Leokolin Silk

High-quality silk that used to be famous all over the Rilanga Union.

Properties

Material Characteristics

Raw Leokolin silk was white with a smooth, shiny texture. It was usually dyed, painted or printed with bright colors. More expensive variants featured woven patterns of differently colored threads.

Physical & Chemical Properties

The silk was thin and lightweight, but at the same time more tear-resistant than plant-based fabrics.

Geology & Geography

The lemidrao butterflies were primarily found in the damp forests near the Leoraope River. Several cities in that region, such as Kiv Raopeguri, were heavily focused on the harvest, processing and export of their silk.

Origin & Source

The raw fibers were produced by Lemidrao caterpillars who encased themselves in thick, dense layers of this silk before beginning their metamorphosis into butterflies.

History & Usage

Cultural Significance and Usage

Its luxurious sheen made Leokolin silk a popular choice for expensive clothes and upholstery. As such, there was a high demand for evening wear and business suits of this silk among wealthy upper class people. It was also a common sight in and around governmental buildings, for example in the form of banners and flags.

Refinement

After the lemidrao cocoons were collected from the forest farms, they were boiled to kill the caterpillar inside. Afterwards the silk thread was unraveled, combed and spun into thicker threads that were then woven into fabric.

Byproducts & Sideproducts

The caterpillars from inside the cocoons were a food staple in the regions with a flourishing silk industry. They were often made into sausages, meat balls or pies.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Leokolin silk was exported all over the western side of Mustik Hamesi. During the era of the Rilanga Union, it was available in every major city near the Zugnur and Zugderi Seas. The price, however, meant that it was mostly affordable for high-ranking members of society.

Storage

Long strips of the silk were rolled up to avoid creases. Besides storing the fabric away from dirt and moisture, special care was often taken to shield the expensive material from various animals that might eat or scratch it.

Alternative name(s)

Raop Leokolin

Type

Textile

Value

expensive

Rarity

uncommon

Color

white or dyed any color

Common State

caterpillar cocoons (natural)
sheer woven fabric (processed)

Related Species

• lemidrao

by Kathrin Janowski using Wonderdraft

Southeastern Ralenlos Mountains

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Further Reading