O-Nao-En-Zan
Divine representatives of the Eight-Fold Path of Philosophy, spirituality and kung fu
Clan Status: None; not an official clan, though they participate in Commonwealth affairs as religious & spiritual advisors
Totem Kami: None; common associations with the rhinoceros and the red-crowned crane
Colours: White prominent with red & black robes, designed for mobility and simplicity
Chief Kannushi: None
Commonwealth Representative: Annan O-Shizu-en
Reputation: Wise, instructive, spiritual, aloof, idealistic, stuffy, old-fashioned, master martial artists
Preferred classes: Monk, paladin/cleric (Amaterasu O-Mikami, Aum, Inari O-Mikami, Reiza O-Mikami), greyguard/inquisitor (Kagemitsu O-No-Mikoto), alchemist, druid
Imagery: O-Nao-En-Zan Fashion & Scenery Image Gallery (External)
Considered a “clan” only insofar as they have a voice in the Maraian Commonwealth, the O-Nao-En-Zan nonetheless do not represent a particular region or a population of subjects. Rather, they are the earthly representatives of the Eight-Fold Path of spirituality, philosophy and kung fu, as described by the Seventy-Two Analects of Fallingleaf. They have representative masters of all divine kung fu styles, including even the deadly arts of Ansatsuken (Assassination Fist) and Satsujinken (Mourning Fist; Mantis Style): though ruthless techniques associated with evil gods, they are nonetheless still a part of the Whole, and should not be ignored in divine praxis lest evildoers use the inattention to further advantage. Clans also have one ambassador within the O-Nao-En-Zan at all times, who represent mastery of the clan/regional style of kung fu.
The O-Nao-En-Zan do not have a Totem Kami, however some Analects express admiration toward certain wildlife, in particular the now-endangered rhinoceros, which to the O-Nao-En-Zan represents an important combination of calmness, solitude and rarely-resorted-to physical strength. They’re also associated with the red-crowned crane, however that’s considered more a matter of resemblance to the red, black & white robes of the friars and is not received warmly by the clan; birds are considered preening and aphilosophical.
At most temples and kung fu dojos, one will find members of the O-Nao-En-Zan, consulting on matters of wellness, teaching martial arts, performing exorcisms and overseeing ceremonies.
Banner art credit: [Left to Right] The impressive Temple of One Thousand Converging Winds, outside O-Hoshakeiro (illus. Dawei Lu). A cleric of Amaterasu O-Mikami. Monks performing sequences of Dawn Celebration style kung fu (illus. Will Murai).
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