emotions in moderation did credit to the user as opposed to the extreme
expressions of a select few that was taught even by his father’s Order, this was also a form fairly
restricted in terms of who among the Jedi could use it. Those who mastered Form V were
mentally more capable but even they seldom ventured into the uncharted territory of this form.
Amongst the problems associated with this form was that it was superb against lightsaber
duelists but terrible against those who emphasized on Force powers. Famous practitioners mostly
included Sith Lords like Darth Sidious, his apprentices Maul and Vader, Vader’s apprentice
Galen Marek, and even Emperor Valkorian of the Eternal Empire of Zakuul to name a few.
Some of these duelists enhanced their performance with combative powers like Force Rage (for
which Maul was especially famous in his battles with the Jedi) and a good knowledge of all six
of the other forms was required before pursuing either it or its slightly more serene counterpart,
Vaapad.
Overview: The most ancient variant of this form, Juyo came into being sometime after the other
six and is often known as the most savage and ragefilled of the forms. Until Luke Skywalker’s
day, which told that all emotions in moderation did credit to the user as opposed to the extreme
expressions of a select few that was taught even by his father’s Order, this was also a form fairly
restricted in terms of who among the Jedi could use it. Those who mastered Form V were
mentally more capable but even they seldom ventured into the uncharted territory of this form.
Amongst the problems associated with this form was that it was superb against lightsaber
duelists but terrible against those who emphasized on Force powers. Famous practitioners mostly
included Sith Lords like Darth Sidious, his apprentices Maul and Vader, Vader’s apprentice
Galen Marek, and even Emperor Valkorian of the Eternal Empire of Zakuul to name a few.
Some of these duelists enhanced their performance with combative powers like Force Rage (for
which Maul was especially famous in his battles with the Jedi) and a good knowledge of all six
of the other forms was required before pursuing either it or its slightly more serene counterpart,
Vaapad.
● Youngling: At this stage, one understands most of the basics but has yet to know how to
channel their darker emotions into a powerful usage of the form. Actual combat at this
stage is nearlysuicidal for anyone wielding this form with Maul being no different.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of ShiiCho, Makashi, Soresu, Ataru, Shien, Djem
So, Niman
● Padawan: At this stage, one has a better understanding of how to use their darker
emotions in the form but there is a reason that Sith Apprentices learning this form are still
considered raw, untempered, and still fairly naive to the dangers inherent in this form.
This is, unfortunately, the stage where Sith Apprentices who have used this form have
most often attempted to destroy their Masters and been drawn to their deaths in
accordance with the treacherous ways of the Sith.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of ShiiCho, Makashi, Soresu, Ataru, Shien, and
Djem So. Youngling Juyo.
● Knight: At this point, one has a good foundation with the other forms as to be able to
fight well when given to rage. This is a level typically considered the one Lord Maul
ascertained when he faced ObiWan as a Padawan, leading to the famous incident of his
horizontal bisection at the Padawan’s hands.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Juyo.
● Master: At this stage, one displays a flawless control of their darkest demons and ability
to draw upon them for the strength to overcome their opponent. Only a handful of those
who have faced a practitioner at this level have been able to defeat them without using
Force Powers with those who do usually being the ones who know it most intimately on
principle.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Juyo.
Form VII: Vaapad
Overview: Created and cofounded by Mace Windu and Sora Bulq, this is a variant of Form VII
where users demonstrate more control over their rage as not to be blinded and consumed by rage.
Windu himself described it as a point where he could turn his own inner darkness, which would
have otherwise made him a liability to the Order and himself, into a tool of the Light. Therefore,
it is often necessary to have a decent understanding of Juyo, Padawan level at least, before
venturing into Vaapad. This branch is more likely the kind of combat that Luke Skywalker and
those who followed him would allow on the basis of its emphasis on being in control, compared
to Juyo. It still does not lend itself well to defense against Force powers but does even this better
than Juyo would, however, if one wishes to be wellrefined against Force powers then it is best
one learn the ancient art of Tutaminis.
Overview: Created and cofounded by Mace Windu and Sora Bulq, this is a variant of Form VII
where users demonstrate more control over their rage as not to be blinded and consumed by rage.
Windu himself described it as a point where he could turn his own inner darkness, which would
have otherwise made him a liability to the Order and himself, into a tool of the Light. Therefore,
it is often necessary to have a decent understanding of Juyo, Padawan level at least, before
venturing into Vaapad. This branch is more likely the kind of combat that Luke Skywalker and
those who followed him would allow on the basis of its emphasis on being in control, compared
to Juyo. It still does not lend itself well to defense against Force powers but does even this better
than Juyo would, however, if one wishes to be wellrefined against Force powers then it is best
one learn the ancient art of Tutaminis.
● Youngling: At this stage, one already has a firm understanding of the stances as they are
similar enough to Juyo to seem almost exactly the same. However, one is a long ways yet
from understanding how to control their rage with a serene core.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Juyo.
● Padawan: At this stage, one has an understanding but training is still needed. It will not
be uncommon for those who attempt combat here to let the form master them as opposed
to them mastering it. This happened with Sora Bulq, in spite of his superior training, and
is apt to happen with many who pursue it at this stage.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Juyo.
● Knight: At this stage, one has developed the serene core and can sufficiently use Vaapad
in a duel. However, there are still those who (again) practice Soresu that can best them as
was proven to best them as they would with Juyo. It does not help any that one usually
masters Juyo before reaching this stage in Vaapad.
○ Prerequisites: Master level of Juyo.
● Master: In this stage, one can move so fast and erratically that it can seem as though they
fight with seven blades instead of one as Master Windu once did. This level and above
represent the point where one knows how to maintain a serene core while channeling
their darker emotions into strength they can use.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Vaapad.
Unorthodox Form I: Jar’Kai
Overview: As mentioned before, this first manifested itself as the Kashi Mer form of combat
known as Niman (which would also become the name of the sixth lightsaber form). It is also
generally recommended to at least have a good understanding of Niman before pursuing this.
The form is superb for helping one not only wield multiple blades but also defend against them
as well. One weakness of the form, however, is that a practitioner has only one hand for one
blade and the according strength which usually means the duelist cannot stand the power attacks
of Form V or either variant of Form VII.
Nonetheless, it is an adept form for facing multiple opponents as ObiWan, Ventress,
Maul, Luke, Galen Marek, Darth Krayt, Lord Sidious, and even Anakin Skywalker proved time
and again. The interchangeability of Force powers incorporated from Niman serve to bolster this
deadliness. Variants of Jar’Kai considered valid include the use of a lightsaber and a shoto
(lightsaber dagger), two guard shotos, even a traditional blade and a saberstaff (rarely). Beings
with four arms or more could also use four traditional lightsabers or two saberstaffs, Grievous
preferring the former. Pong Krell was an example of someone who used the latter
Overview: As mentioned before, this first manifested itself as the Kashi Mer form of combat
known as Niman (which would also become the name of the sixth lightsaber form). It is also
generally recommended to at least have a good understanding of Niman before pursuing this.
The form is superb for helping one not only wield multiple blades but also defend against them
as well. One weakness of the form, however, is that a practitioner has only one hand for one
blade and the according strength which usually means the duelist cannot stand the power attacks
of Form V or either variant of Form VII.
Nonetheless, it is an adept form for facing multiple opponents as ObiWan, Ventress,
Maul, Luke, Galen Marek, Darth Krayt, Lord Sidious, and even Anakin Skywalker proved time
and again. The interchangeability of Force powers incorporated from Niman serve to bolster this
deadliness. Variants of Jar’Kai considered valid include the use of a lightsaber and a shoto
(lightsaber dagger), two guard shotos, even a traditional blade and a saberstaff (rarely). Beings
with four arms or more could also use four traditional lightsabers or two saberstaffs, Grievous
preferring the former. Pong Krell was an example of someone who used the latter
● Youngling: At this stage, one usually understands the stances but knows not the best
order in which to utilize them. This often comes with practice but before then appears
clunky and unorganized.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Niman
● Padawan: At this stage, one can use Jar’Kai in duels but not so well as to be able to
withstand superiors in traditional combat. Manifestations of this form look clumsy,
disorderly, and coarse at best.
○ Prerequisites: Youngling level of Jar’Kai
● Knight: At this stage, one can proficiently use Jar’Kai as a form of combat against even
traditional opponents but are still vulnerable to traditional weaknesses of this form.
Ventress proved this during her battle with Djem So wielder Anakin Skywalker on Yavin
4, even when he was just a Padawan.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Jar’Kai
● Master: At this stage, one can proficiently use the form in the most ideal of situations
and has even overcome the inherent weakness to an extent. However, this is usually
limited to strong Humans or related humanoids as it is still untested against Wookiees or
Whiphids, species who are inherently mighty. Besalisks who used four blades or beings
with multiple arms in general can prove especially formidable at this level.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Jar’Kai.
Unorthodox Form II: Saberstaff
Overview: Most famously, this form of combat was wielded by Darth Maul, Bastila Shan,
Shan’s descendant Shatele, Darth Zannah, and Pong Krell who wielded two doublebladed
lightsabers as a result of having four arms. General Grievous also knew saberstaff combat to a
default but not to the extent of the aforementioned. One strength of this form is that one’s reach
is usually greater as the result of a longer hilt, initially just the size of two blades attached from
pommel to pommel (thanks to Exar Kun) then becoming longer. This means one has to expend
less effort to reach a target, especially when one blade is shut off, with that less strength towards
each slash or twirl. The principles of wielding multiple blades rooted in Jar’Kai are also very
easily transferable to the saberstaff which means the foundation for understanding this can and
has been the same. However, the longer hilt is an easy target and many who have faced a
saberstaff will take the first opportunity to slice the hilt in half that comes their way.
Darth Zannah solved this for herself by letting her hilt become shorter and her blades
somewhat longer, keeping in line with the idea that she would rely on Soresu in contrast to her
Master, Darth Bane. Therefore, when deciding the path of training, one can either transfer their
knowledge of Niman directly to saberstaff or they may train in Jar’Kai first then start training in
saberstaff. Lightsaber lances and longhilted lightsabers would also fit under this category when
it comes to lightsaber combat.
Overview: Most famously, this form of combat was wielded by Darth Maul, Bastila Shan,
Shan’s descendant Shatele, Darth Zannah, and Pong Krell who wielded two doublebladed
lightsabers as a result of having four arms. General Grievous also knew saberstaff combat to a
default but not to the extent of the aforementioned. One strength of this form is that one’s reach
is usually greater as the result of a longer hilt, initially just the size of two blades attached from
pommel to pommel (thanks to Exar Kun) then becoming longer. This means one has to expend
less effort to reach a target, especially when one blade is shut off, with that less strength towards
each slash or twirl. The principles of wielding multiple blades rooted in Jar’Kai are also very
easily transferable to the saberstaff which means the foundation for understanding this can and
has been the same. However, the longer hilt is an easy target and many who have faced a
saberstaff will take the first opportunity to slice the hilt in half that comes their way.
Darth Zannah solved this for herself by letting her hilt become shorter and her blades
somewhat longer, keeping in line with the idea that she would rely on Soresu in contrast to her
Master, Darth Bane. Therefore, when deciding the path of training, one can either transfer their
knowledge of Niman directly to saberstaff or they may train in Jar’Kai first then start training in
saberstaff. Lightsaber lances and longhilted lightsabers would also fit under this category when
it comes to lightsaber combat.
● Youngling: At this stage, one usually understands the stances but knows not the best
order in which to utilize them. This often comes with practice but before then appears
clunky and unorganized.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of Niman or Youngling Jar’Kai
● Padawan: At this stage, one can use Jar’Kai in duels but not so well as to be able to
withstand superiors in traditional combat. Manifestations of this form look clumsy,
disorderly, and coarse at best.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Niman or Padawan Jar’Kai
● Knight: At this stage, one can proficiently use Jar’Kai as a form of combat against even
traditional opponents but are still vulnerable to traditional weaknesses of this form.
Ventress proved this during her battle with Djem So wielder Anakin Skywalker on Yavin
4, even when he was just a Padawan.
○ Prerequisites: Master level of Niman or Knight Jar’Kai
● Master: At this stage, one can proficiently use the form in the most ideal of situations
and has even overcome the inherent weakness to an extent. However, this is usually
limited to strong Humans or related humanoids as it is still untested against Wookiees or
Whiphids, species who are inherently mighty. Besalisks who used four blades or beings
with multiple arms in general can prove especially formidable at this level.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Saberstaff.
Unorthodox Form III: Lightwhip
Overview: The most unusual and exotic of all unorthodox variants, this is a weapon that requires
extreme grace, dexterity, and control to be used. Therefore, very few are apt to take it and among
its weaknesses is the fact that it is more difficult to deflect blaster fire with this weapon. Another
weakness is that a skilled Jar’Kai user (especially with a shoto and traditional lightsaber) can
immobilize the weapon and disarm the user before they can strike with it.
Overview: The most unusual and exotic of all unorthodox variants, this is a weapon that requires
extreme grace, dexterity, and control to be used. Therefore, very few are apt to take it and among
its weaknesses is the fact that it is more difficult to deflect blaster fire with this weapon. Another
weakness is that a skilled Jar’Kai user (especially with a shoto and traditional lightsaber) can
immobilize the weapon and disarm the user before they can strike with it.
● Youngling: Combat at this stage is far from recommended, getting accustomed to
handling the whip is needed before any further training.
○ Prerequisites: Padawan level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency
● Padawan: At this point, one knows the basics but a traditional blade or a way in which a
lightwhip can be morphed into a traditional blade is still advised. Nonetheless, one
understands the basics and can deploy some of the stances of the lightwhip if clumsily.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency, Youngling
Lightwhip.
● Knight: At this level one can still somewhat use it sufficiently in combat but using more
than one strand in the whip is highly condemned at this level.
○ Prerequisites: Master level of ShiiCho and Single Saber Proficiency, Padawan
Lightwhip.
● Master: At this stage, one can use up to five strands and it is rare for this to be exceeded
except by Lumiya, who only did so as a result of decades of training with this weapon.
However, even she was still prone to the same weaknesses that were mentioned before as
her final battle with Luke Skywalker would prove.
○ Prerequisites: Knight level of Lightwhip
Councilor: Fifth level of lightsaber proficiency
This is the level usually achieved by Jedi Council Members or
equivalent beings. Forcesensitives who have achieved this level of skill include Anakin
Skywalker (Darth Vader), his Jedi mentor Obiwan Kenobi, Darth Maul, and Count
Dooku to name a few. Harder to achieve, given the amount of training and practice
needed in virtually several forms of combat. Achieved after acquiring Knight level in at
least four lightsaber forms of any sort.
○ Prerequisites: Master level in at least five forms including ShiiCho. Level IV of
all attributes are required. Master Single Saber Proficiency is also required.
Grandmaster: The final level of lightsaber proficiency
There are few who have achieved this level of lightsaber proficiency with the two most famous incidences being
Luke Skywalker and his mentor Yoda before him. In the realm of lightsaber combat, these Forcesensitives are all but invincible. Near impossible to achieve due to the need to Master all forms of lightsaber combats known to the universe before being even considered. Councillor level Single Saber Proficiency in at least six forms of lightsaber
forms is required.
○ Prerequisites: Councilor level of lightsaber combat, plus two more lightsaber
forms. This can be any combination from mastery of all traditional combat forms
(from ShiiCho to Vaapad), mastery of five traditional forms, Jar’Kai and
Saberstaff, and any imaginable combination of seven forms as long as Level IV in
all attributes are required and Master Single Saber Proficiency is also achieved.
icon in the bottom right bar (may not be applicable if you're on Forums.net), or you can disable the welcome window and/or the icon by going to Plugins > Manage > Custom Mini-Profile Creator and changing the Show Help option.
