The Splinter Tribe is composed of highly territorial insects armed with sharp claws and horns.[3][4][2] With their shells formed to mimic the branches and bark of Shellwood, the members of the Splinter Tribe are able to lie in wait, perfectly still, for unaware intruders to approach before swiftly launching into a vicious ambush.[5][6][1]
They are led by Sister Splinter, an imposing old insect nested in the heights of Shellwood.[7][3] Using her command over branches and twigs, she attacked and hunted down any pilgrim unlucky enough to find themselves in her territory.[3] Sister Splinter likely fed on the many pilgrims she had killed, further strengthening herself.[8]
Shellwood used to be presided over by Nyleth, whose presence maintained the balance of the wood and allowed bugs to pass safely through it.[9] After Grand Mother Silk arrived in Pharloom, Nyleth's power began to fade, and eventually she went dormant.[10][11] With Nyleth no longer able to stop them, the Splinter Tribe claimed part of Shellwood as their territory,[12] ambushing and attacking any bugs that stumbled upon them and making any attempt to trek through Shellwood much more dangerous.[3][4]
↑ 1.01.1Shakra: "The creatures of this wood can disguise themselves amongst the many branches. Watch for unexpected movement and be prepared to strike."
↑ 3.03.13.23.3Sister Splinter Hunter's Journal entry: "Imposing old insect nesting in the heights of Shellwood. Her command of twig and branch ensured no pilgrim ever survived within her territory."
↑ 4.04.1Hornet dialogue with Nuu: "This creature staked its territory here and attacked as I passed through. You should not linger long. Her tribe remains hidden amongst the branches, disguised and waiting to strike."
↑Splinter Hunter's Journal entry: "Insect formed to imitate a branch, capable of remaining perfectly still for long periods, but unexpectedly swift when roused."
↑Splinterbark Hunter's Journal entry: "Winged insect with a flaky shell that perfectly mimics its environment."
↑Sister Splinter Needolin dialogue: "Children, children, hide and strike!"
↑Sister Splinter Hunter's Journal entry: "This one lived long and fed much. The wood will be much safer for their slaying."
↑Nyleth Hunter's Journal entry: "Her presence would once have maintained the wood's fragile order, allowing the safe passage of bugs across its branches."
↑Snail Shamans: "Seek the old hearts of our kingdom and the last successors to bear their strength. They're still out there, hidden away, much faded by the pale one's long dominion. You must make them stir."
Lore