[Essay] The Basics of Shii-Cho

[Sith Stûza]

The Basics of Shii-Cho


As instructed by Assistant-Blademaster Eddi Hozan. I, Acolyte Rekhen will explain my understanding of The Basics of Shii-Cho. While none of the explanations will go in depth as it would go against the point of the document: It still serves as an entry to combat with Form I, The Way Of The Sarlacc and the core aspects of it.

Marks of Contact

One of two fundamentals in the effective use of Shii-Cho is in the knowledge of what the nine Marks of Contact are and being able to recognize and use them. While there are many ways to list them, I've chosen to go by increasing severity of each mark. That is not to imply that none of them are lethal (bar a few) given the nature of the moves. it is to simply give a better understanding.

In regards to the list: All of these are based on my (Rekhen)  subjective view of importance and usage. A skilled user would be able to maximize each and every mark to a lethal edge. Alas I am an acolyte.

• Shiim - A minor wound meant to weaken the target, delivered with the edge of a blade.
  
• Sun Djem - A disarming maneuver, to leave your target without their weapon. Without digits if needed.
  
• Shiak* - A precise stab with the tip of ones blade.
  

 from this point onward all the marks include dismemberments of lesser or greater proportions

• Cho Mok - To sever any limb but the one holding the weapon.
  
• Cho Mai -  To sever the weapon wielding hand.
  
• Cho Sun - To entirely remove the weapon wielding limb.
  
• Mou Kei - To simultaneously cut off multiple limbs.
  
• Sai Tok - Bisection.
  
• Sai Cha - Decapitation.
  

* - Shiak is valued for its precision, but the degree of lethality depends on point of stab.

Target Zones

The second fundamental piece of knowledge: Target Zones. Memorize the six zones to heart to maximize your use with the form.

1. The Head and Neck
   
2. Right Arm and Side
   
3. Left Arm and Side
   
4. Back
   
5. Right Leg
   
6. Left Leg
   

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Insight

Throughout my (admittedly short) time studying Shii-Cho I've noticed consistent beliefs that have been echoed many times:

Although the Form is from a bygone time, one when the transition from sword to saber was still in effect, and in many ways is a victim of time. It is still the foundation of all other forms.

By understanding the Form, you give yourself a solid ground from which you can advance to more adept moves.

Minute Positioning

Shii-Cho is simple, it needs to be.

In Ideal Form Shii-Cho, all strikes would be in perfect horizontal and vertical angles. Do not let that fool you to think that the Form lacks depth. With simple changes to the way you emphasize parts of your body, you can be able to change the range of your effective swing. Footwork, an equally important part of the form also gives options.

Let me give you two examples of footwork alongside introducing another important part to the Form: Stances

Before I give the examples there is one thing you must remember. No matter the stance you take always remember to hold your blade properly. Dominant hand closer to the blade and off hand closer to the body. With the tip of the blade pointed at the enemy.




Take the basic Offensive Stance: Legs shoulder width, dominant back, off forward.
By having your dominant foot back you prepare it for the push forward at the enemy. To gain ground and be in range for an immediate attack.


Take the basic Defensive Stance: Legs shoulder width, dominant forward, off back.
By having your dominant foot forward you prepare it for a backing move. Giving time for a defensive maneuver.

Simple, yet different intentions. It is why the form is to be respected. Small, specific and defined changes allowing for greater range of expression.




Conclusion


This concludes The Basics of Shii-Cho.