The purple rose is an allusion to the Monk's Sweeping Staff and the Monk's Robes which both have a purple rose on them. The robes are the best lightweight armour that the mud has to offer, and when worn while wielding a staff they increases the efectiveness of your attack. The staves are one of two melee weapons on Nightmare, and are extremely hard to acquire which makes them very rare. So, if you are a newbie there is no need to ask for a staff, since some High Mortals don't even have one.
The only other melee weapon in the game is the Odd Weapon. This weapon is a unique, which also makes it hard to acquire. When wielded, it changes into a weapon of the wielder's highest attack skill. If your melee attack is highest, then it will be a melee weapon. The odd also has a tendancy to sever limbs of any enemy it's used against. This makes it hard to train if your enemy has no limbs to hit you.
Other items that aid melee fighters:
Monk's Boots - When worn, the feet become blade
weapons and slice with every kick. Unique
Iron Ring - Gives a magical zap when your fist makes contact with your opponent.
Brass Knuckle - Smashes your opponent. For good alignment only.
Steel Knuckle - Smashes your opponent. For evil
alignment only. Rare
Studded Glove - Deals your opponent a "mighty blow."
Steel Gauntlets - Knocks the wind out of your opponent, apparently taking stamina points.