The Shadow of the Erdtree DLC for Elden Ring introduces players to the Realm of Shadow, a land shrouded in mystery and brimming with lore. This realm appears to possess a unique identity, particularly in its relationship to death, challenging existing interpretations and offering new insights into the world's creation.

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The game frequently refers to the Realm of Shadow as a separate land. The presence of Spirit Graves and Grave Birds, particularly prominent in the early stages of the DLC, further emphasizes the land's connection to death. The Suppressing Pillar, which states that "all manners of death wash up here," reinforces this idea. This all suggests that the Realm of Shadow is a historical Land of the Dead, a place where death flowed before the Rune of Death was removed from the Elden Ring.

The grave bird armor set, which refers to the land of spirit Graves as a place "where all death eventually drifts", offers another compelling piece of evidence. The complete absence of Spirit Graves and Grave Birds from the Lands Between underscores the unique relationship between the Realm of Shadow and death.

This perspective aligns with the idea that the Realm of Shadow holds secrets that Marika seeks to conceal, including the source of her godhood and the origins of the Erdtree. Concealing a land connected to death would align with the Golden Order's suppression of death as a concept.

Some theories posit that America intentionally created a separate land of death. This land would serve as an afterl, creating a land of life in the Lands Between. This would thematically align with the shadu tree as a chaotic, dark aspect.

Ultimately, the Realm of Shadow's special status as a land connected to death predates Marika. Whatever that difference is, there must be something different about the Realm of Shadow that made it eligible for veiling. This connection offers a potential key to understanding the mysteries of the DLC and the broader lore of Elden Ring. As players venture into this new realm, the interplay between life, death, and order will undoubtedly reveal new layers of complexity and intrigue.

For those adventurers seeking an edge as they unravel the secrets of the Realm of Shadow, remember that you can always buy Elden Ring Items to bolster your character's strength and resilience.