The elements are distinguished more philosophically than materially. Spirits of Fire, for instance, care less about whether someone is physically burning than about whether they are figuratively burning with passion and energy. Similarly, although Metal is the most concerned with wealth and avarice, sacrifices of silver are appreciated by spirits of every element.
Spirits of Wood are energetic, curious, and idealistic, though they may be prone to anger. They take a particular interest in newness and growth, but generally have the patience to watch things take root and develop.
Binding a spirit of Wood grants powers associated with other living things. Healing and communication are common Wood effects.
Wood is opposed to Earth and Metal. It is represented by the colour green and straight lines, and its totem animal is the dragon.
Spirits of Fire are youthful, passionate, and impetuous, though they can succumb to hatred. They are drawn to actions taken on impulse, particularly those of great creation and destruction.
Binding a spirit of Fire grants powers associated with passion and inspiration. The archetypal Fire abilities are offensive, but it also has a particular interest in created objects.
Fire is opposed to Metal and Water. It is represented by the colour red and triangles, and its totem animal is the phoenix.
Spirits of Earth are patient, deliberate, and straightforward, though they may tend toward anxiety. They have an affinity for activities that demand co-operation, planning ahead, and taking responsibility.
Binding a spirit of Earth grants powers associated with resilience and the body. Defensive fighting and stamina are bolstered by Earth, as is resistance to mental and physical effects.
Earth is opposed to Water and Wood. It is represented by the colour yellow and squares, and its totem animal is the bear.
Spirits of Metal are organised, forceful, and persistent, though they can be melancholy. They appreciate acts of courage and ambition, and particularly approve of individuals who go their own way.
Binding a spirit of Metal grants powers associated with control. Manipulating the movements of others and influencing their minds are both common Metal effects.
Metal is opposed to Wood and Fire. It is represented by the colour white and circles, and its totem animal is the tiger.
Spirits of Water are calm, resourceful, and contemplative, though they are sometimes weakened by fear. They admire the application of knowledge and intellect and the pursuit of understanding.
Binding a spirit of Water grants powers associated with information. Water is the element most suited to divination, and it can be used to evade and misdirect others.
Water is opposed to Fire and Earth. It is represented by the colour blue and wavy lines, and its totem animal is the serpent.
The ancestors were once human and are therefore both easier to relate to than the elements and more willing to give advice to living mortals. Another key difference is that it is almost unheard-of for one to consent to being bound to a living human. In most dealings with the ancestors, the custom is to call any ancestor who is not a blood relation “grandfather” or “grandmother”, or “aunt” or “uncle” if they died young. Even where this is not followed it is considered sensible to show plenty of respect.
Since the Breaking, a few recently deceased ancestors have returned to their old bodies, the resulting creature being known as a wight or draugr. They appear much as they did when they died - which can be anything from almost unmarked (if a little discoloured) to marred by horrific wounds - and retain most of their old personality, though their memories are sometimes incomplete. It is far from clear whether they have a natural ‘deathspan’, but they can certainly be destroyed, after which point their spirit leaves the body permanently.