Hornet
Hornet is the protagonist of Silksong and the “princess‑protector” of Hallownest. Armed with a needle and thread, she fights with incredible speed and agility. Her moveset focuses on aerial control, quick dashes and wall‑jumps, and the ability to channel Silk for healing or powerful skills. Hornet’s quest takes her to the distant kingdom of Pharloom to ascend a towering citadel and unravel the mystery of the Voice calling her there.
Merchants and makers
Shakra – cartographer and fighter
Shakra is Pharloom’s wandering mapmaker. She leaves behind trails of metal rings and melodic humming so you can follow her through new regions. When you catch up with her she sells a regional map, quill, compass and pins marking benches, Bellways and vendors. Shakra’s shop travels with Hornet – she is first found in The Marrow, then moves to every new region you enter, but will always return to Bone Bottom if you ring the bell outside her house. Buying her maps early makes navigating Pharloom far less punishing.
Forge‑Daughter – master smith
Hidden deep in the Deep Docks, the Forge‑Daughter is a master craftswoman who builds and upgrades your tools. Give her materials like craftmetal and she’ll forge powerful items such as the Sting Shard (an explosive blade trap), Magma Bell (a fire‑bursting bell) and a Crafting Kit. She never leaves her workshop, so remember to revisit her after collecting new materials. Her dialogue reflects her pride in forging and hints at the history of Pharloom’s industry.
Grindle – snitchbug merchant
Grindle is a talkative snitchbug found imprisoned in The Marrow. Freeing him unlocks a shop near the nearest bench where he sells secrets and curios in exchange for Rosaries. His inventory includes the Thief’s Mark (increases Rosary drops), Snitch Pick, Spool Fragment, Rosary String, Magnetite Dice and more. Grindle will chat endlessly about his shady dealings and often provides rumours that lead to hidden routes or hunts.
Ballow – apprentice diver
Ballow works alongside the Forge‑Daughter in the Deep Docks. Early on he is busy ferrying cargo, but by Act 3 he relocates to the top of the bell tower to help you descend into Pharloom’s depths. Speaking with Ballow rewards the Diving Bell Key, allowing Hornet to operate the giant diving bell used to reach the lowest regions.
Garmond & Zaza – travelling duo
Garmond rides atop his trusty mount Zaza. This cheerful elder and his steed traverse Pharloom, appearing in places like Greymoor, Sinner’s Road and the Whispering Vaults. They often assist Hornet during tough set‑piece battles and will move to the Moorwing boss arena when you’re ready to face that secret fight. Their banter provides levity amidst the hardship.
Sherma – singing pilgrim
Sherma is a small pilgrim who sings to open pathways and gates. You first meet him in Bone Bottom singing to a bell. After you acquire the Drifter’s Cloak, Sherma sets out for the Far Fields and later appears in the Blasted Steps, Choral Chambers and other regions. His songs can open doors, lower platforms and even calm certain enemies. Keeping track of Sherma’s movements can unlock shortcuts and hidden items.
Trobbio – theatrical performer
Trobbio is a flamboyant performer and self‑proclaimed “greatest artist in Pharloom.” He challenges Hornet to optional boss fights on his stage in The Whispering Vaults, with each act becoming more elaborate. Defeating him rewards unique tools like the Claw Mirror and access to secret lore. Trobbio reappears later in Act 3 as a twisted version of himself.
Huntress – predator of Putrified Ducts
Perched above the parasite‑infested Putrified Ducts, the Huntress is a gigantic mantis‑like predator. Speaking to her initiates the Broodfeast hunt quest. She demands seared, shredded and skewered organs collected using specific tools; completing the hunt rewards the Longclaw tool and furthers her brood’s feast. The Huntress never moves – you must travel to her lair whenever you wish to hand in organs or hear her chilling dialogue.
Church Keeper – custodian of the chapel
Little is known about the enigmatic Church Keeper beyond his guardianship of an ancient chapel in Pharloom’s depths. Pilgrims whisper that he keeps watch over a Seal of Binding and offers blessings or lore in exchange for Rosaries. Though he seems benevolent, some NPCs caution that his motives remain inscrutable. Seek him out if you wish to uncover more of Pharloom’s spiritual history.
Seth – Shrine Guardian
Seth is the Shrine Guardian of Shellwood. He is a formidable ant‑like warrior wielding a cymbal‑shield and pin weapon, chosen by the Voice to test Hornet. During your first encounter he fights like a boss: leaping around the arena, deflecting attacks with his shield and launching flurries of strikes. Seth originated from a Make‑A‑Wish collaboration and can be befriended after his defeat. His story explores duty, faith and the burden of guardianship.
Character quests often unlock new tools, shortcuts or arena variants. Follow these NPCs across regions to align their storylines with your upgrade plans and make the climb through Pharloom smoother.