Dragonfly Pagoda
Purpose
The mysticks of Macau, who refer to themselves as chi’n ta, embody the heart and soul of this city more than any other organization. They are masters of sheer will, yet truck in traditional belief to evoke wonder. Wealth is only a means to the end for these mages and they scorn the notion that they must whore themselves out to Western capitalism to achieve their goals. Such policies keep the wedge between they and the other shen. It also alienates the chi’n ta from what few Western mages come to Macau. Righteousness rarely renders friendships, now does it?
The chi’n ta live among the Sleepers of Macau. They are the monks at temples, the just and fair-minded Triad enforcers in the alleys keeping their brethren in check, and the wise merchants steering Macau’s commercial future away from naked greed. The chi’n ta are the shepherds of the flock, the leaders of the revolution, and the masters of the future. The Wan Kuei mock the younger disciples as cingting—dragonflies—colorful, even radiant, insects, but mere insects all the same. The Wan Kuei say this of the apprentices, but they do not mock the masters and adepts, who they know are lung—dragons. Yet, dragonflies or dragons, the chi’n ta flicker iridescent in a city falling under a flimsy layer of gilted fool’s gold. They are the light and hope of Macau.
Chantry Policies
The typical protocols of the Traditions are observed in the chi’n ta court despite how many Crafters (mostly Wu Lung) member it. Of course, the Rule of Shade is observed, but as in so many places in East Asia, even highly urbanized zones like Macau, the dominant Shenism (Chinese “folk” religion) strengthens the paradigm in their favor. An Akashic Brother can kick an enemy through a brick wall because the people believe it’s readily possible for any “master of kung fu”. A Wu Lung can burn an effigy before his enemy’s eyes and a bolt of lightning will strike that foe from the sky above and Sleepers would be shocked…but unsurprised. (That’d still be vulgar as hell, by the way. The paradigm isn’t that favorable.)
Special Events
Special events are annual (or more frequent) holidays or special ritual days that the main group or groups observe as a whole community. Attendance and participation are often expected of all members, and sometimes required.
Feast of the Drunken Dragon
In March on the Spring Equinox, the chi’n ta lead a traditional celebration out of their temple called the Feast of the Drunken Dragon. Chi’n ta, spearheaded by the men per tradition, become inebriated and dance drunkenly through the streets while waving wooden dragon heads and tails. The parade ends with a rowdy feast in a prearranged public square. So many Sleepers are involved that rival shen long ago turned a blind eye to the event. However, the equinoctial event serves as an annual Juncture that empowers Life and Spirit magick to all those who participate (provided they don’t get too drunk to cast spells).
“If you’re here to pray to the gods, the shrine is this way. If you’re here to fight, well…we can accommodate that, too.”
-- Ip Wai Chau, Master of the Court of the Storm Dragon
