

The Silkanda people are one of the four elven lineages. They are the closest to humans, maintaining relations with Meridian and Asgoran since the 2nd century. Over the centuries they adopt more and more human customs, accepting their currency as early as the 3rd century.
The landscape of the Silkanda Forests
The Silkanda forests, known as Falenia, stretch for hundreds of miles and are characterised by ancient giant trees whose roots penetrate the ground like a living network. These giant trees, often referred to as Silver Pillars, reach heights of over 100 meters and provide shelter and home to the Silkanda. The dense canopy filters the sunlight, bathing the forests in a soft green semi-darkness.
In addition to the trees, there are clear streams, hidden springs and small lakes. Lake Elaran is particularly mysterious: a vast body of water in the heart of the forest, its depth unknown. It is said that a sunken city from the Second Age lies at the bottom of the lake, where ancient magic is said to lie.
The forests are not only a home, but also a challenge. Thick fog that suddenly rises from the ground makes orientation difficult, and some paths seem to lead nowhere. There have been reports of travellers walking in circles for days when they were sure they knew where they were going.
The history of Silkanda
The history of Silkanda stretches back far beyond the boundaries of the present era. In the Third Age, the Elves were created by the Dragons. The immortal Silkanda himself retreated with his people into the forests of the north. It was a time of growth, when the first tree cities were built and the forests became a place of retreat for the people.
In the Fourth Age, their lives changed dramatically. The wrath of Anscharon struck, and in the absence of their immortal leader, the Silkanda scattered for the duration of the forbidden ritual. They moved deeper into the forests of Falenia, establishing new settlements high in the trees. Since then, the Silkanda have had little contact with their sister tribes.
This may have helped to keep them out of the war between Anscharon and Atiarel, even though it took place not too far from them geographically. The Silkanda were also unaware of the fall of the city of Re.
At the beginning of the current era, the Silkanda withdrew completely into their forests. They almost completely avoided contact with other elven tribes. The Silkanda were the first elven people to make contact with the young human peoples, leading to early trade and an alliance with Meridian.
Law and politics in the realm of the Silkanda
The Silkanda do not follow a parliamentary or democratic structure. Instead, the Silkanda are led by the elf who gave them their name, the immortal child of Dragons, Silkanda.
There is no politics as we know it. The Silkanda live close to nature, mostly in small communities, and druids and shamans have the role of guardians of nature. Violations of the laws of nature are seen as disturbances of the balance and must be rectified. For example, anyone who cuts down a tree without the permission of the people must plant three new ones and guard the forest for a year.
The life of the people
The Silkanda live in perfect symbiosis with nature. Most live in elaborate dwellings built into the giant trees. These so-called branch halls are often several storeys high and connected by narrow bridges.
The Silkanda obtain their food by cultivating Plants and gathering fruits that do not overburden the soil. They live largely without eating meat. If the forest is deprived of a living creature, for example during harsh winters, it must be compensated according to the principle of balance. Silkanda life is heavily influenced by rituals, often marking the change of seasons or significant events in an individual's life.
The Silkanda speak little and trade with other peoples even less. Clothing, tools and jewellery are all made from materials found in the forest. This craftsmanship is highly developed but rarely seen outside the community.
Cities and special Places in the Silkanda forests
The Silkanda do not build traditional cities, but live in tree-cities built into the giant silver pillars. These settlements are difficult to find, as they are barely visible from the ground.
- Ilariel: The largest Tree City, located on an island in the centre of Lake Elaran.
- Calenmor: A city on the edge of the forest, abandoned since the Silkandas left during the sacrilege.
- Faylnithar: A city in the highest treetops, accessible only by magical paths.
- Thalvaren: A city in the trees above a gorge, known for its bridges of living wood.
- Tirion: A settlement near the Fogfields, where many travellers disappear without a trace.
- Anarion: An abandoned city said to be haunted by ghosts.
Special Places:
- The Tree of Ithil: A single tree that seems to glow in the moonlight.
- Silver Canyon: A place of metallic shimmering rocks, said to be charged with ancient magic.
- Shadow Grove: an area where no birds sing and even the Silkanda rarely linger.
The language of the silkanda
Male first names
- Eranil, Thalorin, Calenvor, Lorithar, Anaril
Female first names
- Ithilwen, Sylvara, Nythiel, Faylenor, Calenwen
Family names
Silkanda rarely use family names. Instead, they identify themselves by their origin or task, such as of Elaris (born by the sea) or keeper of the mists.
Everyday terms
- Silvaron: Ranger
- Elarith: Water
- Thalvir: Home
- Ilyar: Light
- Caleneth: Life
The Silkanda language is melodic and full of references to nature. Many of their terms are directly related to their environment, making them difficult for outsiders to understand. Some of their ancient texts remain untranslated to this day, and are considered mysteries of the past.