YOU ARE THE REASON
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@travelingbug
How do YOU feel about @brotherlonglegsrw being potentially added to the officialverse?
My ass is struggling to keep up with what's happening in Pharloomblr and Hollowblr, I don't really know what is happening in the officialverse right now.
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*The repairs are done. They sling the bag over their shoulder but don't stand up.
Now...now...*
"...What is there left to be d-done now?"
*They take out the White Lady's charm. The whole reason as to why they were down here. And they simply...stare.
Unmoving.
Lifeless.
Without purpose.*
*Leti has made their way back to the backpack. They see the rip, sigh, and begin repairs. Their movements are sluggish compared to how they usually move.*
how i look trying to interact with my cool, delightful, funny, witty, talented, amazing, popular, outstanding, brilliant, cool mutuals
many such cases
@goaldoesstuff
@skiesbeans
@rainworldguy26
@duckofmisfortuneoffical
🫵
Still don't understand why you guys followed me. Y'all are way too good for me
@stroyent tagged me to share three songs I've been listening to lately, thank you!! :D
In The Presence Of Enemies - Dream Theater
Racing Thoughts - Mariusz Duda
Bilewater - Christopher Larkin
I tag @blueberry-beanie @flamingplay @lady-troll @mothmute @skiesbeans
Fantasmas - HUMBE
A kiss - THE DRIVER ERA
Fluorescent Adolescent - Arctic Monkeys
Really recomended!
@goaldoesstuff @travelingbug you are next bud 🫵
My music selection is more... Obscure.
1. Colm r. McGuiness's rendition of music of the night.
2. Enigmatic Encounter by Benlab Crimson.
3. Poor Man's God by Chase Noseworthy.
Not enough people know Chase Noseworthy, which is a real shame.
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Are you looking for the White Lady?
"... I don't know."
*They're looking. They aren't quite sure what for.*
Woe.
*Your bag tears on rubble. It’s mendable, but it’ll take some time
*Their bag was dropped on a sharp piece of rubble. They don't notice. They stride forward into the ruins. They aren't quite sure why.*
*Leti stand before the Ruins of the once glorious White Palace. The once pure pale ore walls smashed apart and covered in rubble.
They remember when it was open to all bugs, no matter their size or shape.
They remember getting lost in its vast expanse as a child and running into a pale being that inspired them for life.
They remember the king's speeches from upon a balcony that no longer exists.
They remember... Peace.*
.
.
.
"Oh."
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
They make a small chuckle and nod, before looking at them. The dark grey pupils were long since gone.
Funny thou says, Little Ghost wanted to do the same on the first encounter!
But...
This friendship is enough.
A traveler that was willing to help thou in a dangerous form.
Though traveling friends are not new, Knight usually never gets to see them again...
You may not be kin, but this bond is as strong as kinship to Vessel.
Proud as a mantis, Traveler made this monster.
...
Cherished deserved to know, after all these years.
*Ghost watches as their eyes go wide and begin to tear up as they speak.*
"Th-Thank you. Thank you so much. I haven't h-had someone close enough to call a f-friend, let alone k-kin. Not since I b-became a Traveler."
*They wipe at their eyes, but that just smudges the tears around and wets their entire face.*
"I-I f-feel the s-same w-way!"
The Vessel didn't chuckle, but rather giggled like a fox. It was a bit adorable seeing this bug so happy, but in a good way. They had both been through a lot in different journeys, at least one of them has the right to cry tears of joy.
Perhaps unprecedented, they try to use one of their cloak strands to dry off the other's face. It was certainly something that hasn't been done before, though they didn't mind.
After that, they motion the traveler to come away from the pit. They've been here long enough, and Ghost was sure the fellow wouldn't want to linger around anyways.
As they walk, the creature begins to write, tail wagging back and forth.
Ghost gives all of the welcomes.
But now that thou thinks about it...
Would Traveler like a new nickname?
Since the world seems shy to share your true name, perhaps a title other than "Traveler"?
Even if Knight isn't good at nicknames.
*They follow the vessel out with a renewed vigor and a clearer mind. They read the note and begin thinking.*
"Perhaps, th-though I wish I could just say my r-real name. But... Maybe..."
*They look around for a second.*
"M-Maybe I could at least tell the f-first part of my name! Maybe the w-world won't stop that?
They tilt their head, but the idea interests them.
That could work.
Would thou like to write it in Ghost's journal for just in case?
The pages get flipped all the way to the end of the journal when the other finishes reading, and they tap at the back of the last piece of paper, handing them the pen.
"O-Ok, that's a good idea!"
*They take the pen and notebook and jot it down. Closing it and handing it back, they take a deep breath, lean down and whisper it in their ear (or whatever vessels have for ears.)
The world definitely shook as the word is spoken, but not enough to drown it out:*
.
.
.
"Leti"
...
The journal gets flipped to the page that the Vessel was writing on previously to make their response...
And...
That is a very lovely name.
Knight will keep it a secret, if thou wishes.
Locked to remember in this Heart of Void.
They put a hand on their own chest, moving their claws down slightly to show a good half of the Void Heart. It was beating, slow and quiet and calm, before they cover it up with the same hand that then pulled away, the heart gone like it had been buried under some dirt.
Mine heart is usually hidden, only shown to those very close.
But it beats, no matter what.
*Their smile widens, having never received a compliment for their name before.*
"I th-think that is a g-good idea. I d-don't know what would happen if you tried to sh-share it. And thank you for t-trusting me enough to show me you h-heart."
*They drop to their knees and spread out their claws.*
"One last h-hug?"
Little Ghost nods, and at the offer, the tail swishes around excitedly before they give them a big hug, the purr strong enough for the other to feel it.
After that, once they let go, they write one final page.
Ghost will go up to Dirtmouth to sleep proper.
Thou wishes you well on your journey.
See you soon?
"Y-Yes, I'm sure we w-will."
*And with that, they part ways, Little Ghost making their way up to Dirtmouth and Leti making their way to the White Palace Ruins.*
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After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
They make a small chuckle and nod, before looking at them. The dark grey pupils were long since gone.
Funny thou says, Little Ghost wanted to do the same on the first encounter!
But...
This friendship is enough.
A traveler that was willing to help thou in a dangerous form.
Though traveling friends are not new, Knight usually never gets to see them again...
You may not be kin, but this bond is as strong as kinship to Vessel.
Proud as a mantis, Traveler made this monster.
...
Cherished deserved to know, after all these years.
*Ghost watches as their eyes go wide and begin to tear up as they speak.*
"Th-Thank you. Thank you so much. I haven't h-had someone close enough to call a f-friend, let alone k-kin. Not since I b-became a Traveler."
*They wipe at their eyes, but that just smudges the tears around and wets their entire face.*
"I-I f-feel the s-same w-way!"
The Vessel didn't chuckle, but rather giggled like a fox. It was a bit adorable seeing this bug so happy, but in a good way. They had both been through a lot in different journeys, at least one of them has the right to cry tears of joy.
Perhaps unprecedented, they try to use one of their cloak strands to dry off the other's face. It was certainly something that hasn't been done before, though they didn't mind.
After that, they motion the traveler to come away from the pit. They've been here long enough, and Ghost was sure the fellow wouldn't want to linger around anyways.
As they walk, the creature begins to write, tail wagging back and forth.
Ghost gives all of the welcomes.
But now that thou thinks about it...
Would Traveler like a new nickname?
Since the world seems shy to share your true name, perhaps a title other than "Traveler"?
Even if Knight isn't good at nicknames.
*They follow the vessel out with a renewed vigor and a clearer mind. They read the note and begin thinking.*
"Perhaps, th-though I wish I could just say my r-real name. But... Maybe..."
*They look around for a second.*
"M-Maybe I could at least tell the f-first part of my name! Maybe the w-world won't stop that?
They tilt their head, but the idea interests them.
That could work.
Would thou like to write it in Ghost's journal for just in case?
The pages get flipped all the way to the end of the journal when the other finishes reading, and they tap at the back of the last piece of paper, handing them the pen.
"O-Ok, that's a good idea!"
*They take the pen and notebook and jot it down. Closing it and handing it back, they take a deep breath, lean down and whisper it in their ear (or whatever vessels have for ears.)
The world definitely shook as the word is spoken, but not enough to drown it out:*
.
.
.
"Leti"
...
The journal gets flipped to the page that the Vessel was writing on previously to make their response...
And...
That is a very lovely name.
Knight will keep it a secret, if thou wishes.
Locked to remember in this Heart of Void.
They put a hand on their own chest, moving their claws down slightly to show a good half of the Void Heart. It was beating, slow and quiet and calm, before they cover it up with the same hand that then pulled away, the heart gone like it had been buried under some dirt.
Mine heart is usually hidden, only shown to those very close.
But it beats, no matter what.
*Their smile widens, having never received a compliment for their name before.*
"I th-think that is a g-good idea. I d-don't know what would happen if you tried to sh-share it. And thank you for t-trusting me enough to show me you h-heart."
*They drop to their knees and spread out their claws.*
"One last h-hug?"
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
They make a small chuckle and nod, before looking at them. The dark grey pupils were long since gone.
Funny thou says, Little Ghost wanted to do the same on the first encounter!
But...
This friendship is enough.
A traveler that was willing to help thou in a dangerous form.
Though traveling friends are not new, Knight usually never gets to see them again...
You may not be kin, but this bond is as strong as kinship to Vessel.
Proud as a mantis, Traveler made this monster.
...
Cherished deserved to know, after all these years.
*Ghost watches as their eyes go wide and begin to tear up as they speak.*
"Th-Thank you. Thank you so much. I haven't h-had someone close enough to call a f-friend, let alone k-kin. Not since I b-became a Traveler."
*They wipe at their eyes, but that just smudges the tears around and wets their entire face.*
"I-I f-feel the s-same w-way!"
The Vessel didn't chuckle, but rather giggled like a fox. It was a bit adorable seeing this bug so happy, but in a good way. They had both been through a lot in different journeys, at least one of them has the right to cry tears of joy.
Perhaps unprecedented, they try to use one of their cloak strands to dry off the other's face. It was certainly something that hasn't been done before, though they didn't mind.
After that, they motion the traveler to come away from the pit. They've been here long enough, and Ghost was sure the fellow wouldn't want to linger around anyways.
As they walk, the creature begins to write, tail wagging back and forth.
Ghost gives all of the welcomes.
But now that thou thinks about it...
Would Traveler like a new nickname?
Since the world seems shy to share your true name, perhaps a title other than "Traveler"?
Even if Knight isn't good at nicknames.
*They follow the vessel out with a renewed vigor and a clearer mind. They read the note and begin thinking.*
"Perhaps, th-though I wish I could just say my r-real name. But... Maybe..."
*They look around for a second.*
"M-Maybe I could at least tell the f-first part of my name! Maybe the w-world won't stop that?
They tilt their head, but the idea interests them.
That could work.
Would thou like to write it in Ghost's journal for just in case?
The pages get flipped all the way to the end of the journal when the other finishes reading, and they tap at the back of the last piece of paper, handing them the pen.
"O-Ok, that's a good idea!"
*They take the pen and notebook and jot it down. Closing it and handing it back, they take a deep breath, lean down and whisper it in their ear (or whatever vessels have for ears.)
The world definitely shook as the word is spoken, but not enough to drown it out:*
.
.
.
"Leti"
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
They make a small chuckle and nod, before looking at them. The dark grey pupils were long since gone.
Funny thou says, Little Ghost wanted to do the same on the first encounter!
But...
This friendship is enough.
A traveler that was willing to help thou in a dangerous form.
Though traveling friends are not new, Knight usually never gets to see them again...
You may not be kin, but this bond is as strong as kinship to Vessel.
Proud as a mantis, Traveler made this monster.
...
Cherished deserved to know, after all these years.
*Ghost watches as their eyes go wide and begin to tear up as they speak.*
"Th-Thank you. Thank you so much. I haven't h-had someone close enough to call a f-friend, let alone k-kin. Not since I b-became a Traveler."
*They wipe at their eyes, but that just smudges the tears around and wets their entire face.*
"I-I f-feel the s-same w-way!"
The Vessel didn't chuckle, but rather giggled like a fox. It was a bit adorable seeing this bug so happy, but in a good way. They had both been through a lot in different journeys, at least one of them has the right to cry tears of joy.
Perhaps unprecedented, they try to use one of their cloak strands to dry off the other's face. It was certainly something that hasn't been done before, though they didn't mind.
After that, they motion the traveler to come away from the pit. They've been here long enough, and Ghost was sure the fellow wouldn't want to linger around anyways.
As they walk, the creature begins to write, tail wagging back and forth.
Ghost gives all of the welcomes.
But now that thou thinks about it...
Would Traveler like a new nickname?
Since the world seems shy to share your true name, perhaps a title other than "Traveler"?
Even if Knight isn't good at nicknames.
*They follow the vessel out with a renewed vigor and a clearer mind. They read the note and begin thinking.*
"Perhaps, th-though I wish I could just say my r-real name. But... Maybe..."
*They look around for a second.*
"M-Maybe I could at least tell the f-first part of my name! Maybe the w-world won't stop that?
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
They make a small chuckle and nod, before looking at them. The dark grey pupils were long since gone.
Funny thou says, Little Ghost wanted to do the same on the first encounter!
But...
This friendship is enough.
A traveler that was willing to help thou in a dangerous form.
Though traveling friends are not new, Knight usually never gets to see them again...
You may not be kin, but this bond is as strong as kinship to Vessel.
Proud as a mantis, Traveler made this monster.
...
Cherished deserved to know, after all these years.
*Ghost watches as their eyes go wide and begin to tear up as they speak.*
"Th-Thank you. Thank you so much. I haven't h-had someone close enough to call a f-friend, let alone k-kin. Not since I b-became a Traveler."
*They wipe at their eyes, but that just smudges the tears around and wets their entire face.*
"I-I f-feel the s-same w-way!"
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
A tail is wrapped around their body, pulling them closer in a gentle embrace, and a hand rubbed the back of the shaking bug's head for extra comfort.
It is alright, that happened many years ago.
Thy shell of Void should hate him, revile him.
...But thou cannot.
Perhaps sympathy has clouded this mind.
Even so, her tribe turned on their god for a reason.
She made others suffer for what her bugs did.
Father did nothing than build a kingdom.
The Vessel stares at the shells of their siblings before making a saddned sigh.
This is all of what Ghost can share.
Do not go down there, this is not a light warning.
My siblings, they will tear you apart, simply with the hunger of Void.
Anything you have, it won't work.
They whine.
Knight doesn't want thy close to them be slaughtered by their own kin...
*They return the embrace. It takes a few minutes, but they begin to calm down.*
"O-Ok. I think I understand. And d-don't worry, I wasn't p-planning on it!"
*After all this time, the traveler finally know exactly how the infection ended and the story behind it. Of the gods that fought in the background of it all.*
"I w-wish I had something to give you. T-To thank you for telling me."
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After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
The Knight simply nods.
Father was desperate to contain Infection.
So he made us.
To have a vessel that follows this saying:
"No mind to think."
"No will to break."
"No voice to cry suffering."
But...
He loved his chosen too much.
Instilled a memory without realizing, and the Radiance broke them years later.
The Hollow Knight.
...
We were the last resort, when all other methods failed.
Regret and shame he felt.
But in his own words, there was "no cost too great".
*They remember the infection. They watched their family and friends fall to it. And yet, despite that, they could not believe what they had believed to be a benevolent god had done to stop it. To sacrifice so much.*
"I'm s-so sorry."
*Their gaze hasn't left the shells. The shaking is getting worse and their breathing is uneven.*
After a long travel down, the traveling bug sets his feet onto the floor of the door to the Abyss, or at least where a door once was. He was just in time, as he could see the little monster already stumbling from the entrance, walking towards him.
They don't seem to notice him yet, and their balance was shakey, head hanging down like they just woke up and were quite tired, grunting here and there as well.
*At first, They're relieved to see them again, but then get worried when they see them struggling to move.*
"F-Friend? A-Are you alright?"
*They move forward, slowly, as one would approach a wounded Tiktik. As much as they would like to forget about everything and hug them, their side throbbed in painful reminder of the fight.*
@the-monster-design-hub
Mmf...
They stand, swaying a bit, until the actually acknowledge the new presence.
...Huh?
A moment of staring for a few uncomfortable seconds before realizing who it was.
T-Traveler?
They tilt their head, completely forgetting that the bug can't hear them.
*They halt their approach now that they have been seen, and the silence is deafening to them.*
"A-Are you hurt anywhere, o-or umm..?"
*They aren't sure how to proceed. They want to approach, but they're not sure of anything as Ghost continues to stare.*
"L-Little one?"
Mmmmm...
No?
Are you?
Now they walk closer, examining his body to see if there were any injuries. Everything seemed fine...
Until they notice the wound from the fight.
Some more staring, and then a sudden, panicked screech.
TRAVELER!
W-WHAT HAPPENED!?
Strangely, the roots are completely limp, unmoving, but the monster was freaking out regardless. They put their claws onto the other's shoulders, their grip tight.
TELL ME!
WHO HURT THOU!?
*They remain as still as they can (which admittedly, is not very still) as Little Ghost approaches them. They flinch at the screech and look panicked as the Vessel grabs them by the shoulders, but then calms down. Out of nowhere, they hug the small vessel with all their strength.*
"Y-You're ok. Thank the Lady you're ok."
*If the vessel has sensation in its roots right now, they would feel the drip, drip, drip of tears falling onto them.*
They were as stiff as a statue, then immediately hug back, digging their digits into the backpack without realizing it.
The black protrusions flinched on every teardrop, rising up like a plant growing from the ground. Their tail brushes against one of the traveler's legs as the creature starts to whine.
They have no memory of what happened, but why do they feel so much...guilt?
*They stay there for what feels like an eternity before the traveler finally pulls away.*
"O-Ok... Ok. I'm ok n-now."
*They smile at Ghost as he speaks, before pulling the backpack off and sitting down. They pat the spot next to them, leaving the invitation to join when they feel like it.*
"Based on th-the way you were screeching, you w-were trying to say something, but I c-can't understand. D-Do you still have your n-notebook?"
That's good...
Of course, they take the invitation and sit down next to them. When they were told about not being understood, it takes them a moment to process the information when it clicks in the form of temporary tense shoulders. After making a facepalm and groaning, dumbfounded on how they could forget such a thing, they nod and shuffle in their cloak, soon taking out the journal and pen and started writing. The words shown were a bit sloppy, but still readable.
Ghost sorry.
Forgot about Void Speak.
Had slept for a while but still sleepy.
What is Traveler doing down here?
*They giggle a bit when they realize that they had forgotten due to being sleepy.*
"It's a-alright. I can forget things when I a-am just waking up t-too."
*They seem a touch embarrassed when reading the last part.*
"I u-umm.. came down here to l-look for you. After the fight at Kings S-Station, I had to rest and r-recover before I started making my w-way to the White Palace. Soon after, I h-heard that you were waking and redirected my r-route. Your s-siblings told me that they had b-brought you down, so I just w-went as far down as I could, which led me to h-here, and I f-found you."
*Their wringing their claws as they tell the story, and they at some point seem to have grabbed something from their bag and are absent mindedly working.*
Ghost simply listens, although their tail shifts around uncomfortably when the event was being explained.
Battle?
What battle?
What do they mean their siblings told them they were carried below?
And most importantly.
Was that why they had that wound...?
The Vessel was about to ask when they noticed the action being made, so they decide to write down a question related to that first.
What is Traveler holding?
"O-Oh umm, this?"
*They are holding a charm, one that looks familiar. It is a facsimile of the White Lady's face. The vessel has seen the traveler working on it before, albeit briefly.*
"I-It's a umm... Passion project? I-I hope to give it to the W-White Lady should I see her again. I was just f-fiddling with it while I talked th-though."
A perk up of the head, as this time they recognized it immediately, a little purr escaping from them even.
But it doesn't last long, as those wonderings were still bothering them.
So they write once more, and share the results again.
Knight remembers.
Still very lovely.
But...
What battle?
Is that why you're hurt?
Who hurt you?
What happened while thy shell was asleep?
They don't remember any of what went down, do they...?
*The traveler smiled at first, then reading the rest caused it to vanish. They shift uncomfortablely. They don't know how to break the news.*
"I uhh, w-well, you see umm.."
*How would one inform another of what their Shade did whilst they were sleeping?*
The body language didn't go unnoticed, Ghost tilting their head (with added concern mind you), before making their response.
Is it bad...?
Traveler doesn't have to tell.
Ghost just really worried about wound...
A point to said wound. Looking at it again made them wince in discomfort.
Whoever hurt their friend must've done so with malicious intent, or hopefully just some wild bug mishap that wasn't too serious.
*They gently place a hand on the wound and sigh.*
"N-No, you should kn-know. It's only right."
*They take a deep breath, then begin:*
"I w-wasn't there when it happened, but something h-happened to you. You b-became a... giant mass of void? A-And you were headed for The City Of T-Tears. I learned of it when a tall b-bug who said they were your sibling told me of what w-was happening. I offered my h-help and we intercepted you at Kings S-Station along with two others, b-but you... weren't yourself. You a-attacked us, and we had to subdue you. I t-tried to stay away and just provide support by creating a smokescreen, but you s-saw through it and landed a hit."
*They patted the wound lightly.*
"Nothing s-serious, but enough that I needed to rest and r-recuperate afterwards. A-Anyway, once we had you subdued, your siblings... Umm... Calmed you down. S-Somehow. I wasn't sure exactly how. B-But in the end, they returned you to the abyss a-and we went our separate ways."
*They took a moment before asking the big question:*
"A-Are you alright?"
?
All they did was stare. It felt like hours to the both of them when the story concluded.
Then, for the first time, a couple of drops start falling from the monster's eyes, filled with Void. Were they...crying?
The roots weakly rest themselves against their mask, and they let go of their journal and pen in shock.
Ghost...h-hurt friend...?
The traveling bug is embraced in a tight hug, more stronger than the last. Sniffles and whines started being heard, the tears feeling like tingles throughout the body. Apologies were muttered, even though the other couldn't hear them.
Safe to say, they weren't taking it very well.
*They hug back, muttering gentle reassurances almost as if they could hear them as they rubbed circles on the back.*
"It's ok. It wasn't your fault. We're both ok. That's what matters."
It took a while, but the familiar calm purr replaced the whines and their grip loosened. The affection to the back did a lot to put them at ease, along with their words full of genuine kindness.
As is always at some point, the roots relaxed and the tail swayed side by side. In repayment for the circles, they nuzzled against their cheek as carefully as they could.
Never in their years did they imagine this much craving of touch sated by two simple actions is what they needed...
*As they nuzzle against their cheek, the traveler begins humming a song. One that Ghost does not recognize. It is calming, yet uplifting at the same time.*
The Vessel continues to purr, until eventually letting go, even though they didn't want to. For a moment, pupils similar to Holly can be seen, except more of a circle shape than oval. The tears had stopped, tail relaxed, and roots in their default pose. They then pick up the journal with its pen and jot down their thoughts.
Thank you.
Ghost still regretful of such actions.
But happy thou is ok.
A pause, as they look behind them at the entrance to the Abyss. Should they tell them?
Perhaps it was only a matter of time. They're both here anyways, it's better now than never at this point.
Knight has something to share too.
A secret, of where we came from.
It is only fair to repay what you told me of the struggle.
*The traveler smile, glad the other is willing to forgive themselves.*
"Hey i-it take a bit more than that to k-keep me down!"
*They hit their chest a bit too hard with a claw and immediately had a coughing fit.*
"I'm ok! I'm ok."
*They tilt their head a bit at the second batch of text. They remembered that the little one had almost told them about their origins before, but never finished.*
"S-Sure, if you're comfortable with me kn-knowing."
There was a little chuckle, some slapstick humor to lighten the mood a bit, before they motion the traveler to come with them.
They now stand at the edge of the pit, broken shells pilled high enough to be barely spotted from the cliffs' height. Ghost looks at the sea of cracked and chipped heads, horns of different shapes and sizes. The tail hides between their legs and under their cloak as they give context.
This is the Abyss.
Ghost and Siblings born from eggs here.
Eggs tainted with Void.
Many climbed to reach this ledge.
Very few survived.
The first one at the top was declared the Pure Vessel by father.
There was a seal to keep others out, but has since been gone.
Me and others that lived escaped through other means afterwards.
...
Siblings still live down there.
*The traveler looked out at the sea of broken shells. They can't speak. There must be millions in what they can see alone. Reading the notebook to get context didn't help much. One thought slipped through before they could stop it.*
"It so dark."
*Their claws are quaking slightly.*
