[Jade intentionally went with a similar set of moves, interested in seeing any differences from his earlier attempt. He was not disappointed in that regard--Shiro seems to be quick on the uptake and a good demonstrator of a kind, his movements becoming more natural as time passes.]

I'll keep that in mind, [Jade says as he backs away, quite impressed,] I think it will be quite a while before it comes as naturally to me as it does to you, but they say practice makes perfect.

[He lowers his blade for the moment, taking a brief respite from their training session.] If it isn't too forward of me to ask, what asterisks did you take?