Application of Channelling

Channelling can be used in a great variety of ways, often determined by one's affinity, theoretical understanding, and simply capability.

Gentle Hand
The style of the Gentle Hand is relatively widely known, though its users are not easily identified by their appearance. It requires a very precise application of the Second Path, combined with speed and finesse.

A user of this style is usually capable of creating momentum, that is, force outside their own body. Thus, instead of merely increasing the speed and force of their punches and kicks, they simply tap the enemies body without any force at all, and then within that split-second of contact create a powerful force. For their enemies, it feels like the gentle tap had the force of punch. As such, most users will concentrate on their Channelling and their ability to establish contact.

The style has a variety of dangers and different uses associated with it. Some focus on the Channelling aspect of it, increasing the force of their attacks. Others focus more on their ability to repeatably make contact at advantageous angles, but because of this lack the concentration to safely cause more than the force of a normal punch.

Depending on the skill level of the user, they may be able to vary the angles of the created force. Novices are often only able to create a force that is along the same vector as their attack, i.e. the vector of their hand or foot. Lapses in concentration can be devastating, with the force being created too early, causing it to also damage the users body upon impact.

Bonebreaker Fists
Bonebreakers are brutes, in many ways. They train their bodies to increase their endurance, and then liberally use the Second Path to enhance the force of their attacks. Far less refined than the Gentle Hand, this style allows the user to concentrate more on the combat at hand and less on the specifics of the Channelling. In turn, however, their attacks put a great strain on their own bodies, and often, their bones cannot withstand the force of their own punches. Upon impact, both their own and their enemies may then crack.

Users of this style have developed a variety of coping mechanisms. Some simply train their bodies, others concentrate on one-hit attacks that instantly eliminate the opponent, and some even use armor or bracers to help their bodies withstand the force of their attacks.