Shikigami
Shikigami are from Japan also known as Shikijin they are spirits summoned to serve Onmyoji, Japanese shamanic yin-yang magicians. These are similar to the western concept of wizards familiar they are shape-shifting spirits. Many take the form of a bird or small animal more powerful Shikigami can even possess a person. Examples of Shikigami can be found in the CLAMP manga and anime series Tokyo Babylon.
Judika Illes, Encyclopaedia of Spirits the ultimate guide to the magic of fairies, genies, demons, ghosts, gods and goddesses, 2009, Shikigami, p 904
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