@Filene yeah sometimes I question my own use of the term, but it fits so well. I would like to learn more about the origins of the eastern practice, from a non-colonial source, but that might take a while. The "tulpamancy" of the west is waaay different.

Some people prefer other terms for that reason.

As far as what NotStung could be, I suggest asking her directly, if you can. People who follow me here might know that I have identity crises every so often where I'm not sure what I am either. But someone told me once that non sentient beings don't tend to question their sentience. So the fact that I think about it is on itself kind of reassuring.