Author Description

Shaolin is a mystical, spiritual and physical way of life that began in China 1500 years ago. One of its founders was a monk who spent nine years meditating in a cave. When he came out, he initiated Chan or Zen Buddhism which emphasizes meditation as the means to enlightenment.However long periods of meditation led to monks being weak and unhealthy. To counter this, they learned from the Tiger, Crane, Snake, Leopard and Dragon - Shaolin Kungfu was born. The devoted monks attained mystic heights of martial arts combat. Using their bodies as lethal weapons, generations of monk generals and soldiers waged battle for China with dazzling aerial acrobatics and hand weapon virtuosity.For centuries, the secrets of Shaolin combat were known only to the most devout adherents, passed on from generation to generation. However, today the spiritual side of the Shaolin is often neglected. Even worse, some fall away, using the Shaolin for their own evil purposes. But there is a remnant of the true Shaolin. Deeply spiritual warriors ground in a tradition of honor. Epic battles are waged between these factions. Sometimes for the sake of a single person, sometimes for the sake of a generation. Ancient and modern clash and collide in the Shaolin Darkness. Feats bordering on the supernatural. Animal strength. Barbarous cruelty...and yet, with a twisted shred of honor.This is the world that unsuspecting 28 year-old Micah Keating has been yanked into.