[For someone who is more often then not watched by a crowd, it would be hard for Grimm not to notice the pair of eyes on him. The lack of stealth on the other's part certainly does not help matters either.
But as they have not immediately attempted to attack him, Grimm is content to allow them to watch for a little while longer. If it is the creature who has driven off the infected to protect their home and was evaluating whether or not he too was a threat, then it was understandable. A battle, on the other hand, would be another matter. But they can cross that bridge when they reach it.
From a physical observation Grimm is more eye-catching then he is dangerous in appearance. Extremely tall and thin, he does not appear to carry a physical weapon (if one discounts what could be hidden under his cloak...or the cloak itself). But as for the light and darkness within him, the latter largely outstrips the former. Grimm was the least God-like among his "peers" and was the God of Nightmares. There is a great darkness within him, burning like a unstoppable fire...but it is not evil.
A counterpoint to the good dreams one may have, the bad days passed so you can treasure the good days all the more. Fireworks, dance and song.
But that is enough about him, for as the time passes Grimm grows curious about his one bug audience and so he calls out.]
Greetings, my hidden friend. If I am encroaching upon your territory then I apologize, but as you watch my curiosity grows as to who you are. Will you come out?
[He knows where they are but will not force them out if they do not wish it.]
[ The words are -- unfamiliar things. Not just in tone, but the fact they are being spoken to at all. They're used to the skittering and clawing of things sluggishly climbing the walls, the occasional murmur of a bug possessed, but otherwise...
...there's another little spark of interest. A dull flicker of curiosity, drawing them out of their (admittedly poor) hiding place. A tiny, masked figure in a ragged cloak, wielding a cracked nail.
Grimm will recognise them for what they are, a vessel. Not the one spoken of by the Pale King, that was for certain.
They stare blankly at him, stopping some way away. There is the slightest hint of something akin to interest, but little else. It's a dispassionate, almost empty kind of observation. ]
[Oh, now this certainly is curious. Grimm had not personally met the one dubbed the Hollow Knight by the Pale King but he does know of the...."manner" in which they were all made. How could he not as the God of Nightmares, who visited the dead and dying and may have sent a little dream to even this one now and then when they slept?
Grimm maintains the distance between the two of them as he observes. The Vessel may be small and their nail cracked, but it spoke of their strength that not only were they capable of defeating the creatures under the Radiance's influence, they also appeared to have been driven away from this patch of land. This Vessel indeed had the power to drive back the Radiance.
Although, he supposes, that was the point.
The Vessel's stare does not disturb Grimm as he's been on the receiving end of the intensity their creator possessed many times. Still there is that sliver of interest in the interloper of their territory even if it is the tiniest of things. A spark of something.
The question is will it light or will it burn out before it even begins?
Grimm bows lowly before addressing them again.]
Well met, my friend. Were you the one who called us to the dying lands of Hallownest?
[The fact they are indeed a Vessel could be addressed once that is out of the way.]
[ Now that they have something to focus on, the voice, the presence, seems...familiar.
They...
They remember, a little. Their mind, drifting still, buried deep but not crushed, not fully consigned to oblivion, not yet dead. There is a hazy memory of a scattered vision tinged with scarlet fire.
They don't recall what it was they saw, what made them toss and turn in uneasiness, what made them startle awake at the bottom of the Abyss and realise they had survived after all. But the echo is enough to produce more effort in that spark of curiosity, turning it into a weak, tiny flame.
They take a few halting steps forward, apparently to inspect him more closely; there's a hesitant quality to their movements that wasn't evident before.
"Were you the one who called us?"
No, they don't know who he is, or what he speaks of, being called to this place. (Hallownest? Is that what it's called?)
They are being addressed. They...should answer? They should answer.
They shake their head, once. Still staring, but this time there's confusion in it, as if they're trying to figure out who he is. As if they're trying to remember who he is.
[Grimm kneels as they approach, making it easier for both of them to look each other in the eyes. Perhaps Grimm had been....overzealous when creating his physical appearance, or at least when it came to the matter of his height. But that is the least pressing issue at hand.
His comment of this being curious applied to the entire situation. Curious to meet a Vessel and feel a sense of nostalgia that was far, far more closer then listening to a plan enacted. Curious to be called here and not greeted.
Older Gods were often content to allow such mysteries of the world pass them by, but Grimm preferred to see where they would lead him.]
I am Grimm, the master of the Grimm Troupe. [He does not know if the name will ring a bell.] You are one of the Pale King's Vessels, are you not?
[One that has failed, as they are not currently bound in the temple. Grimm could feel it in the air, the taint of the Radiance. Hallownest was a kingdom in ruin who's fate could go one of two ways.
But that is not yet important to this tale, is it not?]
[ The little vessel stares up at him, still trying to place him for some unknown reason. There is a connection there, though they don't know why, don't understand it.
There is so little they understand. A disruption has entered their sterile routine, their tiny world, and their choice is--
Frustration kindles the flame, ignites it further. Spark to fire.
The stranger gives them names they don't understand, but...vessel. King. Yes. They understand that. They understand they were left behind, not chosen, fallen.
They nod, slowly, fixing their attention on him with a greater sense of curiosity. If he knows their creator, knows their nature, then what is he here for? If he is looking for the one that succeeded, they are long gone; there is nothing much left down here. ]
[Fate certainly seems fond of handing Grimm the strange and curious. Those who choose to become members of the Grimm Troupe were often quite strange even by the standards of bugs, Brumm and his silence, Divine and her..."habits". Not to say that he did not enjoy the company (and Grimm was not blind to his own eccentric nature) but both the Troupe Master and the God of Nightmares appeared to attract the weird.
And, in this case, the old. A Vessel may take the form of a child but it has been a long, long time since that little project of Wyrm's first because a reality. Older then they appear in mind - and although the claim of no mind to break, one had to look around themself to see see that was not quite true.
(Although taking the brunt of the Radiance's rage was likely enough to age anyone to an early grave.)
The look the little Vessel gives him clues Grimm into what they are thinking, that they are unsure as to why he was here. The answer is...perhaps lackluster.]
I was going for a stroll, to see what remains in this land and perhaps hunt down the one who has summoned us to Hallownest. You are an unexpected but welcomed sight. I have not had a chance to speak to a Vessel in the waking world. Perhaps we have met in your nightmares?
[Grimm's memory was sharp and he could recall with clarity when needed, but the nightmares themselves blended in his mind unless they were needed. Thousands upon thousands of bugs and thus nightmares to visit them on dark and cold nights...more-so now then ever.
But if they have met, then perhaps the colors the Troupe Master wore were different. Lighter but yet darker, a flame that could not stop until the Vessel woke up.]
[ A dream, a nightmare. They're not yet completely aware of what those words mean, but it does feel...right. Something they don't yet have language for, but is built innately into their nature.
A slow nod. Yes, they remember. A voice. Scarlet eyes. An ever-burning flame, illuminating their dream of plummeting, of crashing down through hundreds of fragmented, empty masks. Though...
They take a few more cautious steps, close enough to reach out and touch Grimm's cloak. They seem a little surprised by it; it's likely that they remember it as a different colour.
...If not reprimanded for the act of touching it, they'll simply hold onto it. Apparently fascinated by the texture enough to want to do so. ]
[They do not have to worry about being reprimanded for touching his cloak. Grimm does not mind and if this was a ploy to get close enough for an attack, the Vessel has picked a poor thing to grab onto to do so.
And besides it is comfortable. The cloak smells like smoke and ash, like something which has been around fire so long that the smell has been etched into even the stitches. The element of fire was a beautiful thing and Grimm surrounded himself with it and fed the Heart of Grimm with an undying flame. Or the perpetual dying.
He is quiet as he thinks back. Farther then normal as he looks for the dream of falling, of landing among the corpses of their siblings. Of struggling to get out. The emotions filling the dream were not his to feel so Grimm does not know how the Vessel themself felt about it.
But he does remember "watching" them fall down into that endless void, a void that illuminated the darkness yet consumed it at the same time. Something older then even the Gods.]
Perhaps it was fate that we were to meet. Are you lonely in this place, my friend? Left here alone with the dead and the dying.
[Of being left with only the reanimated corpses of those infected with the Radiance's rage.]
[ The nameless vessel hasn't experienced fire - not in the waking world. Dreams are different, after all. The scent of smoke is strange and acrid, but not something unpleasant; they preoccupy themselves with examining the cloak they've been allowed to touch.
Are you lonely in this place, my friend?
They -- cannot remember a time when they weren't. There was no comfort to be gained from the suffocating crush of the dead, no comfort in the lingering scraps of their siblings. They were no longer part of the Abyss; they were something different, something other.
Even emerging into this empty place had made little difference; it was simply a change in scenery. Nothing reached them. No feeling stirred in them. Existence was simply something that stretched on and on, without turning back or imagining anything else. A line dictated by a singular unwavering point.
Being asked such a question aches in a way that they don't understand. It is the first pain they have felt that cannot be attributed to simple injury - something which they have had more than their fair share of, even down here.
It hurts very much.
(To children, all first pains are the most terrible things they have ever experienced, lacking anything to compare it with. The vessel that stands before him now and holds fast to his cloak is no different from any other child, in that regard.)
They clutch the cloak more tightly, holding it to their chest in a vain attempt to seek comfort, and nod, just once. ]
[A yes and it is likely due to the first Ritual that Grimm could understand the pain of being alone. The Grimm Troupe had not existed for as long as he did and the first to strike down the Nightmare King had been his other half, the Radiance herself. A terrible battle that cut through the dreams and the nightmares, separating them forever.
He was on his own and could not bear it for another three thousand years or more. And so Grimm gathered bugs who were willing to come and turned it into an endless show. Together.
And now it is the same for the one before him. Grimm could not claim to know what was older then even he was. The Abyss functioned in a way recorded history and beyond could not understand. But the Vessel could not merely go back. He knew what Wyrm had done. The death of one to grow another, to throw away once he gazed upon their form.
All alone.
He does not stop them from holding onto his cloak tighter, but if the Vessel allows Grimm, he will pat the top of their head gently.]
Do you wish to leave? To go somewhere that may be warmer, will warm your heart?
[ They haven't reacted to much thus far; their responses to Grimm have been short, straightforward things. Slow and cautious. When Grimm pats their head, however, they noticeably flinch, clearly braced for something much uglier than simple contact to happen - and then looking up, surprised, when it does not.
Yet another failure.
Do they want to leave? The little Vessel stares blankly. There is the sense that they're struggling to absorb the idea of being given a choice in anything.
But Grimm is....kind to them. Has been nothing but kind, despite knowing what they are and what their purpose was and how they failed from the start to be what they were supposed to be. That alone should be enough to reject them, as their creator rejected them, as the darkness that they were born from now does.
But he does not. They don't understand why.
They think -- they would like to understand why.
Another little nod. It's better than staying here, all alone. Anything is better, they're beginning to realise. ]
[There are things that are integrated into a bug's soul. Something small such as Grimm's dislike of swimming to...this. Deeper. The fear of touch, even if it is a pat on the head.
One could say it came from the battles the Vessel must have endured during their time upon this forgotten land but Grimm knew better. Such things started early and for them it was the moment of their birth, when they were tossed away by their creator. Their father.
Grimm was under no illusion that he could magically make it better and erase those memories. But perhaps the future could be just a little kinder.]
Then we shall go to my Troupe. I think you will like to meet them all.
[Brumm could understand their silence and Divine would enjoy the sight of the Vessel. There was quite a number of things they could do.
Grimm stands but does not pull his cloak away. If the Vessel wished to hold onto the fabric while they walked, then they were free to do so.]
[ They seem determined to not let go of the cloak, now that they've comprehended that it's an action without any harmful consequences. Another little nod. They're not sure what a Troupe is, but Grimm clearly hasn't steered them wrong yet, so they're happy to go along with whatever he seems to have planned.
They trail along after him, attention occasionally held by some gleam or movement nearby, but they're clearly fixed on just holding onto his cloak, attempting to mirror his footsteps.
Though they do pause, just once, as they leave the Basin. Turning their head towards a distant point, as if listening for- or perhaps to - something.
But it passes, and they return to shuffling after him, carefully watchful. Nothing else captures their attention during their walk quite like that. ]
[Grimm has quite the stride but he walks slower as to not leave the Vessel behind. They appear to be quite fold of his cloak, so perhaps something could be done when they arrived back at the tent.
It is a long walk ahead of them. Grimm cannot teleport himself and someone else and regardless of the Vessel's abilities in combat he would not subject them to Deepnest just so they can take the tram. Grimm could not see through the webs that the beasts wove despite his power and it was best to keep their agreement between the Pale King intact.
If they cut through the City of Tears and take the elevator up to the Resting Grounds, there was a tram that could take them to the Forgotten Crossroads. From there, Dirtmouth and the tents of the Grimm Troupe. It is not a completely danger free path (no place in Hallownest was) but he is certain they can both handle it.
And he rather liked the Resting Grounds, even if they were not reasons that could be classified as good. It would also be nice to see the City again. Even in the grip of death, Hallownest retained some level of beauty within its sorrow.
When the Vessel stops Grimm does as well. He cannot hear what they do but there is something on the wind that he does understand. There is a change, a new note in the endless song.
It is something to consider, but now it is time to move on.
Once they begin to approach the City, he feels a need to issue a warning.]
This place is the center of Hallownest, its grand city. We are heading towards an elevator near a place known as the Pleasure House. It will take us to the quiet Resting Grounds and from there, the Forgotten Crossroads and Dirtmouth, where my Troupe await.
[He turns towards the Vessel, kneeling down so they can speak face-to-face.]
We will likely face opposition as we make our way along this path. You will not have to face our opponents alone as I will be with you, but this is a warning of what is waiting ahead.
[ They angle their head curiously when he leans down to speak to them and impart information; they seem fascinated by the action (and, perhaps, a little confused at the consideration inherent in it).
Enemies, in a place they don't know. Now that they've emerged, they can feel the animosity of that light once more; they don't need to be warned twice. They simply nod, letting go of his cloak in order to draw their weapon.
Combat is a simple affair; natural strength and a nail to wield, even an old one, is all they require. The change in scenery doesn't even register to them, it seems; they are entirely riveted on meeting and striking down what enemies come towards them. Will bent to a sharp point.
Well, mostly. They seem almost hesitant, at points, and it almost gets them struck once or twice if Grimm doesn't intervene. (Even with his assistance, they seem slow to wield, as if attempting to measure their own strength, their own strikes; exerting only what is necessary, even on husks they know are bent towards their destruction.)
When the coast is clear, they simply stop, and they seem to...realise, for the first time, that something has changed around them. They turn their face upward, holding their weapon loosely in one hand, reaching out with clear fascination in what seems to be an attempt to catch the water falling from above.
Their small frame has become quickly soaked by the constant downpour that gives the heart of Hallownest its name. They don't seem to mind in the least. ]
[Grimm's approach to the mindless husks is much the same as the Vessel's...if more flashy. The firebats screech as they escape from Grimm's cloak, three at a time, to slam into the husks and greedily eat away at their flesh. His flame was too strong to be put out by water and his dance upon the streets of the jewel of Hallownest is lively and deadly. Those who attack the Vessel in their moments of hesitation are met with spikes formed from his cloak. A lifeline the Vessel may have been holding but was as deadly as anything else about Grimm when it came to his love of battle.
The animosity of the light hellbent on the Vessel changes to one of mild shock and curiously, "Why are you here?" as both a question and an alarm. They are not the only one who that light knows. Once upon a time Grimm and the light were in union, but now no more.
A pity but a clash of personalities and a divide meant they no longer could come to an agreement.
The violence eventually calms and all that remains is the sound of the city's rain. Grimm is amused at the Vessel's clear display of fascination with the rain. They do indeed have their own traits, even if it is thus far a healthy sense of curiosity.]
Beautiful, is it not? It perpetually rains in the heart of Hallownest due to the lake above us and its crystal clear water dripping through the cracks in the ceiling. Once upon a time, this place was bustling with bugs of all shapes and sizes, living lives of riches and luxury. Few remain now but the city is as everlasting as it was in the past.
[Even if it came from the many sacrifices of others the City of Tears stands tall, locked away from the rest of the world. Although, in the end...
Grimm shakes his head and looks up.]
Our next destination is higher up, thus it will be a bit of a climb. Are you ready, my friend?
[The Pleasure House and its wonderful song is next.]
[ When Grimm spoke before, they hadn't really taken in the words on their own merit; simply sifting through them for key concepts, key things to recognise and respond to. But now, when he talks
(tells them a story)
there's a greater sense of attention. To the cadence of his words, to what they mean in full; they're trying to listen, to understand. Attempting to conjure an image of a past they have never seen, in a city they were hidden deep under.
(They are already learning, given something new. A cloak, a kind warmth. A tale told.)
They shake their cloak a little in some odd and vain attempt to shed the water they've accumulated there, and then return to his side, giving him a little nod. Yes, they're ready. They'll follow where he leads them. Their former wariness has all but gone. ]
[It is good to learn the of the past, even if it is difficult to connect the quiet, empty city to one it used to be. A perpetual rain but full of bugs of all kinds going about their daily lives. From here it was a walk to visit the White Palace if one had to go there but usually it was worth their time.
Grimm personally had mixed feelings. But now in the present it was good to see the Vessel was starting to trust him. That means Grimm could not lead them astray.
The trip to the Pleasure House involves going upwards. Curiously while there are indeed husks still about, they seem almost wary of approaching. It is not fear and they will engage if either Grimm or the Vessel wander too close but almost like they were observing the pair.
That aside, it is a little comical when they get to the elevator. The Vessel may be too small to hit the switch leading up but Grimm was also too tall to stand inside comfortably, having to crouch down to fit in. Was this punishment for making fun of Wyrm's short stature? Most likely.
The ride to the top is smooth sailing, despite the sight of corpses occasionally caught in the shadows of other passages. But at the top there are no dangers and more importantly the song of a singer long dead.]
A lovely song even in death. There is also a hot spring if you are feeling cold.
[Grimm was fine as he had his flame and personally did not agree with water. But the Vessel is welcome to go take a dip if they are curious enough.]
[ Something has changed. They're not entirely sure what it is, but though they watch the husks carefully, they seem content not to seek out any further combat.
The elevator is an odd metal cage they're confused by the purpose of. Perhaps if they'd known what it was to find anything funny, they might have made some indication of amusement as Grimm crouches beside them, but they just tilt their head curiously instead.
Then it starts to move and it's probably Grimm's turn to be amused as they skitter about in confusion and cling to his cloak again, which is the only safe object they can think of. Even when the elevator stops its movement, they still hold on tightly.
The plaintive sound of a song and the noise of water distracts them from their fear of their newest experience, however. It takes a long moment, but then curiosity overrides their desire to stay where things are safe, and they go to explore.
A series of splashes from one of the connecting rooms indicates they've apparently decide to try the hot spring first, but they tire of it soon enough. Ultimately, Grimm will find them sitting politely on the abandoned stage, apparently enraptured by the sound of music.
It's like nothing they've ever heard before, this melody given life through someone's voice. Their stillness and poised posture suggests they could sit here forever if left alone.
But as soon as their attention is sufficiently drawn away, they're quick to hop to their feet again. Curiosity is sated, at least for the moment; they're ready to go. ]
[Grimm knows he will not receive such a courtesy again. It really is not courtesy to begin with but a statement - "I am here and I am watching." - but she could do so while attacking them. The Radiance's intelligence could not match that of the Pale King but she was by no means stupid in her rage. The God of Nightmares traveling with one of her sworn enemy's failed creations would easily catch her eye once it became obvious it was happening. What happened next would determine how she responded.
The Resting Grounds contained the monument to the Dreamers and once they arrive to the Forgotten Crossroads, they will have to pass the Black Egg Temple. There were many, many things that could happen and Grimm was not omniscient. The fate of the Vessel had been changed by the Troupe Master's hand and these two places may do so as well.
But for now there is warm water and soothing song. The spirit of a long-dead singer still lingering for her audience even if they are simply a child of the void and a travelling performer. Grimm lingers a little longer then he should - they are not on any particular timer but he did not wish to stress Brumm too much - but the song is beautiful. Still, he cannot do anything for lingering souls, even his own. Grimm would offer her an audience in the form of those who came to see the Grimm Troupe if he could.
So they press onto a bigger elevator (thankfully) but a longer ride up. Upon exiting they are both greeted by deafening silence and a somber atmosphere.]
This is the Resting Grounds, the graveyard of those who have passed into the afterlife of dreams. Many bugs are buried here by friends and family and it was once considered a place of worship for some.
[The place where the moths once lived and now home to the monument of the Dreamers, the second seal placed by the Pale King over the Hollow Knight. The walk to the exit to the Forgotten Crossroads is a short one but Grimm is acutely aware of the gazes on their backs.
The monument is to the left. And it will remain that way unless something happens.]
[ The stillness of these graves feels familiar to them, though that recollection brings them a certain pain. Not knowing what else to do with it, they tug their cloak more tightly around themselves as they step out of the elevator, shivering with a feeling that conventional warmth can't dispel.
They show no particular desire to head in any direction, simply following the Troupe Master's lead - though...they look towards the direction of the monument, head tilting, and tug at his cloak with that same spark of curiosity they'd repeatedly demonstrated.
They point at it and look up at him, inquisitive. What is it, that strange thing? A grave, like so many others? Or something else?
(It glows in their sight. Something calling them. They're not sure why.) ]
[Grimm looks back at the monument and the dead silence that seeps from it in his mind. He knows well what it is and truly means. The message carved into stone and what it will say for the little Vessel beside him.
He has not been one to squash curiosity. Every single iteration of Grimm has been curious in one way or another and it would be a shame to deny the Vessel a chance to explore. The Dreamers were connected to the Hollow Knight, who was and always will be connected to those born before it. Even if this Vessel becomes soaked in the flames of the Grimm Troupe that would not change.]
It is the monument to the three Dreamers, those who aid the Hollow Knight in their slumber. Monomon the Teacher, Lurien the Watcher and Herrah the Beast.
[Grimm did not know if they were aware of their presence in the Resting Grounds but chances were good they did. He was a burning flame igniting a forest and the Vessel was the absence of everything in anything. He had no way to predict what will happen next.]
We will need to be careful but if you wish to see it I will go with you.
[Perhaps his presence will mitigate the end result. But it is the Vessel's choice if this goes anywhere to begin with.]
[ The words stir a peculiar feeling in them. They were jolted awake by a nightmare, compelled to rise by someone's voice.
The Hollow Knight. Yes, they remember. The pure vessel, the chosen child.
(taken, imprisoned, lost)
The feeling that stirs in them is one they don't understand. Everything is as it was meant to be. It was a simple thing; one was good, and the others were not. Only one was perfect, the rest cast down. That was just how it was.
(Why do they feel sad, then?)
They approach the monument carefully, the light emanating from it becoming brighter. One step, then another. They just want to see what it says, and then they'll go.
To protect the Vessel, the Dreamers lay sleeping...
They look up immediately as the shields slam into place, keeping them on the pedestal, but it doesn't last very long. Someone is talking to them, and they clutch their head and sink to their knees as the voices tear into them. Demanding answers to questions they don't know what to do with. They scrabble frantically, clearly panicking, attempting to escape back to their only point of safety and finding no reprieve.
For a child like them, this is far too disorienting to deal with, even if they had any power to affect a dream or fight back. For Grimm, though...it would probably be easy to break the barrier keeping them there. The Dreamers have only weakened, in their long slumber. They have very little power left to use. ]
[The second the shields slam down Grimm back-steps, a reflex born from being burned by the Radiance's dreams once in the past. Yet he is back at the solid veil of light keeping him away from the Vessel.
He should have known this would happen. Grimm was counting on the fact that they were too weak to put up a barrier and perhaps if they noticed the child, they'd respond to the Vessel's presence with a little tact. He understood why they are responding the way they are but clearly not interrogating the child who clearly did not completely understand what was going on was too much to ask for.
But this was on Grimm for failing to act quickly to spare the Vessel and it is on him now to respond quickly. His fist slams against the shield and a large burst of red dream-catcher particles bursting from the sheer force of the strike. It will likely attract the attention of the rest of the Grimm Troupe but Grimm has no choice.
On the edges of the dream a voice echos, a power knocking quietly on the metaphorical door. The flame's voice is deep and raw, a voice that has not spoken in eons. Rusted from disuse the Nightmare King's voice seeps into the dream and worms into the fears of those present. The Vessel's panic of what is happening to them and the Dreamers' fear at their presence....it is the voice of horror, the moment when a good dream changes to a nightmare.
"Teacher...Watcher...Beast.
Vessel...
Begone...or I will burn you all alive."
The shield shatters with a loud crack in reality, brought down by Grimm's hands and the Dreamers' retreat. Grimm will not wait for the Vessel to stand and instead scoops them up before dashing out of the Resting Grounds.]
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no subject
But as they have not immediately attempted to attack him, Grimm is content to allow them to watch for a little while longer. If it is the creature who has driven off the infected to protect their home and was evaluating whether or not he too was a threat, then it was understandable. A battle, on the other hand, would be another matter. But they can cross that bridge when they reach it.
From a physical observation Grimm is more eye-catching then he is dangerous in appearance. Extremely tall and thin, he does not appear to carry a physical weapon (if one discounts what could be hidden under his cloak...or the cloak itself). But as for the light and darkness within him, the latter largely outstrips the former. Grimm was the least God-like among his "peers" and was the God of Nightmares. There is a great darkness within him, burning like a unstoppable fire...but it is not evil.
A counterpoint to the good dreams one may have, the bad days passed so you can treasure the good days all the more. Fireworks, dance and song.
But that is enough about him, for as the time passes Grimm grows curious about his one bug audience and so he calls out.]
Greetings, my hidden friend. If I am encroaching upon your territory then I apologize, but as you watch my curiosity grows as to who you are. Will you come out?
[He knows where they are but will not force them out if they do not wish it.]
no subject
...there's another little spark of interest. A dull flicker of curiosity, drawing them out of their (admittedly poor) hiding place. A tiny, masked figure in a ragged cloak, wielding a cracked nail.
Grimm will recognise them for what they are, a vessel. Not the one spoken of by the Pale King, that was for certain.
They stare blankly at him, stopping some way away. There is the slightest hint of something akin to interest, but little else. It's a dispassionate, almost empty kind of observation. ]
no subject
Grimm maintains the distance between the two of them as he observes. The Vessel may be small and their nail cracked, but it spoke of their strength that not only were they capable of defeating the creatures under the Radiance's influence, they also appeared to have been driven away from this patch of land. This Vessel indeed had the power to drive back the Radiance.
Although, he supposes, that was the point.
The Vessel's stare does not disturb Grimm as he's been on the receiving end of the intensity their creator possessed many times. Still there is that sliver of interest in the interloper of their territory even if it is the tiniest of things. A spark of something.
The question is will it light or will it burn out before it even begins?
Grimm bows lowly before addressing them again.]
Well met, my friend. Were you the one who called us to the dying lands of Hallownest?
[The fact they are indeed a Vessel could be addressed once that is out of the way.]
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They...
They remember, a little. Their mind, drifting still, buried deep but not crushed, not fully consigned to oblivion, not yet dead. There is a hazy memory of a scattered vision tinged with scarlet fire.
They don't recall what it was they saw, what made them toss and turn in uneasiness, what made them startle awake at the bottom of the Abyss and realise they had survived after all. But the echo is enough to produce more effort in that spark of curiosity, turning it into a weak, tiny flame.
They take a few halting steps forward, apparently to inspect him more closely; there's a hesitant quality to their movements that wasn't evident before.
"Were you the one who called us?"
No, they don't know who he is, or what he speaks of, being called to this place. (Hallownest? Is that what it's called?)
They are being addressed. They...should answer? They should answer.
They shake their head, once. Still staring, but this time there's confusion in it, as if they're trying to figure out who he is. As if they're trying to remember who he is.
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[Grimm kneels as they approach, making it easier for both of them to look each other in the eyes. Perhaps Grimm had been....overzealous when creating his physical appearance, or at least when it came to the matter of his height. But that is the least pressing issue at hand.
His comment of this being curious applied to the entire situation. Curious to meet a Vessel and feel a sense of nostalgia that was far, far more closer then listening to a plan enacted. Curious to be called here and not greeted.
Older Gods were often content to allow such mysteries of the world pass them by, but Grimm preferred to see where they would lead him.]
I am Grimm, the master of the Grimm Troupe. [He does not know if the name will ring a bell.] You are one of the Pale King's Vessels, are you not?
[One that has failed, as they are not currently bound in the temple. Grimm could feel it in the air, the taint of the Radiance. Hallownest was a kingdom in ruin who's fate could go one of two ways.
But that is not yet important to this tale, is it not?]
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There is so little they understand. A disruption has entered their sterile routine, their tiny world, and their choice is--
Frustration kindles the flame, ignites it further. Spark to fire.
The stranger gives them names they don't understand, but...vessel. King. Yes. They understand that. They understand they were left behind, not chosen, fallen.
They nod, slowly, fixing their attention on him with a greater sense of curiosity. If he knows their creator, knows their nature, then what is he here for? If he is looking for the one that succeeded, they are long gone; there is nothing much left down here. ]
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And, in this case, the old. A Vessel may take the form of a child but it has been a long, long time since that little project of Wyrm's first because a reality. Older then they appear in mind - and although the claim of no mind to break, one had to look around themself to see see that was not quite true.
(Although taking the brunt of the Radiance's rage was likely enough to age anyone to an early grave.)
The look the little Vessel gives him clues Grimm into what they are thinking, that they are unsure as to why he was here. The answer is...perhaps lackluster.]
I was going for a stroll, to see what remains in this land and perhaps hunt down the one who has summoned us to Hallownest. You are an unexpected but welcomed sight. I have not had a chance to speak to a Vessel in the waking world. Perhaps we have met in your nightmares?
[Grimm's memory was sharp and he could recall with clarity when needed, but the nightmares themselves blended in his mind unless they were needed. Thousands upon thousands of bugs and thus nightmares to visit them on dark and cold nights...more-so now then ever.
But if they have met, then perhaps the colors the Troupe Master wore were different. Lighter but yet darker, a flame that could not stop until the Vessel woke up.]
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A slow nod. Yes, they remember. A voice. Scarlet eyes. An ever-burning flame, illuminating their dream of plummeting, of crashing down through hundreds of fragmented, empty masks. Though...
They take a few more cautious steps, close enough to reach out and touch Grimm's cloak. They seem a little surprised by it; it's likely that they remember it as a different colour.
...If not reprimanded for the act of touching it, they'll simply hold onto it. Apparently fascinated by the texture enough to want to do so. ]
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And besides it is comfortable. The cloak smells like smoke and ash, like something which has been around fire so long that the smell has been etched into even the stitches. The element of fire was a beautiful thing and Grimm surrounded himself with it and fed the Heart of Grimm with an undying flame. Or the perpetual dying.
He is quiet as he thinks back. Farther then normal as he looks for the dream of falling, of landing among the corpses of their siblings. Of struggling to get out. The emotions filling the dream were not his to feel so Grimm does not know how the Vessel themself felt about it.
But he does remember "watching" them fall down into that endless void, a void that illuminated the darkness yet consumed it at the same time. Something older then even the Gods.]
Perhaps it was fate that we were to meet. Are you lonely in this place, my friend? Left here alone with the dead and the dying.
[Of being left with only the reanimated corpses of those infected with the Radiance's rage.]
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Are you lonely in this place, my friend?
They -- cannot remember a time when they weren't. There was no comfort to be gained from the suffocating crush of the dead, no comfort in the lingering scraps of their siblings. They were no longer part of the Abyss; they were something different, something other.
Even emerging into this empty place had made little difference; it was simply a change in scenery. Nothing reached them. No feeling stirred in them. Existence was simply something that stretched on and on, without turning back or imagining anything else. A line dictated by a singular unwavering point.
Being asked such a question aches in a way that they don't understand. It is the first pain they have felt that cannot be attributed to simple injury - something which they have had more than their fair share of, even down here.
It hurts very much.
(To children, all first pains are the most terrible things they have ever experienced, lacking anything to compare it with. The vessel that stands before him now and holds fast to his cloak is no different from any other child, in that regard.)
They clutch the cloak more tightly, holding it to their chest in a vain attempt to seek comfort, and nod, just once. ]
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He was on his own and could not bear it for another three thousand years or more. And so Grimm gathered bugs who were willing to come and turned it into an endless show. Together.
And now it is the same for the one before him. Grimm could not claim to know what was older then even he was. The Abyss functioned in a way recorded history and beyond could not understand. But the Vessel could not merely go back. He knew what Wyrm had done. The death of one to grow another, to throw away once he gazed upon their form.
All alone.
He does not stop them from holding onto his cloak tighter, but if the Vessel allows Grimm, he will pat the top of their head gently.]
Do you wish to leave? To go somewhere that may be warmer, will warm your heart?
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Yet another failure.
Do they want to leave? The little Vessel stares blankly. There is the sense that they're struggling to absorb the idea of being given a choice in anything.
But Grimm is....kind to them. Has been nothing but kind, despite knowing what they are and what their purpose was and how they failed from the start to be what they were supposed to be. That alone should be enough to reject them, as their creator rejected them, as the darkness that they were born from now does.
But he does not. They don't understand why.
They think -- they would like to understand why.
Another little nod. It's better than staying here, all alone. Anything is better, they're beginning to realise. ]
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One could say it came from the battles the Vessel must have endured during their time upon this forgotten land but Grimm knew better. Such things started early and for them it was the moment of their birth, when they were tossed away by their creator. Their father.
Grimm was under no illusion that he could magically make it better and erase those memories. But perhaps the future could be just a little kinder.]
Then we shall go to my Troupe. I think you will like to meet them all.
[Brumm could understand their silence and Divine would enjoy the sight of the Vessel. There was quite a number of things they could do.
Grimm stands but does not pull his cloak away. If the Vessel wished to hold onto the fabric while they walked, then they were free to do so.]
Shall we, my friend?
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They trail along after him, attention occasionally held by some gleam or movement nearby, but they're clearly fixed on just holding onto his cloak, attempting to mirror his footsteps.
Though they do pause, just once, as they leave the Basin. Turning their head towards a distant point, as if listening for- or perhaps to - something.
But it passes, and they return to shuffling after him, carefully watchful. Nothing else captures their attention during their walk quite like that. ]
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It is a long walk ahead of them. Grimm cannot teleport himself and someone else and regardless of the Vessel's abilities in combat he would not subject them to Deepnest just so they can take the tram. Grimm could not see through the webs that the beasts wove despite his power and it was best to keep their agreement between the Pale King intact.
If they cut through the City of Tears and take the elevator up to the Resting Grounds, there was a tram that could take them to the Forgotten Crossroads. From there, Dirtmouth and the tents of the Grimm Troupe. It is not a completely danger free path (no place in Hallownest was) but he is certain they can both handle it.
And he rather liked the Resting Grounds, even if they were not reasons that could be classified as good. It would also be nice to see the City again. Even in the grip of death, Hallownest retained some level of beauty within its sorrow.
When the Vessel stops Grimm does as well. He cannot hear what they do but there is something on the wind that he does understand. There is a change, a new note in the endless song.
It is something to consider, but now it is time to move on.
Once they begin to approach the City, he feels a need to issue a warning.]
This place is the center of Hallownest, its grand city. We are heading towards an elevator near a place known as the Pleasure House. It will take us to the quiet Resting Grounds and from there, the Forgotten Crossroads and Dirtmouth, where my Troupe await.
[He turns towards the Vessel, kneeling down so they can speak face-to-face.]
We will likely face opposition as we make our way along this path. You will not have to face our opponents alone as I will be with you, but this is a warning of what is waiting ahead.
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Enemies, in a place they don't know. Now that they've emerged, they can feel the animosity of that light once more; they don't need to be warned twice. They simply nod, letting go of his cloak in order to draw their weapon.
Combat is a simple affair; natural strength and a nail to wield, even an old one, is all they require. The change in scenery doesn't even register to them, it seems; they are entirely riveted on meeting and striking down what enemies come towards them. Will bent to a sharp point.
Well, mostly. They seem almost hesitant, at points, and it almost gets them struck once or twice if Grimm doesn't intervene. (Even with his assistance, they seem slow to wield, as if attempting to measure their own strength, their own strikes; exerting only what is necessary, even on husks they know are bent towards their destruction.)
When the coast is clear, they simply stop, and they seem to...realise, for the first time, that something has changed around them. They turn their face upward, holding their weapon loosely in one hand, reaching out with clear fascination in what seems to be an attempt to catch the water falling from above.
Their small frame has become quickly soaked by the constant downpour that gives the heart of Hallownest its name. They don't seem to mind in the least. ]
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The animosity of the light hellbent on the Vessel changes to one of mild shock and curiously, "Why are you here?" as both a question and an alarm. They are not the only one who that light knows. Once upon a time Grimm and the light were in union, but now no more.
A pity but a clash of personalities and a divide meant they no longer could come to an agreement.
The violence eventually calms and all that remains is the sound of the city's rain. Grimm is amused at the Vessel's clear display of fascination with the rain. They do indeed have their own traits, even if it is thus far a healthy sense of curiosity.]
Beautiful, is it not? It perpetually rains in the heart of Hallownest due to the lake above us and its crystal clear water dripping through the cracks in the ceiling. Once upon a time, this place was bustling with bugs of all shapes and sizes, living lives of riches and luxury. Few remain now but the city is as everlasting as it was in the past.
[Even if it came from the many sacrifices of others the City of Tears stands tall, locked away from the rest of the world. Although, in the end...
Grimm shakes his head and looks up.]
Our next destination is higher up, thus it will be a bit of a climb. Are you ready, my friend?
[The Pleasure House and its wonderful song is next.]
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(tells them a story)
there's a greater sense of attention. To the cadence of his words, to what they mean in full; they're trying to listen, to understand. Attempting to conjure an image of a past they have never seen, in a city they were hidden deep under.
(They are already learning, given something new. A cloak, a kind warmth. A tale told.)
They shake their cloak a little in some odd and vain attempt to shed the water they've accumulated there, and then return to his side, giving him a little nod. Yes, they're ready. They'll follow where he leads them. Their former wariness has all but gone. ]
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Grimm personally had mixed feelings. But now in the present it was good to see the Vessel was starting to trust him. That means Grimm could not lead them astray.
The trip to the Pleasure House involves going upwards. Curiously while there are indeed husks still about, they seem almost wary of approaching. It is not fear and they will engage if either Grimm or the Vessel wander too close but almost like they were observing the pair.
That aside, it is a little comical when they get to the elevator. The Vessel may be too small to hit the switch leading up but Grimm was also too tall to stand inside comfortably, having to crouch down to fit in. Was this punishment for making fun of Wyrm's short stature? Most likely.
The ride to the top is smooth sailing, despite the sight of corpses occasionally caught in the shadows of other passages. But at the top there are no dangers and more importantly the song of a singer long dead.]
A lovely song even in death. There is also a hot spring if you are feeling cold.
[Grimm was fine as he had his flame and personally did not agree with water. But the Vessel is welcome to go take a dip if they are curious enough.]
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The elevator is an odd metal cage they're confused by the purpose of. Perhaps if they'd known what it was to find anything funny, they might have made some indication of amusement as Grimm crouches beside them, but they just tilt their head curiously instead.
Then it starts to move and it's probably Grimm's turn to be amused as they skitter about in confusion and cling to his cloak again, which is the only safe object they can think of. Even when the elevator stops its movement, they still hold on tightly.
The plaintive sound of a song and the noise of water distracts them from their fear of their newest experience, however. It takes a long moment, but then curiosity overrides their desire to stay where things are safe, and they go to explore.
A series of splashes from one of the connecting rooms indicates they've apparently decide to try the hot spring first, but they tire of it soon enough. Ultimately, Grimm will find them sitting politely on the abandoned stage, apparently enraptured by the sound of music.
It's like nothing they've ever heard before, this melody given life through someone's voice. Their stillness and poised posture suggests they could sit here forever if left alone.
But as soon as their attention is sufficiently drawn away, they're quick to hop to their feet again. Curiosity is sated, at least for the moment; they're ready to go. ]
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The Resting Grounds contained the monument to the Dreamers and once they arrive to the Forgotten Crossroads, they will have to pass the Black Egg Temple. There were many, many things that could happen and Grimm was not omniscient. The fate of the Vessel had been changed by the Troupe Master's hand and these two places may do so as well.
But for now there is warm water and soothing song. The spirit of a long-dead singer still lingering for her audience even if they are simply a child of the void and a travelling performer. Grimm lingers a little longer then he should - they are not on any particular timer but he did not wish to stress Brumm too much - but the song is beautiful. Still, he cannot do anything for lingering souls, even his own. Grimm would offer her an audience in the form of those who came to see the Grimm Troupe if he could.
So they press onto a bigger elevator (thankfully) but a longer ride up. Upon exiting they are both greeted by deafening silence and a somber atmosphere.]
This is the Resting Grounds, the graveyard of those who have passed into the afterlife of dreams. Many bugs are buried here by friends and family and it was once considered a place of worship for some.
[The place where the moths once lived and now home to the monument of the Dreamers, the second seal placed by the Pale King over the Hollow Knight. The walk to the exit to the Forgotten Crossroads is a short one but Grimm is acutely aware of the gazes on their backs.
The monument is to the left. And it will remain that way unless something happens.]
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They show no particular desire to head in any direction, simply following the Troupe Master's lead - though...they look towards the direction of the monument, head tilting, and tug at his cloak with that same spark of curiosity they'd repeatedly demonstrated.
They point at it and look up at him, inquisitive. What is it, that strange thing? A grave, like so many others? Or something else?
(It glows in their sight. Something calling them. They're not sure why.) ]
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He has not been one to squash curiosity. Every single iteration of Grimm has been curious in one way or another and it would be a shame to deny the Vessel a chance to explore. The Dreamers were connected to the Hollow Knight, who was and always will be connected to those born before it. Even if this Vessel becomes soaked in the flames of the Grimm Troupe that would not change.]
It is the monument to the three Dreamers, those who aid the Hollow Knight in their slumber. Monomon the Teacher, Lurien the Watcher and Herrah the Beast.
[Grimm did not know if they were aware of their presence in the Resting Grounds but chances were good they did. He was a burning flame igniting a forest and the Vessel was the absence of everything in anything. He had no way to predict what will happen next.]
We will need to be careful but if you wish to see it I will go with you.
[Perhaps his presence will mitigate the end result. But it is the Vessel's choice if this goes anywhere to begin with.]
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The Hollow Knight. Yes, they remember. The pure vessel, the chosen child.
(taken, imprisoned, lost)
The feeling that stirs in them is one they don't understand. Everything is as it was meant to be. It was a simple thing; one was good, and the others were not. Only one was perfect, the rest cast down. That was just how it was.
(Why do they feel sad, then?)
They approach the monument carefully, the light emanating from it becoming brighter. One step, then another. They just want to see what it says, and then they'll go.
To protect the Vessel, the Dreamers lay sleeping...
They look up immediately as the shields slam into place, keeping them on the pedestal, but it doesn't last very long. Someone is talking to them, and they clutch their head and sink to their knees as the voices tear into them. Demanding answers to questions they don't know what to do with. They scrabble frantically, clearly panicking, attempting to escape back to their only point of safety and finding no reprieve.
For a child like them, this is far too disorienting to deal with, even if they had any power to affect a dream or fight back. For Grimm, though...it would probably be easy to break the barrier keeping them there. The Dreamers have only weakened, in their long slumber. They have very little power left to use. ]
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He should have known this would happen. Grimm was counting on the fact that they were too weak to put up a barrier and perhaps if they noticed the child, they'd respond to the Vessel's presence with a little tact. He understood why they are responding the way they are but clearly not interrogating the child who clearly did not completely understand what was going on was too much to ask for.
But this was on Grimm for failing to act quickly to spare the Vessel and it is on him now to respond quickly. His fist slams against the shield and a large burst of red dream-catcher particles bursting from the sheer force of the strike. It will likely attract the attention of the rest of the Grimm Troupe but Grimm has no choice.
On the edges of the dream a voice echos, a power knocking quietly on the metaphorical door. The flame's voice is deep and raw, a voice that has not spoken in eons. Rusted from disuse the Nightmare King's voice seeps into the dream and worms into the fears of those present. The Vessel's panic of what is happening to them and the Dreamers' fear at their presence....it is the voice of horror, the moment when a good dream changes to a nightmare.
"Teacher...Watcher...Beast.
Vessel...
Begone...or I will burn you all alive."
The shield shatters with a loud crack in reality, brought down by Grimm's hands and the Dreamers' retreat. Grimm will not wait for the Vessel to stand and instead scoops them up before dashing out of the Resting Grounds.]
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