The phoenix was chosen as our house animal because it represents the element of fire, which ties in very closely with Dr Wu's belief in the use of cremation to stop the spread of the plague at all cost. His never-dampening resolve and strength of will as demonstrated in his fight against the plague lives on to this very day in all healthcare professionals, and is represented by the eternal flame of the phoenix. Lastly, the whole idea of rising from the ashes represents our belief that our house will always grow in adversity and stand up stronger wherever we may fall.

The main reason why we chose black for WLT is because black represents ash, which is where the Phoenix (our house animal) undergoes its rebirth when it is struck down. It also ties in with the modus operandi of Dr Wu Lien Teh, which was cremation of the bodies of people who have passed on from the plague.