SYMBOLS

     Each of us have different symbols for how old we are in our village, and they are represented by different types of leaves. We must wear our leaf every day to let everyone else know where we stand in our society. Leaves are changed with age, and there is one reserved for status. There are four types of leaves worn: oak, maple, birch, and fern sprigs. An oak leaf (like the one I wear) represents the adults, which is the majority of the hobgoblin population. Big maple leaves are worn by the younger hobgoblins, so they are easily disguised when they hunt. A birch leaf is worn by the elder hobgoblins, representing their higher knowledge of nature. Fern sprigs are reserved for the leader and the servants, representing status and authority. The leaves that our families wear are also placed on the outside of our huts when they are built to signify who lives inside. Lastly, the poison oak leaf is worn by a hobgoblin that has been outcast and must redeem themselves before returning to the village.
     There is a special symbol that represents the Nature Gods. It means that the Nature Gods have been to the place where it was found and they have blessed that place. We must take a moment to pray to them if one of these symbols are found in the forest.
     The sun and rain droplet symbols are arbitrary symbols - they are simply what they look like, and it is common for a  hobgoblin child to draw such things. Other symbols include the symbol for danger and the symbol for peace, which are represented through hand signals. When the fingers are all spread apart from one another, this indicates peace. Danger is represented through closing all the fingers together and pointing the palm towards the direction of the danger.

 The Symbols.
Image By: Megan Hall