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Chapter Text

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𝘐𝘯 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘴 𝘣𝘦𝘺𝘰𝘯𝘥, 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘢𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘯𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘨𝘳𝘦𝘵, 𝘍𝘰𝘳 𝘯𝘰𝘯𝘦 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘵𝘢𝘮𝘦 𝘰𝘶𝘳 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘢𝘨𝘦 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘴, 𝘺𝘦𝘵 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘮𝘦𝘵, 𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘵𝘤𝘩, 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘢𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵, 𝘸𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘥, 𝘣𝘢𝘴𝘦 𝘪𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘤𝘵𝘴 𝘸𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘳𝘦𝘥𝘦𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘥, 𝘈 𝘸𝘰𝘳𝘭𝘥 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘨𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘣𝘶𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘣𝘦𝘢𝘴𝘵 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘩𝘢𝘥 𝘯𝘦𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘮𝘦𝘥.

- From 'Elegy for Hallownest' by Monomon the Teacher

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It spreads. The Vessel's shell cracks. 𝐈𝐭 𝐬𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬. The Eternal Kingdom will meet its end. A pleading scream escapes from the temple's inner sanctum. Something is coming. Something not of this world, although produced by the kingdom.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The knight's eyes, hollow sockets, look upon the scene with not a look the average bug could describe. A small town, with lights flickering in the distance. Not a sound could be heard from said village. Only the howling winds bellowed. They had felt something calling them. Something... familiar.
They dropped down into the cavernous hole that probably led to the town. Nail in hand, the knight fell. The blade was their implement, the nail a weapon they had since before their mind could recall. It was a part of them, a part that never left.
With a thud, the knight hits the ground, their pale shell unmarred by their descent. Looking around, the knight saw an old door, so ancient that it would not budge when the knight tried to open it. Nail unsheathed, they struck the door, and it cracked, revealing a tunnel that housed more of these doors. Without hesitation, they broke down the doors, and behind one was a crawling beast. A Crawlid, its eyes a slight orange hue. The Knight quickly slew the beast with two strikes of their old Nail. It was no challenge, as orange ooze flew from its leaking body. When it fell, fossilised shells scattered onto the floors. With no thought, the knight picked it up and continued their way, slaying any beast that they saw, until they saw an egg-shaped tablet that glowed a pale light.

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Higher beings, these words are for you alone.
Your great strength marks you amongst us. Focus your soul, and you shall achieve feats of which others can only dream.
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The words etched on the tablet resonated within the knight. The room after held a Vengefly, a flying beast, also with that orange hue in its eyes. On sight of the knight, it flew towards the knight, and as they slashed their nail, they missed, allowing the Vengefly to manage a hit, cracking the pale figure's shell. On retaliation, the knight quickly striked back, and with two hits of the nail, the flying beast burst in an explosion of orange goo. A black substance leaked from the Knight's cracked shell. With the information they acquired, they 𝐅𝐨𝐜𝐮𝐬𝐞𝐝. The inky liquid vanished along with the cracks it bled from. They continued on and found a pulsing blue cocoon, hanging from the ceiling in a chamber. It shivered and quivered. Something was festering within. With the blade, they cut open the sack, and two blue seed-like beings popped out, trying to scurry away. The knight looked at the duo. Something took over the knight's natural instincts. They grabbed one of these creatures and brought it up to their... neck. The knight hadn't done this in a long time. They never ate or drank anything, but they still had the ability to, even with their lack of mouth. As the seed inched closer to their neck, a slit grew, and tiny tendrils wrapped around it, then pulling it in. They felt something strange, something new. They felt invigorated, as though they could take on G̶o̶d̶s̶ the whole world.
Continuing on, they felt the floor shook, then it caved in, the knight falling down. Before them, an ocean of spikes filled the area, with platforms over. Jumping on one onto another, dodging any falling stalactites, they managed to get to the other side of the ocean. They climbed back up to the level on which they had fallen from then traversed the caverns.
Another egg-tablet sat, with a colossal ancient stone door by it.

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Higher beings, these words are for you alone.
Beyond this point, you enter the land of King and Creator.
Step across this threshold and obey our laws.
Bear witness to the last and only civilisation, the eternal Kingdom.
Hallownest

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The knight looked at the titanic door. A Kingdom, supposedly the last and only one, stood behind it. The call grew stronger. The one yearning for the Knight's arrival stood somewhere within Hallownest.
Unsheathing their Nail, the knight did what they knew they must do. One, two, three, four, the door starts to crumble. Five, six, seven, eight, chunks of stone fall from the door. Nine, ten, eleven, twelve, a white light seeps from the cracks. With the final thirteenth strike, the kingdom had been opened.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They stepped through and found... a collapsed bridge. They looked at the horizon and saw that village, closer than ever. They leapt from the bridge and fell down onto the ground. Wind kept howling, stray grass blowing in its direction, they marched towards the town. It was empty, safe for one elderly bug that stood by a bench, alone.

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Ho there, traveller. I'm afraid there's only me left to offer welcome. Our town's fallen quiet, you see.
The other residents, they've all disappeared. Headed down that well, one by one, into the caverns below.
Used to be there was a great kingdom beneath our town. It's long fell to ruin, yet it still draws folks into its depths.
Wealth, glory, enlightenment, that darkness seems to promise all things. I'm sure you too seek your dreams down there.
Well, watch out. It's a sickly air that fills the place. Creatures turn mad, and travellers are robbed of their memories.
Perhaps dreams aren't such great things after all...
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The elder, introduced as the Elderbug, watched the knight with a gaze filled with a blend of curiosity and wariness.

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Many used to come, hoping the kingdom would fulfil their desires.
Hallownest, it was once called. Supposedly, the greatest kingdom there ever was, full of treasures and secrets.
Hm. Now, it's nothing more than a poisonous tomb full of monsters and madness.
Everything fades eventually, I suppose.
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The knight continued to listen to the sad bug's words.

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Feeling tired? That bench may be iron, but I assure you it's quite comfortable. There's no better place to collect your thoughts before heading below.
Plus I enjoy the company. Not that you seem the talkative sort.
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The knight heeded the recommendation and sat on the metal bench in the town's centre. Its steel was frigid, but it did not bother them. Their own shell felt like ice. They felt relaxed. That invigoration, that feeling in their shell, that sturdiness, from consuming the blue liquid from earlier dissipated, and the knight was left feeling more at ease than ever before.
They stood back up, rejuvenated by the bench's comforting touch, then looked at the well the elder mentioned. The call that brought them here derived from the other side of it. To the Elderbug's chagrin, the knight approached the well. On their way to the well, they saw a house with a small sign that read,

For all your mapping supplies, we will be opening soon.

- Iselda & Cornifer

That in mind, they continued to the well. They looked down, then descended into it.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They dropped into a set of crossroads, forgotten by time. The air was heavy, but the knight felt propelled forth into the caverns of this place.

The area was filled with white ferns and grass sparsely populating it. Small husk-like statues too decorated the area. The walls and floors were made up of large fossils from long ago.

They saw a bug, meandering about. Its eyes had an orange glow to them, and when the knight approached, it started to shamble towards them, arms flailing. Without remorse, the knight raised their nail and struck the bug down. It fell to the ground. On closer inspection, the knight saw this was just a husk, somehow reanimated by a strange force. Pocketing the shells, it dropped, the knight continued on.

A worn-down marble archway stood. The knight passed it and found a giant carcass, whose eyes were turned windows and mouth to a door. Above said door, three depictions of masks were drawn onto the beast's forehead. The carcass had long horns, and its body continued on behind, longer than any creature the knight had encountered.
Entering the carcass, its insides were renowned into a building, and lanterns hung from the ceiling. Something was strange about these lanterns, for they did not contain any flame or Lumaflies to illuminate. Something else was within. In the middle of the building sat a grand black egg, with an entrance sealed off. Those three masks were carved into it. One with four eyes, one six eyes, and the last with a single cycloptic eye.
Standing before the egg is an insect. His Nail was sheathed, and a mask decorated his head. He looked as though he was pondering about the egg, his hand stroking his chin. Approaching the bug, who looked to be a pillbug, they tried to see how his mask looked. Unfortunately, they were too short. Their stubby feet truly were a curse. The bug turned to face the knight.

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Hello there! How delightful to meet another traveller on these forgotten roads.
You're a short one, but you've a strong look about you.
I'm Quirrel. I have something of an obsession with uncharted places.
This ancient kingdom holds many fascinating mysteries, and one of the most intriguing of them is standing right before us.
A great stone egg, lying in the corpse of an ancient kingdom. And this egg... Is it warm? It certainly gives off a unique air.
Can it be opened? There are strange marks all over it...
I do so love a mystery... And who knows what other marvels lie even deeper below us...
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Quirrel's voice was soft, yet held a curiosity worthy of a scholar.

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For so long, I've felt drawn here. So many tales full of wonders and horrors. No longer could I resist. I just had to see it for myself.
And what a time I chose to arrive! This dead world has sprung to life.
The creatures are riled up, and the earth rumbles. The air is thick. I wonder what could have brought it all about?
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He, too, was called forth to this kingdom. Although, a feeling within told the knight something else called for Quirrel.

This call the knight felt, it came from inside the egg. Whatever was sealed within yearned for escape, and called the knight for aid. The call felt... kin. The knight felt a pulse coursing from inside the egg. The knight never knew their brood, and if this is the closest to family they get, they will aid to release it.
They continued listening to the pillbug.

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To persevere in this ruin, that old nail alone just won't be enough. Though that's no problem! One only has to look around.
Plenty have come before us and most have met their grisly end, many more equipped than you and I.
I'm sure they wouldn't mind were a fellow explorer to relieve them of their tools. It's a kindness really. The dead shouldn't be burdened with such things.
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This Nail was like an extension of the knight's accursed short stubby arms. They wouldn't abandon it, even if they were to find a better nail, even one powerful enough to slay G̶o̶d̶s̶ any beast.

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Did you pass that town above? What a gloomy little place. And such majesty hidden right beneath!
I suppose that's why they've all headed down here. Who could resist such possibilities?
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The knight left the temple, a new mission instilled: Open the black egg of the temple.

Chapter Text

The room after the temple was lined with stalactites and stalagmites, along with more husks, one with a big horn of its head. Approaching it lead it to start charging at them, the horm aimed at the knight. They jumped above the attack and struck from behind. With three slashes of their nail, the horned husk was head. The room still housed two other husks, and while attacking one, a stalactite dropped from the ceiling. As the knight had no time to dodge it, they striked it with their, which led to it aiming at a husk, who died immediately from it. What skills this enigmatic knight had. There was, unsurprisingly, a crossroad after the stalactite-infested room. Up or down. Heading up, they found themselves in a room with a huge husk. It wielded a club that looked to be made of some beast's tooth. It stood, staring at a jar containing an adorable green grub. It was whimpering in fear. Who would trap this cute bug in a jar? On approaching the husk, it woke up. Quickly, it marched towards the knight and slammed its club. The knight almost didn't manage to dodge the attack. In the brief period the husk took to pull the club back up, the knight managed a strike. The husk guard slammed its club on the ground again, but this time, a small shockwave manifested. Although easily dodged, due to the knight being caught off guard, they were hit with the shockwave. The dance of the two continued on. The husk slammed the club, the knight striked it, the husk slammed the club again. Occasionally, a shockwave would form, and the knight would hop above it. It continued until the husk was slain. Orange miasma erupted from its body, and it fell, the club dropping down, too. Much fossilised shell dropped from it, too. Pocketing the shells, the knight approached the grub. On seeing the cloaked figure, the tiny bug squealed with joy and flailed its tiny limbs in the jar. Without hesitation, the knight striked the jar with their blade, shattering it. The grub, now free, hopped about and squealed a sound recoginizable as a thank you. It then burrowed into the earth, digging towards probably its burrow. The knight felt something in their being. Ignoring it, they realised this was a dead end. Returning the forked path, they descended instead.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

A mine stood there. On entering it, pink crystals stuck from the walls. Singing was heard from deeper in the mines. Following the song, they found the voice's owner, a miner bug with a claw-pick in hand, mining away. She wore a helmet with a Lumafly light crested on it for light.

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Ohhh, bury my mother, pale and slight, bury my father with his eyes shut tight! Bury my sisters two by two, and then when you're done, let's bury me toooo! Ha ha ha, do you know that one? It's one of my f-favourites! We can sing something else if you like. You start singing and I'll join in. I bet you have a b-b-beautiful singing voice! Ha ha ha! So, what are you down here for? If you came to g-get wealthy, just look around you! These mines are still bursting with riches! There's p-p-plenty for everyone, just grab a pick and join in! Ha ha!

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The bug, Myla, her joy was infectious, but the knight declined the offer. Riches aren't their priority. Also, they had no voice. They never had one.

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Ohhh, bury the knight with her broken nail, bury the... p-priest... something about a crown...? I c-can't remember the rest of that one, ha ha ha! Maybe I'll just hum it.

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Leaving Myla, the knight mounted a lift, and on its path upwards, the knight hopped off the lift into a small tunnel. There, a statue stood. Made of black stone, it had two horns on each side of its head, along with a slit that divided the face. When the knight came closer to it, its crevices started to glow with a white light, with it leaking into the air. Striking, it bled the white substance, which was absorbed into the knight. It was Soul. They continued striking it until it was drained, and their Soul Vessel was full. Returning to the lift, they ascended. The room after was empty, apart from the planks of shellwood and some chains. Walking towards the middle of the chamber, made the ground shake. The ground was weak here. Mayhaps it would be wise to leave. It was a dead end in these mines.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The room had two Vengeflies, guarding a rock encrusted with fossilised shell. After slaying those beasts, they collected the shells by striking the rock with their Old Nail. Descending downwards was another dead end, for it was locked with two metal doors. Climbing back up, they went forwards. The ground was cut up, and spikes filled those empty regions. Hopping onto a platform, a stalactite fell, and a Vengefly quickly flew towards them. They instinctly jumped back into the spikes. In fear of landing into them, they swung their Nail in fear, knowing it wouldn't prevent their landing into the spikes. But it did. They were propelled upwards and jumped back onto a platform. What a miraculous save. Repaying the Vengefly what it deserved, they continued on. A horned husk even charged into the spikes on their way. The next room featured a taller husk. It leapt onto the knight, cracking their shell. After Focusing, they slew it and continued into the room, where more husks wandered about. After the husks' slaying, they entered into another room, with another trapped grub. Unluckily, it was on a ledge, unreachable. Curse their short stature. They would return for this grub. It will be saved.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The next room was different. It was tall and housed old lifts, weathered and unusable due to time. The room was filled with Tiktiks crawling on the lifts and Gruzzers flying, bumping into walls. They tried to hop to one of the lifts but failed. They dropped down, failing to try and catch another lift. Already at the bottom, they decided to descend deeper. Down in the lower floor, they heard a humming and immediately found its owner. Pages were scattered around him as he scribbled into one with a quill. He wore thickly rimmed glasses that also his eyes with the thick lenses. The bag on his back was filled with rolled up paper, probably ones he's already done, done doing whatever he's doing.

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  Hmm? Ah, hello there. Come down to explore these beautiful old ruins? Don't mind me. I've a fondness for exploring myself. Getting lost and finding your way again is a pleasure like no other. We're exquisitely lucky, you and I. I'm a cartographer by trade, and I'm working on mapping this area right now. Would you like to buy a copy of my work so far?

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Although they wanted the map, they didn't have any currency, or so they thought. They pulled out the fossilised shells, expecting the cartographer to decline, but he accepted it. Apparently, this was Geo, the currency of Hallownest. They handed over 30 Geo, and the bug traded a map of the area, known as the Forgotten Crossroads.

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   A map can be a useful thing, but it alone won't show you where you are. If you've not the head for directions, I suggest purchasing a compass from my wife, Iselda. She's just now opening our new map shop in Dirtmouth, selling all sorts of useful things to wanderers like yourself. She'll even sell some of my old maps from time to time. I pop back to see her whenever I finish mapping an area. She's always so excited to see me.

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The knight knew what to do next.

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Oh, by the way, I haven't introduced myself have I? Yes, I should apologise for that. When you spend a lot of time by yourself, with just your own thoughts, you forget the niceties of conversation. My name is Cornifer, and I've always loved exploring the world. Why, when I was first hatched I wandered off immediately, leaving my brothers and sisters and poor mother behind! That's why as soon as I could I moved to Dirtmouth with my wife. A huge, unending Kingdom to explore right on our doorstep. Who could resist? Anyway, I'll let you return to your travels. With a little luck, we'll meet again. Be safe and farewell!

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Cornifer returned to his mapping, humming the nice tune. According to the map, if they were to climb to the top of that lift room, the well would be close. They did just that. On their climbing, a particular opening caught their pitch black eyes. Lushious green leaves covered it. Forgetting about the map shop, they entered it. More verdant greenery covered the room, along with a grand sign that stood.

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The Pilgrim's Way Travellers of Hallownest, descend through verdant wilds and fungal groves to the city at this kingdom's heart. There all wishes shall be granted, all truths revealed.

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Perhaps the city held the answers to opening that blasted egg. They followed the path but was immediately cut short. Some sort of armoured ball blocked the path. As they inched closer, it revealed itself. It was a beast they'd never seen. It spat globs of orange venom. The knight tried to strike it, but it curled up when the knight came too close it. They gave up, for there was nothing they could do. 

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

At the peak of the lift-ridden room, there were two entrance. One would lead to the well, they other unknown. The choice was obvious. Heading into the unknown way, they saw many huts with holes in them. Two were occupied by a grub, and another grub, but he was older, indicated by its darker skin and deeper voice. The two cheered and the elder threw ten Geo at the knight. Perhaps there were many Grubs that needed saving? They did see another Grub trapped... They would save all, and reap the rewards, and the joy of saving them, yeah.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After ascending the well utilising the chain dangling from it, they returned to the town they passed through, named Dirtmouth. They walked into town, and sure enough, the map shop was open. Inside stood a tall bug. She tied her antennae and was waiting patiently for a customer. When the knight approached, she sighed.

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Come to buy a map have you? It's really my husband you should be dealing with, but what a surprise! He's headed down below. He'll pop back occasionally to deliver new maps for the store but I do wish he'd spend a little more time up here. I've not much interest in retail myself. Now, let's see what's here for me to sell.

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She showed off some wares. There were many mapping supplies, but two caught their eyes. A Wayword Compass and a quill. Pointing a each, Iselda would describe their purpose.

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Wayward Compass

Highly recommended! If you're having trouble finding your way in the maze of ruins below us, try this charm. It will pinpoint your location on your map. Incredibly helpful for finding your bearings in unfamiliar locations! It's 220 Geo and requires one Notch to be equipped.

Quill

You'll need this if you want to update your map with new areas as you explore. It's essential for anyone serious about mapping! This one is just 120 Geo.

╚ —————————————————————————————— ╝

Unfortunately, they had only collected 225 Geo. It was a hard choice, but they bought the Wayword Compass. Even if their map was unfinished, they could see where they are on it. They were now left with 5 whole Geo. Without hesitation, they headed to the bench in the town's centre. They sat on it and opened the charm inventory. They took out the Wayword Compass and attached it to one Notch. Why need to sit on a bench to equip a charm? Well, it's tricky to attach a charm to a Notch. After equipping it, they checked the map. The charm was whispering their location when the map was opened, allowing them to pinpoint their exact location. Diving into the well, they headed to where Cornifer sat before and continued on that path

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The room was shaking. Strange worm-like creatures quickly burrowed out of the ground, then back in. On striking one, the knight realised the creatures were impervious to attacks because of their thickly armoured hide. The only option was to dodge them. They were easily dodged, due to the equal intervals of time they took to burrow out and back. In the next room, boiling green acid flooded the floors. Above a platform, a giant aspid flew. Its giant orange abdomen pulsed strangely, but then it suddenly birth a smaller aspid. The youngling flew towards the knight, but with a single swoop, it was slain. The Aspid Mother continued to birth younglings, its glowing womb pulsing with the orange substance. The knight slew the hatchlings and then the mother. On the other side of the room, an imprisoned grub in a jar sat. It squealed as the knight approached and freed it. It burrowed back to its Grubfather.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

On the other path, they were lead to a chamber, along with a narrow path up. The path up housed three whole Geo rocks. Collecting the Geo, they returned back down and entered the chamber that followed. The exits shut. A lone aspid flew in the middle of room. It spat its corrosive acid at the knight. Unaware, they were hit, and their shell cracked. They quickly tried to strike back, but when they came close, it spat again. They hid behind a platform and Focused, healing their cracked self. They then charged into battle, and slew the dastardly creature. Suddenly, backup appeared. Two more aspids appear. Terrible. They dodged the aspids consecutive attacks, and were hit by most. They noticed a stalactite on their ceiling. An idea crossed their mind them. As it fell, the knight struke the falling rock and aimed at the two, perfectly lined up, aspids. The duo were impaled and were slain. Accomplished filled the knight's being as they saw all four exits open. They headed into the first one they saw. Inside, a hot spring lied in the middle. The hot glowing water tempted the knight, and they indulged. They sat in the refreshing waters. They felt all the cracks from the aspids dissappear and Soul filling their being. They'll stay here for a bit.

Chapter Text

The room after the aspid-infested chamber contained more of those worm-like beasts, burrowing in and out of the earth. Although they heard a faint shimmering sound, they ignored it and continued on their path. At the end of the room, they saw a hole in the ground that led to a Geo rock, but it was blocked by one burrowing beast. They tried to jump towards the rock but landed in the hole, where the beast burrowed out and cracked their shell. They had no Soul to heal their wounds, so after their collected the Geo, they ran out the room, their shell slightly leaking a dark liquid. The next room also housed these burrowers. In attempt to dodge one, again, they were hit, and their shell leaked. In the next room, they found a sign pointing to the cavern above. Following said sign led them to a chamber with a bench and a sort of toll machine. When they rested on the bench, they felt as though their wounds disappeared. Their cracks were sealed. They approached the toll machine, and it had the symbol of a Stag on it. After inserting 50 Geo, the toll machine was engulfed into the ground as a giant locked gate behind it opened. A bell was left in the machine's wake. When they rang the bell, the ground shook as a giant Stag galloped into the chamber. He had a thick beard and had a long horn that could perhaps impale even the toughest foes. On his armoured back, two seats sat on him. Fearlessly, they listened to the Old Stag's words

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗

Greetings, little one! It's been an age since I last heard the ringing of a station bell. It echoed down the stagways and called me to you. I've grown stiff and tired over these many years, and I've forgotten much, but the sound of the bell will always call me back. These stagways stretch the depths of Hallownest. If you want to travel them, hail me from the platform. I will take you where you need to go.

╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

There was a map near the Stagway, and it read the stations of Hallownest. Unfortunately, it had been weathered down, and only the station names of "Dirtmouth Station" and "Crossroads Station" were left. Pointing at Dirtmouth's station, the Last Stag understood what they were trying to say. The knight boarded the Stag and he took them to Dirtmouth.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Arriving in Dirtmouth's Station, they ascended a lift. A locked door blocked their access to the outside world, but fortunately, a lever to open said door sat just behind the lift. What luck. They exited the Station and were in Dirtmouth. They listened to Elderbug for a bit. It would be rude to just scurry off without greeting an elder.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗

I never thought I'd see such a thing. The Stag Station has opened! That building lay silent since before even my time. Oh, I've heard the tales of the glorious lines. A web of tunnels running all through the kingdom. Not that I'll be travelling them, mind you! I'm quite content where I am

╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Fair enough, this tomb called a Kingdom was not for the faint of heart.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗

Did you visit that temple? A strange building I've heard, though I'd never dare the journey myself. The braver among us once went there to pray, said they felt at peace within the walls. After a while, they stopped going. I wonder what changed?

╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The egg seems to get stranger and stranger.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗

A young couple's just recently taken up residence in the house beside the station. Seems they're running a map shop, which may excite adventurous types like yourself. She's a tall bug, the wife. I told them to take a larger house, especially given they're all empty, but they liked the look of that one. The way she has to bend just to get through the door... I wouldn't put up with it myself.

╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They were lucky being short, for they could squeeze into most crevices. They headed into Iselda's shop, as they now had a sufficient amount of currency with their 123 Geo. Inside, they bought the quill then returned to the bench to update the map. It would be pretty difficult to map while standing, no? After doing so, they examined the area mapped by Cornifer. There was one chamber they hadn't visited. Cornifer had marked it with a menacing face with two large horns. As it was close to the Crossroads Station, they headed there by Stag.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

In the room before the unadventured chamber, they heard the whimpering of a Grub. It was coming from... the walls? They approached a specific wall. A Grub was definitely behind it. They struck the wall, and it broke. Two aspids guarded the imprisoned grub. The duo's venom was corrosive, but the knight prevailed. The two were slain, and the Grub squealed with joy. After freeing it, it returned to its Grubfather. On top of the room, they saw that one room sealed by iron doors, but now, they were on the other side. After flipping a conveniently placed lever, the doors opened. Now they had a shortcut.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They entered the new area. Inside, a huge husk guard stood silently until the Knight approached too close, where it slammed the club down, attacking the Knight. After an arduous fight, it was slain and released that orange miasma. The rest of the room housed smaller husks, wandering and leaping. After their slaying, they entered the next chamber. It was eerily empty, minus the steel door that blocked an exit. They climbed the room and entered what seemed to be a storage room, although it was void of any wares or anything. Just a couple of husks, wandering about in their post-mortal state. After they were slain, they tried to go through the exit, but a door dropped down before they could.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

A great foe dropped from the ceiling. It was fully encased in a suit of armour that covered its whole body. The helm it wore had two horns, reminiscent of the marking on the map. A slit in the middle of the helm was perhaps where it opened. The foe wielded a mace, and two of the armour's four eyes glowed that orange hue. Perhaps this was a great warrior, fallen to the plague. It leapt in the air and slammed the mace towards them. The knight dodged it and hit it whilst it pulled the mace back. Unfortunately, this had only damaged the armour, not the wearer. It quickly jumped closer to them and landed a blow on the knight, cracking their shell. They struck the foe again. Then, it charged their mace and struck it on the ground, a shockwave forming. Leaping above it, the knight dodged the attack. The foe leapt back into the air and slammed its mace, the knight dodging on time. They hurriedly slashed their nail at the armour, not knowing how to damage the wearer within. Suddenly, the foe's rotund body rolled back and fell on its stomach. The helmet opened up and revealed a soft white face, its two eyes glowing. It was a maggot. A maggot. This can't be a real knight. This was surely a False Knight. They struck the white face as it yelped sounds of agony. After a few hits, it closed its helm and went back on its feet.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗

I'm the strongest now!

╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

The maggot leapt to the middle of the chamber. As the knight charged towards the false warrior, it slammed the mace around it, sounds of struggle and desperation coming from its protected maw. Barrels full of infection dropped from the ceiling. The knight was hurt by the attack and retreated to a corner so as to Focus. While doing just that, the maggot leapt and slammed the mace, but the knight narrowly dodged. As the armoured foe leapt again, the knight passed underneath it to dodge the incoming slam. The armoured maggot charged its mace and created a shockwave, which the knight dodged with no difficulty. As the knight stuck the furious foe more, it rolled back on its stomach, and the knight slashed and the white face. The False Knight returned back onto its feet and hopped to the centre of the arena.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗

I'm braver than all of you!

╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

Enraged, it again slammed the ground around it, more grunts coming from their mouth. Barrels dropped, carrying infection. The knight, having learnt their mistake, stalled at a corner, far away from the bludgeoning, Focusing while awaiting the rage of the maggot to subside. After stopping the desperate attack, the False Knight continued to slam its mace as it leapt. Due to the earlier bludgeoning, the room's stability falters. The ceiling cracked, and more barrels fell. The knight dodged the rain of barrels whilst attacking the armoured foe. Again, the maggot staggered. It rolled back on its belly, and the helm opened up. The knight struck the maggot. It stood back up and returned to the chamber's centre.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗

This great shell... It belongs to me!

╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

It slammed the mace around, tons of barrels falling down the cracks of the ceiling. The ground shook and crumbled as the maggot attacked in rage. Afterwards, the maggot leapt towards the knight, but the floor was too weak due to its desperate attacks. The floor caved in, and the maggot fell to the lower floor. The knight dropped down, too. The False Knight's face was revealed, and its body seemed limp. The maggot's beady orange eyes looked at the knight in shame. Not shame for them, but instead, to the maggot itself. The knight slashed at the maggot until they did the killing blow. Orange miasma leaked from the armour's and the maggot's crevices, and as it died, its tiny rolled out of the armour, revealing its tiny , now-corpse, body. Along with that, a small trinket too dropped from the armour. It was a small tablet. After pocketing it, the knight saw the mace's head squirm and wiggle. As it released itself from the handle, it was revealed to be a living bug, used as a mace by the False Knight. It scurried away, chirping in joy.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

In the next room, a chest sat. When they opened it, a stash of Geo filled said chest. After collecting the 200 Geo, they left the chamber through the new, now-opened exit.

Chapter Text

The area beyond was a pathway. The exit was blocked by a door, with a conveniently placed switch to open it. Before they flipped it, they got distracted by something. A wall that looked like it had collapsed long ago revealed another path. Passing through this path, they saw this portion of the Forgotten Crossroads was different. The most apparent feature was that the floors were made up of shells, masks and exoskeleton. Torches lined the area, along with shells and masks skewered onto sticks. This area was ominous.
They continued on till they arrived to what looked to be a mound or a temple? It was constructed using shells and exoskeleton and an eerie purple mist emanated through its entrance.
Without an ounce of fear, they entered the creepy place.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Inside, it was similar to the exterior, with the same shell floors and skewered skulls. There was a bench made entirely out of bone, along with a particular snail. He wielded a staff that also housed a skull on its end. Around his neck, jewellery of skulls were worn, matching his staff. His eyes glowed a white light, opposing his pitch black body. On his head he wore the shell typical of any snail, spiral design and all. He stood in front of a strange construction made of the rib-cage and spine of some beast. Perhaps it was a shrine, or a place to meditate. As the snail saw the knight, he chuckled.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oho! Who is that creeping out of the darkness? My, you're looking grim! A strange, empty face and a wicked looking weapon!
Something important has drawn you down into Hallownest's corpse, but I won't ask what. Perhaps the reason you've found me is because you need my help?
Say no more, friend. I'm going to give you a gift, a nasty little spell of my own creation. It's just perfect for a little one like you! Ohoho!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The snail, known only as the Snail Shaman, waved his staff around, its crown piece glowing with a white light. White glowing energy concentrated in the middle of the room, and a spell, according to the Shaman's words. It pulsed a white light and energy dissipated from its crown. The two orbs stared on whilst the knight did so too.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Don't be afraid. Have faith! That spell belongs to you now, all you need to do is take it!
Ohohoho, you won't be going much further without it, I promise you!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Although still suspicious, they leapt into the spell. As the knight's body touched it, the glowing spell exploded into white particles, and were absorbed into the knight. The surge of power and Soul within the Knight was overwhelming, and they fainted without warning.

They had consumed the Vengeful Spirit. Unleash the spirits harvested.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They woke up. They were still in the Ancestral Mound, but, they were behind bars that blocked their way outside. On the other side of said bars, was the Shaman, sleeping, until his piercing white eyes opened.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oho? You've woken at last! I apologise, perhaps I should have warned you about the power of that spell. I was watching over you as you slept, but seem to have slipped away myself! Ohohoho!
Now we're awake, I was wondering whether you would do me a small favour. Not as repayment for my gift of course, simply because we're now friends.
You see, a horrid great beast has made its home in the heart of this temple. Such disrespect! I would be quite grateful if you were to venture deeper in and slay it for me.
It's a hardy creature, but with your new power you're more than a match for it! Good luck with this small favour, my friend! Ohohohohohoho!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Naive to the Shaman's trickery, they headed into the heart of this ancient place.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After slaying a husk, they continued on, their Soul vessel containing a bit of the energy. They broke down a wall made of shellwood planks and found a Vengefly, flying about in the air. The knight decides to use their new spell. They hopped in the air, then released it.
A white spirit made of searing energy was shot at the beast, and it immediately fell, its body seared by the spell's power.

They found a small beast, similar to the one blocking the Pilgrim's Way, although smaller. It still had those gleaming orange eyes though. It rolled up into a ball and propelled itself towards the knight. Hopping above, the knight struck from above. With three strikes, the rolling beast was slain.

They continued on in the temple, slaying those little creatures. On room had spikes on its low-hanging roof, and so the rolling beast within could not be slain from hopping above it. The knight shot a Vengeful Spirit at it. No use struggling when you have this powerful spell.
After navigating through a sea of spikes, they broke down shellwood planks to descend into a chamber that housed a large beast.
It was identical to the one guarding the Pilgrim's Way, with its impenetrable armour and orange eyes.
Knowing their Old Nail would be of no use, they shot as many spells as they could, three to be exact, using all the Soul they could carry in their vessel. It proved to be working, for the beast had staggered with every hit, but alas, it hadn't fell yet. Out of the blue, it spat out those smaller ones. Perhaps these larger ones were elders? No time to think! There's one rolling at them! The knight slew the youth and had harvested enough Soul. They shot the killing spell and bested the beast. They collected the Geo dropped, and continued on, seeing a charm past a floor made of shellwood planks. On collecting it, they saw the trinket. It looked to be made of metal and on its bottom it had swirling symbols, reminiscent of those on the shells of snails. It was a Soul Catcher.

╔═════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ═════════════╗
Used by shamans to draw more SOUL from the world around them.
Increases the amount of SOUL gained when striking an enemy with the nail.
╚═════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ═════════════╝

They were to equip this on that bone bench. Dropping down from the shellwood floor, they found themselves back in the cell, where the Shaman waited patiently for their return.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oho! So it's done then, you've slain the beast!
The poor thing! It must have been terrified of you. It used to be quite docile, but the rancid air in these caverns filled it with some ancient rage.
Still, you did what had to be done! You have my gratitude! Of course, we both know you wouldn't have made it through without that spell of mine... Ohoho!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The bars lifted up, and the knight was free to leave.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
And look! The gate between us has opened. Ohoho!
I'm sure you're eager to move on. Farewell, and have faith! Whatever you are seeking... it will find you! Ohohoho!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The knight sat on the bench made of bone at equipped the charm. They felt the Soul vessel within strengthen. They could gain more Soul.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Finally out of that mound, they returned to the locked door and opened it using the lever beside it. It led to the room where Cornifer sat, mapping the area. But instead, in his wake he left a letter.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗

Sorry I missed you! If you're feeling lost, why not pop up to our store in Dirtmouth and purchase a map of this area? Available now for an excellent price!

- Cornifer

╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

What a charming bug he was.

Chapter Text

Back in Dirtmouth, they listened to Elderbug.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
I used to think the kingdom below was all dead cold rock, but I've since been told different. Travellers speak of startling variety in Hallownest's caverns. Even just besides those Crossroads there's meant to be an area filled with leafy greenery.
I told those same travellers about the wonderful grasses that grow around the town. They didn't seem impressed.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

He must be talking about the path of the Pilgrim's Way. The start had been covered in verdant greenery.
They would go there later.
Right now, they entered Iselda's shop and bought a set of bench pins.

╔ —————————————————————————————— ╗
Bench Pins

These pins will mark benches and other rest spots on your map. Useful if you're exhausted and just need to find somewhere to sit!
╚ —————————————————————————————— ╝

Through the Stag Station, they descended back into the Forgotten Crossroads.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After besting a leaping husk, the knight entered a chamber that housed a huge slumbering Gruzzer. The chamber had a shrine with four tall horns, perhaps an Idol. The room was reminiscent of a room of prayer, but now, it was the nest of this gruzzer. When they striked it, the gruzzer woke up, its stomach growling. The door behind sealed shut.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

The gruz flew about, occasionally ramming its body towards the knight. The knight dodged the attacks. Suddenly, the gruzzer repeatedly slammed itself on the roof and floor of the chamber, shaking the room. It was easily dodged. As the knight hopped above it and struck repeatedly without mercy, the beast was slain. Orange miasma erupted from its body, and it fell to the floor. But the fight was not over. Half a dozen baby gruzzers burst from their mother's corpse, flying aimlessly. With one Vengeful Spirit from the knight, the younglings were killed. The exits opened back up.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

The area outside the prayer room was vast, and they saw a high ledge, housing a sort of hut with purple smoke and giggling coming from its entrance. As they couldn't reach it, they left it alone.
On the other side, there was a small village, abandoned and only housing infected husks. But one of these huts were different. Someone was murmuring something. Inside said hut, they found a fly, his huge eyes cloudy with orange mist.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
...ugghh, Oro you oaf.... You wield your nail... like a club...
...Esmy... how much deeper do we have to go...
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Although this fly was infected, his mind wasn't fully tainted. He was not hostile, and kept murmuring. Without hesitation, the knight slapped him in the face. Miraculously, the orange substance vanished from his eyes, and he was returned to sanity.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oh! What?! Who are you?!
...I see. This old village. What a strange dream, to have led me down here! If you hadn't found me, I don't think I would've ever woken.
I'm Sly. Usually, I live an uneventful life up in Dirtmouth. The air in these ruins doesn't agree with me, so I'd best be getting back.
If you return above, come and see me. I'm probably the friendliest face left there, and I can thank you properly for your good deed.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

He presented a farewell and left the old hut. The knight was astonished the slap had worked.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

On their way to the Stag Station, they saw a pathway leading to room. It held an imprisoned Grub, high up on a ledge, with the platforms leading up to it littered with spikes. Using knowledge gained before, they propelled themselves by striking the spikes. Using this trick, that they had dubbed as "pogoing", they easily arrived to the Grub. It squealed with joy as the knight released it. It burrowed back to its Grubfather.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Still on their way to the town, they encountered a husk that wielded a Nail and Shell. They tried to strike it, but the husk protected itself with the shell and countered with a slash. Unprepared, they were hit and cracked. Suddenly, a strategy crossed their mind. They struck, it defended, and as the husk slashed, the knight hopped behind it and struck.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
That sweet smell...Burns...
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

Now, after harvesting enough Soul, they shot a Vengeful Spirit at it, burning its husk and slaying it.
Another husk warrior patrolled the room.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
I'll kill you!
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

With the same strategy, they easily slew the other husk.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Finally back in Dirtmouth, they listened to the Elderbug's words.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oh, what a turn! Our shopkeep's come home. Just wandered back in. I'd hoped for grand tales of his time below, but he seems to remember almost nothing! Maybe it was all too much for him?
If you're interested in his wares, watch out! He drives a hard bargain, that one.
No competition. That's the problem. It's bad for the market. Not that he's complaining.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Sly was a shopkeeper. He entered his shop, and found the bug himself, standing behind a register. The shop was filled with shells, trinkets, and other things. The most notable was the large Nail mounted on the wall.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Ah, hello! I knew we'd meet again. How do you like my cosy little store? I've made myself pretty comfortable here, selling old trinkets to travellers like yourself.
If you're planning a trip below, I've several items that may improve your chance of survival.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

He showed off some wares he would sell to the knight. The only two things that truly caught their eyes, a simple key and a Lumafly Lantern, were both too expensive, as they only had 529 Geo. So, they bought the only thing that looked promising, a Mask Shard.

╔ —————————————————————————————— ╗
Mask Shard

This old thing? Merely a fragment of something larger. Still, maybe you can make some use of it.
╚ —————————————————————————————— ╝

They bought it, with no reason. It seemed like it will be more useful if they were to get the remainder of the shards.

Chapter Text

They descended into the lush chamber with the armoured beast. They could shoot their Vengeful Spirit at and kill it, like the one in the Ancestral Mound.
In said chamber, the beast stood, blocking the entrance to the Pilgrim’s Way. Using all the Soul they had harvested, they shot triplet Vengeful Spirits at it. Just like the beast’s kin, it survived and spat acid and youths. Killing the little ones awarded the knight with Soul, and by using the beast’s own children’s Soul, they shot the Vengeful Spirit, felling the armoured creature.
They stared at the slain one, miasma erupting through its cracks. After it falls, the knight went through the pathway.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The caverns after were flooded with bubbling green acid. Hopping from platform to platform, they reached the other side.
These lush, verdant caverns were a sight to behold. Grass and moss grew everywhere, and even the bubbling acid added to the atmosphere. Small masked flying bug infested the area. Before the knight could approach, they had already flown away.
On one platform, a bug meandered. Its carapace was hidden beneath layers of moss, covered in orange blisters. Orange fumes emanated from it. As the knight approached, the bug released more noxious orange fumes. It looked dangerous, so the knight decided to not inhale the gas with their lack of a nose. After waiting for the fumes to pass, they struck down the bug with their nail. The corpse in its wake started to glow orange, then, it burst into orange fumes, cracking the knight’s shell.
After focusing, they continued and saw another one. But it had a lack of those orange blisters and instead it charged at the knight. Its slain body didn’t explode.
The next platform had a fuming one too, and the knight immediately shot a Vengeful Spirit at it. When it died, it burst into the orange gases.
Continuing on these green paths, they saw a bunch of leaves shuffling. A bug appeared, covered in those leaves. Although adorable, their eyes had that orange glow. The knight slayed it with no remorse.
The next caves were filled with flying bug that flew away as the knight approached. Scaling the room led the knight to a bench with a beautiful scenic view of acid waterfalls. As they rest, all cracks in their shell disappeared. According to the map, they were no longer in the Forgotten Crossroads. They were somewhere else.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The next chamber held something… On a ledge, a figure stood. She wore a sienna cloak and her shell was as ivory white as theirs. She faced in the opposite direction and in her hand, she wielded a needle, a rather uncommonly used weapon as they require much skill to wield with a truly deadly force. As they advanced towards her, she turned to face them. She stared at them before scurrying off. The knight was too small to reach the ledge. Curses. The only way forward, was downwards.
They continued diving through the caverns, slaying bug and beast.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The room had platforms suspended on vines. Nail in hand, they cut said vines and dropped the platforms, allowing access to the rest of the cave. They’d even crush bugs standing beneath.
Suddenly, after dropping a platform down into a sea of spikes, they heard a familiar hum. They followed the tune and found who they expected: Cornifer mapping away.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Isn't this a contrast from the Crossroads? Such a humid, lively place. The roads twist and turn in the most wonderful ways.
I've done my best to chart the area ahead, though I must admit some of the area's inhabitants proved quite a nuisance.
Would you like to purchase a map of the area?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

After buying the map for 60 Geo, they took a glance at it. This area was known as Greenpath. An uncreative name, but still charming. While talking to the cartographer, they kept hearing the whimpers of a Grub, but they couldn’t see it. Perhaps one day they’ll find it, but for now, they kept spelunking.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After crushing two mossy bugs with a platform, they saw a particular pathway. The rock lining its wall were shaped almost like fangs. On entering the chamber, they found a large shrub with a large gaping hole in its front, lined with those fang-like stones. They approached it, and suddenly, six glowing white eyes appeared in the shadows of the bush, and a deep roar came from it.
Though startled, they advanced towards it.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Tiny squib... You approach fearless. Are you a hunter like me?
Do you feel the urge inside, to stalk, to kill, to understand?
Then take it! My journal. It will aid you. At first the text may seem difficult to discern, but a learned hunter will come to understand its words.
Venture the depths of this land and slay its beasts. Prove yourself worthy to bear the mark of Hunter.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

This hunter spat out a journal, a Hunter’s Journal.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Little squib! You may have overcome a few creatures, but you are only just beginning.
Don't delay, descend into the belly of this world and hunt down the life you find!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They took a look at the journal. It had many entries, but the majority was unreadable. The Hunter did say they would start to understand as they hunt the beasts of this Kingdom. For now, they'd read one entry: the False Knight’s.

╔═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╗
A maggot driven mad by a strange force. Inhabits a stolen armoured shell.
Weak creatures love to steal the strength of others. Their lives are brief and fearful, and they yearn to have the power to dominate those who have dominated them.
╚═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╝

These entries explained much about the creatures of this kingdom. They will hunt everything in the kingdom. Every bug, beast and God.

Chapter Text

They cut down vines, dropping their platforms, eventually leading them to an imprisoned Grub. They freed it and it burrowed back to its Grubfather. Apparently, these guys (or gals?) were not only in the crossroads

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They descended, slaying more Squits. In the next chamber, the cloaked figure dropped from the ceiling and, using her needle and thread, zipped off into oblivion. They tried following her, but tripped into a cavern below. Inside there, they saw a stone bench with a green jewel embedded on in another chamber. They rested up and updated their Greenpath map.
Returning back to the room above, they were immediately greeted with a volatile Mosskin, releasing its fumes in their face. In surprise, they shot a Vengeful Spirit. It was slain, then burst in more deadly gas.
The rest of the room was infested with bulbous beasts, flying and discharging acid. They slew the Obbles and followed to where the cloaked figure zipped off to.
In the next room, they felt the ground rustling, and a beast made of leaf appeared. It charged at the knight. They slashed at the head of the charger, and its leaves dispersed. It was but a tiny creature that used the leaves as a means to hide. Without pity, they shot a Vengeful Spirit at the fleeing beast.
The rest of the cave was filled with Mosscreeps and Moss Chargers. They were easily dealt with. Again, they saw the cloaked figure, scurrying away. They followed her into the next room.
Already, she had begun scaling the cavern. So, the knight did so too. In the next cavernous area, she was already long gone, somehow. Perhaps she used her needle and thread to zip off. This room was filled with Obbles, but the knight easily ascended.
A gate blocked the way, but there was a toll machine with the symbol of a bench. They inserted 50 Geo, and the gate was lowered, along with another they could hear. Behind it, an iron bench stood. They sat, healing their fractures and updating their map.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They next room had a long jump. Using the Vengeful Spirit, they managed to jump it. Maybe it could’ve been done without wasting Soul, but the knight wouldn’t continuing leaping, in hopes they’d make it. They continued their ascent, slaying Obbles and Mosskin. The creatures had cracked their shell a lot, and they wasted Soul with Vengeful Spirit.
They next room had three paths to choose. They went up, and found an egg-shaped tablet.

╔═════════════≪≫°✺°≪≫═════════════╗
The greater mind once dreamed of leaf and cast these caverns so.
In every bush and every vine the mind of Unn reveals itself to us.
╚═════════════≪≫°✺°≪≫═════════════╝

The knight doesn’t understand. Who is Unn? They continued on their path, keeping this lore in the back of their mind. As it was very much a dead end, they went back and chose the right path.
The chamber was lush, and an ominous bush stood in the middle of the room. Why was it ominous? Maybe because it had a face. The knight poked at the shrub, and it rustled. The exits shut and a mossy figure emerged. It wielded a Nail and shell. It was a warrior, corrupted by the infection.
As the knight slashed at it, it blocked with the shell, and struck with a blow of its own Nail. The knight kept attacking, but the foe blocked it, and hit the knight. They tried to flee to a corner to Focus, but the foe spat thorny balls at them. The attack split their shell in two. Their chitinous flesh ripped off of of their being. Their cloak shred into millions of pieces. They felt something ripping out of themselves. It was pure pain.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They awoke. Their shell was in one piece, their cloak intact. What happened? They felt something missing from their being, along with all of their Geo.
What?
They were sitting on that bench they had just sat on. They died, didn’t they? But now, they were… alive? They’ve never truly felt alive though? They retraced their steps and returned to the chamber with the Moss Knight.
The foe was back in its hiding state almost as though nothing happened. It was almost they had denied time and death.
But… there was something new in the room. Themselves, but the figure was pitch black, safe for its eyes which were a piercing white.
It felt familiar.
It felt familiar
It was familiar.
The knight approached it. The shadowy reflection noticed this. It too advanced towards, its floating cloak waving in the air. As it came closer, it slashed its Nail at the knight. The knight was flabbergasted. With no hesitation, the knight retaliated. They struck the Shade and a strange sound was emitted. The blow sounded as if they had hit a liquid. They continued to fight their shadowy ghost, till it screeched a horrifying sound as it dissolved and was absorbed into the knight’s being. It felt strange, but… correct. They felt whole, and their Geo was returned.
They continued into the room, and the Moss Knight remerged.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
...Kill, for light...For Unn...
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

The foe slashed their Nail, but the Knight was wiser. They hopped away, then jumped and slashed it from above. The foe dashed back, then spat thorny balls. The knight shot a Vengeful Spirit. They kept dodging its attacks, then jumping above to strike.
With one final blow, the foe was felled. The Nail and shell dropped onto the ground, and Geo fell out. Its limbs curled up and the knight pocketed the money. They continued on, trying to repress the memory of death and their shadowy phantom.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Where they arrived was different. The atmosphere felt barren, and the verdant greenery was nowhere to be seen.
They heard the pained grunts of a bug from deeper into the cave. Slaying Vengeflies, they saw the source: A bug being chewed by a giant Vengefly. It looked to be the king of its colony by its different biology. The chewed bug looked reminiscent of themselves, but not. He had a mouth, and said mouth was groaning in pain.
The Knight struck the monarch and it released the bug, who was dropped and fell unconscious.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

Instead, it attacked the knight. It swooped down at the knight, but they dodged and struck it from above. The king then screeched, calling for backup. Little Vengeflies appeared and chased after the knight. The Vengefly King again swooped down. With Soul harvested, the knight shot twin Vengeful Spirits at it, and it was felled. It screeched, then blew up in miasma and body parts, along with Geo.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

The unconscious bug then woke up. His features seemed exhausted and his face held an unpleasant expression. His horns were uneven and cloak tattered. On his back, he had an old shellwood Nail.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Just what do you think you're doing?! You dare to come between me and my prey? Is it a habit of yours to scurry about, getting in the way and causing bother?

Know this, cur. I am Zote the Mighty, a knight of great renown. Cross me again, and you'll find out why they call my weapon 'Life Ender'.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Although they had just saved him, they already begun to regret it.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
What are you still bothering me for? I'm a Knight. I'm not interested in your childish games. I need my rest.

Begone! Lest I draw my nail...
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They left the egotistical bug alone and continued their journey.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The Grub was imprisoned behind bars, a Moss Knight guarding her. They defeated the knight with their Nail and spell. They freed the Grub, and she burrowed back to her Grubfather.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

There were two paths: One to a Stag Station, the other to somewhere unknown. Again, the choice was obvious.
They entered the Stag Station and rested on its bench, then paid the toll machine. They rang the bell, and the Last Stag arrived.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
My, this place is much changed since I last saw it. The greenery grows so wild the station's like to be consumed by it.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They waved au revoir to the Stag then entered the path mentioned before.
The caves were narrow, till they entered a chamber. Inside it, the cloaked figure stood. She stared at a corpse before her. A corpse of… their kin. She had killed their sibling! That was the only explanation! As the knight advanced towards her, she pointed her needle at them.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Come no closer, ghost.
I've seen you, creeping through the undergrowth, stalking me.
This old kingdom... A terrible thing awakens. I can smell it in the air...
I know what you are. I know what you'd try to do. I can't allow it.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

She let out a battle cry then armed her needle. She charged at the knight, needle a ready. The knight dodged and struck from above. Instead of leaking any orange ooze, Soul leaked. She wasn’t infected. She then jumped into the air, then dived at the knight, cracking their shell. She hopped to the other side of the room, then threw the needle at knight. As it returned to her because of the thread attached, the knight was hit. She charged at the knight, then using her thread, created a bubble of thread that hurt the Knight.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
SHAW
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

She hopped to the other side of the room and did the same attack. As she did this, the knight Focused their Soul. As she hopped towards the knight, they shot a Vengeful Spirit at her. They struck her again as the charged towards them.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
No shadow will haunt me!
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

She hopped and used the Gossamer Storm attack, the Knight Focusing in a corner. She hopped above the Knight, but the knight slashed at her from underneath. As she charged at them, the Knight hit her, and she staggers. She leans over, breathing heavily. They took this time to Focus, then struck her, where she continued the fight.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
Only pity for your cursed kind!
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

She dashed at the knight, then hopped into the air, where knight shot a Vengeful Spirit. She dived towards the knight, then clung onto a wall, where she hopped onto the knight, cracking their shell. The knight struck her again as she dashed at them. Using her Gossamer Storm, the Knight shot a Vengeful Spirit at her, causing her to stagger. After Focusing, they struck her.
Again, she threw her needle at them

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
Aneedle!
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

They hopped above it then struck her. She hopped away, then used Gossamer Storm.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
Too weak, little ghost...
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

She hopped, then dived at the Knight, where they struck her. She threw her needle, and the Knight pogoed on it, then shot her. She staggered, and the knight did the final blow.
She fell, then stood up, panting. She hopped, then by using her needle and thread, zipped off. The air propelled by her knocked the corpse down, dropping its cloak.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

They approached their kin’s corpse. It was definitely their species, unlike that Zote. The cloak it dropped wasn’t a biological feature of it, like theirs. The creature had without doubt had taken the cloak, a Mothwing Cloak, from somewhere else. They took the cloak and attached onto their own.
They had taken the Mothwing Cloak. They could now dash forwards a small distance.
Suddenly, the world shook. Their head ached as they saw Dreamcatcher-like particles appears. Three voices appeared from out of nowhere.

╔══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╗
Would it seek to break the Seals?
They cannot be undone.
They must be undone.
Let us sleep little shadow.
Return to your darkness.
Allow us our peace.
╚══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╝

The voices were disputing amongst themselves. Three glowing figures appeared out of thin air. The first’s body was entirely covered in his cloak. His mask bore a single cycloptic eye. The second was a jellyfish. Her green body had multiple tentacles and her mask had four eyes, two of them smaller than the others. The final’s body was large and had six legs. Her head was covered in a cloak, though her two pointy horns were visible. Her mask had six eyes. The masks of these figures were reminiscent of the markings on the Black Egg of the Black Egg Temple.
Suddenly, the knight passed out. When they woke, the ground was searing of dreamcatcher particles. They scurried out of the room, wanting to forget this.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They found themselves by an acid lake. In the background, strange formation made up its scenery, and flying creatures flew about. By the lake, a Moss Knight stood, staring into yonder.

╔═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╗
...She is calling... Home so close...
╚═════ ∘◦ ❈ ◦∘ ══════╝

Though it was passive, they didn’t want to be in its vicinity. Nearby, a small structure stood. Inside, they were met with Quirrel, honing his Nail, along with a bench and a strange idol.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oh, hello there! Seems we both tread far from the path.

I can hardly believe those dusty old highways led to such a lush and lively place!
This building suggests some form of worship, though its idol has clearly been long forgotten. Doubles equally well for a moment's respite.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Indubitably. They sat on the overgrown bench and updated their map. This place was known as the Lake of Unn. …Who is Unn?

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
I saw a strange fellow out there. He seemed quite taken by the lake.

I'd planned to offer greetings, though figured I'd first tend to my nail on chance our meeting goes poorly.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Quirrel truly was a wise fellow. Their Nail too-

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Your nail looks a fine instrument, but it's showing signs of wear.

I'd wager up there it would take you far. Down here however, I suspect you'll soon meet dangers the surface world can't match.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

This Nail was them. Theyd never abandon it. Though, it is very old…

Quirrel sighed, then stood up. He bid farewell to the knight, then left the structure. The knight, now alone, opened the Hunter’s Journal. They check the entry of the cloaked figure, known as Hornet.

╔═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╗
Skilled protector of Hallownest's ruins. Wields a needle and thread.
M lezi wiir xlmw rmqfpi pmxxpi gviexyvi. M xlsyklx liv tvic erh tsyrgih ex liv, fyx amxl e jpewl wli wxeffih qi amxl liv jpcmrk wxmrkiv erh hevxih eaec. Gsyph wli fi... e Lyrxiv?
╚═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╝

Some of it was jibberish. They couldn’t read it. They’d have to defeat Hornet again.
What did she call them again? Ghost? Yes. She called them Ghost. The Knight never had a name to themselves. But Ghost. It fit them. They liked it. The Ghost of Hallownest.

Chapter Text

Wandering about in Greenpath brought them to a vast chamber that consisted of strange architecture. In the middle of said room, sat a large bush, reminiscent of Moss Chargers.
As the knight approached, its eyes were revealed, and a deep roar escaped its mouth.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

It dug into the moss, then emerged behind Ghost, charging at them. Quickly the knight leapt above then struck downwards. It dug back, then leapt from out of the moss. Ghost dodged, then struck. This routinely combat persisted, until the beast was defeated.
Orange miasma, along with Geo, burst from it, and the moss fell from it. It was revealed to be four little Moss Charging, acting as one huge beast.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

They looked at the Hunter’s Journal

╔═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╗
Family of creatures that have learnt to bulk up with moss and live as one.
There is strength in numbers, yes, but these creatures never had much strength to begin with. Cut through their trickery!
╚═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╝

True.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

On their way to Dirthmouth, they found a beast, striding along in acid. Pogoing it led them to a strange area. Bubbles covered the area, and there was an eerie fog too.
The area was filled with strange jelly creatures. Striking a small one released its tiny orange core, which fell to the ground. When Ghost the larger ones, its core flew towards them in rapid speeds, then exploded in their face. It was a devasting blow.
In a cave of these foggy canyons, they heard Cornifer, humming, but they couldn’t see them. Instead, they were met with a wall. It was pitch black and when Ghost tried to walk through it, they felt it repelling them. The gate felt as if it was liquid, but not. It resonated within the knight’s being. They didn’t like it.

They didn’t like it.

They quickly left this chamber and went deeper into this canyon.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

There was a bank here? An elderly bug stood behind a counter.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Hello there dearie. I was about to close up shop and run, till you came along. I provide a banking service if you're interested.
Losing one's Geo is a terrible thing and it's so much more likely if you carry it about on yourself.
My vault is much more secure. In all my time as a banker, I've never lost a single Geo!
Maybe you'd considered opening an account?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The bug, named Millibelle, offered the account, with payment. Ghost took out 100 Geo, and opened an account.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
You're a smart one. Next time some dreadful beastie gets the best of you, you'll be glad to know your Geo's safe within my shel- errr...my vault.
Now let's do some banking.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Using the 1000 Geo left, they deposited a quarter of it.

Nearby, they found themselves in a Stag Station, but it was like none they had seen. It was huge.
Inside, they found Quirrel, resting up.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Isn't this something. I'd not expected to discover so huge a Stag Station after that foggy descent.
The bugs of Hallownest must've been an impressive lot, building such grand structures so far into these wilds.
Seems the dangerous creatures about haven't yet made their way in here. It's the perfect place for a quick rest.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Yes, it was a nice place to rest up after that explosion party.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Can you imagine this place in its time? Hordes of bugs travelling about the Kingdom; stag bells ringing; the station bustling with activity and life.
Now only our like even know it exists.
That's a special thing I suppose, to cherish these sights, even in their decay.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

It would’ve been wonderous for them to see this kingdom in its prime.
The knight continued into the station, known as Queen’s Station. Inside one Stagway, instead of finding a Stag, they found a beast, or was it a bug?
Her long neck extended into a hole in the ceiling. As Ghost advanced, she retracted back down.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oh! Come in search of treats, have you? I chanced upon a unique little fungus growing right above us. I've found it only in this station and the taste is just divine.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The knight left. There was something off with the way the bug, Willoh, looked at them, it was almost of… hunger?
Entering another Stagway, they found the familiar bench and toll. After resting, paying, and ringing, the Last Stag arrived.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
You've opened several stag stations now, haven't you? I'm thankful for the opportunity to once more travel through the kingdom.
As I visit more places, I feel my memories returning to me, like the stagways of my mind are running once more.
Continue to open the stations and you'll have my deepest gratitude.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝
╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Ahh, this gladdens me. The Queen's Station has opened once more. This place was a bustling hub of travel, well-placed for travellers visiting the outer edges of the land.
You're quite the explorer to find this place.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Ghost rode the Stag, heading towards the Forgotten Crossroads station. Every time they’d open a new station, they would write its name, using their quill, on the little map in every station, so that any adventurer could use the stations to go anywhere had opened.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They returned to the hut on the ledge in the Deserted Village. They dashed onto the ledge and found themselves before the giggling hut. After sitting on the exterior bench, they entered.
Inside they found a giant slug giggling to herself. As Ghost approached her, she bit her large lips, then spoke,

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Ooooooooooooohhhhhhh, you surprised me! Hello, hello! Come in, sweetling! Come in and make yourself at home.
I'm Salubra, and this is my cosy little Charm store. Did the townsfolk out there tell you to come and visit me? Mmm, yes! This is a lovely little village, isn't it? Warm and intimate and full of life.
Mmm... What were we talking about? Oh yes, Charms! I can see you've started your own collection. Very nice! I'll show you some of my own, and you can take one home with you if you like!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

She licked her lips, then brought out a handful of charms. They were all nice, but one attracted Ghost’s interest: Longnail.

╔ —————————————————————————————— ╗
Longnail
That nail you wield is adorable! But do you sometimes feel it could be a little... longer?
Ho! Ho ho ho! Go on, take this charm home with you. Suddenly, your enemies will be within reach...
Its only 300 Geo!
╚ —————————————————————————————— ╝

Immediately they bought it, then on the bench outside, they replace Soul Catcher as both cost 2 notches.
As they swung their Nail, they saw it longer. They’re going to like this.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Back in Dirtmouth, they found Zote standing alone. He still had that unpleasant look.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
You there! Why are you skulking about in the shadows?
Yes, your eyes do not deceive you. I am Zote the Mighty, a knight of great renown. Tremble before me!
While you were hiding here in your dingy little village, I ventured into the dark pit below us and slew a great beast. It had sharp mandibles and atrocious manners.
Yes, yes. All glory to me. But I don't have time for your adulation! I must rest and prepare for my next journey down.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

What a liar.
Ghost entered Sly’s shop, in hopes of buying something. They just had an itch to do so. Unfortunately, anything in the shop was either too expensive or something they deemed useless. So, they just bought the cheapest thing here. A rancid egg.

╔ —————————————————————————————— ╗
Rancid Egg
I found this under the counter. Some creature must have laid it here while I was stuck down in the ruins.
I suppose you could buy it? I won't miss its sour odour.
Just 60 Geo.
╚ —————————————————————————————— ╝

Why did they buy this again?

Chapter Text

Still in Dirtmouth, the knight saw a new bug in town. He wore suit of armour, along with a hood that covered his features, safe for his white eyes that glowed in the sombre atmosphere. In his arm, he held a glistening shell. It looked like a sort of metal, but also carapace. He stood by the well.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Pale thing. You wear that nail with ease. If you're in search of combat, you'll find no great warriors in this decaying burrow.
I've heard an arena exists somewhere below. One built for our like. Meet me there and we'll test what skills you possess.
I'll be heading down soon. Come and find me if you dare.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

A place for combat. What a… strange place that would be. Possibly exhilarating? After listening, the bug, Tiso, leapt into the well. Instead of following, Ghost entered the Stag Station, where they departed to the Queen’s Station.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After going through the exit, the knight found themselves in a weird place.
Fungi grew everywhere here. It lined the walls, the ceiling, the floor, even some creatures. One was floating right above Ghost! It spat out internal gas from its mouth. Dashing away, they then leapt and pop the balloon-like beast.
Advancing on, they found youths of these Fungoons. They were passive, but the Knight slew all. The Infection shan’t prosper.
Whilst trying to fell a Fungling, they fell down a ditch. Inside, they heard the humming of Cornifer. They found him, mapping away.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Ahh my short friend, you've caught me at the perfect time. I'm just about finished charting these noxious caverns.
Very territorial types make their homes within this area. I'd suggest avoiding them where possible.
Further below some strange thin creatures gave me quite a scare. They seemed an intelligent bunch.
In my youth I'd have braved their caves but I fear my matured physique wouldn't be able to outrun them were they to turn violent.
Would you like to purchase a map of the area?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They’d keep that in mind. Territorial creatures. After buying a map of the area, The Fungal Wastes, they continued adventuring.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The cave was filled with strange spindly fungi. They spat out a concentrated orange spore ball that drifted to them, which exploded on contact. This dealt devasting cracks on Ghost. Painstakingly climbing the room, along which slaying the Sporgs rewarded them with… a Hallownest Seal. Wasn’t this the official seal of the kingdom? A relic now. This was all for naught.
The rest of the room was filled with Fungoons and a husk that had fungi growing on it. It released deadly gas and when slain, it burst, like a Volatile Mosskin.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The next room, infested with Sporgs, held something of interest: A metal door, locked. Continuing up the cave, they found another one. Who built these? It wasn’t reminiscent of any Hallownest construction…
In the next room, the air seemed heavier. Spores filled the atmosphere. Before them, there was a mushroom. Advancing towards it, it revealed itself as sentient. It let out a cry, then rolled towards them, releasing orange clouds of infectious spores behind. Hopping above, Ghost attacked the warrior. It leapt into the air, as Ghost struck it from underneath. After slaying the Shrumal Warrior, the knight continued, encountering more of these shrooms.
Deeper inside, tiny shrooms unrooted themselves and tried to flee. But Ghost was merciless. They slew all the Shrumelings, along with the occasional Amblooms.
After treading through that, they found a lever. It was made of bone and sinew, with a mask as a centre piece. Before them was a door, and on flipping the lever, it opened, and the mask’s eyes glowed. Behind the gate, they saw an area they’ve seen before.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The chamber was a stark contrast to the rest of the Fungal Wastes. It was a vibrant green, even more so than Greenpath. Exotic plants grew everywhere. On two ends of the room, two huge mushrooms sat. Suddenly, the exits closed. The two shrooms woke up. They had ambushed Ghost. The duo spat venom at the knight, and when the knight approached, they slammed their heads on the floors. This was a hard battle, as both slammed the knight. Suddenly, as one ogre slammed into Ghost, they were thrown into a puddle of venom. Their shell cracked open, their chitin ripped off of them, their cloak was shred, and their shade was released.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

They woke up in the Queen’s Station. They returned to the greenhouse to retake the shade inside.
There, they slew the phantom, then the ogres woke back up. The knight, now wiser to them, easily fell the twins. Suddenly, something metallic fell from the ceiling. As the knight approached, they saw it was a Charm Notch. Without a moment’s notice, they equipped it.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Corpses littered the entrance of the cavern, all legless. Inside, more corpses welcomed them. They found a bug, a termite. His arms looked sharp enough to slice the limbs off anyone, and his eyes were foggy. He sat on a corpse, by a shattered lumafly lantern. Tired, they sat on another corpse opposite to the lantern. They then approached the termite.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Don't try to sneak past me. I can smell you.
Hmm... Do you collect a lot of Geo?
Give me Geo, and you can see something... nice.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The termite, known only as the Leg Eater, asked for 86 Geo. Ghost handed it over.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Let me show you then... take a look. Do you want them? If you really, really want them, I'll trade them... for more Geo. More Geo.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

He showed off three charms. One was made of masks, the other Geo, and the final of Nails. All three were encased in fragile glass. They seemed as though they shatter easily. The Knight was a clumsy one. They’d shatter them easily. Ghost declined.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
You're a fool, aren't you?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

They sat back down on the corpse-bench. They flipped through the Hunter’s Journal. They found that the Hunter hadn’t made an entry for the Knight’s Shade, obviously.
They decided to write one themselves.

╔═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╗
Echo of a previous life. Defeat it to retake its power and become whole.

"Each of us leaves an imprint of something when we die. A stain on the world. I don't know how much longer this kingdom can bear the weight of so many past lives..." -Hallownest's Ghost
╚═════════════ ∘◦ ❉ ◦∘ ═════════════╝

They felt accomplished. They had written down their own entry, a poetic one at that.

Chapter Text

After manoeuvring through a Shroom Den, they found a giant metal door, with chains sealing it. Impenetrable, it sat there, blocking a path. Ghost continued on.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The chamber contained a memorial.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗
We remember the Elder.
╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

Elder Who?

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The earth rumbled. Something was underneath the ground. Ghost unsheathed their Nail as a bug jumped out of the ground. She looked to be a cicada, and wore a cloth over her head. She wielded a club, reminiscent of those of Husk Guards. As the Knight approached, she spoke with a warm voice.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Ah ha! The tiny steps of a tiny creature. You got the look of an adventurer, so we've much in common.
Searching for dangerous places aye? Well, you're on the right track.
A long necked critter warned me of a tribe deeper down. Warrior sorts, so she says and I'm itching for some serious combat.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The bug, Cloth, was a warrior too. She seems nice, unlike Zote or Tiso.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Keep sharp my adventurous friend. Stay alive and let's meet again on the road ahead.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Ghost waved, and continued onwards.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Before them, they saw her. Hornet. She stood beside a giant sign. As Ghost dashed towards her, she scurried into the rooms behind her. There, there was a sea of acid, along with an unactivated bridge. Using her needle and thread, she zipped off to the other side of the bridge. Unable of follow her, they read the sign by the bridge.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗
Here ends the Pilgrim's Way.
Hallownest's Heart lays open before you.
Proceed onward to share in its glory.
╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

Ah. The capital is across this bridge.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The narrow cave was filled with those bouncy fungi and Funglings. After bouncing through the room, they found a Grub. The Knight freed her, and she burrowed back home. After descending, they found another lever made of bone. Switching it revealed a shortcut towards Queen’s Station.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

A slender figure stood before them. It had long sharp claws, ready for combat. It quickly launched a slash at Ghost, who dodged. They quickly dashed above it, then struck the bug from behind. Instead of any disgusting orange ooze leaking, white Soul leaked. This wasn’t an infected beast.
When Ghost managed to slay the bug, its limbs and head were sent blown. According to the Hunter’s Journal, this was a Mantis Warrior, a member of a proud tribe.
Deeper into these caves, they found more warriors, along with youths who flew and attacked with their stingers.
They found a tablet.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗
Wanderers seeking death, welcome.
May you find swift end upon our claws.
╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

It was very welcoming.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The Mantis territory stretched on. The Knight’s shell was getting cracked. Finally they saw a sign pointing to a bench. Without hesitation, Ghost sprinted in that direction, dodging everything, till they made it.
Sitting on the bench, Ghost updated the map.
In the next room, they could hear a faint whimpering. As they couldn’t reach its source, they ignored it.
There was another great metal door. Instead of being sealed by chains, it was just locked. Around it, there were a few pipes, discharging water into here.
Deeper into the wastes, they found a statue. The bug of the memorial was a dashing fellow. The plaque on the statue read, “The Dashmaster.” On the statue, they found a Charm bearing the face of the bug.

╔══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╗
Bears the likeness of an eccentric bug known only as 'The Dashmaster'.
The bearer will be able to dash more often as well as dash downwards. Perfect for those who want to move around as quickly as possible.

╚══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╝

They think they can do sans the charm. Their dashing was good enough.

Chapter Text

After traversing back up, Ghost found the Mantis Village. The walls of the buildings were built of shellwood and were held up by sinew. Crude lumafly lanterns hung from the ceilings and mushroom growths were seen everywhere. Many skulls and masks skewered on spears decorated the floors, and on the walls, the villagers’ trophies were hung.
As they went in deeper into the village, the Knight found a lever similar to the others across the Fungal Wastes. As they flipped it, they heard a door being opened above them.
When they passed through the now-opened door, they found themselves in the armoury. The shelves were stocked with mantis claws. Ghost picked one up and equipped it. They could now scale walls.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After climbing into a structure, the Knight found a tablet.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗
The truce remains.
Our vigil holds.
The beasts are kept at bay.
╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

With whom did these warriors make a truce with?

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After going through rooms with spikes, Ghost had reached another lever. Switching it shook the entire village as rumbling filled the air and dust fell from the cracks of the walls. Then, the door before them opened, but the Knight knew that couldn’t be it. They heard something else, something bigger, open.
After walking through the door, they fell from the platform, expecting to land on the floor they saw before, but instead, the floor had opened up and Ghost fell deeper into the village.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

The village’s depths weren’t unlike the rest of it, but it seemed heavily guarded by more warriors. As they ventured, they found a room with the symbol of a bench, but its door was shut.
They explored the winding maze-like rooms of the village, dodging the spiky walls and floors.
Once at its end, Ghost dropped down into a vast room. In it, there were three large mantises. They were different from the other mantises. They had large horns instead of antennae. Their hands seemed clawed instead of the others’ scythe-like arms. Their abdomens were different than the other mantises (This much analysis had to prove they were a true hunter, no?). The three sat on three thrones, with a destroyed fourth next to them. Perhaps they were the lords of the tribe. The trio seemed… bored? Deducing from the other mantises’ nature, these three probably loved combat too. Protected by the other skilled warriors, the three must not see outsiders alive to combat them. They looked at the Knight.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Do you challenge us, pale knight?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Ghost took a (metaphorical) deep breath, and unsheathed their nail before the three lords.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

Immediately, all three stood up, welcoming the challenge. A giant cage fell on the arena and trapdoors of spikes opened too.
In the blink of an eye, the middle lord leapt from her seat. She was so fast, Ghost could not see her appear on the arena and charged towards them, her lance prepared to skewer. Their shell cracked a bit.
Again, she vanished, then dashed towards them. This time, the Knight hopped above and pogoed her. As she vanished, she then clung onto a cage wall and threw a spinning blade. After dodging the incoming blade, Ghost hadn’t expected it to return towards them like a boomerang. Their shell cracked again, dark particles emitting out.
The other two lords continued to watch, studying the Knight’s fighting style.
She disappeared and then appeared above the Knight, about to turn the Knight into a shish kabob. Before being impaled, Ghost dashed away, then shot a Vengeful Spirit at her.
The fight felt like a dance more than a fight. The two followed a pattern and they continued to do so. It felt great to battle against someone who wasn’t a mindless creature, attacking on instinct.

╔═════════◈◉◈═════════╗
This one shows promise…
╚═════════◈◉◈═════════╝

Again, she appeared above, and this time, she managed to impale them as they were trying to Focus. Instead of fixing their shell, dark fluid started to leak.
As she clung to a wall, the Knight shot a Vengeful Spirit at her at point blank, after she had already thrown the blade. She grasped at her chest and let out a pained grunt. Quickly, she returned to her throne, in pain, but her face was of pride.
As the Knight Focused, the other two lords immediately leapt onto the arena. As one charged from one side, the other attacked from above. The Knight continued to dodge and attack. It was pincer after pincer. The duo clung onto two opposite walls, then threw two blades, whose arcs diverged and converged towards Ghost.
If the battle against the first lord was a dance, then this was the whole waltz.

╔═════════◈◉◈═════════╗
At last, a true challenger!
╚═════════◈◉◈═════════╝
╔═════════◈◉◈═════════╗
Honour from one of its kind!
╚═════════◈◉◈═════════╝

They dashed, then they attacked. The lords dropped from above, and Ghost shot out a Vengeful Spirit. This fight was of beauty. As one mantis charged towards the Knight, they quickly shot a Vengeful Spirit and she was defeated. She retreated to her throne, the final lord standing her ground, who fell not long after.
When all three had been defeated, they all stood up. Instead of all three leaping towards the Knight (like they expected, their being trembling), they bowed down to them. Though surprised, Ghost bowed down too. They had gained the lords’ respect.

⋘ ────────────── ∗ ⋅◈⋅ ∗ ────────────── ⋙

The cage was lifted and the spikes were covered. The grand door to the Knight’s left was opened too. As they peered into the entrance, they saw hundreds of vile dead beasts, impaled by lances. The mantis tribe kept these creatures at bay. Instead of venturing into that pit of darkness, they returned into the village.
There, they found every mantis warrior bowing to them too. In light of this respect, they returned to that locked door, and lo and behold, it was opened.
In these chambers, the tribe’s valuables were stored. Geo, a Hallownest Seal, a bench, and something special.
The Mark of Pride.

╔══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╗
Freely given by the Mantis Tribe to those they respect.
Greatly increases the range of the bearer's nail, allowing them to strike foes from further away.
╚══════════════ஓ๑★๑ஓ══════════════╝

After sitting on the bench, they replaced the Longnail with the Mark of Pride, using up their available notch.
They swung the nail, and it was way longer.

They aboslutely loved it.

Chapter Text

Their next step was returning to the bridge where they had found Hornet. Perhaps someone has reinstated it? Fortunately, the trek back was easier thanks to their brand-new Mantis Claw.
There, Ghost found the bridge, still impassable. They looked above, and lo, there was a ledge that they formerly could not have reached. But now, with their new claws, they could ascend climb there.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After leaping from ledge to ledge, with thorny vines being nuisances, they arrived to the other side of the bridge. There, they found a lever. Switching it, the bridge’s metal platforms lifted back up, reinstating the bridge.
A great metal gate stood in front of them. Chains covered it, seemingly to block anyone from entering the city. Another thing caught their eyes. A statue in the form of the False Knight. But… something told them it wasn’t that bumbling maggot. It seemed too… imposing.
In its hands, there was a socket. An idea struck the Knight: they rummaged through their cloak, searching for that stone slab that the False Knight dropped in death. They inserted it in the statue’s hands.
And voila! The door was lifted, allowing access to the city. Now, anyone could enter the—As they walked into the pathway, the gate dropped again, trapping them here.
They looked at the door again. They were trapped in the city. What a predicament. They struck the gate with their Nail a few times. It was true: they were unable to return back. The Knight cocked their head at the sealed doorway. This was not good.
Well, onward they go.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Corpses lay scattered on the floor. They examined them, until suddenly, a loud screech punctured the silence. When they looked at its source, a small beast with a glowing orange belly was diving straight at them. It burst upon hitting Ghost, causing devastating damage to their shell.
Alas, they had no Soul.
Luckily, a couple of husks were meandering about. After defeating them, another husk appeared. This one was different. It wore a horned helmet and wielded a Nail.
As soon as it spotted the Knight, it leapt towards them, slashing its Nail. Quickly, they parried the attack, when the husk attacked again. Without hesitation, they unleashed a Vengeful Spirit, defeating the Husk Sentry.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

Whilst riding down a lift, they managed to find a secret room, where a tablet laid on the floor.

╔══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╗
The great gates have been sealed.
None shall enter.
None shall leave.
╚══════════════ ∘◦ ✾ ◦∘ ══════════════╝

So, the gates were closed to prevent anyone from entering and exiting.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

He was here. Quirrel. He sat on a bench, admiring the city’s beauty.
They approached the pillbug, and sat by him. He was a comforting face in the ruins of this kingdom. He was a comforting face in the ruins of this kingdom. Quirrel gave a gentle nod, acknowledging Ghost’s presence.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
The capital lies before us my friend. What a sombre place it seems and one that holds the answers to many a mystery.
I too have felt the pull of this place, though now I sit before it I find myself hesitant to descend.
Is it fear I wonder, or something else that holds me back?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

Fear? No, it couldn’t be.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
The city looks to be built into an enormous cavern, and the rain pours down from cracks in the stone above.
There must be a lot of water up there somewhere. I suppose, if the cave roof stayed strong this long, it should hold for us.
Before I leave this Kingdom, I'd like to see where all that water comes from. What a sight it must be!
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

One hopes that Quirrel would visit the source of this eternal downpour. Ghost agreed, that scenery would be majestic to see.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
If you look down from here, through the rain, you can just make out those twisted sentries, their husks still stuck in endless patrol.
I'd be cautious around them, my short friend. Their training will not have been forgotten. This city presents some formidable foes.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The Knight nodded slowly. These sentries were skilled. Ghost’s own prowess felt clumsy even compared to these mindless husks. They needed to improve themselves. Else, they’d probably not survive the horrors of the kingdom.
They waved Quirrel adieu and plunged back into their trek.

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

As they descended a lift, they saw the city in its ruined glory. The rain poured upon the architecture, cascading down the sidewalks and pooling. Husks wandered around the place, all endlessly forced to guard what the place they called home. Fungal growths grew from along the western walls, a sign that the Fungal Wastes were near.

They saw two paths: the East and the West, deeper into the capital, or back to the fungi. Seeing a sign made from an old Nail pointing westwards, they headed in that direction. Why? Because their own Nail was inadequate. They hoped there would be way at least sharpen the blade

⊱ ─────────────── {⋆⌘⋆} ─────────────── ⊰

After slaying a few husks, they found a hut standing before them, its chimney puffing smoke. Sharp Nails stood outside the shack, all unused or discarded, but very refined. Ghost heard the sound of a hammer, echoing from within the hut.
Inside, they found an old beetle, hammering a Nail with practised effort.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Have you brought me another nail to be honed? Leave it on the ground and return later, if you're still breathing.
Hmm?
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The beetle turned his head, halting his hammer mid-strike.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
Oh. I thought you were someone else.
After a Nailsmith are you? Well, you've found one. I'm not much for talk, but if it’s a nail that needs repair then you've come to the right bug.
Your own nail is in quite a sorry state. It's obviously not one of mine. Still, anything can be refined with enough effort and skill, even that broken blade.
If you'd like, I can reforge your nail. It'll make the blade far more deadly.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

This was it. Their Nail could be remade into a better weapon. Their own Nail, battered from their journey, made anew.
The Nailsmith asked for 250 Geo, measly compared to their 1184. Without a drop of hesitation, the Knight handed the Geo and Nail to the smith.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
As you wish. I'll get to work then.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

The reforging process was a spectacle to behold. Sparks erupted from the hammer’s strikes, as the white-hot metal clanged under the weight.
After a while, the Nailsmith handed the Knight their newly forged weapon.

╔═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╗
There we go. The reforging is complete.
I've honed your nail's edge. You'll find it much stronger than it used to be.
Head out there and test its strength against your foes.
╚═══════════════◈◉◈═══════════════╝

A Sharpened Nail. It was restored to its lethal form. The weapon felt both alien and familiar in their cold grip. Beautiful, they thought.
They left the hut, waving the smith farewell.
Outside, they tested the Nail against the infected. The wandering husks fell quicker. And the Vengeflies—By the King’s grace! They were killed in one swoop! Their confidence surged. Power surged. They felt unstoppable.