Hornet is the princess-protector of Hallownest and the main protagonist of Hollow Knight: Silksong. Agile, precise, and deadly with her Needle and thread, she brings a new combat style and energy system to the sequel.
Hornet Bio
- Name: Hornet
- Role: Princess-Protector of Hallownest
- Weapon: Needle and Thread
- Energy Source: Silk
- Gender: Female
- Voice Actor: Makoto Koji
- First Appearance: Hollow Knight (2017)
- Main Role: Protagonist of Hollow Knight: Silksong
Story Background
Hornet is captured by outsider bugs and taken to Pharloom, a distant kingdom ruled by silk and song. She escapes her cage and begins a dangerous journey to the kingdom’s shining citadel.
Her quest is more than survival. Guided by her royal bloodline and haunted by her past, Hornet must uncover Pharloom’s mysteries, face over 200 enemies, and climb to the peak where her fate awaits.
Hornet’s Health and Silk
Health (Masks)
- Hornet begins with 5 Masks.
- Taking damage removes Masks.
- Collecting shards increases maximum health.
- Lifeblood Masks act as temporary extra health.
Silk (Energy System)
- Silk replaces the Knight’s Soul system.
- A spool below the health bar shows Silk.
- Striking enemies fills the spool.
- A full spool holds nine laces.
- Abilities such as Bind consume Silk.
Gameplay Tip: Unlike the Knight, Hornet’s Bind heals instantly but consumes an entire spool. This makes Silk management a critical part of combat strategy.
Weapons and Tools
Needle
Hornet’s main weapon is fast but shorter than the Knight’s Nail.
- Can slash, stab, dash, and bounce on enemies.
- Works as both a weapon and a grappling tool.
- Synergizes with her silken abilities.
Gameplay Tip: Stay mobile and close to enemies. Hornet’s speed compensates for the Needle’s shorter reach.
Tools
Tools are special combat items equipped on Crests.
- Used for offense or defense.
- Do not cost Silk.
- Changed at Benches, similar to Charms.
Abilities
Hornet’s abilities consume Silk.
- Bind: Instantly restore health.
- Silken Skills: New combat powers unlocked throughout the game.
- Movement Skills: Enhance traversal and mobility in Pharloom.
Gameplay Tip: Learn when to Bind. In tougher fights, spending Silk on offense may prevent you from taking damage in the first place.
Inventory
Hornet gathers quest-related items, tools, and collectibles. Many link to NPCs or unlock new areas, pushing exploration and replayability.
Gameplay Overview
Combat Style
Hornet is faster and more acrobatic than the Knight. Her playstyle rewards aggression, timing, and Silk management.
Challenges
- Over 200 unique enemies appear in Silksong.
- Includes assassins, beasts, monsters, and kings.
- Each region introduces new mechanics and foes.
World of Pharloom
Pharloom is a vast interconnected land full of danger and wonder.
- Explore citadels, coral forests, fiery caverns, and haunted grottos.
- Traditional hand-drawn art with orchestral music.
- Secrets, NPCs, and quests hidden throughout.
Hornet vs The Knight – Key Differences
- Weapon: Needle (fast, short) vs Nail (longer, slower).
- Healing: Bind heals instantly with Silk vs Focus with Soul.
- Movement: Hornet is quicker and has more mobility options.
- Energy Source: Silk vs Soul.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Hornet the Knight’s sister?
Yes. Hornet is the daughter of Herrah the Beast and the Pale King, making her a half-sibling of the Knight.
Q: How is Hornet’s combat different from the Knight’s?
Hornet relies on speed and agility. Her Needle allows quicker strikes, but shorter range means she must fight closer.
Q: Does Hornet use Charms like the Knight?
No. Hornet uses Tools and Crests, which work similarly but have their own mechanics.
Q: How does Hornet heal?
Hornet heals instantly using Bind, but it consumes a full Silk spool.
Q: How many enemies are in Silksong?
There are over 200 unique enemies to battle across Pharloom.
Final Notes
Hornet is more than a protector – she is a warrior, seeker, and heir to Hallownest’s legacy. In Hollow Knight: Silksong, her journey across Pharloom blends fast-paced action, exploration, and deep lore, making her one of the most iconic indie game protagonists.
More guides: Hollow Knight Silksong Achievements Trophies, Hollow Knight Silksong Issues and Fixes.