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|Adolin, to Shallan{{book ref|sa3|15}}
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The ten [[Shardblade]] '''stances''' are fighting styles used by [[Shardbearer]]ssoldiers in [[Vorin]] culture. They may also be used with [[Shardwielding|Shards]] and with conventional weapons.{{book ref|sa1|19}}
== Overview ==
There are ten stances in all, each based on one of the [[Ten Essences]]. A stance describes a general fighting style and tactics, rather than specific sword movements.{{book ref|sa2|14}}
Many Shardbearerssoldiers have preferred stances, though may switch to others in specific situations. The shape and length of a sword or Shardblade may affect this choice.{{book ref|sa2|14}} Other factors include the circumstances on the battlefield or the user's own personality and level of expertise. However, the best swordsmen are familiar with all stances in order to better anticipate and counter their opponent.{{book ref|sa2|44}} The stances require a great deal of practice; even though [[Kaladin]] has mastered fighting with a spear, he has some difficulty learning swordsmanship.{{book ref|sa2|44}}
Apart from a purely practical standpoint, the stances are an important aspect of Shardbearerthe Vorin fighting culture. When [[Adolin]] teaches [[Shallan]] how to fight with a Shardblade, he is insistent on proper use of the stances, and speaks to her at length about tradition and respect; for Adolin, the stances are integral to proper reverence of the Shardblade.{{book ref|sa3|15}}
An ancient [[Knight Radiant]] from one of [[Dalinar's visions]] remarks that [[Dalinar]]'s stances are unfamiliar to her, so the stances have likely evolved over time.{{book ref|sa1|19}}
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