My mind is filled with thoughts of my newest "acquaintance". How different this one is compared to the past vessels I have slain. Not only is it much more adept in combat but its behavior is startlingly strange. I can only assume it is intrigued by me, always making a beeline in my direction whenever we locked eyes. It also shocked me when it grabbed onto my leg, clinging to it like some child. And then I… let out a scream most…humiliating…I sorely wish I could forget that it ever took place. Fortunately, the only ones at the scene were the ghost and myself, and that little pest of a vessel has no voice with which to spread the story of my most unbecoming screech. I was lucky this time, but I must do a better job of keeping my emotions in check in the future.

I've made my way to Hallownest's capital, The City of Tears. While I detest being subjected to this persistent downpour, I know that the vessel will travel this way soon. It is important that I meet with it again.

Could this truly be the replacement I've been seeking? I believe it to be only wishful thinking, but its ability in combat and abnormal countenance do provide a small amount of hope, I will admit. Even still, for a vessel to contain that pernicious plague, it must be empty of thought, of will and of idea. According to what I know, this vessel in particular should have no chance of containing the infection, yet I am putting my faith in it regardless. How strange.

I lie in wait under one of the city's many buildings to avoid the rain. Although I have grown accustomed to endlessly patrolling the many regions of Hallownest, I think myself quite a patient bug when the situation calls for it. It takes many hours for the vessel to show, but, at last, it has arrived at the statue of the Hollow Knight in the center of the city.

"Again, we meet little ghost."

I swing down from my waiting spot and stretch my legs. The little ghost replies with only silence and a blank stare. It looks as though it wants to run to me again, but my voice keeps it still.

"I'm normally quite perceptive. You I underestimated, though I've since guessed the truth. You've seen beyond this kingdom's bounds. Yours is resilience born of two voids. It's no surprise then you've managed to reach the heart of this world. In so doing, you shall know the sacrifice that keeps it standing."

It continues to look up at me before cocking its head to the side slightly.

I sigh. "You can understand me, yes?"

It nods enthusiastically.

That is a relief. "Then do you understand what I am speaking of?"

It shakes its head this time, still, with much enthusiasm.

I let out another sigh. "But then how…How do you know where you're going?!"

It pauses for a moment and then shrugs.

"…I am very perplexed…"

No, this is fine. It is best not to ask questions, surely. If the vessel is finding its way to the right location, then there is no need to interfere…right?

"Alright, Little Ghost. Pay my words no mind then. However, let me give you this advice before I leave. Seek the Grave in Ash and the mark it would grant to one like you."

A blank stare.

"Do…do you see, Little Ghost? The Grave in Ash? It's a hint…"

It responds with a confused look and more silence.

"Fine, I give up…I am sure you will reach the place I speak of, eventually. I will meet with you there, Little Ghost. Understood?"

The vessel does not react at first. But then, with a sudden burst of speed, it rushes toward me and grabs ahold of my leg as it did in Greenpath.

I was already somewhat annoyed after trying to get through to this foolish ghost, and, now, I was fast approaching my wit's end.

"You- Stop doing that!"

I toss my needle aside and use both hands to pry the nuisance off of me. Unfortunately, I let my anger get the better of me and I…throw the vessel into the fountain's waters. Upon reflection, I admit that I could have handled this situation with more tact…

"Why do you insist on clinging to me like that?! You are obviously plotting something…nefarious!"

The vessel pokes out of the waters and answers back with a shake of its head.

"No?! Then what is it you are attempting you little pest?! You grab onto me just as an infant hugs its caretaker!"

At this, the vessel begins to nod its head in agreement.

"…What do you mean? You are trying to hug me? You expect me to believe that?!"

The rapid nodding goes on.

"…Ah…well…no-wait! You listen closely you little pest! I do not want your hugs! In fact, I do not want you touching me at all! I am no child! This situation is dire! You must focus solely on your mission and cease your reckless hugging! Got it?!"

After venting my frustration, I quickly take off, leaving the vessel to stare blankly at my retreating figure.