I got lost in all those posts and the play scene, act I and II so figuered I’d answer on a fresh page.
I really loved S. Mantis. I probbaly jumped my skill the greatest incliment while studying under Sifu Mark Manganiello on Long Island. He studies under Milton Chin in Chinatown.
I do not know the history other then the common one read – but I love the way I was taught: no forms, everything through fighting. I would fight three days a week with gear but full out. Myb sifu would break it after that crucial moment, when one takes the advantage.
He also had a great rule to prevent injury. Whatever we inflicted on someone he would inflict on us. I guess it was only for arm or collar bone breaks, because I knocked a kids tooth out and I was left alone.
Anyway, great system! Tough, agressive.