Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Hornet entered the Watcher spire, Lurien was still working diligently reading the reports the city staff had submitted, it had been a few months since the end of the infection, and with that Hornet’s role as Hallownest protector as well. Now she along with the  former Dreamers had been working nonstop to revitalize both Hallownest and Deepnest.

“Watcher” She announced her presence, Lurien looked up to her, gesturing for her to approach, Hornet made her way to the chair in front of the Watcher work table, he put away the reports and then pulled an old large piece of silk parchment, it had lost its once pristine color and  its borders were  eaten by time. 

“Hornet” he greeted her back, “I'm glad you could come. I have a matter I'd like to discuss with you” he said, unfurling the parchment revealing a map. The drawing was half faded, but it was still clear the dark lines connecting Hallownest to different points 

“This is a map of our old trade routes” He said “ i think it's time we send some expeditions in search for our old allies, re establish our alliances and invite more bugs towards Hallownest”

Hornet traced the old silk with her fingers studying what the Watcher said 

“Are we really in that need of it?” she said 

He nodded

“we’re in need of food and resources, we haven't had enough time to start producing our own, we need outside help” he said “ And we need people…more people if we hope revitalizing this kingdom” he sighed “We can trade the crystals from the peaks, and Deepnest has its silk”

Hornet thought over his words, she had already had a similar discussion with her mother, After all Deepnest had been affected greatly by the infection with almost no weavers left, but neither of them had mentioned reaching out to other kingdoms for help. She imagined Herrah wouldn't like the suggestion, still proud as she was.

But while Deepnest may still survive on hunting the few creatures left alive given how few survivors they had, Hallownest being larger would probably not, and the thought of the kingdom falling again when they had barely just started to rise again made Hornet stomach churn. 

She could not let all those sacrifices go in vain.

“And who do you plan on sending”  She asked 

“That’s what i wanted to discuss” he said “ we’re low on staff and people in general, most of our survivors are still to vulnerable and unprepared for such journey” he said leaning over the table “ we need someone who can act as an ambassador for Hallownest but also can protect themselves on the wastes.”

“Get to the point Watcher” she ordered leaning over to face him

Lurien hesitated his hands fidgeting in front of him, seeming to regret his decision at the moment

“I  ask if you would be willing to play this part”

Hornet leaned back, mulling over his words. She half expected it the moment he opened his mouth, she felt her back aching already from tension. The wastes were an unpredictable environment, she herself never ventured past Kingdom’s edge or The Howling cliffs, and to go in search of a kingdom that might not even exist given how many years have passed, she started to doubt whether or not she could make it through the long expanse of nothing. 

Legend has it no one had done it. 

Except she knew one who did.

“Can I take someone with me? someone who knows the Wastes better?”

“And who would that be?” Lurien asked with curiosity.

“Ghost of Hallownest”

—-

Hornet now kind of regretted suggesting it.

She stood in front of the Grimm troupe’s tent, where Elderbug said her sibling was. She breathed out hesitating, she had no right to ask for Ghost help after all she did to them, threatening their life and trying to end it many times in the past, it was pretentious of her to think they would help, especially when they’ve done so much for Hallownest already.

But Lurien insisted it was a good idea, and her more logical part agreed. Ghost knew the wastes better than anyone in Hallownest currently. 

And in the end if they refused she would have to go either way, so it was worth the shot.

Brumm guided her inside, she disliked the tents and the presence of Grimm and what he represented, Hornet did not trust him since he was a Higher Being, his intentions could never be straightforward, and why he and his troupe had not left once the Ritual had been completed she didn't know. She had tried to avoid confronting the god about it, but if the Troupe remained much longer in Hallownest without reason she would have to take extreme measures, after all they were never a good omen.

Walking towards the ring she could hear the tell tale sounds of battle, Grimm and Ghost must be sparring again, she thought entering the arena. 

Just as she imagined, Ghost and Grimm both stood at different ends, lunging attacks at each other, Grimm red flames lighting up the poorly lit room, Ghost dodging with ease his attacks. 

Hornet glanced at the bleachers, where she easily spotted Hollow’s silhouette watching the fight. Hesitant she walked towards them, taking place a few seats from where they were. Her sibling sat with their back hunched over, the old Nail they wielded was sheathed and placed on their side, the cloak they refused to let go of falling over their shoulders tattered and ripped, she could see the crack on their shell.

Being with Hollow hurted the most so instead of confronting the feelings she ran, drowning herself in work to avoid having to face her injured sibling. She remembered them in the White Palace, standing tall and still like another of the palace marble statues. She wondered if she could have noticed that they were not empty, if she could have done something, she had been complicit in their suffering, she stood still and let them be taken away by the Pale King to be sealed forever in the Temple.  

Hollow remained still not giving away any sign that they had noticed her arrival. The fight below continued, the sound of Ghost’s nail echoing through the room. 

“Hello” she greeted Hollow, her voice was distant. Placing her nail by the side of theirs. It took a moment before they nodded their head in her direction before returning to focus on the fight.

The silence between them was not a comfortable one, both of them kept looking at the fight. 

She still had trouble reading her older sibling, they were more guarded, more still than Ghost, who expressed themselves through actions. She didn't blame Hollow of course, their entire life they had forced themselves to appear empty, in the past this lack of reaction didn't bother her, it was what everyone  expected them to be.  But now it made Hornet feel her insides churning with anxiety, did they hate her? Did they blame her?  she couldn't tell and they wouldn't tell her either.

Grimm slashed at Ghost, but they blocked the attack, the resounding clank echoing in the ring. 

Hollow tightened slightly their hold on their own nail, it was such a miniscule movement but Hornet noticed. 

“You wish to fight them too?” she asked.

They didn't react at first, their reactions to questions and conversations were always slow. But after a few seconds they nodded raising their hand

“ Want to show how i improved” they slowly  signed and Hornet felt herself untense. 

“No doubt you have” she said, her voice felt cold and it bothered her, but she didn't know how else to word the feeling without worrying she would overstep their boundaries. 

Hollow couldn't respond to her, as Ghost, who had dodged Grimm’s fire bats, slashed across them pinning the bug to the ground. Hollow and Hornet both snapped towards the ring to watch.

Grimm was visibly breathless, Ghost stood over him with their diminutive body, nail pointing directly at his face, the bug smiled and Ghost stepped off them, putting their nail back at its sheath on their back. 

“Well done friend” Grimm said, his voice raspier than usual “Your skill improves even more so, when i thought you couldn't grow stronger you amazes me once again”

Ghost nodded and helped the other get up, both giving flourished bows at each other. 

“I see another has joined our audience, hope you enjoyed the show Deepnest Princess” he said greeting her. 

Hornet gave Grimm a small nod of acknowledgement.

Ghost turned to Hornet, their empty eye sockets staring at her, she always felt judged against their seemingly empty stare, how could she not after trying to kill them twice. No doubt they still resented her. 

“Wonderful show of skill” she said “ although i expected more of you, Nightmare King” she said dismissively

Grimm laughed hoarse.

“You underestimate your sibling skills, believe i always give my all to the show” he said putting a hand over his chest offended. Hollow got up by Hornet's side.

“Can I go next?”   they signed

“Next time my friend” Grimm said “ i'm afraid your sibling has exhausted me for today”

Hollow stared at him, and for the first time Hornet could feel the annoyance emanating from her older sibling. 

“you’ve said that last time”  They accused Grimm and he had at least the decency of look embarrassed.

“I promise” Grimm said smiling softly at them “the next dance will be yours” 

While the two continued speaking she felt a sense of jealousy take over, how dare this god be so close to her siblings when she could barely face them? Hornet breathed out, this was not the time to dwell on such feelings, slowly she approached Ghost who had seated themselves on the bleachers, their little nub feet barely able to touch the floor, gently dangling in the air. 

“Ghost, I wish to speak with you” she said standing in front of them. They watched her, before giving a little nod for her to continue.

“Lurien and I have decided it's time to open Hallownests borders once again, and reach out to our old allies. The first kingdom we chose to interact with is called Archeon, our records of it state that its three days of travel through the wastes” she said “ I have accepted the role to take on the trip and reestablish our relations” 

Ghost watched  her, their head tilted to the side in confusion, Hornet clutched her hands on her back trying to stand still, she couldn't help but default to a more authoritative stance when feeling insecure. And Ghost made her feel very insecure, ever since the end of the Infection they felt different, they never said it but Hornet just knew they had been the one to end the infection, it might be related to the strange oddly realistic dream she had where they battled in front of a golden crowd. 

The last time she saw them was on the kingdom's edge, and the difference between the Ghost she faced then and the one that stood in front of her now was staggering. The void in their eyes felt more deep, not empty like Hollow’s but full and if she stared too long into them, she might get lost and never return. 

“I know i have no right to ask your help further after all you’ve done” she said “but you know the Wastes, you’ve been through it before, i need your help to travel it myself” she finally said 

Ghost stared at her again and for a long time before signing at her. Their little nubs moved much faster than Hollow’s slow hand.

“ Sure, it will probably be fun” they said, giving a little shrug. 

Hornet felt herself relax a lot. They accepted her offer, she felt almost bad for doubting them. She wouldn't lie to herself and say she understood Ghost’s motives, but she knew they were kind, their actions said as much.

She suddenly felt the towering presence of Hollow behind her. If it wasn't for the faint clink of their nail she wouldn’t have realized they were there despite her sharp senses. 

“Hollow you startled me” she turned to them, they raised their hand again.

“What are you two talking about?”  

“I needed to ask Ghost a favor” she said looking at them. They looked at Ghost.

The two vessels stared at each other for a few minutes

Hornet crossed her arms, they were communicating through the void. She couldn't blame them, it was no doubt easier for them to communicate with each other than sign, still she couldn't help but feel a little left out.

Finally Hollow turned to her again and signed.

“ I wanna go too ” they said.

“Hollow this isn't a common trip, is a diplomatic venture and Ghost is only coming because they know the wastes” She said hesitantly. The truth is she was worried for her sibling, they were still recovering, it had been just a few months since they were freed, and such a long trip might not be ideal for them yet…

“ I’ll go”   they insisted “ im not weak”

“That's not what i meant-” Hornet said growing antsy, she turned to Ghost but they looked away,  you deal with this was the message clear she sighed and restarted defaulting back into her authoritative voice . “it's not that i don't think you’re strong Hollow is that it will be a long and harsh journey-”

Hollow stared at her, whatever they were thinking was completely indecipherable to her.

“I think it's a great idea” Grimm interrupted one of their hands falling on Hollow shoulder “ i can lend you some of my Grimmsteeds if you wish”

“That's not needed” she said, turning to Grimm “this doesn't concern you” and she rather not stay in debt with the Nightmare troupe.

“Oh you wound me” he said dramatically, placing a hand over his chest“but I do believe it's a great idea, especially for some Sibling bonding” he smiled. 

“I said it's not a vacation” she insisted again, annoyed.

“That's not an excuse to not have some fun with it” he said “ you need to learn how to enjoy your time Deepnest princess” he said whimsical “maybe a travel with your siblings can be enlightening”

“I'm going and you can't stop me, Hornet”  They said resolutely glaring into her and she sighed defeated. 

“Fine… in that case i’ll take your Grimmsteeds” she grumbled and Grimm smiled wide 

“Wonderful” Grimm clasped his hands together victorious and Hornet let out a small sigh defeated.

The fear and anxiety coiled around her stomach like a centipede, crawling under her skin, she looked at Hollow and Ghost, both were foucused on Grimm chatter and she hoped her fears were unfounded. Otherwise she doubt she would survive the journey.

Chapter Text

Hollow was actually excited for this trip. They never did  travel before,even within Hallownest territory, they spent their entire life within the palace walls (and inside the Temple, the amount of time spent locked away had been longer than the time in the Palace) But now they were free and they would be leaving Hallownest for the first time. 

Freedom still felt bitter for them, how often they still felt like they weren't supposed to be doing something only to slowly be reminded that they had no need for such apprehension, no one expected them to be empty. The people around them were patient, they were kind, and Hollow was undeserving of such kindness, a failed vessel, so much shame and anger festered within their now deformed shell, a visible sign of their faulty design.  They had failed their duty and yet others still saw some value in them.

Freedom was scary for them, like everything was after their release the first few months they were afraid, they had too much of it , freedom of choice, freedom of movement, freedom of thought, of feeling. It overwhelmed them, they were used to simply following commands, but now there was no King to guide them, no Blinding Light for them to contain, and they were lost.

So they turned to the only familiar face they had left, but even she felt beyond their grasp.

They remembered Hornet as a young child, full of energy and life. She didn't care they were meant to be empty and instead took them out to play, they obviously simply followed her commands at the time, but now looking back they were grateful for those little crumbs of childhood she had given them, she had been their first and only friend without either of them realizing. 

But the Hornet that stood by their side now was nearly unrecognizable, a stoic fighter, protector of Hallownest and Deepnest, fierce but her words were filled with edge and distrust. Their heart ached and only made their guilt crawl further. They ruined their sister's life. They took her mother.  No wonder she saw them as weak and avoided them. All they had to show for was failures.

This trip was their desperate attempt to get close to her again, as Grimm had said, a good opportunity for some sibling bonding, to prove themselves as still useful and not a dead weight, living only because no god would let them die. 

They were set to leave by the end of the day once the sun had set, they all agreed to travel by night. According to Ghost The Wastes got very hot during the day, and void creatures got significantly weaker and sleepier during that time as they came to discover. 

Hollow had grabbed a few belongings to take to the trip before joining their siblings at the agreed location at the edge of the Howling Cliffs.Their nail and a few spare capes at Hornet insistence. They had no need for anything else.

They didn't wait for the others, it never occurred to them to do so, they agreed to all meet up at the edge of the Cliffs, no one specified if together or not.

Grimm was already there waiting for them with three Grimmsteeds.  The bugs were tall with long necks and red carapaces. Their faces painted with the same lines as all members of the troupe, they were all already saddled ready to leave. 

“Excited for your trip?” he asked amused as Hollow approached, putting down their bag near the bugs. They simply nodded in reply.

“Archeon… i’ve not  gone to this kingdom yet” he said musing “it must still stand strong  as the nightmare torch has not been lit” he then turned to Hollow.

“Though i may warn you friend, much like this kingdom in its old age, Archeon is too ruled by a god” he said.

At that Hollow froze.They faced Grimm and slowly with shaky hand signed.

“ why didn't you say it before”  

Grimm sighed, looking away.

“I apologize, after the Ritual was completed, as my strength is transferred to the Grimmchild so do my memories” he said “this little detail completely evaded me until i asked the Nightmare Heart myself” he admitted.

Hollow felt their void crawl under their shell. They weren't ready to face a god, too recent, too afraid, they felt panic rise from within, their remaining arm clutched the nasty scar on their chest where the infection had boiled over.

“Hollow” Grimm's voice was soft. They looked at him.

“You don't have to go, Hornet and Ghost will understand it” he said. “there will be other opportunities in the future, one without Higher Beings in the way” 

Hollow still held on their chest, breathing out slowly, they shook their head.  They wanted to go, they had to prove to Hornet, they had to show they were not weak. If they gave up just because of a god, they would just show to her and to Ghost how fragile they still were.

Grimm sighed. 

“Let's hope your stubbornness won't be your downfall” he said grim “ now allow me to help you climb the steed” 

“I don't need help,”  They said, starting to climb it.

Grimm said nothing simply watching as Hollow tried to climb the steed unable to hide his amusement as they struggled to mount it, awkwardly they tried but they didn't know where to grab on the saddle and nearly fell over a few times with their foot getting caught in the stirrup. 

They finally accepted Grimm's help, defeated and thankful that the other two were not there to witness them fail.

“Don't be ashamed friend” Grimm said, noticing their discomfort “lots of first time riders have trouble climbing  on the saddle, your effort was what matters.”

Hollow looked away clutching the reins unconvinced.

At that moment the tell tale sign of a web being thrown and then Hornet and Ghost both landed on the sand by their side.

“Hollow we were looking for you” She said putting Ghost down.

Hollow stared at her, again they were not aware that all of them were supposed to be together. They felt her disappointment, they could feel the way her voice was saddened, they let her down again.

Hollow looked away from the two.

Grimm helped Ghost as well into their stead while Hornet managed to climb on her own; she was still a spider after all.

“The Grimmsteads will return to me once you’re done” Grimm said pulling a whistle from his cape giving it to Hornet “ use this to call them again when you need.” 

“Thank you Troupe Master,” She said half-heartedly.

“You’re welcome, and good luck my friends,” he said, giving one last bow before leaving. 

—--

The first day they rode without trouble the night was clear and the air was cool. 

But quickly the strong winds turned into storms, sand twirling around blocking their vision forward, the sound of the wind so loud it was a roar. Hollow could feel panic again as they gripped on the steed neck, they were not in the black egg, they were free, she was dead. The wind roared again, sand grating against their sensitive scars, they focused on the pain, in an attempt to ground themselves to the moment, but it only drove them further into the abyss.

Neither of their siblings could notice their distress.

Eventually the storm passed, and slowly Hollow regained control of themselves once the roars in their mind eased. They looked up to see the wastes revealed in front of them. Beyond Hallownest, so far from the Pale light, the sand and rocks stretched onto what seemed forever. 

“siblings look” Hornet said, her head looking up. Hollow confusedly followed along. 

If they could breathe they probably would have stopped.

On top of them, many glowing dots shone in the dark sky, countless beyond comprehension little specks of glowing light. 

“these are stars” She said “i’ve heard tales of it before i never imagined i would see with my own eyes” Hornet was breathless. 

Stars.

They shone with pale light against the black abyss of the sky, they felt unsettled by it, memories of another black void filled with faint lights each dimming as they fell. 

Hollow finally looked away. Unknown feelings boiling just below the surface  and no way to voice out their discomfort. 

So they just didn't look up anymore. 

Eventually the Sky tinged from dark to purple, then pink and then the sun started to be visible on the horizon. Hollow could never stop feeling unsettled by it. They held the Grimmstead reins tighter.

She was dead.

The sky grew brighter. 

She was dead .

The sun was a round orb of pure white light, the clouds around it looked like wings.

 She was dead . 

“Sun is rising, let's find a shelter for the day” Hornet voice broke through their thoughts. Hornet was here, Ghost was here, they were free. 

She was dead.

So following Hornet guidance, the trio managed to find a few conveniently shaped rocks to sleep under. The Grimmsteads stopped by the side laying down so they could climb off. Hornet immediately grabbed her needle.

“i’ll go scout around for dangers” she said “ you two prepare the camp” 

Her voice was so commanding they immediately straightened their back, almost bowing to her before catching themselves. 

Hornet quickly left  dashing through the wastes, leaving both siblings alone 

Hollow decided to go along with Hornet orders and make a camp. They had a vague idea what to do, but they quickly got lost on how to start a fire for cooking. They kept rubbing the two sticks together against the neat pile of rubble and fuel but no spark came of it, growing more and more frustrated as they gave up  practically throwing the sticks against the pile in anger. Couldn't even start a simple fire, how pathetic, how much more can you disappoint the people around you Vessel, can't even light  a simple fire.

Ghost walked over to them picking up the discarded sticks, Hollow watched as they rearranged the pile putting it on a pyramid shape, they then started to rub the two sticks together till it caused sparks that quickly caught on fire. 

Ghost looked at them

Hollow looked away, bitterness in their void, of course this vessel would know how to do things Hollow couldn't, was defeating the Radiance in their place not enough? This was retribution for letting them fall on the Abyss, they knew it. They were resentful and angry at Hollow and would proceed to show how much better then them they were, how wrong He was to chose Hollow over them.

It's hard to do something you don't know   Ghost said through their void. When I was traveling, I had a teacher, the one who taught me to use a nail. They also taught me how to light a fire, how to hunt and how to survive the Wastes.

Hollow did not respond, They hadn't asked, they didn't want to know about their past, the emotions this sibling brought forth were not all pleasant ones. They owed them so much, their freedom, their life, their past. And all they’ve done was let them fall  in the Abyss and now they return to haunt them. 

Ghost what an apt name. 

Ghost kept staring at them, but they did not respond nor react to their words.

Eventually the other vessel seemed to give up on them as well and just sat by the edge of the fire preparing food for once Hornet returned. They should have been the one to have that initiative, Hollow  scolded themselves silently.

Minutes, or hours later, Hollow couldn't tell, their perception of time was forever damaged,  Hornet returned, neither vessel had spoken any word to each other.

“All clear, there doesn't seems to be any other living soul for a few miles” she sat near the  fire, that had now burned to embers, staring at the cooked food

“is…this for me?” her voice sounded almost vulnerable and Hollow was reminded of her in her youth.

“ thought you might be hungry” Ghost gestured   “Decided to leave it ready”

“oh” she slowly picked the food. Some roasted tiktik meat “ Thank you” she said. 

Ghost simply made a ‘don't worry’ gesture, and Hollow felt their insides boil. How could they dismiss their sister's gratitude so easily?! The approval of their sister was something they so craved and this vessel got it and refused it so easily. More and more anger towards the wandering vessel was building up inside them, almost as if they knew exactly what actions to take to make Hollow mad.

But they said nothing. They never said anything. 

The day went by quickly,  before they realized the sun was setting itself once again on the horizon and Night was once upon them. Mounting the Grimmsteads once again, this time managing without help the trio continued their journey. They kept running through the sand, Hornet at the head, guiding them with the old map and a compass,  Ghost was the one lagging behind with Hollow in the middle. 

“Hollow” Ghost reached for them through the void.

Hollow hesitated before turning to face their sibling.

“ Wanna race?”  they simply asked “it’s so boring out here”

A race? that was such a stupid proposal, waste the steeds energy for something so pointless. But Grimm told them to do more seemingly pointless things, to engage with ‘fun’ activities. They supposed racing was fun, maybe this would allow them to experience what someone normal might.

“ Sure” they responded finally with a resolute humph. 

Ghost wiggled on their saddle excitedly.

“On my mark, one, two, three  GO!” 

Ghost dashed right through them, running past a very confused Hornet. Hollow felt anxiety boil over. They HAD to win, why they did not know, nothing was at stake really, but they had to win. So they made the Grimmsteed gallop right after Ghost. 

Hornet screamed behind them but soon the two of them were too far to listen. 

The two siblings were enveloped by the sand clouding behind them, Hollow found themselves quickly right behind Ghost. It was notably hard to balance on the steed at such speeds, their body ached as they found themselves almost constantly bouncing on the saddle, but once they got the hang of it, it was…

It was exciting.

They felt their void rush through their body, the wind blowing on their shell wasn't harsh or loud in the same way that the storm was. Instead Hollow felt like they were the wind itself, sweeping the wastes and beyond. 

They supposed that’s what true freedom felt like. 

They ran past Ghost and pride and joy swelled in their chest watching as their sibling became a blur of sand on their trail. They wanted to keep going, to never stop. To dissolve into the wind around them and fly away.

And suddenly they were indeed flying. The Grimmsteed had somehow disappeared from underneath them in a puff of red smoke. Hollow twirled in the air, confused and disoriented before falling on the sand a few feet from where they used to be. 

A loud hiss was heard, and they finally saw it.

A large brown and black sandworm had bursted from the ground, its body raised so it towered above Hollow, its serpentine scaled body longer than anything they knew, Hollow awkwardly stood up. Their feet buried in the sand as they pulled their nail free from the sheath standing in a defensive position.

Just in time as the Sandworm lunged at them its gaping maw filled with teeth ready to bite them, its teeth clashing against the metal making a loud Clang sound. Hollow dodged stumbling over themselves as the terrain didn't help leaving them with uneven footing. Panic started to swell in their chest.

Their arm was weak and trembling, they could barely wield their nail correctly yet.  The sandworm whipped its tail at them and with difficulty they blocked the attack again but it sent them sliding back making them stumble falling on the sand. 

They cursed mentally with every word they knew as  they got up barely in time, the worm bit right where they used to be. They tried to slash at it, but their arm was still weak and the scales were thick ricocheting the attack.

Their arm was growing tired, their legs were shaky and weak, they were so focused on the worm they stumbled over a rock and fell on their back.

The worm towered over them hissing, its body tangling around Hollow and its mouth open ready to attack one last time.

Then a soul blast hit it in the face.

Ghost and Hornet both arrived, jumping off her mount Hornet shot a string of webs against the snake. The smaller vessel sent another blast at the worm making it roar in anger as Hornet swung around it with her web driving its attention away from Hollow.

Hornet yelled before piercing her needle into the creature's forehead. It screeched one last time before falling into the sand with a resounding thud, hemolymph oozing from its wound.

“Hollow are you ok?” Hornet called rushing to their side. They however pushed her away, unable to face their sister. How could they be so irresponsible, allowing themselves to be taken over by a want. (They have no wants, they have no needs). 

They could feel Ghost approaching, they dug their hand on the sand, it was still warm. They could feel smug emanating from the other vessel's little body, they had meant to draw Hollow in this position haven't they? To show to Hornet how incapable they still were, how weak and pathetic they were. Unable to defend themselves or anyone around, a failure. 

The three remained in silence, Hollow slowly got up leaning on their nail refusing to face either of the other two.

“i’ll call the Grimmsteed again, you two don't do anything like that again, am i clear?” she said harshly,  turning away from them. 

Hollow balled up their fist, shame and regret swelling inside.

What a terrible idea this all was.

Chapter Text

The next day of travel they spent in near silence. Ghost felt a little guilty about yesterday’s disaster, after all Hollow could’ve gotten seriously hurt, but even after saving Hollow (again, might they add) the other continued to act cold and dismissive towards them.

Ghost didnt understand either of their supposed siblings. They were more familiar with Hornet but her actions continued to elude them, they thought they had made clear they didn't mind fighting her, but she kept her distance from the two vessels and now Ghost had the lingering feeling she feared them, Hornet was smart, there was no way she couldn't have noticed something off about them, she on some level knew they had changed and she was scared of it. 

Hollow was the hardest to figure out. They didn't seem interested in being around anyone, and seemed for some reason hate Ghost which they didn't understand why.  But still Ghost would tolerate their anger to a limit, they had the tact to know the other vessel was still in recovery. 

They were growing tired of being patient though. 

They kept extending their hand hoping Hollow would do something but the other vessel just stared and rejected them and then acted as if it was Ghost fault! 

Despite growing more sensitive to the way void worked after their ascension, Ghost still couldn't rely on it to decipher what their sibling thought.

  (if they really wanted though they could force it out of them, they knew it was within their capacities as a god of void. They didn't need to rely on guessing game anymore)

 Ghost shook their head,what a grim thought, they had promised themselves to not behave like other higher beings and here they were contemplating forcing their sibling to speak.

But they found themselves often wandering about it now, their powers, their new responsibility as a higher being. The god of gods the Godseeker had called them, at the time they wondered if she was simply exaggerating. But then they drove within the void, they heard the sea speak to them, it told them of the past, of the future and of the present.  The void was everything and it was nothing, it was all consuming.

Consume, that was the main force behind the void, the void could store information that could be used to create new realms, new beings, but everything would one day return to the sea. 

And now they were the physical manifestation of that. The Void Given Focus. 

If they concentrated they could hear the sea and its secrets, its overwhelming force like a pressure threatening to burst through their carapace. It took every ounce of their being, of constant focus to maintain their current form to keep all that power sealed away inside their tiny body. 

Any slip up and they would reveal the truth.

They didn't understand why they rather keep in secret the fact they were now a higher being. They had no real reason for it, other than they didn't want people to expect things from them, they already kept secret the true fate of the Radiance and about the Godseeker so they wouldn't be deified further. It felt wrong. They weren't supposed to be a god, they didn't want to be a god. They only came to Hallownest to answer the call from their sealed sibling (who hated them, they would hate them even further if they knew the truth).

Becoming a god meant distrust, meant causing death and misery to all around them. Gods didn't mature, gods didn't learn, they remained immutable and stubborn.

Maybe Hornet wasn't so wrong in fearing them, they were afraid too. 

“Were here” Hornet spoke out loud.  Ghost guided their grimmsteed to stand by her side. 

They were at the top of a large hill with a perfect view to the full expanse of the wastes. The sky dotted with stars and the moon hanging full above their heads, below them laid a field of sand and dirt, with large holes dug on the ground.

But the main attraction was the large stump growing in the middle of the desert. Covered in lush green moss, if Ghost squinted they could see little shiny things on the surface, was that the kingdom?

“Archeon” Hornet murmured “it already looks so different from Hallownest” she said  looking in amazement

Oh yes, Hornet also never left the kingdom. 

They looked back to check on Hollow, their sibling was oddly tense, their back straightened on the saddle in a very uncharacteristic way, they thought in reaching out for Hollow, but...what good would that make? their sibling would simply dismiss them again. 

Better not waste their effort.

“Come on, we’re almost there, let's go” Hornet said, guiding the steed down the steep path towards the kingdom. 

The three continued making their way downwards and Ghost started to notice two things odd about the holes,one they were gigantic, almost looking like craters on the ground. 

Second there was a Higher Being in this realm, and a powerful one at that

They could feel their presence, but couldn't pinpoint where they were. But it hung over them like a mental pressure just at the back of their head. They looked around wary, the remaining Hallownest gods were nothing compared to this. 

They were halfway across the expanse when Hornet seemed to also notice something wrong, she stood on top of her steed as if waiting for something to happen.

“ Run” she said and made her grimmsteed gallop. 

Hollow waited not a second longer before going after her, with Ghost following. Not even a second later a tremor happened, it shook the ground beneath them and the Grimmsteeds stumbled on the sand almost falling on the ground as they lost their balance, Ghost had to hold on tight to the reins to maintain themselves seated.

“Keep Running!” Hornet yelled“ Don't stop!” 

The tremors continued and seemed to grow closer, the pressure on Ghost shell became unbearable. The God was here.

And it was beneath them.

Hornet yelled something they wouldn't understand. Not in the cacophony that was their mind, the void agitated at the presence of another being, conflicting information flying around.

The ground behind them suddenly exploded raising a wave of sand that enveloped them, The Grimmsteeds finally poofing away at the danger. The three of them were scattered on the sand. Ghost struggled to break free, their body had been buried by the wave.

“Ghost Hollow!” Hornet  yelled also half submerged, They could see Hollow horns sprouting a few feet from them. 

A large shadow covered the moon above them.

Long serpentine body, covered in shining bronze scales reflecting the moonlight, or maybe even emanating its own golden light, the colossal creature raised its spiked mouth into the sky.

“A wyrm,” Hornet said breathlessly. 

The Wyrm hissed loudly, its head turning forward to face them, Ghost could perfectly see the spiky crow lining around its mouth. Cloud of dust and sand rose to the air as the rest of its body slithered out of the hole it spawned from.

Hornet had managed to free herself and was now helping Hollow escape their sand prison. They could feel the other through the void filled with panic. Ghost dusted off their cape and lifted their nail at the god. 

Suddenly a loud bang was echoed through the expanse and something exploded against the Wyrm face making it  screech again. More bangs, and more explosions against its shell, the Kingdom was attacking it. 

The Wyrm's attention was removed from them and into the kingdom, the explosions barely leaving scratches on its thick shell.

“ We have to run!” Hornet grabbed Ghost by the cape and swung her web at a nearby rock pulling the three of them towards it. The Wyrm seemed to notice and it started to move following them hissing loudly. Hornet kept swinging from rock to rock holding her siblings.

But while the constant exploding assault slowed it down, it absolutely didn't stop the creature who recovered quickly and continued to rush towards them.

It roared and the ground seemed to shake

Begone intruder

Ghost looked back towards the Wyrm

This territory is mine!

Neither the other two seemed to notice the Wyrm speaking, and then Ghost realized

It was after them. 

Ghost then wiggled and released themselves from Hornet's grasp, flapping their wings as they rolled as they fell on the ground.

It wanted them? it would get them.

“Ghost!” Hornet yelled behind them.  But she was already too far from them, and the Wyrm was right above. It curled its neck and pounced at the mouth wide open. Ghost waited for the perfect moment, as the beast face was within reach.

And let out a shriek

Void exploded from Ghost's body, the voices of thousand shades rupturing through the air hitting the Wyrm square in the face. Its head ricocheted backwards with the force of the blast.  The Wyrm fell to the ground shaking the ground creating another cloud of sand. 

Ghost fell  back drained of soul. They didn't mean to release this much energy… the Wyrm still lived but it had been knocked out. They looked back at Hornet who stood with Hollow on top of a large flat rock, in shock. They dashed towards the two.

“Ghost! what was that! you could’ve been eaten!” Hornet rushed to them scolding, and Ghost crossed their arms. They knew exactly what they were doing, she should know better than most how skilled they were.

Hollow didn't look at them. 

“Travelers!” A booming voice called them and a large beetle approached on top of a small cart, his shell was decorated with medals,and he wore an armor, with a nail attached to his hip

Hornet straightened her back, gesturing for the two, to be by her side as they leaped from the rock.

“greetings, i am Hornet of-”  The Beetle cut her off

“The Wyrm! you defeated it!” The beetle looked down at Ghost, they simply nodded

“By his golden holiness i can't believe it” the Beetle continued “Mighty traveler who are you”

“As i was saying” Hornet cleaned her throat letting out a small growl “ I am Hornet of Hallownest and these are my siblings Ghost and Hollow, we come on a diplomatic mission to rebuild an old alliance” She gave him a few written shells.

The beetle general looked at her not really impressed

“Hallownest, i’ve never heard of it” he murmured looking at the shells with mild curiosity “ i'm afraid i can't let you simply waltz into the kingdom, and the king is quite busy,  as you see we’re in quite the predicament” he said grim looking at the Wyrm

The ground shook again as the creature slithered away back into one of the holes. The General had a dark expression

“I’ll send a message to the palace, tell of your feat, the King will then decide if he wants to see you” he said “That's all i can do”

Hornet sighed, grabbing the shells from the General's hands.

“hop on board, i’ll take you to the camp” He said giving them space on the small cart.

The cart was a bit too tight and Ghost was forced to sit on Hollow shoulders since they were small. They could feel their discomfort. A simple apology that got no reply was all they could offer. 

They arrived at the kingdom’s gates, and Ghost was immediately blinded by all the gold. The walls were of solid golden material, with yellow and white flags waving  in the wind. 

But around it there was a line of large golden cannons; many barracks were also set, with multiple soldiers in armor walking around agitated. The general drove right through them, the bugs making way for the cart, before he stopped by one of the barracks.

“ Lucia!” the general called

A little ladybug came from one of the barracks wearing a more light armor

“Yes sir!”

“take our travelers here to an empty barrack, offer them some water. And then send a message to the Palace”

The ladybug visibly deflated.

“yes sir” she responded with less enthusiasm “ follow me”

Ghost looked around with curiosity, lots of soldiers walked around from barrack to barrack. The bugs would stop and look at them with curiosity murmuring among each other, Ghost tried their best to ignore it. How they hated this sensation, they missed the days when they were just another traveler, alone with no aim or responsibilities. 

Now in Hallownest they were known, while no one knew that they had been the one to end the plague, they had also done a lot for the kingdom in general, helping people and defeating monsters. At first it did not bother them, that's what they did after all, a wandering knight. But now…the gratitude, the expectations, the godhood, the praise…it was too much,too much and they just wanted to run away.

“it was very impressive what you did” Lucia said looking at them 

“It was my sibling here who took the Wyrm down” Hornet gestured at Ghost and Lucia's eyes widened. Ghost didn't face her, crossing their arms underneath the cape.

“Oh goddess…” she said as they entered an empty barrack. 

The inside was quite simple, a few benches and a table with a candle some barrels on the corner

“there's water on the barrels, cups on top” she gestured “i'll have to go now send the message will return shortly” she said giving them a small head bow and leaving.

They were in silence.

Ghost sat on one of the benches as Hornet went to take a sip of water. Hollow remained standing near the door like a statue. They were tense and falling back into old habits it seems.

Ghost was also tense. If the Wyrm could tell they were a higher being, would the god also notice? They glanced at Hornet and Hollow. This wasn't a good place to reveal the truth, they were in an unknown kingdom besieged by another powerful god… Both Hollow and Hornet despised Higher Beings, why would Ghost be an exception?

And for some reason that thought made their chest feel tight and cold. 

Lucia returned  soon with a parchment, she had a content smile. Good news finally Ghost thought, they were tired of being held in this camp with only Hornet, Hollow and the heavy silence between them

“Good news!” she announced “ the King wants to see you, right now!” 

Chapter Text

Hornet eyes were aching. The sun had already risen, and the kingdom was unbearable to look at. Lucia guided them towards a tramway. It was golden as well, was all in this kingdom made of gold?  Everything glistened and reflected and her eyes adapted to Deepnest's darkness were having  a hard time adjusting. 

She sat down on one of the seats massaging the sides of her head. 

“Take a moment to appreciate the view, our kingdom is the realm of gold thanks to our glorious king, '' she said, sitting by Hornet's side, pointing at the windows where golden fields and towers could be seen, glistening against the dark bark of the stump.

“I don't think I can do that right now,” Hornet groaned. 

Ghost and Hollow sat in front of the two of them , they both looked exhausted as well, all the light probably wasn't good for them either. The tram Ride was a quiet one with Lucia as the only one talking, mostly about the kingdom’s history and important landmarks. Hornet tried to pay attention, but the budding headache made her unable to focus on anything that was said. 

The tram kept going upwards,  giving them a full view of all sides of the kingdom, it was impressive, much different than the tramways back in Hallownest, but it was expected,  this kingdom didnt stayed in stasis for a century after all, Hornet felt melancholic, how much change could had happened, how much progress could have been made, all lost due to gods incompetence. 

“We’re here, behold our grand Palace”

The Palace grounds were at the very top of the stump, where the sunlight could reach it.  As a young spider Hornet always thought the White Palace was unbearable to look at, but this? The glow of the White Palace was but a dim candle compared to this Golden Lighthouse. Towers of gold rose to the sky all reflecting the light of the rising sun, Hornet imagined the glow could be seen from miles in the Wastes. 

“i can't see”  She put a hand over her eyes, even with eyes closed the light could still reach her and burn her retinas.

“oh, right you must be unused to such brightness”  Lucia said embarrassed  “Here  hold my hand i’ll guide you” she said, extending an arm to Hornet. 

She hesitated but took it. 

“Hollow” she turned to face her sibling “take my hand as well”

Hollow didn't react  simply staring into the distance frozen still.

“ Hollow?” She asked again and reached for them .

They didn't react again, staring blankly ahead, she held their arm, it was limp against her, they were like a stone, like a statue. Realization dawned on Hornet. 

The golden burning light in the same hues of the infection that ravaged their world that ravaged their mind and body for a century.

Horror clawed on her throat how could Hornet not realize what she had dragged her sibling to.

She looked around for Ghost as well, but they were nowhere near, her fists tightened beneath her cloak as she grew anxious and irritated. She knew Ghost liked to wander off, but they were on a mission and couldn't lose focus, why would they just ditch their siblings for no reason.

She would have to find them later and get some answers.

“Lucia before we meet the king, i must take Hollow to a dark room” She said with commanding tone “ fast”

Lucia stared at her, 

“ AH- sure, ma’am” She straightened her back “Come along i know of a free room”

Hornet nodded, holding Hollow they followed Lucia, passing through the gates. The castle was beautiful, decorated with ornate walls and columns and more solid gold statues. Other times she might focus on it, any information she could gather about the kingdom to make a good impression would be welcome, but right now all she could focus was on Hollow, their distant empty stare. 

How could she not notice they’ve been suffering ever since they arrived. She had been so distracted trying to play her role correctly she looked over Hollow behaviour, how was she better than those in the past who did the same?

“Here” Lucia opened a simple door, and Hornet immediately entered. 

The room was simple, with a bed and a few stands with books and other trinkets. It was clearly lived in.

But it would do.

“Close the windows, turn off all the lights” she ordered Lucia who did such, while Hornet prepared a bed. She had done this before when Hollow had just been freed. She placed them on the bed and started working around their form, covering their face first, careful to make it too tight, otherwise it would worsen their situation.

The room had finally been darkened enough,the floors were still made of reflective material so it likely wouldn't be as dark as she wished too, but it was enough

“Thank you, you can wait outside” she said finally to Lucia, who gave a curt bow and left closing the door. 

Hornet waited, she kept holding Hollow hand, they remained still as a statue. Slowly, almost imperceptibly, they started to shake. 

“Hollow” Hornet whispered, words dying in her mouth one after another, what could she say to comfort them? You’re fine? free? clearly not, the chains of their imprisonment still clung to them, the ghost of the Radiance still haunted them. 

And they couldn't voice any of that. 

Hornet swallowed hard, as her sibling came to again, their hand trembling on hers holding onto her so hard she couldn't pull away.

she didn't want to pull away.

She wanted to leave this cursed place, she regretted not being strong enough to say no to them. They stayed in silence for a minute or so before Hornet slowly started to pull away.

“Hollow, I need to go,” she said softly, slowly releasing them. They looked at her, she couldn't read their emotions, but she felt the weight of their stare on her.

Stay

“ I can't” she said “ they are waiting for me” she had a duty, a duty bigger than herself. She always had something to uphold, protect Hallownest, protect the seal,protect the Brand, she had people depending on her, a kingdom depending on her.

But this time she wished she didn't, someone more important to her than her kingdom needed her. That was sadly not an option, it would never be for her. 

She would have to let them down one more time. 

To Hornet’s surprise, Hollow released her. They gave her a small nod, pulling the blankets closer around their body, shrinking. She looked away in embarrassment.

“I'm sorry” she whispered leaving the room. 

Lucia remained stationed outside the door, and greeted her when she left

. 

“how are they?” She asked

“They…will be fine” she said vaguely “who this room belongs to?” she said worried, not wanting anyone to disturb her sibling.

“Oh it's mine don't worry” Lucia said as they walked down the corridors “my older sister is part of the King’s council so i have my own room when I visit” Hornet nodded. 

They continued in an awkward silence.

“Hey, can I ask…how is Hallownest?” Lucia looked at her  with a curious stare.

Hornet thought for a moment, how to explain it? Hallownest was many things to Hornet, home, a grave, the place of her best and worst memories. 

“Its…old..” she said “and dark. But…” she thought over long “ …there's beauty to its decay.” she said simply, the city of tears, once bustling with life l now half drowned in the waters of the blue lake but somehow more beautiful than before. The crystal peaks with its singing crystals and the remnants of a cruel god. The Gardens left to the wilds after the self exile of the Queen. They were beautiful, in the way time warped them.

Lucia listened to her, curious confusion plastered over her face.

“Well I hope I get to see it someday” she said with a smile.

“If our negotiations go well, you might have the chance”

She was guided to a large ornate door, depicting a large regal beetle. Lucia opened the heavy doors with a struggle.

Inside more statues of golden beetles, and a long red carpet covered the ground towards the throne that was ostentatious with its decor. sitting on it a large round golden beetle with a long translucent cape sat on it. A large crown atop his head.

He looked at Hornet bored. His dark eyes staring into the distance.

She tensed under the stare as she approached, a faint memory of her sire popping into her head looking at her with the similar tired disinterest. 

Oh how she hated god kings. 

“His Golden Majesty, our God, King Midas of Archeon” Lucia announced by Hornet side bowing.

“Greetings my lord” she bowed as well trying her best to not let emotion seep into her voice “I am Hornet of Deepnest and Hallownest” she said “i come to establish our old alliance”

The beetle king looked at her.

“you’re late” was all he said, his voice held contempt.

“Apologies my king” she straightened herself “ i had urgent matters to solve”

He didn't look convinced, or like he cared.

“I was told it was three of you.” he said “ but i see only one, where are the others”

“My siblings are unwell” she said tightening her fists tense under her cape “they however only came to help me cross the wastes, i'm the only ambassador for our kingdom”

“Still quite improper don't you think” he sneered “Thought consider me quite curious about your arrival, Hallownest has not been heard of for nearly a century after its borders were closed, and now three from that dead kingdom arrive and cause quite a commotion at my kingdom’s entrance” he said leaning back on the throne “ was it you who managed to blast that damned worm in the face?” he said with sudden interest.

“No your highness, that was my sibling” she said and the king lost interest in her again.

“Ah one of the missing ones, quite a pity, I would offer my personal thanks” he said and Hornet was actually thankful Ghost wasn't here, they would probably hate having the king's attention on themselves…maybe that's why they ran away. 

Now she found it a bit hard to be mad at them, she was starting to realize she didn't want to be here either.

“Anyway, I've come with a plan to establish our old  trade routes, if your majesty would be willing to listen” she pulled a long silk parchment Lurien had given her.

The Meeting barely lasted an hour, and The king barely said any words letting Hornet talk alone about the plans. When he eventually dismissed her, ordering Lucia to give Hornet a guided tour around the castle she felt relief, but it was short lived as a wave of crushing disappointment washed over her. 

The king was fully uninterested in her proposals, she had fallen short and would leave empty handed. She had dragged her siblings to a painful unnecessary journey and failed the task. She thought she could help Hallownest in its rebirth in more ways than just as a lone protector, but maybe slaying beasts was all she would ever be good at. 

“don't be disappointed” Lucia said to her after they were far away from the throne room “i think your proposals were pretty good, im sure the council will think so as well” she said reassuringly. 

Hornet straightened herself again, she must be really drained if a stranger could notice her emotions. 

“I hope you’re right” she said simply “if you don't mind… i’ll look for my missing sibling” she said, leaving Lucia behind. 

Hornet wandered through the castle for a little over an hour looking for Ghost but the vessel seemed to have disappeared and was nowhere to be found. She felt a sinking feeling of defeat as she returned to the room where Hollow was, worrying about sinking its claws on her like beast. But other than worried she was angry. She was tired, drained in fact, feeling humiliated and defeated, and Ghost simply disappeared with no warning. She wanted to yell at them when they eventually reapered, scold them for their actions. 

But what right did she have to do that? they owed her nothing, and she owed them everything. If they wanted to abandon her and Hollow to explore why wouldn't they do that?

She opened the door to the dark room, Hollow seemed to be sleeping and she slowly made her way to the chair on the corner of the room near the study table. Her brain working on so many possibilities, where Ghost might be, had they been kidnapped? These thoughts crossed her mind one after the other in a rapid succession.

When she suddenly saw a white shell near the foot of the bed. 

“Ghost!” she exclaimed, still trying to keep her voice low “where have you been i was looking for you like crazy”

her sibling looked up to her and simply signed 

‘just didn't want to meet the king” they said with a shrug “felt Hollow was nearby and waited you here” 

Hornet looked at them as they returned to stare into the wall. She clenched her fists, there was so much turmoil in her brain. She expected it but couldn't help feeling disappointed, couldn't they have told her? they could have helped, they could have stayed with Hollow and she wouldn't have gotten late to the meeting with the King. 

But she knew it made no sense for Ghost to help her further, she asked them to simply cross the wastes with her, they were free to do as they wanted now.

As usual, she was on her own.

“I see”  she murmured looking down at the shells with the proposals for the king, they now stared back at her with mockery. 

At least Ghost didn't ask how it went.

Chapter Text

They didn't fall asleep, they couldn't, less so due to their own biology and more because they were afraid of doing so. Every time they felt their body start to relax and their mind wander, it would go to the golden prison inside themselves, their chitin would burn and itch as something that didn't exist anymore still struggled to break free. And then they would be jolted back to reality with a struggle to regain control remind themselves that she was gone, she is dead they were free

They didn't feel free at all.

They rolled on the bed, still nested inside the cocoon of blankets Hornet had adjusted to then, they preferred the ones back at Dirthmouth, made of spider silk warm, but lightweight. These ones were nearly suffocating in their weight, but they wouldn't tell Hornet, she already had too many worries. They could almost hear her voice mocking them… 

How pathetic, you cannot even fall asleep despite being made to dream, but we both know you were a disappointment from the start.

She had been right, they were but a burden, they thought they were ready, but they were not, they would never be ready.

When Hornet finally returned she spoke little before entering the bathroom to freshen up, her shoulders sagged down and her steps were heavy. Their hand twitched as regret filled their chest again, they had delayed her meeting, they had placed that unnecessary stress on their little sister's shoulders. They should have never left, they should have remained in that temple for eternity as it was always meant to be. 

Something suddenly tapped at their side, and they didn't have to raise their head to know who it was but did so all the same. Ghost stared at them their head slightly tilted 

“ Can I help you?”

They felt the words echoed through the void they shared, revulsion coiled in their chest at those words, it was because of them they were in this situation in the first place! because of them they were free from the Radiance and cursed to this miserable existence they never expected to have. They hated that their siblings came for them, they hated that they had to be saved in the first place. 

Hollow did not reply, and Ghost moved as if sighing before returning to their place at the foot of the bed; the only sound coming from their corner was the faint hustling of a blade being cleaned. Hollow moved again, still trying to find some semblance of rest, eventually Hornet exited the bathroom, and sat by the worktable pulling sheets of dried leaves to write from her bag as silently as she could, still the room was filled with the sounds of working. And oddly enough, despite their conflicting feelings, the scratching sounds of the pen and rustling of the blade were enough to lull them into sleep. 

They did not dream anymore. 

After centuries on end trapped in a dream, fighting a losing battle against Her, it seems that the moment She lost Her hold on them, they never could enter the realm of dreams again.  Instead they were welcomed by nightmares. Blinding light consumes them slowly, burning away their chitin leaving only bulbous boils and pulsating veins in its wake. They burned from the inside out, their body a puppet for Her infection to wield as their sword struck down their siblings that came to save them. 

“Here again so soon?” A familiar voice called from behind them, and like a puppet cut from its strings they crumbled into the ground, the infection dripped away from them before evaporating in a glowing orange mist. “i thought you’d be out and about with your siblings”  Grimm extended a hand towards them, but they did not pick up at first, still heaving from the ghost sensation of Her grip on them. 

“It’s…harder than i expected” They mumbled, finally rising to their feet. They now stood over the mismatched patchworks of the Nightmare realm, after an eternity surrounded by golden clouds the first time they stepped in the Nightmare god realm felt odd, but now they appreciated the change in scenery. Grimm chuckled, but there was no malice in his expression. 

“It never is, really” He shook his head “Has their god given you trouble yet? or is something else that got you here instead of the waking world” 

“Their entire kingdom is gilded in gold. Gave me a headache” Hollow replied flatly, they didn’t want to expand on the subject, that just being near a foreign Higher Being shook them to their core, they believed after being around Grimm for so many weeks they were at ease with others not from their immediate family. But they were wrong, as usual. 

Grimm nodded, understanding to not prod “and your siblings?” 

“Hornet is working hard” They hesitated before adding. “I wish i could help her…that's why i came after all” 

“I'm sure just being with her is enough help,” Grimm said leaning back as the ground itself rose to support him. “As one who travels much, I could not do half as well my work if i did not have the Troupe with me” Hollow mulled over his words for a moment, though still not fully convinced of their place by their sister's side “And Ghost? what have they been up to?”

Their only gesture was a shrug, and Grimm sighed “I understand your frustration with them, but they always meant well, Ghost is as straightforward as it can be, give them a chance.”  He insisted,Hollow simply looked away, thinking about Ghost always made the bitter regret at the pit of their stomach grow heavier. 

“Ah but it seems our time is over, you’re waking up in the physical realm. Do send my regards to your sister, tell her that she still has time. I don't think the Troupe will be visiting sooner” He gave a small wave as the realm grew fainter around them. 

When Hollow woke up, it was mercifully dark and neither Hornet nor Ghost were in the room. A shiver ran down their spine at first, their heartbeat quickening at the prospect something might have happened to them (Them? when did they start to care about what happened to Ghost anyway?). Trying to calm themselves, Hornet was probably just out in another meeting, and Ghost off exploring no doubt. They rose from the bed, the blankets dropping on the ground as they walked slowly towards the window, the blinds still drawn, hesitantly they opened it. 

Under the moonlight, Acheron was much more pleasing on the eyes. Still terribly bright, but against the dark sky, it reminded them of the lighthouse deep in the abyss trying to keep the void away in futile attempt. Their fist clenched at the thought, they weren’t ready to think of the abyss, they felt so separated from it, despite being made from the void. They abandoned all their siblings for a fate they were unfit for. They had to right to even think about the void and their siblings, and they should stop- but the more they scolded themselves the more they thought about their siblings, the climb, their bodies falling to the bottom their impact echoing through the cavern the first sound they ever heard, and the light…that soft, cold light, that they couldn’t think of anything but chase after it, all they ever wanted was to make him proud- 

“Oh you’re awake, great”  Suddenly the door opened as Hornet entered, they turned to her startled at the intrusion, but thankful for it nonetheless “did i interrupted you?” she asked, looking concerned at them, and they hoped they didn’t look as distressed as they had felt just a few seconds ago. They shook their head, signing to her slowly

  “no, just looking outside.”

She nodded, approaching their side glancing out the window. 

“Looks much better at night doesn't it?” She murmured, both staring down at the city. With only the moon and the artificial lights of the city to illuminate, Hollow could almost appreciate its beauty, the buildings weren’t blocks of gold, but beautifully carved with intricate rococcos and high relief images of bugs into walls and balconies. Not to mention the huge statue of who they imagine to be King Midas at the center of the palace plaza. 

It felt achingly familiar. 

Hornet coughed, and their attention turned to her again, not letting the thought form. 

“I was speaking with Lucia, she said there's a fair in the main plaza” she spoke low, almost hesitantly as if they were discussing some imminent tragedy “and asked me to come along”  she finished

Hollow looked at her, finally seeing a hint of insecurity in their sister iron facade. Of course she would be hesitant to go out in such a leisurely activity, ever since she was a child they remember her being skittish around the children of other nobles, and the years of isolation since then likely did not help her… their heart quickened, Hornet had come for them looking for comfort, that was what Grimm talked about.. they could offer that, they could help her-!!

“You don’t have to go if you don’t want to”  They signed, but she shook her head. 

“It wouldn't look good on me to refuse to mingle with the populace. Hallownest already is seen as an insular nation, i must put on a good face and engage with the locals” she said resolutely, but her shoulders dropped tired. 

Hollow cursed at themself, of course how could they think that. They should have realized the implications, hadn’t they spent too much trailing after their F-

“I was going to ask if you wanted to come along” Once again she stops them from going down a terrible path of thought. They discreetly pressed their hand against their chest, feeling where the smooth black chitin broke into craters and cracks, where infection once spilled from, a reminder of their failure, what was wrong with them…they had managed to not think about…the past in months…why now…

“Hollow?”  Hornet asked again “its…its ok if you don’t want to, i can handle myself just fine” she reassured them, but they turned to her shaking their head. 

“I’ll go along. I need to have some air”  They signed roughly. Hoping that the change of scenery, even if still…uncomfortable, will prevent their thoughts from wandering like this. Hornet eyes widened slightly at their answer, perhaps she did not expect them to actually accept the invite. 

A few minutes later, the two bugs headed out the room and found Lucia and another ladybug waiting for them at the end of the corridor, the unknown bug was slightly larger than Lucia, her shell bedazzled with pale stones she smiled kindly at the two. 

“This is my sister, Elina she’s going with us too” Lucia gestured, as Elina gave a small greeting “I see you brought one of your siblings along too! Hollow right? Are you feeling better now?”  she leaned over towards them. Hollow couldn't help but feel shame for their previous behaviour. What a poor first impression, a weak, pathetic… 

“Yes, i am” They signed simply, and it seemed enough for the two sisters who did not prod further, instead changing their focus to Hornet, bombarding her with more questions about their home kingdom. They exited the palace grounds, taking a different tram towards the inner city, the main plaza was bustling with movement, many stands covered the streets selling all kinds of foods and trinkets, and scurrying about were more bugs than Hollow remembered seeing in a long time. Perhaps the last they’ve been among so many bugs was during their sealing ceremony… 

“I feel i must apologize for our king” Elina shook her head, “we the council found your ideas interesting, im sure in time we may steer him towards the alliance” 

“Unfortunatly, Hallownest does not have time” Hornet said grim her voice stiff

“Ah, but let's not mull over work tonight, please” Lucia interjected glaring at her sister disapprovingly “Look they have moss rolls, you’ll love it!”  She gestured towards a stand near them “Eli, can you get some for us please? I forgot my purse!”  

Elina rolled her eyes “it was your idea to come to the fair and you forget it? unbelievable” she murmured as she approached the stand on her own. Hollow watched their exchange, Lucia and Elina seemed close enough as sisters, and still they were annoyed or disapproving of the other, and still able to remain family. For a second they wondered if one day they could be like that with Hornet, maybe even with Ghost…but Lucia and Elina were normal bugs, they had never committed the sins Hollow was guilty of, they shouldn’t- 

They shook their head. No. Hornet was giving them this chance to help her. They were guilty of much, but they would not let her down again, they might never be like Lucia and Elina, but they would be better one day. 

Elina returned with a moss roll for each, steam rising from them still. Hollow held theirs gently hiding their hand beneath their cloak, allowing the void to envelop and consume the food. Hornet took a small bite off hers, as Elina and Lucia pointed out further attractions of the fair. Much ahead of them beyond the food and trinket stalls, there were games and rides, though the noise coming off that section made Hollow head spin and hurt. Hornet would not mind if they avoided that last part would she? 

The group continued browsing the stalls, Hollow and Hornet’s arms filling with the different types of snacks Lucia insisted on having them try. The lighthearted atmosphere was alien to them, perhaps that tired them more than the noise and light itself. They have never seen such…peace… even with a Wyrm at their doorstep, these people were still having fun, they wondered if Hallownest had been like this during the days of the infection, if despite the deaths and fear people still celebrated like this, the White Palace had always been silent. 

They had hesitantly wandered away from the three bugs, one of the trinket stalls catching their eye, the seller had many bright colored bands on display, perhaps they could get one for Hornet… until they realized they had no idea which colour she liked. Obviously she favoured red, that had been the colour of Deepnest… but what if she had a secret preference they didn’t know?

“So which one do you want, friend?” The bug seller gestured towards the display,” if none here catches your fancy, I've more he-re” The bug grunted as he pulled more display boxes from the floor. Hollow felt their void squirm as the bug gaze felt expectantly on them. 

“Hollow!” Hornet called as she rushed towards them “ tell me next time you wander off-” she hissed clearly worried. Ah…they had wanted to surprise her with a gift…and instead made her worry further, how inconsiderate…

“You want one of these?” She gestured at the band, her tone lighter, almost surprised. 

Hollow shook their head “no- i…”

But Hornet would not hear them “Which do you like? i’ll get one for you…a thanks…for accompanying me today” she murmured. 

Hollow looked at her, their chest felt warm yet strangely it did not feel like the burning pain they were used to. It was good. They pointed at a simple red band made of braided tread. 

Later when they returned to their borrowed room, having long bid Lucia and Elina good night, Hornet slept on the bed, exhausted from the day, she doozed off quickly, Ghost had returned from their own night out exploring the city, seems they passed by the fair as well, they sported many new trinkets and even some large dolls won in some games. Hollow looked out at the window, the moon gently shining at the sky, their eyes on the red band now on their wrist, feeling the warmth bloom on their chest all over again.