Login with GoogleThe below are the Wheel of Time Sword Forms converted to GURPS Techniques as Gabe will utilize them. Due to the sheer size of this, I’ve utilized the cut.
Defensive Maneuvers
The Branch in the Storm
Parry.
This form is any high, horizontal slash used to deflect an opponent’s blade. Any deflection should use the flat of the blade, and not the edge. This form is quite commonly used to counter The River of Light.
The Cat Dances on the Wall
Rapid Strike consisting of Feint and base Rapier attack (thrust).
This form is not precisely done the same way twice, and practicing over time, it will strengthen the wrists and make it more effective for the user. It is a series of feinting slashes, thrusts and parries, all of them short and intended to feel out your opponent and buy time to pinpoint a weakness.
The Cat on Hot Sand
Rapid Strike consisting of Feint and base Rapier attack (thrust) but against multiple targets.
Similar to The Cat Dances on the Wall, this form removes the tentative nature and turns it into an effective form for battling multiple opponents. The emphasis is speed and quick wrists; those with the greatest skill can accomplish this against an overwhelming number of opponents.
The Cyclone on the Plain
Rapid Strike consisting of two base Rapier attacks (swing) against two separate targets.
A maneuver best served against multiple opponents to open space around the swordsman and take initiative. The blade is brought around in a windmill fashion, the blade extended out and brought around quickly in a full circle before returning to guard stance. A good follow up to this maneuver would be The Lizard in the Thornbush.
The Falling Leaf
Parry.
An effective parry maneuver, the Falling Leaf begins from higher point, and sweeps back and forth a number of times before it reaches the lowest point. From this defensive maneuver you can launch into The River Undercuts the Bank or The Wind Blows Over the Wall.
The Grapevine Twines
Disarming
This form is a formidable disarming technique. It is accomplished by first engaging your opponent and binding their blade briefly, then dipping the tip of your blade under their hilt. By twisting at this point, you use leverage to disarm them and quickly end the fight.
The Kingfisher Circles the Pond
Retreating Parry.
This form is a combination of parry and movement; the parry is at shoulder height or higher, typically to counter an overhand blow or beheading strike. The movement is either a retreat to the side or an advance into your opponent.
The Sapling Trembles
TA: Hand
This form is a basic downward strike at your opponent’s wrist. Best used when your opponent has overextended a thrust or swing. A good follow-up would be The Arc of the Moon.
The Storm on the Mountain
Rapid Strike consisting of TA: Hand followed by Rapier thrust to torso. Best if combined with Feint.
This is a very quick maneuver, beginning with a pivot and strike at the opponent’s wrist. The most advantageous use of this would be after a feint. After the wrist strike comes a chest thrust to finish the job. This is very useful against daggers and/or one-handed swords, as it is an effective disarming maneuver.
Watered Silk
Counterattack following a successful Parry to face (-5)
The blade is brought up horizontally over the head, with the point forward, with the intent to diffuse momentum of the opponent’s strike. This is often followed by a thrust to the opponent’s face, and works well to counter The Falling Leaf.
Willow Embracing the Breeze
Counterattack following successful Parry followed by Step
This form is a combination of movement and strike, and can be used to increase or decrease distance from the opponent. It is a vertical parry with the blade pointed straight up, and a simultaneous movement either into the opponent’s inner guard, or backwards to maintain space.
Strikes
Arc of the Moon
TA: Neck (swing)
This form begins at mid-body, arcs to the neck, and returns to guard stance. Its purpose remains to behead or severely wound the throat, making short work of your opponent.
Black Pebbles on Snow
Counterattack following successful Parry; is swing to Torso
This form is a combination of parry and strike. The first portion of the form is to deflect the opponent’s blade with a parry, then down-cut to the opponent’s ribs with sudden force. The point of attack is to work yourself inside your opponent’s guard with the deflection, giving you precise opportunity to strike.
The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain
Deceptive Rapier swing (torso)
This is a standard among swordsmen of all skills, and is the basis for some more powerful forms. It begins as a powerful diagonal slash which starts behind the right shoulder, and then curves into a horizontal slash. It is common to deceive enemies with it because of its nature of altering course mid-swing.
The Boar Rushes Downhill
Committed (strong) Rapier swing (torso)
This form is similar to The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain, but is simpler as well. It remains a powerful diagonal slash from behind the shoulder and down into the ‘center’ of the opponent, never changing course. It is a good counter for The Cat Dances on the Wall.
Bundling Straw
Rapid strike consisting of torso thrust followed by TA: Arm (swing)
This combination strike has come to be quite useful against opponents using the quarterstaff. It begins with a series of quick chest-level thrusts, following by a downward arc to the side, then a return arc upwards to center, before returning to guard stance.
Courtier Taps his Fan
TA: Head as either Committed (Strong) or using Extra Effort (mighty blows)
This blow is a simple but powerful overhand blow, best used from a high guard stance. It is meant to be quick and split the head.
Cutting the Clouds
TA: Neck (swing)
This strike is a short horizontal chop, best served when inside your opponent’s guard and delivered with significant power.
Cutting the Wind
Counterattack following successful Dodge; is a thrust to the torso
This form is slightly complex, and is primarily situational, as it requires some surprise in execution. The form begins with a sidestep and twist of the wrists, delivering a sharp and quick thrust to the opponent’s open midsection. This is best used against a charging opponent, as the movement and strike serves to quickly end the engagement.
The Dandelion in the Wind
Deceptive TA: Neck (swing)
This form requires some finesse, and is considered an advanced form because of it. The blade slashes at upper torso or neck in a sinuous horizontal line, intended to weave around an intercepting blade.
The Dove Takes Flight
Committed (Strong) TA: Vitals
This form begins in a low guard. The knees are bent to approximately ninety degrees, and the sword is held at the hip. The blade is thrust upwards into the chest, against the opponent’s attack. It is a gamble of an attack, but one the opponent may not be expecting.
The Eel Among the Lily Pads
TA: Leg
This is a simple figure-eight strike, small and aimed for the opponent’s thighs or legs. This is used not to kill, but to reduce your opponent’s mobility.
The Falcon Stoops
Rapier thrust to torso
This is a more conservative version of The Kingfisher Takes a Silverback. It is a quicker, shorter overhand thrust before returning to guard stance.
The Heron Spreads its Wings
Spinning strike
Most swordsmen frequently call this the ‘operational’ version of The Heron Wading in the Rushes. Instead of suspending one’s self on the balls of the feet, a firmer stance is planted. The blade is held at shoulder height, and brought around in a tight cut, roughly a quarter-circle, while pivoting on one foot.
The Hummingbird Kisses the Honeyrose
TA: Face
This form is a bold strike used in high guard. It is no more than a quick face thrust from shoulder height, and is a useful deterrent in the least. Against the charge, it is more often a killing blow than not.
The Kingfisher Takes a Silverback
TA: Vitals (thrust) OR TA: Groin (thrust)
This form has multiple uses, making it one of the most dangerous forms in a Blademaster’s repertoire. The sword begins at shoulder height or higher, and strikes down in a stab toward the abdomen. The attack can be begun lower – chest or mid-torso height – and stab at the legs or groin. This maneuver can also be used effectively to parry an attack.
Kissing the Adder
Rapid Strike consisting of two TA: Vitals (thrust) strikes
This form is intended to finish an opponent who is overwhelmed and leaving themselves open. It is a series of quick thrusts to the torso, aimed more specifically at the heart.
The Leopard’s Caress
TA: Leg (cut)
This form is begun from low guard, and is a quick and sudden slash at the opponent’s thighs or hamstrings, intended to immobilize or severely hamper the opponent.
Lightning of Three Prongs
Rapid Strike consisting of torso thrust followed by either a second torso thrust or a TA: Arm (swing)
This combination strike is considered best performed from the stance The Lion on the Hill. It is a multiple-use form, as it begins with a thrust and can continue as a second and third thrust, or dual slashes to either side.
The Lightning Strikes the Oak
Used following a successful Parry; Rapid strike consisting of TA: Neck and Sweep (Wrestling).
This is an intricate form that begins in defense, and then moves to use the opponent’s movement against them. The form begins with a horizontal cross-parry, followed by a quick step-around while keeping the blade engaged with the opponent’s blade – not quite binding the two blades, but keeping contact. While doing this, leverage can be applied to bring the point along the opponent’s neck in a shallow cut. While engaging in this step-around, the swordsman extends their leg to trip the opponent. If the opponent falls, the form is completed by a downward stab – typically a fatal one.
The Lion Springs
Rapid Strike consisting of torso thrust following by torso swing
A form best used from the guard stance the Lion on the Hill, it is comprised of a simultaneous outward thrust and upward slash. It can be used in either variation of the stance, and is a good opening move.
Lizard in the Thornbush
Rapid Strike consisting of torso thrust followed by Spinning Strike (thrust) at second target.
This form is used against multiple opponents, typically spaced at a significant angle or in front of and behind the swordsman. The form is composed of dual strikes; the first is a strong chest thrust to the first opponent, then a pivoting kneel combined with a thrust or slash at the second opponent. This second strike is typically a thrust, though it is always dependant on the circumstances.
Low Wind Rising
Torso swing, utilized with either Committed or Extra Effort (mighty blows)
This form is a strong, often used form that is simple to learn but takes years to master so far as precision of application. It is a diagonal slash that begins low and ends high, typically from the swordsman’s strong side. This form is well used following the Grapevine Twines or the Lightning of Three Prongs to return one to guard stance.
The Mongoose Takes a Viper (Trademark Move)
Rapid Strike consisting of Feint followed by TA: Vitals
This form is used best when the blade tip is bound below low guard. The form is composed of a quick feint followed by a lightning strike upward, aiming for the opponent’s heart. Done correctly, it often ends a duel immediately.
The Moon On the Water
Torso thrust
The form is more of a defensive strike than an offensive one, and executed best from The Ox Lowers his Horns or other high guard. It is a simple downward chest thrust, intended to force your opponent into retreat lest your blade skewer them.
The Moon Rises Over the Lakes
Deceptive TA: Neck (swing)
This form begins with a short horizontal slash, then commits to a vertical arc that, at its highest point, is aimed at the opponent’s throat. In this form, the blade should begin and end at chest level.
The Moon Rises Over the Water
Deceptive TA: Neck (swing)
This form is identical to The Moon Rises Over the Lakes, but instead begins and ends at waist level. Again, it is a short horizontal slash, followed by a vertical arc that reaches the opponent’s throat at its highest point.
Parting the Silk
Torso swing
This form is another mainstay of battle. It is a precise abdominal slash, good for drawing first blood in combat.
Plucking the Low-Hanging Apple
TA: Neck (thrust), ideally used following successful parry
This strike is sudden and aimed at the neck of the opponent, requiring patience to use at the right point in the engagement. This can be quickly followed up by The Leopard’s Caress
Rain in High Wind
Rapid Strike consisting of two swings at the arm
This form is an exercise in stamina, requiring quick wrists to maximize its effectiveness. It is an indeterminate number of quick and powerful side strikes, intended to wear down the opponent thoroughly and quickly.
Reaping the Barley
Committed (Strong) but Deceptive torso swing
This form is another simplified strike, again relying on speed and strength. It is a begins with the sword out to the side, held horizontally, and brought into your opponent’s midsection quickly. The movement is done by both the torso and the arms; the primary power for the strike is in the twist of the waist, but the arms propel the blade abruptly at the last moment before impact, with the intent to end the strike deep beneath the opponent’s ribcage.
The Red Hawk Takes a Dove
TA: Arm (swing)
A lighter attack than River of Light, this form is a similar cut at the opponent’s arm, but with the intent of causing damage to the flesh and weakening the opponent over time instead of taking the arm outright.
Ribbon in the Air
Deceptive torso swing
Another form utilizing a horizontal slash, this strike is accompanied by the blade moving up or down at the end of your strike. This form is also used in unison with an advance, bring the fight closer in to your opponent. The slash should not go above chest height.
River of Light
Committed (Strong) TA: Arm
This form is best used last in series begun with The Wood Grouse Dances followed by The Red Hawk Takes a Dove. The sword is brought down in a powerful vertical swing with full intent to take off the opponent’s arm.
The River Undercuts the Bank (Trademark Move)
Rapid Strike with a Spinning Strike (cut) at the abdomen followed by a second Rapier swing (cut, torso, coming back the other way)
This is another mainstay in the swordsman’s knowledge, and has been the end of many a sword engagement. It can be accomplished by bringing about a fast and decisive horizontal slash, from either a kneeling or standing position. It is typically used to disembowel or behead the opponent.
The Rose Unfolds
Torso thrust
This form is somewhat unique, but met to carve through an opponent’s defense. The blade begins in middle or high guard, and thrust high at the opponent’s torso. During this thrust, the blade is rotated through a very tight arc downwards, appearing as if you are trying to carve a hole into the opponent. The form is completed by returning to guard stance before moving into the next form.
The Serpent Strikes
Fast-draw and knife throw with “off-hand”
This is less a ‘form’ than a dedicated strike. It is quite simply a sword throw; one hand placed at the crossguard, and another hand on the blade, near the point. The ‘back’ hand at crossguard provides the force as the sword is thrown. It is generally accurate from six to nine feet in distance.
Soft Rain at Sunset
TA: Face (cut) while using Defensive Grip
This form uses the art of half-swording to great potential, but if used faultily can leave the body open to a lethal strike. The first intent is to strike the opponent’s face with your fist gripping the blade, but impacting the face with the hand. With the impact of the fist is the drawing cut of the blade’s point against the opponent’s face, which will at least scar the enemy and at best give a good chance of blinding.
Stones Falling Down the Mountain
Rapid Strike consisting of two Committed (Strong) torso swings
This form is similar to The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain. It begins at shoulder height, though differing from The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain, the blade remains in line with the shoulder, and not behind it. The blade is brought down in multiple, powerful strikes to beat back the opponent’s defenses.
Stones Falling from the Cliff
Committed (Strong) torso swing
Similar to Stones Falling Down the Mountain, it is a single overhand slash from shoulder height. This form can come down at a diagonal or straight vertical slash. Some consider this an advanced form of The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain.
The Stone Falls from the Mountain
Usable only if foe is overextended following successful Dodge. TA: Groin or TA: Torso but from behind
This form is another advanced form, and requires a great deal of grace. It is begun by an inward sidestep against a charging opponent. The body twists as the opponent charges past, and the sword is brought down in a slash on the opponent’s backside.
Striking the Spark
Rapid Strike consisting of a TA: Neck (swing) and a torso swing
Another exercise of stamina and quick wrists, this is a vertical attack much like Rain in High Wind. It is a series of multiple, powerful overhand blows. This works well against the return swing of Low Wind Rising, or The Heron Spreads its Wings.
The Swallow Takes Flight
Rapid Strike consisting of Feint (in the form of a diagonal slash) followed by a torso thrust
An effective combination strike, this form begins with a diagonal slash towards the opponent, followed by a short thrust. The initial slash is not as much an offensive strike but a defensive one, as it serves as a guard to position the thrust.
The Thistledown Floats on the Whirlwind
Spinning Strike targeting the neck (-5). Best if used with surprise.
This form is a jumping attack, one that is best used with surprise as an opening attack. The blade is held chest high, and close to the body as the swordsman makes a leaping spin to behead the opponent. The sword does not move more than a foot from its place against the body, instead using the body’s momentum through the spin to apply the force.
Threading the Needle
Simple thrust
This is a simple and fast strike, a very quick thrust at the shoulder or chest. It can be used in succession to keep the opponent on guard and buy time.
The Tower of Morning
Simple swing
Another of the standard moves for a swordsman to build their skill upon, it is a simple vertical slash from low to high. This form is best combined with The Boar Rushes Down the Mountain or The Courtier Taps his Fan.
Twisting the Wind
Counterattack.
A form for multiple opponents, Twisting the Wind utilizes slashes and short thrusts during a quick and continual rotation of the body to counter or attack opponents on all sides.
Two Hares Leaping
Rapid Strike consisting of two vertical slashes.
This form is a charging attack, consisting of two vertical slashes that arc in a windmill fashion. The form typically begins on low left and arcs to high right, then coming back to low right to high left, in essence forming a figure eight. This fairs well against Striking the Spark.
Water Flows Downhill
Deceptive torso strike
This form is considered an ‘expert’ version of the Boar Rushes Down the Mountain. Its primary purpose is to evade the opponent’s weapon and strike the easiest target. The blade begins high, in line with the shoulder, and comes down in a vertical slash that changes direction mid-stroke.
The Whirlwind on the Mountain
Spinning Attack
This is a ground-level form of The Thisteldown Floats on the Whirlwind. Again, blade is held chest high and close to body, as the body is the force behind the blade. The swordsman turns in place, not moving the blade with the arms more than two feet away from the body. It is typically used to behead, but can be used to ward off multiple attackers. Care should be used, as this attack can leave the swordsman open to retaliation while recovering from the spin.
Wind and Rain
Rapid Strike consisting of slash followed by thrust.
This is another combination form that requires quick wrists. Wind and Rain begins with a diagonal slash from low to high, then a number of short thrusts and/or overhand blows.
The Wind Blows Over the Wall
Rapid Strike consisting of Feint followed by Committed (Strong) slash.
This form is a good form of feint before the strike. The blade is brought up in a half-circle towards the opponent. At the top of the arc, the blade is turned to the side and brought into a powerful horizontal slash.
The Wolf Lunges
Rapid Strike consisting of hilt punch followed by overhand slash at torso
This form is intended for close quarters; it is a combination strike. The first move is a pommel strike from waist or abdominal level, preferably used to double over the opponent. The follow-up is an overhand strike with the blade. Both movements should be completed in very rapid succession.
The Wood Grouse Dances
Defensive thrust
This combination of feinting, tentative short slashes thrusts and parries requires a good set of quick wrists, and is best used while remaining stationary. It is a good early-engagement form for feeling out the enemy for any weaknesses that might present themselves early.
