Way of the Open Hand

The Way of the Open Hand, commonly called kung fu, was a branch of martial arts and a discipline followed by various monastic orders of Faerûn.

History
The martial art first originated among the Shou people of Shou Lung.

Description
The Way of the Open Hand was not a single martial art, but a whole family of unarmed martial arts styles. There were thousands of such styles, all with their own names and techniques but sharing its overall concept.

Abilities
As a monk progressed, they gained various abilities including the ability to cast certain spells.

Novice monks were able to use the open hand technique, which made them able to utilize their enemies' ki. Advanced monks were able to head themselves, whilst very advanced monks could cast sanctuary. Those that were close to mastering this tradition learned the technique of the quivering palm, which inflicted great pain onto their foes.

Activities
Masters of the Way of Open Hand fought frequently to advance and champion their particular styles, such as by holding contests within and between rival schools.

Practitioners
Practices similar to the Way of the Open Hand were followed by the Ilmatari monks of the Order of the Yellow Rose and the halfling monks of the Hin Fist.