Need a little input. . .

[Mithran]

I've just rolled what will be an 18 FvS/2 Monk, Alkaloids. It had been my intention to dual-wield shortswords because I'd thought Drow could use them without becoming un-Centered. Will I need more than two Monk levels?

[Rineth]

There are only two ways to use a non monk weapon without being centered.

1) Whirling Steel Strike allows you to use longswords and remain centered.

2) Ninja Spy I allows you to use short swords and remain centered.

Ninja Spy I requires six levels of monk and you'd be sacrificing far too much casting ability.

However, the entire point of the monk splash on a Clr/FvS is survivability and the way the game currently works you will still gain this survivability if you're uncentered. You won't be able to sit in stances while using short swords, but you'll still gain your wisdom to AC and Evasion.