Symbolism

Symbolic Numbers

Symbolism is a scary word in a place where omens, portents, and bodes are all very real things (as those who adventure here will learn). Some symbolism is unavoidable, however. The numbers 3, 5, and 7 are considered very positive and powerful numbers, while 4, 6 and 9 are considered bad. 1, 2, 8 and 10 all have significance, but are not considered particularly bad or good in and of themselves.

As a result, however, squares, hexagons, and nonagons are all considered unlucky shapes – and this has an impact across architecture and performance.

Astrology

There are 15 general astrological signs on Wyrlde, each sign being 24 days in length, plus a 16^th one for the Equinox or Solstice being “days without a sign”. First, it should be noted that as a form of divination, it can be useful – and the specialized tools and knowledge for such are confined to the Towers of Akadia or the Temples of the Clerics. These signs are named after constellations – patterns among the stars known usually only to a few. The stars were literally placed in the sky by the Powers That Be – The Hosts, The Old Ones, and dear Chicory and friends. Some did not go willingly and are said to be screaming within their fiery prisons as immortal moments in the sky.

Unsigned

The unsigned, also called The Veiled, are those who are born on a solstice or equinox. They are said to be unseen by fate and free of destiny. A surprising number of adventurers are Unsigned. For all of them, they are considered to have the star sign of The Veil.

In Qivira, they are more likely to use the signs for their calendars than the traditional calendar cited earlier.

Flowers

Flowers in Wyrlde have both a meaning and a purpose, a value, a way of expressing their power. Flowers are of particular importance to Spirits of the World. Each flower has multiple meanings, solving it is based on the number of them in each bouquet or use. Flowers are also used in rituals, as well as by Witches and Runewrights for effects. Not all flowers have a meaning or value, even if they are commonly seen. Herbs and Spices also have certain meanings and purposes to them.

Flower sellers are often found tending to gardens in glass walled buildings they call Teriums, exceptionally large buildings with dozens of boxes, sometimes partitioned in the larger cities. Scores of folks will travel through a city selling them from handcarts, but they are rare in villages unless the village itself is something like Aztlan’s Flowerton, where the entire town is engaged in the growing and selling of flowers (which are a big business in Aztlan). While specific flowers in singles and groups have meanings, there are also general meanings:

Red flowers

Passion, Love, Affection, Courage, Respect, Desire, Cheer.

Pink flowers

Grace, Joy, Innocence, Trust, Good Fortune, Good Health, Femininity, Playfulness.

Yellow flowers

Cheer, Joy, Lightheartedness, Happiness, Friendship.

White flowers

Purity, Humility, Innocence, Weddings, Births, Death, Mourning.

Gemstones

There are 30 recognized gemstones on Wyrlde. Each has a particular meaning, and it is said that Runewrights and Witches are particularly attracted to the powers they hold, for the gemstones are all linked to some kind of power in and of themselves.

The Arenas

You may have noticed that throughout the works there is some reference made to the Arenas. An Arena is a loose concept, a broader understanding of things. Clerics may know them more intimately, but most people see the world as a way of serving or operating in one of the five arenas, which are often represented by icons because they are associated with good luck.

The Hearth

The Hearth represents the arena of Home and the Family, the crafts and arts of the household and the simple life.

The Field

This is the arena of the farmstead, the growing and raising and herding and care of animals and crops.

The Hall

This is the arena of politics and leadership.

The Passage

This is the arena of life and death, the space of healing and health, the space of battle and blood.

The Veil

This is the space of mystery and secrets, of liminal things and the planar realms, of knowledge, truth, deceit, and ignorance.