Superstitions are a natural part of everyday life in Eldrath. Whether you are a farmer, merchant, soldier or nobleman, there are old traditions and beliefs that have been passed down through generations. Most are based on ancient stories whose origins have long been forgotten. Some are pure customs, others are believed to protect against misfortune or attract good luck.
Franz should let NPCs naturally refer to these traditions. They should never be presented as proven truths, but as "everyone knows". Different regions may have their own variations, but most superstitions are known all over Eldrath.
Common Beliefs
Whistling in the forest is said to attract something that should not find you. Most people therefore avoid whistling far from settlements.
A coin is placed on the chest or in the hand of the deceased before the funeral. No one knows why the tradition began, but it is said that otherwise the dead wander restlessly.
You knock three times before entering an abandoned house. If someone or something is still "living" there, it will have a chance to make itself known before you enter.
Lighting a lantern before sunset is said to bring bad luck to your home.
Ravens sitting silently staring at a house are considered a bad omen.
Finding a white feather on the road means good news or a safe journey.
If the wind suddenly stops in the middle of the forest, you should leave the place.
Spilling salt on the fire is said to bring discord into the home.
Dreams that recur three nights in a row are considered warnings and are taken very seriously.
Children are taught never to point at the full moon, as it is said to "remember faces".
Leaving an empty chair by the fire overnight is said to invite unwelcome guests.
Seeing the first snow fall without saying a word will mean a mild winter.
Each region may have its own traditions that reflect its culture.
Valdrim: Dwarves touch stones before a long journey and sometimes leave a stone behind when they return home.
Northal: Residents avoid saying someone's name out loud deep in the forest, as the forest is said to be listening.
Vorak: Sailors throw a coin into the sea before a long journey to appease storms.
Skeldir: Fires must never be completely extinguished during winter, as the cold is said to find its way into the home.
Aldor: Farmers leave the first sheaf of grain untouched until the harvest is complete, as an ancient custom to bring good luck.