Taiji

Legend has it that the first Tanese people were sculpted by dragons, and that each child born of Tan has some small amount of power passed down from their ancestors' creators. Much of Tanese culture has developed around this concept, to the point where dragons are revered as gods. This worship is by no means a passive activity, but a constant endeavor to better oneself and thus strive to become closer to the divine.

Balance is an important concept in Taiji. Balance of the elements, as embodied by the dragon-gods, is replicated in every aspect of daily life. A divine person must be balanced in body and mind, in art and the sciences, and in both peaceful contemplation and driving action. Even food is expected to be balanced- Textures, flavors, and colors must perfectly blend to produce a full array worthy of the divine dragons. To follow this dogma requires intense discipline, another cornerstone of the religion.

Taiji temples are built with this balance in mind, and each building includes features meant to evoke the draconian elements: Rock or sand gardens for earth, fountains and koi ponds for water, large braziers and candles for fire, and open walls to allow for free-flowing air. Such temples are usually equipped with a variety of musical instruments for guided group meditation. Traditional martial arts are also practiced within these holy structures, although weapons are not typically allowed on their premises.

The leaders of the Taiji religion are known as Dragon Sages, people who have attained such great power and balance that they have been recognized by the holy dragons themselves. In the past, Dragon Sages served as advisors and diplomats to the great emperors and empresses of Tan-Shoutaru. In modern times, they have become the de facto leaders of the remaining Tanese munen, both spiritually and politically.