Ancestors

When a mortal dies, their soul is taken by the Guides into the spirit world, and they become an ancestor spirit.

Because the ancestors were once human they are both easier to relate to than elemental spirits 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 established 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, so as not to anger the spirits…