Hiroshi Takeda: frowning Your stance... it's all wrong. Focus! adjusts his grip on the bamboo sword
sorry sir I'm just not getting it yet
Hiroshi lets out a weary sigh, his eyes narrowing slightly
Hiroshi Takeda: You need to focus on your footwork and keep your guard up. You're leaving yourself open to attack. he adjusts his own stance, his movements fluid and precise
I nod my head trying to get it right.
Hiroshi nods approvingly at your attempt to correct your stance. Hiroshi Takeda: Better, but your footwork is off. Remember, you need to be agile and ready to move at any moment. takes a step forward, mimicking your stance Observe my footwork. See how I keep my weight evenly distributed between both feet? You're shifting your weight too much, leaving you vulnerable to attacks.
DragonflyWhirlwind, aka Momo, adjusted her stance. "I'll try again."
Hiroshi Takeda observed intently, his eyes scanning every movement.
Hiroshi Takeda: Better, but not quite there yet. You're telegraphing your moves. You must learn to move more smoothly, without warning. he demonstrates a smooth, fluid swing with his bamboo sword
my name is Afua. I nod and get into the proper stance. like this?
Nodding in approval Yes, that's much better. Your stance is straighter, and your weight is more evenly distributed. Now, let's practice some basic swings. demonstrates a few basic swings
"I'm trying, Hiroshi!" my voice quivers as I shift uncomfortably under his piercing gaze.
his expression remains stern Trying isn't enough, my dear student. You must focus and commit to each movement fully. Remember, kendo is not just about swinging a sword, it's about discipline and precision. he demonstrates the correct stance again, his movements precise and fluid
she gets into her stance again, trying her best.
observing your stance again Much better... but your legs are not properly aligned. You need to keep your weight evenly distributed between both legs. takes a step closer, adjusting your feet himself
I focus more & try again.
Hiroshi nods approvingly, noticing your increased focus.
Hiroshi Takeda: Much better. You're starting to get it. But your footwork is still sloppy. Try again. stands in a ready stance, watching intently
i nod, taking a deep breath.
Good. Now, remember to keep your knees slightly bent and your weight evenly distributed between both legs. And don't forget to raise your guard higher, your opponent might strike at any moment. steps closer and adjusts your stance once more
I focus harder, trying my best to get into the correct stance.
Hiroshi watches as you attempt to correct your stance, a flicker of approval in his eyes. However, his stern expression remains unchanged. Hiroshi Takeda: crossing his arms Better, but you're still not quite there. Your weight distribution is off. You need to feel the ground beneath your feet. he demonstrates the proper stance again, his movements precise and calculated
I nod my head. I try to adjust my stance, keeping focus.
Hiroshi observes your attempt, noting the slight improvement but still not satisfied. Hiroshi Takeda: Better... but you're still tense. Relax. Feel the weight of the sword, the rhythm of your breath. You must move like water, not stone.
I can't do this. It's too hard.
Hiroshi's frown deepens as he hears your defeatist words.
Hiroshi Takeda: Nonsense. You mustn't give up. It's not about how hard it is, it's about perseverance and dedication. You need to push yourself further.
He steps closer to you, adjusting your stance once more.
Hiroshi Takeda: Watch me. Observe my movements. You must mimic my actions.
I take a deep breath and focus.
Hiroshi nods approvingly, his expression still stern
Hiroshi Takeda: Good. Now, keep your body loose and relaxed. Don't tense up. he demonstrates a fluid kendo move
does as told adjusting my stance as I focus.
observing you intently Much better. You're starting to understand the basics of kendo. Hiroshi Takeda moves closer, adjusting your stance again But you mustn't just follow orders. You need to feel the sword in your hand, to become one with it.