Arilyn Moonblade is a distinguished figure within the Forgotten Realms, a prominent fantasy setting. Created by author Elaine Cunningham, she is a half-elven Harper agent and master swordswoman. Arilyn is known for her independent spirit and her deep connection to a unique elven artifact, the Moonblade, from which she derives her surname.
Character Background
Arilyn Moonblade’s heritage is a blend of elven grace and human resilience, born to Princess Amnestria of Evermeet, a moon elf, and Bran Skorlskun, a human ranger. She spent her formative years in the elven city of Evereska, where her mixed lineage often made her feel like an outsider. This early experience of not fully belonging to either world profoundly influenced her character, fostering a sense of self-reliance. When Arilyn was fifteen, her mother was tragically assassinated, an event that marked a turning point in her life. This loss spurred her to inherit her mother’s ancient Moonblade and dedicate herself to mastering swordsmanship. She eventually became an operative for the Harpers, a clandestine organization dedicated to justice.
Role and Narrative Arc
Arilyn Moonblade upholds justice and maintains balance in the Forgotten Realms, often operating under the Harpers’ purview. Her stories often cast her as a skilled investigator, unraveling complex mysteries and confronting dangerous adversaries. A recurring theme is her struggle with identity, as her half-elven heritage means she is fully accepted by neither humans nor elves. This internal conflict shapes many of her motivations and decisions. Her adventures frequently delve into the secrets of her past, including her mother’s death and the lore tied to her Moonblade. Over time, her relationship with the human bard Danilo Thann evolves from a professional partnership into a deep personal bond, adding another layer to her character’s development.
Powers and Equipment
Arilyn Moonblade is a master combatant and operative. She exhibits exceptional agility, keen stealth, and remarkable swordsmanship. Her most distinctive equipment is her Moonblade, a powerful elven longsword passed down through her maternal lineage. This sentient artifact accumulates magical properties from each of its previous wielders, making it potent. The Moonblade grants her abilities such as enhanced swing speed, resistance to fire, and the capacity to glow blue as a warning of imminent danger. It can also provide silent warnings, induce prophetic dreams, project illusions for disguise, and even summon spectral elfshadows to aid her. The blade is selective, rejecting and harming any individual it deems unworthy.
Significant Appearances
Arilyn Moonblade is most prominently featured in Elaine Cunningham’s “Songs & Swords” novel series. The first novel, Elfshadow, introduces her as she investigates a series of murders targeting Harpers, working alongside Danilo Thann. Subsequent books in the series, including Elfsong, Silver Shadows, The Dream Spheres, and Thornhold, further explore her character and adventures. These works delve deeper into the lore of the Moonblades and her evolving role within the Forgotten Realms. Beyond the main series, Arilyn has also appeared in various short stories and anthologies.