Buglings Official

The blog of the Moth siblings Song and Thorn! ----------Current Location: Far Fields----------- ---‐---------Endel: Bone Bottom---------------

[buglings-official]

Hi! My name is Song, and this is my sister Thorn!

We've just arrived in Pharloom from Hallownest. But we know nothing about this kingdom, so I've made this blog to help learn about the lands within Pharloom!

Song, are we sure we this is a good idea?

Of course!

But first- some rules!

(Hi! I'm Saeya, the mod of this rp blog. I'm new to rp blogs so be patient, please!)

- Song will be replying with Blue text, Thorn with Green, and Endel will speak with white text!]

- This blog will contain spoilers for both Hollow knight and Silksong!

- Violence is acceptable, but keep it family friendly! (I, the mod, am 18+ but I want everyone to be able to enjoy this rp blog.)

- I am allowed to accept or completely deny asks.

- And of course, other rp blogs are allowed to interact!

Rules can be updated and I'll make an effort to post about it, but make sure to check every once in a while!

As for the tags:

[Chatter] - general asks

[Chatting with locals] - asks from other rp blogs!

[Pondering] - posts from the buglings

[Mod talks] - posts/asks where I either intervene, or have an update!

[Road to deep docks] - Current arc where the buglings go to deep docks for a beach day!

Some answers/ posts will have artwork with them, this is largely dependant on my motivation, BUT I will try to have significant posts (such as major lore posts) have some artwork. No promises though.

Otherwise, have fun!

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[third-sentinel]

Vera screams as the Silk Siphon powers up and starts moving towards her.

She thrashes weakly in her bonds. She has no idea what this machine is, but she knows she can't escape it.

Please! Please I can work! I didn't do anything wrong I'm just sick a little I can work! Why are you doing this??

This wasn't supposed to happen. She was supposed to be safe in the Citadel. She was supposed to be happy and live quietly, like she was promised. All her hard work to get here, all her hard work in the Underworks...

Why can't she just find a home??

[saaeya]

Thorn heard the scream, and flew in the direction it came from. The scene she came across, however, brought forth vivid memories.

A large needle suspended above and inching closer to a victim. Soul twisters- no, these bugs were different. Surgeons maybe? Yes. Surgeons surrounding the operating table and the poor bug screamed in terror, their demise creeping closer and closer.

This isn't a bug's dream. It's their nightmare.

Thorn gripped her longnail, not again, she won't let it happen again. Not to another innocent bug. Not if she could help it.

"Stop it!"

In a moment of possibly sheer stupidity, she thrusted her weapon into the siphon, hoping it would stop the machine.

[third-sentinel]

The machine shutters and falters. It does not break, but it certainly stops.

Vera screams again.

You. You please help me! Get me out of here! They're not trying to help me, they're trying to kill me!

[buglings-official]

"I've already figured out that much."

Thorn pushed herwsy through the bugs to the one below the machine. The retrieved her nail to start cutting away the restraints.

"These bugs won't like what I'm doing so we'll have to move fast, can you do that?"

[third-sentinel]

Can't. I...I can't walk and I'm too weak to fly- please don't leave me please please please-

The surgeons make disgruntled sounds, before one of them slips away to get someone from down the hallway...

The others pick up bone saws and cartoonishly large phials, short pins and other such improvised weapons of medical equipment.

To resist is sinful. Stop this you wretched savage

[buglings-official]

So running wasn't an option. Thorn would have to carry this bug, just like she had with Song...

"Not a problem. I can carry you."

Thorn would be able to fight the other bugs while carrying another, but she moved fast. Probably faster than these bugs could figure out how to use their... saws and phials.

"Hang on tight, I'll have to move fast."

Thorn moved into a position for the bug to grab onto her. And addressed the surgeons before her.

"You'll have to kill me if you want me to stop, you needle freaks."

Thorn shook off any feelings of deja vu, it was not the time to be thinking of how familiar this was to her.

[third-sentinel]

Oh no. Death is sinful.

You are not permitted to escape.

For Pharloom Eternal!

The surgeons rounded on the pair. Vera clung on tight to Thorn's back, hyperventilating and wheezing out coughs.

She can't get enough air she can't breathe she can't -

She elbows a surgeon in the face on instinct, and a short pin goes flying as they stagger back.

She catches it.

And grins.

[buglings-official]

Thorn wasn't aware of her passenger obtaining the pin, and focused on not getting hit. She started to weave her way out of the room.

"Do there really need to be this many of you to kill a bug? Seems a bit pathetic?"

Her passenger was restrained previously after all. Surely only one or two bugs were necessary.

Those were questions for later. Thorn needed to focus on getting her and the other bug out.

[third-sentinel]

The one with the Phial and the one with the Bonesaw rush to pair from different angles.

Vera swings out with the stolen short pin and redirects the Phial to the side, trusting her saviour to handle the Bonesaw with her own blade.

Footsteps come from down the hall...

[buglings-official]

Thorn deflected the phial, pushing the weapon away from her. The shifting of the weight of the bug on her back told her she was covered from the back, and could focus on just the one bug in front of her.

However, she then heard the steps, and looked in the direction of the doorway, preparing for another bug to fight.

[buglings-official]

Here! Think fast!!

[Song and Thorn are given matching friendship bracelets, simple little woven things, but charming]

Song hold the two bracelets as Thorns looks at the veiled bug.

"Are you trying to befriend us with woven jewelry?"

Song had already put his on and was planning on getting the other on Thorn.

"Give me your claw."

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[third-sentinel]

Vera screams as the Silk Siphon powers up and starts moving towards her.

She thrashes weakly in her bonds. She has no idea what this machine is, but she knows she can't escape it.

Please! Please I can work! I didn't do anything wrong I'm just sick a little I can work! Why are you doing this??

This wasn't supposed to happen. She was supposed to be safe in the Citadel. She was supposed to be happy and live quietly, like she was promised. All her hard work to get here, all her hard work in the Underworks...

Why can't she just find a home??

[saaeya]

Thorn heard the scream, and flew in the direction it came from. The scene she came across, however, brought forth vivid memories.

A large needle suspended above and inching closer to a victim. Soul twisters- no, these bugs were different. Surgeons maybe? Yes. Surgeons surrounding the operating table and the poor bug screamed in terror, their demise creeping closer and closer.

This isn't a bug's dream. It's their nightmare.

Thorn gripped her longnail, not again, she won't let it happen again. Not to another innocent bug. Not if she could help it.

"Stop it!"

In a moment of possibly sheer stupidity, she thrusted her weapon into the siphon, hoping it would stop the machine.

[third-sentinel]

The machine shutters and falters. It does not break, but it certainly stops.

Vera screams again.

You. You please help me! Get me out of here! They're not trying to help me, they're trying to kill me!

[buglings-official]

"I've already figured out that much."

Thorn pushed herwsy through the bugs to the one below the machine. The retrieved her nail to start cutting away the restraints.

"These bugs won't like what I'm doing so we'll have to move fast, can you do that?"

[third-sentinel]

Can't. I...I can't walk and I'm too weak to fly- please don't leave me please please please-

The surgeons make disgruntled sounds, before one of them slips away to get someone from down the hallway...

The others pick up bone saws and cartoonishly large phials, short pins and other such improvised weapons of medical equipment.

To resist is sinful. Stop this you wretched savage

[buglings-official]

So running wasn't an option. Thorn would have to carry this bug, just like she had with Song...

"Not a problem. I can carry you."

Thorn would be able to fight the other bugs while carrying another, but she moved fast. Probably faster than these bugs could figure out how to use their... saws and phials.

"Hang on tight, I'll have to move fast."

Thorn moved into a position for the bug to grab onto her. And addressed the surgeons before her.

"You'll have to kill me if you want me to stop, you needle freaks."

Thorn shook off any feelings of deja vu, it was not the time to be thinking of how familiar this was to her.

[third-sentinel]

Oh no. Death is sinful.

You are not permitted to escape.

For Pharloom Eternal!

The surgeons rounded on the pair. Vera clung on tight to Thorn's back, hyperventilating and wheezing out coughs.

She can't get enough air she can't breathe she can't -

She elbows a surgeon in the face on instinct, and a short pin goes flying as they stagger back.

She catches it.

And grins.

[buglings-official]

Thorn wasn't aware of her passenger obtaining the pin, and focused on not getting hit. She started to weave her way out of the room.

"Do there really need to be this many of you to kill a bug? Seems a bit pathetic?"

Her passenger was restrained previously after all. Surely only one or two bugs were necessary.

Those were questions for later. Thorn needed to focus on getting her and the other bug out.

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[third-sentinel]

Vera screams as the Silk Siphon powers up and starts moving towards her.

She thrashes weakly in her bonds. She has no idea what this machine is, but she knows she can't escape it.

Please! Please I can work! I didn't do anything wrong I'm just sick a little I can work! Why are you doing this??

This wasn't supposed to happen. She was supposed to be safe in the Citadel. She was supposed to be happy and live quietly, like she was promised. All her hard work to get here, all her hard work in the Underworks...

Why can't she just find a home??

[saaeya]

Thorn heard the scream, and flew in the direction it came from. The scene she came across, however, brought forth vivid memories.

A large needle suspended above and inching closer to a victim. Soul twisters- no, these bugs were different. Surgeons maybe? Yes. Surgeons surrounding the operating table and the poor bug screamed in terror, their demise creeping closer and closer.

This isn't a bug's dream. It's their nightmare.

Thorn gripped her longnail, not again, she won't let it happen again. Not to another innocent bug. Not if she could help it.

"Stop it!"

In a moment of possibly sheer stupidity, she thrusted her weapon into the siphon, hoping it would stop the machine.

[third-sentinel]

The machine shutters and falters. It does not break, but it certainly stops.

Vera screams again.

You. You please help me! Get me out of here! They're not trying to help me, they're trying to kill me!

[buglings-official]

"I've already figured out that much."

Thorn pushed herwsy through the bugs to the one below the machine. The retrieved her nail to start cutting away the restraints.

"These bugs won't like what I'm doing so we'll have to move fast, can you do that?"

[third-sentinel]

Can't. I...I can't walk and I'm too weak to fly- please don't leave me please please please-

The surgeons make disgruntled sounds, before one of them slips away to get someone from down the hallway...

The others pick up bone saws and cartoonishly large phials, short pins and other such improvised weapons of medical equipment.

To resist is sinful. Stop this you wretched savage

[buglings-official]

So running wasn't an option. Thorn would have to carry this bug, just like she had with Song...

"Not a problem. I can carry you."

Thorn would be able to fight the other bugs while carrying another, but she moved fast. Probably faster than these bugs could figure out how to use their... saws and phials.

"Hang on tight, I'll have to move fast."

Thorn moved into a position for the bug to grab onto her. And addressed the surgeons before her.

"You'll have to kill me if you want me to stop, you needle freaks."

Thorn shook off any feelings of deja vu, it was not the time to be thinking of how familiar this was to her.

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[third-sentinel]

Vera screams as the Silk Siphon powers up and starts moving towards her.

She thrashes weakly in her bonds. She has no idea what this machine is, but she knows she can't escape it.

Please! Please I can work! I didn't do anything wrong I'm just sick a little I can work! Why are you doing this??

This wasn't supposed to happen. She was supposed to be safe in the Citadel. She was supposed to be happy and live quietly, like she was promised. All her hard work to get here, all her hard work in the Underworks...

Why can't she just find a home??

[saaeya]

Thorn heard the scream, and flew in the direction it came from. The scene she came across, however, brought forth vivid memories.

A large needle suspended above and inching closer to a victim. Soul twisters- no, these bugs were different. Surgeons maybe? Yes. Surgeons surrounding the operating table and the poor bug screamed in terror, their demise creeping closer and closer.

This isn't a bug's dream. It's their nightmare.

Thorn gripped her longnail, not again, she won't let it happen again. Not to another innocent bug. Not if she could help it.

"Stop it!"

In a moment of possibly sheer stupidity, she thrusted her weapon into the siphon, hoping it would stop the machine.

[third-sentinel]

The machine shutters and falters. It does not break, but it certainly stops.

Vera screams again.

You. You please help me! Get me out of here! They're not trying to help me, they're trying to kill me!

[buglings-official]

"I've already figured out that much."

Thorn pushed herwsy through the bugs to the one below the machine. The retrieved her nail to start cutting away the restraints.

"These bugs won't like what I'm doing so we'll have to move fast, can you do that?"

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[third-sentinel]

Vera screams as the Silk Siphon powers up and starts moving towards her.

She thrashes weakly in her bonds. She has no idea what this machine is, but she knows she can't escape it.

Please! Please I can work! I didn't do anything wrong I'm just sick a little I can work! Why are you doing this??

This wasn't supposed to happen. She was supposed to be safe in the Citadel. She was supposed to be happy and live quietly, like she was promised. All her hard work to get here, all her hard work in the Underworks...

Why can't she just find a home??

[saaeya]

Thorn heard the scream, and flew in the direction it came from. The scene she came across, however, brought forth vivid memories.

A large needle suspended above and inching closer to a victim. Soul twisters- no, these bugs were different. Surgeons maybe? Yes. Surgeons surrounding the operating table and the poor bug screamed in terror, their demise creeping closer and closer.

This isn't a bug's dream. It's their nightmare.

Thorn gripped her longnail, not again, she won't let it happen again. Not to another innocent bug. Not if she could help it.

"Stop it!"

In a moment of possibly sheer stupidity, she thrusted her weapon into the siphon, hoping it would stop the machine.

[buglings-official]

Crap. Wrong blog again.

[buglings-official]

Vera's heart is in her throat. They tied her wings down, and she can't breathe, and oh god what is that machine no no no-

@third-sentinel

Thorn looked around. The last thing she had remembered was falling asleep. But this... this place wasn't familiar to her. She knew dreams were based on memories. Had she slipped into someone else memoriesnor dreams? And how?

Thorn looked around. Surely the bug this dream belonged to would be nearby.

[buglings-official]

“Hello..?”

*The little vessel was lost in that land, trembling..*

[ - @greenpath-vessel ]

Song and Thorn had been bickering over which direction to go through Greymoor. Song was arguing his point about going through the windmills, partially to stay dry, but also to go sightseeing. Thorn on the other hand, wanted to go straight to the Halfway Home.

"I don't think we really have time to be out sightseeing in this rain, and taking a straight path to-"

Song stopped her when he heard another voice. Looking around, he spotted a vessel.

"Hello? Are you okay?"

"Another vessel? There seem to be quite a few more than we were led to believe."

[greenpath-vessel]

“I am lost.. Can I go with you?..”

*The vessel seemed very sad and lost, running to both of them as fast as they could!*

[buglings-official]

Song looked to Thorn pleadingly.

"We can't just leave them out here all alone."

"I know, I know."

She sighs before looking toward the vessel.

"Do you have parents or gaurdians looking for you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“I don't think so! I do have parents but sometimes I go to explore! This is one of those times!”

[buglings-official]

"You can come with us, we were ultimately heading for deep docks to go swimming, but we're stopping at Halfway Home first."

"We should introduce ourselves, I am Thorn and this is my brother, Song."

As Song was introduced he used sould to spell out his name. The particles hung in the air before dissipating.

"And you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Im Shamrock or Shammy! I'll go with you hehe! The deep docks sound soo fun!”

[buglings-official]

Song lightened up at the vessels comment of the deep docks.

"I know right! We were warned it had magma but I think that means that there'll be a ton of hotsprings like at Hallownest!"

He cast more soul spells in his excitement.

"We still need to be safe about it, some of the hotsprings may be too hot."

[greenpath-vessel]

“Ohh! Yess! I remember one day I found one of those! I burnt myself.. but it's okay! Hehe!”

[buglings-official]

Song laughed with Shammy as Thorn took to leading the group.

"Have you been in Pharloom long?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Oh?? Nope.. I haven't.. Well, now, yes! A bit!”

[buglings-official]

"Oooooooh! What have you seen so far?"

Song was curious about what was in Pharloom, and wasn't afraid to show it. Thorn shared the same curiosity, but remained calm.

[greenpath-vessel]

“Hmm, Verdania! That's where my Papa lives!”

*They giggled loudly, remembering themselves to go and check on their father later.*

[buglings-official]

Thorn checked the map to find Verdania.

"Oh, it'll be a little past where Song and I are going. Somewhere called the Craw lake?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Yes! It's really near then! Yayy, you'll be able to meet my Papa!”

*They giggled, jumping a little around.*

[buglings-official]

"We weren't planning on....."

Thorns voice trailed off as she was met with big pleading eyes from song. He was begging for yet another detour.

They had made plans to go to deep docks to go swimming. And now they were, presumably, going to escorted a child back to it's father?

"You know what? Yes. Let's go meet your father."

Plans were thrown off the stag beetle long ago anyways.

Song clapped his claws, creating little soul sparks as he did.

"Yes!"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Yay! Hehe, maybe we can go to the deep docks too! It's in our way! I think..”

[buglings-official]

"I think we should focus on getting you to your parent. While this land has been kind to us so far, I don't want a child getting harmed under our watch. Or the assumption that you've been kidnapped being made."

She could tell Song was going to ask if the vessel could come, and if he had his way, they would be a permanent companion. Thus, she nipped it at the bud.

[greenpath-vessel]

“Oh! My Papa doesn't mind!.. I think. I always do this!”

*They giggled, looking at Song and Thorn, without knowing what Song wanted.*

[buglings-official]

Song pressed on.

"Pleeeeeeeeease can they cooome?"

"No."

"Pleeeeeeeeaaaaase?"

"No!"

"Pleeeeeeeeease. Just until we reach deep docks!"

"Shammy help me out here."

[buglings-official]

“Hello..?”

*The little vessel was lost in that land, trembling..*

[ - @greenpath-vessel ]

Song and Thorn had been bickering over which direction to go through Greymoor. Song was arguing his point about going through the windmills, partially to stay dry, but also to go sightseeing. Thorn on the other hand, wanted to go straight to the Halfway Home.

"I don't think we really have time to be out sightseeing in this rain, and taking a straight path to-"

Song stopped her when he heard another voice. Looking around, he spotted a vessel.

"Hello? Are you okay?"

"Another vessel? There seem to be quite a few more than we were led to believe."

[greenpath-vessel]

“I am lost.. Can I go with you?..”

*The vessel seemed very sad and lost, running to both of them as fast as they could!*

[buglings-official]

Song looked to Thorn pleadingly.

"We can't just leave them out here all alone."

"I know, I know."

She sighs before looking toward the vessel.

"Do you have parents or gaurdians looking for you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“I don't think so! I do have parents but sometimes I go to explore! This is one of those times!”

[buglings-official]

"You can come with us, we were ultimately heading for deep docks to go swimming, but we're stopping at Halfway Home first."

"We should introduce ourselves, I am Thorn and this is my brother, Song."

As Song was introduced he used sould to spell out his name. The particles hung in the air before dissipating.

"And you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Im Shamrock or Shammy! I'll go with you hehe! The deep docks sound soo fun!”

[buglings-official]

Song lightened up at the vessels comment of the deep docks.

"I know right! We were warned it had magma but I think that means that there'll be a ton of hotsprings like at Hallownest!"

He cast more soul spells in his excitement.

"We still need to be safe about it, some of the hotsprings may be too hot."

[greenpath-vessel]

“Ohh! Yess! I remember one day I found one of those! I burnt myself.. but it's okay! Hehe!”

[buglings-official]

Song laughed with Shammy as Thorn took to leading the group.

"Have you been in Pharloom long?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Oh?? Nope.. I haven't.. Well, now, yes! A bit!”

[buglings-official]

"Oooooooh! What have you seen so far?"

Song was curious about what was in Pharloom, and wasn't afraid to show it. Thorn shared the same curiosity, but remained calm.

[greenpath-vessel]

“Hmm, Verdania! That's where my Papa lives!”

*They giggled loudly, remembering themselves to go and check on their father later.*

[buglings-official]

Thorn checked the map to find Verdania.

"Oh, it'll be a little past where Song and I are going. Somewhere called the Craw lake?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Yes! It's really near then! Yayy, you'll be able to meet my Papa!”

*They giggled, jumping a little around.*

[buglings-official]

"We weren't planning on....."

Thorns voice trailed off as she was met with big pleading eyes from song. He was begging for yet another detour.

They had made plans to go to deep docks to go swimming. And now they were, presumably, going to escorted a child back to it's father?

"You know what? Yes. Let's go meet your father."

Plans were thrown off the stag beetle long ago anyways.

Song clapped his claws, creating little soul sparks as he did.

"Yes!"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Yay! Hehe, maybe we can go to the deep docks too! It's in our way! I think..”

[buglings-official]

"I think we should focus on getting you to your parent. While this land has been kind to us so far, I don't want a child getting harmed under our watch. Or the assumption that you've been kidnapped being made."

She could tell Song was going to ask if the vessel could come, and if he had his way, they would be a permanent companion. Thus, she nipped it at the bud.

[buglings-official]

pelting thorn with rocks

"WUH! HEY! WHAT GIVES!?"

Thorn attempts to deflect them with her Nail, only half succeeding.

[third-sentinel]

Thorn fought with herself to open her eyes, the couch she had fallen asleep on was extremely comfortable, if it was her own home she probably would have continued to lay there. But this was not her home, and she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Song trying to hide a giggle told her that she had a bed head. She yawned as she attempted to fix her fur.

"Where's our host?"

@buglings-official

Right here.

It says from behind her.

Hey there sleepyhead. Rest well? Feel better?

[buglings-official]

"Mm, yeah. Your couch is really comfortable."

Thorn sat there for a moment, still waking up, when she remembered the reason she was able to sleep on a couch at all.

"Have you figured out what to do with the little robot?"

Her tone was less aggressive than before. The sleep seemed to have mellowed her out some.

[third-sentinel]

Why, yes this one has :)

Boo.

Chorin whispers in her ear.

At some point in the conversation, they had snuck undetected onto her shoulder.

It quickly jumps off

[buglings-official]

If Thorn wasn't awake before, she definitely was now.

When the robot spoke, her head immediatley snapped to look at it.

"YOU'RE NOT DEAD???"

[third-sentinel]

Not for lack of trying on your part >:(

Turns out, their internal-mechanisms were hit in just the right way to immobilize but not kill-break. Paralysis, you caused in its kin, but no lasting damage-harm.

Forget what Trinn said, I'm obviously a ghost here to haunt the rest of your days >:)

They are not.

Shut up!

[buglings-official]

"Ghost or not, I see you find amusement in getting on my nerves."

Thorn gave Chorin a little flick as she spoke, clearly an attempt to tease them back.

Song however, now had a question.

"Can a construct become a ghost? There was one we saw back at hallownest, but I didnt see any lingering essence on it... though it could have moved on."

Song wondered if the one he and Thorn came across had a personality, like Third. Or if it just carried out orders.

[third-sentinel]

Absolutely.

At the question, the two robots made eye contact. Trinn loses whatever silent argument they're having, and takes the time to explain.

Entirely possible, if sentient-sapient. Any robot-construct may become sapient over a long enough period, or enough acute exposure to Soul.

Soul is all around. Time-space, and the metal-wiring will slowly take it in. A Crest will form. Crest: the pattern your Soul takes as it moves throughout your body. Memories-experiences, over a lifetime. This is what makes you sapient.

This one believes that is how Masks work - a maskmaker gazes at your Crest, and carves you something to represent-guard that identity.

This one could be entirely wrong, however.

[buglings-official]

Song was familiar with crests and soul, but didn't know constructs worked similarly. Which brought up another question.

"Is that what happened to you?"

[third-sentinel]

Almost imperceptibly, Trinn flinches. There's a short silence before Chorin steps in.

Nah, that's what happened to me. Trinn's Citadel-make. They're, uh. Made special.

...do not dance around, nor honey-coat the truth, Chorin.

This one's programming-directive-cage is, for all intents-purposes, a Crest. Artificially made, and forced upon this Sentinel.

Reason: this one is powered by a Silkfly. The Silkfly must be restrained to be obedient-useful.

...In truth, this one is a Silkfly in a metal-shell.

[buglings-official]

A crest forced upon a bug.... Song knew all to well the feeling of something being forced upon oneself, and felt sympathy for the sentinel.

Thoughts of the past, however, forced their way to the front of his mind. Soul, far too much of it, pumping into his shell. His own body fighting to expel it, and heal, only to have more replace it and restart the process.

It all made Song much to aware of the energy within his own shell, making Song feel out of his own shell. By the abyss he hated it.

He cast another spell.

"No one should have to live with something like that."

[third-sentinel]

No. They should not. It agrees vehemently-intensely with you.

...are you alright?

[buglings-official]

Song didn't know how to answer Third's question. One one claw, it wasn't something Third could be burdened or help with. It was just something Song had to work through, just.... later. But on the other Claw.... Third had already seen his nightmare, would the sentinel even take a half truth, if not a lie, as an answer?

There was also the matter of Thorn. She was already worried enough about him, he didnt want to worry her more. And, she would probably become even more protective if he told her....

"Song?"

"I-I just need a moment. Maybe some fresh air?"

Son of a gruz mother, his claws were shaking.

[third-sentinel]

Take all the time you need. It understands.

Trinn motioned to the entrance.

[buglings-official]

"Thank you."

Song started on his way to the door, when Thorn got up to follow. To which he stopped her.

"I'm only going to be just outside, I-I'll be fine."

Thorn hesitated a moment before responded.

"...Yell if you're not."

Song nodded and then left the room, leaving Thorn, the sentinel and Chorin alone.

[third-sentinel]

Will he be fine?

...it does not entirely understand, his fear-reaction to its words. His heartbeat was fast-quick, and he was shaking...

Was it something it said?

Chorin looks concerned as well, but doesn't say anything.

[buglings-official]

Thorn contemplated how exactly to answer

She had met these two the door before, was it truly okay to go about spilling their traumas to near strangers? She could be vague. But that could raise more. She looked to the door Song had left through, and took a breath.

"He will be, your words just reminded him of something that happened in our homeland."

Another breath, she was going to have to explain.

"He was... kidnapped by bugs from a place called the Soul Sanctum. They were trying to make a weapon, a bug with near endless reserves of soul. Song... they were lucky to acquire him."

Distaste flooded her voice as she spoke the last few words.

".....when I found him.... he was nearly one of their mistakes, to add to the thousands before him."

She paused to let the two process her explanation. And let her own mind settle. She fought to think about Song's own insides slipped within his soul softened shell as she carried him to find help. She fidgeted with her cloak.

"The mind does funny things when you have bad memories, even mere sounds could trigger a reaction. They forced amounts of soul into his body that no mortal bug could even survive. Just to attempt to make a weapon. I guess your explanation of how you are sentient, reminded him of that. Even if only vaguely."

She paused again waiting for the two to respond.

[third-sentinel]

Trinn nods.

Then it was the forcing part, ah. Thank you for explaining-enlightening this Sentinel. It will avoid further triggering him. One understands how one's mind can linger-betray on the past. It experiences similar attacks.

Chorin starts walking to the exit as well.

I'm gonna go watch him from a distance. He's not thinking clearly if he's triggered, he probably needs a lil backup. Juuuust in case.

[buglings-official]

"I would appreciated that."

~~~~~

Song seated himself near the entrance as he struggled to focus. The past was over, why was it still effecting him. There weren't even any of them there. He frantically attempted to cast spells, getting little more than sparks. He needed it out, was much of it as possible. He was much to aware and the soul need to be gone.

He tried again.

He only managed sparks.

And again.

Only sparks.

He gave up and gripped the tattered hem of his cloak, panic clearly setting in.

[third-sentinel]

Chorin is regretting going already. Trinn's the comfort bot, it knows a lot about how organics work. And how to make them feel what it wants them to feel.

Chorin doesn't know how to help. If they even should - they don't know this guy, really. And no matter what Song's relation to Trinn's business is, Thorn may be the reason that Trinn gets the order to make these moths disappear.

They... don't actually know how The Family will respond to Chorin being attacked by an outsider.

But he's panicking.

Silken Curse, what does Chorin do now?

...

Their best.

Hey. Uh. Song. You're not breathing right. Don't you gotta, y'know, breathe?

[buglings-official]

Through the racing thoughts of Song's mind, he did actually hear Chorin.

"What?"

He was asking if he needed to breathe? What a dumb question. Of course he did!

Nonetheless, Song was made aware of how frantic his breathing was. And start to fix it, he needed to speak after all.

"Why- why is that even a question?"

[third-sentinel]

You seem to be breaking, then. That's way too fast. Can you slow it down, or something? Or do you need to go get fixed? Trinn can take you to a mechanic, y'know. Or...what do they call em for you guys...uh.

Doesn't matter.

You're freaking out dude.

[buglings-official]

Song looked at Chorin.

"I'm not a robot. I don't- I don't break. Not that way."

Was Chorin stupid? Or just unaware of how organic bugs worked. Song could slow it down though, if he managed to direct his focus on his breathing for long enough. Yeah, that could work...

He forced himself to take a breath. A slow inhale, and exhale. Rinse and repeat. It took a good minute to fully calm down, and even still his claws were shaking. It was another minute before he spoke.

"You... don't know much about organic bugs do you?"

[third-sentinel]

Not...really? The only organic in the house is Nini, and she's not a bug. She's a little parasitic root bud.

...is it that obvious?

[buglings-official]

"You sounded a bit clueless. Which I guess worked, but there are probably better ways to handle things."

Song attempted to cast a spell again, and was relieved to find he could.

[third-sentinel]

Well...we can't all be social bots...

Whatever. I'm glad you're okay. Uh...would you like something to drink?

[buglings-official]

"Water will be fine."

[third-sentinel]

Thorn fought with herself to open her eyes, the couch she had fallen asleep on was extremely comfortable, if it was her own home she probably would have continued to lay there. But this was not her home, and she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Song trying to hide a giggle told her that she had a bed head. She yawned as she attempted to fix her fur.

"Where's our host?"

@buglings-official

Right here.

It says from behind her.

Hey there sleepyhead. Rest well? Feel better?

[buglings-official]

"Mm, yeah. Your couch is really comfortable."

Thorn sat there for a moment, still waking up, when she remembered the reason she was able to sleep on a couch at all.

"Have you figured out what to do with the little robot?"

Her tone was less aggressive than before. The sleep seemed to have mellowed her out some.

[third-sentinel]

Why, yes this one has :)

Boo.

Chorin whispers in her ear.

At some point in the conversation, they had snuck undetected onto her shoulder.

It quickly jumps off

[buglings-official]

If Thorn wasn't awake before, she definitely was now.

When the robot spoke, her head immediatley snapped to look at it.

"YOU'RE NOT DEAD???"

[third-sentinel]

Not for lack of trying on your part >:(

Turns out, their internal-mechanisms were hit in just the right way to immobilize but not kill-break. Paralysis, you caused in its kin, but no lasting damage-harm.

Forget what Trinn said, I'm obviously a ghost here to haunt the rest of your days >:)

They are not.

Shut up!

[buglings-official]

"Ghost or not, I see you find amusement in getting on my nerves."

Thorn gave Chorin a little flick as she spoke, clearly an attempt to tease them back.

Song however, now had a question.

"Can a construct become a ghost? There was one we saw back at hallownest, but I didnt see any lingering essence on it... though it could have moved on."

Song wondered if the one he and Thorn came across had a personality, like Third. Or if it just carried out orders.

[third-sentinel]

Absolutely.

At the question, the two robots made eye contact. Trinn loses whatever silent argument they're having, and takes the time to explain.

Entirely possible, if sentient-sapient. Any robot-construct may become sapient over a long enough period, or enough acute exposure to Soul.

Soul is all around. Time-space, and the metal-wiring will slowly take it in. A Crest will form. Crest: the pattern your Soul takes as it moves throughout your body. Memories-experiences, over a lifetime. This is what makes you sapient.

This one believes that is how Masks work - a maskmaker gazes at your Crest, and carves you something to represent-guard that identity.

This one could be entirely wrong, however.

[buglings-official]

Song was familiar with crests and soul, but didn't know constructs worked similarly. Which brought up another question.

"Is that what happened to you?"

[third-sentinel]

Almost imperceptibly, Trinn flinches. There's a short silence before Chorin steps in.

Nah, that's what happened to me. Trinn's Citadel-make. They're, uh. Made special.

...do not dance around, nor honey-coat the truth, Chorin.

This one's programming-directive-cage is, for all intents-purposes, a Crest. Artificially made, and forced upon this Sentinel.

Reason: this one is powered by a Silkfly. The Silkfly must be restrained to be obedient-useful.

...In truth, this one is a Silkfly in a metal-shell.

[buglings-official]

A crest forced upon a bug.... Song knew all to well the feeling of something being forced upon oneself, and felt sympathy for the sentinel.

Thoughts of the past, however, forced their way to the front of his mind. Soul, far too much of it, pumping into his shell. His own body fighting to expel it, and heal, only to have more replace it and restart the process.

It all made Song much to aware of the energy within his own shell, making Song feel out of his own shell. By the abyss he hated it.

He cast another spell.

"No one should have to live with something like that."

[third-sentinel]

No. They should not. It agrees vehemently-intensely with you.

...are you alright?

[buglings-official]

Song didn't know how to answer Third's question. One one claw, it wasn't something Third could be burdened or help with. It was just something Song had to work through, just.... later. But on the other Claw.... Third had already seen his nightmare, would the sentinel even take a half truth, if not a lie, as an answer?

There was also the matter of Thorn. She was already worried enough about him, he didnt want to worry her more. And, she would probably become even more protective if he told her....

"Song?"

"I-I just need a moment. Maybe some fresh air?"

Son of a gruz mother, his claws were shaking.

[third-sentinel]

Take all the time you need. It understands.

Trinn motioned to the entrance.

[buglings-official]

"Thank you."

Song started on his way to the door, when Thorn got up to follow. To which he stopped her.

"I'm only going to be just outside, I-I'll be fine."

Thorn hesitated a moment before responded.

"...Yell if you're not."

Song nodded and then left the room, leaving Thorn, the sentinel and Chorin alone.

[third-sentinel]

Will he be fine?

...it does not entirely understand, his fear-reaction to its words. His heartbeat was fast-quick, and he was shaking...

Was it something it said?

Chorin looks concerned as well, but doesn't say anything.

[buglings-official]

Thorn contemplated how exactly to answer

She had met these two the door before, was it truly okay to go about spilling their traumas to near strangers? She could be vague. But that could raise more. She looked to the door Song had left through, and took a breath.

"He will be, your words just reminded him of something that happened in our homeland."

Another breath, she was going to have to explain.

"He was... kidnapped by bugs from a place called the Soul Sanctum. They were trying to make a weapon, a bug with near endless reserves of soul. Song... they were lucky to acquire him."

Distaste flooded her voice as she spoke the last few words.

".....when I found him.... he was nearly one of their mistakes, to add to the thousands before him."

She paused to let the two process her explanation. And let her own mind settle. She fought to think about Song's own insides slipped within his soul softened shell as she carried him to find help. She fidgeted with her cloak.

"The mind does funny things when you have bad memories, even mere sounds could trigger a reaction. They forced amounts of soul into his body that no mortal bug could even survive. Just to attempt to make a weapon. I guess your explanation of how you are sentient, reminded him of that. Even if only vaguely."

She paused again waiting for the two to respond.

[third-sentinel]

Trinn nods.

Then it was the forcing part, ah. Thank you for explaining-enlightening this Sentinel. It will avoid further triggering him. One understands how one's mind can linger-betray on the past. It experiences similar attacks.

Chorin starts walking to the exit as well.

I'm gonna go watch him from a distance. He's not thinking clearly if he's triggered, he probably needs a lil backup. Juuuust in case.

[buglings-official]

"I would appreciated that."

~~~~~

Song seated himself near the entrance as he struggled to focus. The past was over, why was it still effecting him. There weren't even any of them there. He frantically attempted to cast spells, getting little more than sparks. He needed it out, was much of it as possible. He was much to aware and the soul need to be gone.

He tried again.

He only managed sparks.

And again.

Only sparks.

He gave up and gripped the tattered hem of his cloak, panic clearly setting in.

[third-sentinel]

Chorin is regretting going already. Trinn's the comfort bot, it knows a lot about how organics work. And how to make them feel what it wants them to feel.

Chorin doesn't know how to help. If they even should - they don't know this guy, really. And no matter what Song's relation to Trinn's business is, Thorn may be the reason that Trinn gets the order to make these moths disappear.

They... don't actually know how The Family will respond to Chorin being attacked by an outsider.

But he's panicking.

Silken Curse, what does Chorin do now?

...

Their best.

Hey. Uh. Song. You're not breathing right. Don't you gotta, y'know, breathe?

[buglings-official]

Through the racing thoughts of Song's mind, he did actually hear Chorin.

"What?"

He was asking if he needed to breathe? What a dumb question. Of course he did!

Nonetheless, Song was made aware of how frantic his breathing was. And start to fix it, he needed to speak after all.

"Why- why is that even a question?"

[third-sentinel]

You seem to be breaking, then. That's way too fast. Can you slow it down, or something? Or do you need to go get fixed? Trinn can take you to a mechanic, y'know. Or...what do they call em for you guys...uh.

Doesn't matter.

You're freaking out dude.

[buglings-official]

Song looked at Chorin.

"I'm not a robot. I don't- I don't break. Not that way."

Was Chorin stupid? Or just unaware of how organic bugs worked. Song could slow it down though, if he managed to direct his focus on his breathing for long enough. Yeah, that could work...

He forced himself to take a breath. A slow inhale, and exhale. Rinse and repeat. It took a good minute to fully calm down, and even still his claws were shaking. It was another minute before he spoke.

"You... don't know much about organic bugs do you?"

[third-sentinel]

Not...really? The only organic in the house is Nini, and she's not a bug. She's a little parasitic root bud.

...is it that obvious?

[buglings-official]

"You sounded a bit clueless. Which I guess worked, but there are probably better ways to handle things."

Song attempted to cast a spell again, and was relieved to find he could.

[third-sentinel]

Thorn fought with herself to open her eyes, the couch she had fallen asleep on was extremely comfortable, if it was her own home she probably would have continued to lay there. But this was not her home, and she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Song trying to hide a giggle told her that she had a bed head. She yawned as she attempted to fix her fur.

"Where's our host?"

@buglings-official

Right here.

It says from behind her.

Hey there sleepyhead. Rest well? Feel better?

[buglings-official]

"Mm, yeah. Your couch is really comfortable."

Thorn sat there for a moment, still waking up, when she remembered the reason she was able to sleep on a couch at all.

"Have you figured out what to do with the little robot?"

Her tone was less aggressive than before. The sleep seemed to have mellowed her out some.

[third-sentinel]

Why, yes this one has :)

Boo.

Chorin whispers in her ear.

At some point in the conversation, they had snuck undetected onto her shoulder.

It quickly jumps off

[buglings-official]

If Thorn wasn't awake before, she definitely was now.

When the robot spoke, her head immediatley snapped to look at it.

"YOU'RE NOT DEAD???"

[third-sentinel]

Not for lack of trying on your part >:(

Turns out, their internal-mechanisms were hit in just the right way to immobilize but not kill-break. Paralysis, you caused in its kin, but no lasting damage-harm.

Forget what Trinn said, I'm obviously a ghost here to haunt the rest of your days >:)

They are not.

Shut up!

[buglings-official]

"Ghost or not, I see you find amusement in getting on my nerves."

Thorn gave Chorin a little flick as she spoke, clearly an attempt to tease them back.

Song however, now had a question.

"Can a construct become a ghost? There was one we saw back at hallownest, but I didnt see any lingering essence on it... though it could have moved on."

Song wondered if the one he and Thorn came across had a personality, like Third. Or if it just carried out orders.

[third-sentinel]

Absolutely.

At the question, the two robots made eye contact. Trinn loses whatever silent argument they're having, and takes the time to explain.

Entirely possible, if sentient-sapient. Any robot-construct may become sapient over a long enough period, or enough acute exposure to Soul.

Soul is all around. Time-space, and the metal-wiring will slowly take it in. A Crest will form. Crest: the pattern your Soul takes as it moves throughout your body. Memories-experiences, over a lifetime. This is what makes you sapient.

This one believes that is how Masks work - a maskmaker gazes at your Crest, and carves you something to represent-guard that identity.

This one could be entirely wrong, however.

[buglings-official]

Song was familiar with crests and soul, but didn't know constructs worked similarly. Which brought up another question.

"Is that what happened to you?"

[third-sentinel]

Almost imperceptibly, Trinn flinches. There's a short silence before Chorin steps in.

Nah, that's what happened to me. Trinn's Citadel-make. They're, uh. Made special.

...do not dance around, nor honey-coat the truth, Chorin.

This one's programming-directive-cage is, for all intents-purposes, a Crest. Artificially made, and forced upon this Sentinel.

Reason: this one is powered by a Silkfly. The Silkfly must be restrained to be obedient-useful.

...In truth, this one is a Silkfly in a metal-shell.

[buglings-official]

A crest forced upon a bug.... Song knew all to well the feeling of something being forced upon oneself, and felt sympathy for the sentinel.

Thoughts of the past, however, forced their way to the front of his mind. Soul, far too much of it, pumping into his shell. His own body fighting to expel it, and heal, only to have more replace it and restart the process.

It all made Song much to aware of the energy within his own shell, making Song feel out of his own shell. By the abyss he hated it.

He cast another spell.

"No one should have to live with something like that."

[third-sentinel]

No. They should not. It agrees vehemently-intensely with you.

...are you alright?

[buglings-official]

Song didn't know how to answer Third's question. One one claw, it wasn't something Third could be burdened or help with. It was just something Song had to work through, just.... later. But on the other Claw.... Third had already seen his nightmare, would the sentinel even take a half truth, if not a lie, as an answer?

There was also the matter of Thorn. She was already worried enough about him, he didnt want to worry her more. And, she would probably become even more protective if he told her....

"Song?"

"I-I just need a moment. Maybe some fresh air?"

Son of a gruz mother, his claws were shaking.

[third-sentinel]

Take all the time you need. It understands.

Trinn motioned to the entrance.

[buglings-official]

"Thank you."

Song started on his way to the door, when Thorn got up to follow. To which he stopped her.

"I'm only going to be just outside, I-I'll be fine."

Thorn hesitated a moment before responded.

"...Yell if you're not."

Song nodded and then left the room, leaving Thorn, the sentinel and Chorin alone.

[third-sentinel]

Will he be fine?

...it does not entirely understand, his fear-reaction to its words. His heartbeat was fast-quick, and he was shaking...

Was it something it said?

Chorin looks concerned as well, but doesn't say anything.

[buglings-official]

Thorn contemplated how exactly to answer

She had met these two the door before, was it truly okay to go about spilling their traumas to near strangers? She could be vague. But that could raise more. She looked to the door Song had left through, and took a breath.

"He will be, your words just reminded him of something that happened in our homeland."

Another breath, she was going to have to explain.

"He was... kidnapped by bugs from a place called the Soul Sanctum. They were trying to make a weapon, a bug with near endless reserves of soul. Song... they were lucky to acquire him."

Distaste flooded her voice as she spoke the last few words.

".....when I found him.... he was nearly one of their mistakes, to add to the thousands before him."

She paused to let the two process her explanation. And let her own mind settle. She fought to think about Song's own insides slipped within his soul softened shell as she carried him to find help. She fidgeted with her cloak.

"The mind does funny things when you have bad memories, even mere sounds could trigger a reaction. They forced amounts of soul into his body that no mortal bug could even survive. Just to attempt to make a weapon. I guess your explanation of how you are sentient, reminded him of that. Even if only vaguely."

She paused again waiting for the two to respond.

[third-sentinel]

Trinn nods.

Then it was the forcing part, ah. Thank you for explaining-enlightening this Sentinel. It will avoid further triggering him. One understands how one's mind can linger-betray on the past. It experiences similar attacks.

Chorin starts walking to the exit as well.

I'm gonna go watch him from a distance. He's not thinking clearly if he's triggered, he probably needs a lil backup. Juuuust in case.

[buglings-official]

"I would appreciated that."

~~~~~

Song seated himself near the entrance as he struggled to focus. The past was over, why was it still effecting him. There weren't even any of them there. He frantically attempted to cast spells, getting little more than sparks. He needed it out, was much of it as possible. He was much to aware and the soul need to be gone.

He tried again.

He only managed sparks.

And again.

Only sparks.

He gave up and gripped the tattered hem of his cloak, panic clearly setting in.

[third-sentinel]

Chorin is regretting going already. Trinn's the comfort bot, it knows a lot about how organics work. And how to make them feel what it wants them to feel.

Chorin doesn't know how to help. If they even should - they don't know this guy, really. And no matter what Song's relation to Trinn's business is, Thorn may be the reason that Trinn gets the order to make these moths disappear.

They... don't actually know how The Family will respond to Chorin being attacked by an outsider.

But he's panicking.

Silken Curse, what does Chorin do now?

...

Their best.

Hey. Uh. Song. You're not breathing right. Don't you gotta, y'know, breathe?

[buglings-official]

Through the racing thoughts of Song's mind, he did actually hear Chorin.

"What?"

He was asking if he needed to breathe? What a dumb question. Of course he did!

Nonetheless, Song was made aware of how frantic his breathing was. And start to fix it, he needed to speak after all.

"Why- why is that even a question?"

[third-sentinel]

You seem to be breaking, then. That's way too fast. Can you slow it down, or something? Or do you need to go get fixed? Trinn can take you to a mechanic, y'know. Or...what do they call em for you guys...uh.

Doesn't matter.

You're freaking out dude.

[buglings-official]

Song looked at Chorin.

"I'm not a robot. I don't- I don't break. Not that way."

Was Chorin stupid? Or just unaware of how organic bugs worked. Song could slow it down though, if he managed to direct his focus on his breathing for long enough. Yeah, that could work...

He forced himself to take a breath. A slow inhale, and exhale. Rinse and repeat. It took a good minute to fully calm down, and even still his claws were shaking. It was another minute before he spoke.

"You... don't know much about organic bugs do you?"

[third-sentinel]

Thorn fought with herself to open her eyes, the couch she had fallen asleep on was extremely comfortable, if it was her own home she probably would have continued to lay there. But this was not her home, and she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Song trying to hide a giggle told her that she had a bed head. She yawned as she attempted to fix her fur.

"Where's our host?"

@buglings-official

Right here.

It says from behind her.

Hey there sleepyhead. Rest well? Feel better?

[buglings-official]

"Mm, yeah. Your couch is really comfortable."

Thorn sat there for a moment, still waking up, when she remembered the reason she was able to sleep on a couch at all.

"Have you figured out what to do with the little robot?"

Her tone was less aggressive than before. The sleep seemed to have mellowed her out some.

[third-sentinel]

Why, yes this one has :)

Boo.

Chorin whispers in her ear.

At some point in the conversation, they had snuck undetected onto her shoulder.

It quickly jumps off

[buglings-official]

If Thorn wasn't awake before, she definitely was now.

When the robot spoke, her head immediatley snapped to look at it.

"YOU'RE NOT DEAD???"

[third-sentinel]

Not for lack of trying on your part >:(

Turns out, their internal-mechanisms were hit in just the right way to immobilize but not kill-break. Paralysis, you caused in its kin, but no lasting damage-harm.

Forget what Trinn said, I'm obviously a ghost here to haunt the rest of your days >:)

They are not.

Shut up!

[buglings-official]

"Ghost or not, I see you find amusement in getting on my nerves."

Thorn gave Chorin a little flick as she spoke, clearly an attempt to tease them back.

Song however, now had a question.

"Can a construct become a ghost? There was one we saw back at hallownest, but I didnt see any lingering essence on it... though it could have moved on."

Song wondered if the one he and Thorn came across had a personality, like Third. Or if it just carried out orders.

[third-sentinel]

Absolutely.

At the question, the two robots made eye contact. Trinn loses whatever silent argument they're having, and takes the time to explain.

Entirely possible, if sentient-sapient. Any robot-construct may become sapient over a long enough period, or enough acute exposure to Soul.

Soul is all around. Time-space, and the metal-wiring will slowly take it in. A Crest will form. Crest: the pattern your Soul takes as it moves throughout your body. Memories-experiences, over a lifetime. This is what makes you sapient.

This one believes that is how Masks work - a maskmaker gazes at your Crest, and carves you something to represent-guard that identity.

This one could be entirely wrong, however.

[buglings-official]

Song was familiar with crests and soul, but didn't know constructs worked similarly. Which brought up another question.

"Is that what happened to you?"

[third-sentinel]

Almost imperceptibly, Trinn flinches. There's a short silence before Chorin steps in.

Nah, that's what happened to me. Trinn's Citadel-make. They're, uh. Made special.

...do not dance around, nor honey-coat the truth, Chorin.

This one's programming-directive-cage is, for all intents-purposes, a Crest. Artificially made, and forced upon this Sentinel.

Reason: this one is powered by a Silkfly. The Silkfly must be restrained to be obedient-useful.

...In truth, this one is a Silkfly in a metal-shell.

[buglings-official]

A crest forced upon a bug.... Song knew all to well the feeling of something being forced upon oneself, and felt sympathy for the sentinel.

Thoughts of the past, however, forced their way to the front of his mind. Soul, far too much of it, pumping into his shell. His own body fighting to expel it, and heal, only to have more replace it and restart the process.

It all made Song much to aware of the energy within his own shell, making Song feel out of his own shell. By the abyss he hated it.

He cast another spell.

"No one should have to live with something like that."

[third-sentinel]

No. They should not. It agrees vehemently-intensely with you.

...are you alright?

[buglings-official]

Song didn't know how to answer Third's question. One one claw, it wasn't something Third could be burdened or help with. It was just something Song had to work through, just.... later. But on the other Claw.... Third had already seen his nightmare, would the sentinel even take a half truth, if not a lie, as an answer?

There was also the matter of Thorn. She was already worried enough about him, he didnt want to worry her more. And, she would probably become even more protective if he told her....

"Song?"

"I-I just need a moment. Maybe some fresh air?"

Son of a gruz mother, his claws were shaking.

[third-sentinel]

Take all the time you need. It understands.

Trinn motioned to the entrance.

[buglings-official]

"Thank you."

Song started on his way to the door, when Thorn got up to follow. To which he stopped her.

"I'm only going to be just outside, I-I'll be fine."

Thorn hesitated a moment before responded.

"...Yell if you're not."

Song nodded and then left the room, leaving Thorn, the sentinel and Chorin alone.

[third-sentinel]

Will he be fine?

...it does not entirely understand, his fear-reaction to its words. His heartbeat was fast-quick, and he was shaking...

Was it something it said?

Chorin looks concerned as well, but doesn't say anything.

[buglings-official]

Thorn contemplated how exactly to answer

She had met these two the door before, was it truly okay to go about spilling their traumas to near strangers? She could be vague. But that could raise more. She looked to the door Song had left through, and took a breath.

"He will be, your words just reminded him of something that happened in our homeland."

Another breath, she was going to have to explain.

"He was... kidnapped by bugs from a place called the Soul Sanctum. They were trying to make a weapon, a bug with near endless reserves of soul. Song... they were lucky to acquire him."

Distaste flooded her voice as she spoke the last few words.

".....when I found him.... he was nearly one of their mistakes, to add to the thousands before him."

She paused to let the two process her explanation. And let her own mind settle. She fought to think about Song's own insides slipped within his soul softened shell as she carried him to find help. She fidgeted with her cloak.

"The mind does funny things when you have bad memories, even mere sounds could trigger a reaction. They forced amounts of soul into his body that no mortal bug could even survive. Just to attempt to make a weapon. I guess your explanation of how you are sentient, reminded him of that. Even if only vaguely."

She paused again waiting for the two to respond.

[third-sentinel]

Trinn nods.

Then it was the forcing part, ah. Thank you for explaining-enlightening this Sentinel. It will avoid further triggering him. One understands how one's mind can linger-betray on the past. It experiences similar attacks.

Chorin starts walking to the exit as well.

I'm gonna go watch him from a distance. He's not thinking clearly if he's triggered, he probably needs a lil backup. Juuuust in case.

[buglings-official]

"I would appreciated that."

~~~~~

Song seated himself near the entrance as he struggled to focus. The past was over, why was it still effecting him. There weren't even any of them there. He frantically attempted to cast spells, getting little more than sparks. He needed it out, was much of it as possible. He was much to aware and the soul need to be gone.

He tried again.

He only managed sparks.

And again.

Only sparks.

He gave up and gripped the tattered hem of his cloak, panic clearly setting in.

[third-sentinel]

Chorin is regretting going already. Trinn's the comfort bot, it knows a lot about how organics work. And how to make them feel what it wants them to feel.

Chorin doesn't know how to help. If they even should - they don't know this guy, really. And no matter what Song's relation to Trinn's business is, Thorn may be the reason that Trinn gets the order to make these moths disappear.

They... don't actually know how The Family will respond to Chorin being attacked by an outsider.

But he's panicking.

Silken Curse, what does Chorin do now?

...

Their best.

Hey. Uh. Song. You're not breathing right. Don't you gotta, y'know, breathe?

[buglings-official]

Through the racing thoughts of Song's mind, he did actually hear Chorin.

"What?"

He was asking if he needed to breathe? What a dumb question. Of course he did!

Nonetheless, Song was made aware of how frantic his breathing was. And start to fix it, he needed to speak after all.

"Why- why is that even a question?"

[third-sentinel]

Thorn fought with herself to open her eyes, the couch she had fallen asleep on was extremely comfortable, if it was her own home she probably would have continued to lay there. But this was not her home, and she pushed herself into a sitting position.

Song trying to hide a giggle told her that she had a bed head. She yawned as she attempted to fix her fur.

"Where's our host?"

@buglings-official

Right here.

It says from behind her.

Hey there sleepyhead. Rest well? Feel better?

[buglings-official]

"Mm, yeah. Your couch is really comfortable."

Thorn sat there for a moment, still waking up, when she remembered the reason she was able to sleep on a couch at all.

"Have you figured out what to do with the little robot?"

Her tone was less aggressive than before. The sleep seemed to have mellowed her out some.

[third-sentinel]

Why, yes this one has :)

Boo.

Chorin whispers in her ear.

At some point in the conversation, they had snuck undetected onto her shoulder.

It quickly jumps off

[buglings-official]

If Thorn wasn't awake before, she definitely was now.

When the robot spoke, her head immediatley snapped to look at it.

"YOU'RE NOT DEAD???"

[third-sentinel]

Not for lack of trying on your part >:(

Turns out, their internal-mechanisms were hit in just the right way to immobilize but not kill-break. Paralysis, you caused in its kin, but no lasting damage-harm.

Forget what Trinn said, I'm obviously a ghost here to haunt the rest of your days >:)

They are not.

Shut up!

[buglings-official]

"Ghost or not, I see you find amusement in getting on my nerves."

Thorn gave Chorin a little flick as she spoke, clearly an attempt to tease them back.

Song however, now had a question.

"Can a construct become a ghost? There was one we saw back at hallownest, but I didnt see any lingering essence on it... though it could have moved on."

Song wondered if the one he and Thorn came across had a personality, like Third. Or if it just carried out orders.

[third-sentinel]

Absolutely.

At the question, the two robots made eye contact. Trinn loses whatever silent argument they're having, and takes the time to explain.

Entirely possible, if sentient-sapient. Any robot-construct may become sapient over a long enough period, or enough acute exposure to Soul.

Soul is all around. Time-space, and the metal-wiring will slowly take it in. A Crest will form. Crest: the pattern your Soul takes as it moves throughout your body. Memories-experiences, over a lifetime. This is what makes you sapient.

This one believes that is how Masks work - a maskmaker gazes at your Crest, and carves you something to represent-guard that identity.

This one could be entirely wrong, however.

[buglings-official]

Song was familiar with crests and soul, but didn't know constructs worked similarly. Which brought up another question.

"Is that what happened to you?"

[third-sentinel]

Almost imperceptibly, Trinn flinches. There's a short silence before Chorin steps in.

Nah, that's what happened to me. Trinn's Citadel-make. They're, uh. Made special.

...do not dance around, nor honey-coat the truth, Chorin.

This one's programming-directive-cage is, for all intents-purposes, a Crest. Artificially made, and forced upon this Sentinel.

Reason: this one is powered by a Silkfly. The Silkfly must be restrained to be obedient-useful.

...In truth, this one is a Silkfly in a metal-shell.

[buglings-official]

A crest forced upon a bug.... Song knew all to well the feeling of something being forced upon oneself, and felt sympathy for the sentinel.

Thoughts of the past, however, forced their way to the front of his mind. Soul, far too much of it, pumping into his shell. His own body fighting to expel it, and heal, only to have more replace it and restart the process.

It all made Song much to aware of the energy within his own shell, making Song feel out of his own shell. By the abyss he hated it.

He cast another spell.

"No one should have to live with something like that."

[third-sentinel]

No. They should not. It agrees vehemently-intensely with you.

...are you alright?

[buglings-official]

Song didn't know how to answer Third's question. One one claw, it wasn't something Third could be burdened or help with. It was just something Song had to work through, just.... later. But on the other Claw.... Third had already seen his nightmare, would the sentinel even take a half truth, if not a lie, as an answer?

There was also the matter of Thorn. She was already worried enough about him, he didnt want to worry her more. And, she would probably become even more protective if he told her....

"Song?"

"I-I just need a moment. Maybe some fresh air?"

Son of a gruz mother, his claws were shaking.

[third-sentinel]

Take all the time you need. It understands.

Trinn motioned to the entrance.

[buglings-official]

"Thank you."

Song started on his way to the door, when Thorn got up to follow. To which he stopped her.

"I'm only going to be just outside, I-I'll be fine."

Thorn hesitated a moment before responded.

"...Yell if you're not."

Song nodded and then left the room, leaving Thorn, the sentinel and Chorin alone.

[third-sentinel]

Will he be fine?

...it does not entirely understand, his fear-reaction to its words. His heartbeat was fast-quick, and he was shaking...

Was it something it said?

Chorin looks concerned as well, but doesn't say anything.

[buglings-official]

Thorn contemplated how exactly to answer

She had met these two the door before, was it truly okay to go about spilling their traumas to near strangers? She could be vague. But that could raise more. She looked to the door Song had left through, and took a breath.

"He will be, your words just reminded him of something that happened in our homeland."

Another breath, she was going to have to explain.

"He was... kidnapped by bugs from a place called the Soul Sanctum. They were trying to make a weapon, a bug with near endless reserves of soul. Song... they were lucky to acquire him."

Distaste flooded her voice as she spoke the last few words.

".....when I found him.... he was nearly one of their mistakes, to add to the thousands before him."

She paused to let the two process her explanation. And let her own mind settle. She fought to think about Song's own insides slipped within his soul softened shell as she carried him to find help. She fidgeted with her cloak.

"The mind does funny things when you have bad memories, even mere sounds could trigger a reaction. They forced amounts of soul into his body that no mortal bug could even survive. Just to attempt to make a weapon. I guess your explanation of how you are sentient, reminded him of that. Even if only vaguely."

She paused again waiting for the two to respond.

[third-sentinel]

Trinn nods.

Then it was the forcing part, ah. Thank you for explaining-enlightening this Sentinel. It will avoid further triggering him. One understands how one's mind can linger-betray on the past. It experiences similar attacks.

Chorin starts walking to the exit as well.

I'm gonna go watch him from a distance. He's not thinking clearly if he's triggered, he probably needs a lil backup. Juuuust in case.

[buglings-official]

"I would appreciated that."

~~~~~

Song seated himself near the entrance as he struggled to focus. The past was over, why was it still effecting him. There weren't even any of them there. He frantically attempted to cast spells, getting little more than sparks. He needed it out, was much of it as possible. He was much to aware and the soul need to be gone.

He tried again.

He only managed sparks.

And again.

Only sparks.

He gave up and gripped the tattered hem of his cloak, panic clearly setting in.

[buglings-official]

“Hello..?”

*The little vessel was lost in that land, trembling..*

[ - @greenpath-vessel ]

Song and Thorn had been bickering over which direction to go through Greymoor. Song was arguing his point about going through the windmills, partially to stay dry, but also to go sightseeing. Thorn on the other hand, wanted to go straight to the Halfway Home.

"I don't think we really have time to be out sightseeing in this rain, and taking a straight path to-"

Song stopped her when he heard another voice. Looking around, he spotted a vessel.

"Hello? Are you okay?"

"Another vessel? There seem to be quite a few more than we were led to believe."

[greenpath-vessel]

“I am lost.. Can I go with you?..”

*The vessel seemed very sad and lost, running to both of them as fast as they could!*

[buglings-official]

Song looked to Thorn pleadingly.

"We can't just leave them out here all alone."

"I know, I know."

She sighs before looking toward the vessel.

"Do you have parents or gaurdians looking for you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“I don't think so! I do have parents but sometimes I go to explore! This is one of those times!”

[buglings-official]

"You can come with us, we were ultimately heading for deep docks to go swimming, but we're stopping at Halfway Home first."

"We should introduce ourselves, I am Thorn and this is my brother, Song."

As Song was introduced he used sould to spell out his name. The particles hung in the air before dissipating.

"And you?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Im Shamrock or Shammy! I'll go with you hehe! The deep docks sound soo fun!”

[buglings-official]

Song lightened up at the vessels comment of the deep docks.

"I know right! We were warned it had magma but I think that means that there'll be a ton of hotsprings like at Hallownest!"

He cast more soul spells in his excitement.

"We still need to be safe about it, some of the hotsprings may be too hot."

[greenpath-vessel]

“Ohh! Yess! I remember one day I found one of those! I burnt myself.. but it's okay! Hehe!”

[buglings-official]

Song laughed with Shammy as Thorn took to leading the group.

"Have you been in Pharloom long?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Oh?? Nope.. I haven't.. Well, now, yes! A bit!”

[buglings-official]

"Oooooooh! What have you seen so far?"

Song was curious about what was in Pharloom, and wasn't afraid to show it. Thorn shared the same curiosity, but remained calm.

[greenpath-vessel]

“Hmm, Verdania! That's where my Papa lives!”

*They giggled loudly, remembering themselves to go and check on their father later.*

[buglings-official]

Thorn checked the map to find Verdania.

"Oh, it'll be a little past where Song and I are going. Somewhere called the Craw lake?"

[greenpath-vessel]

“Yes! It's really near then! Yayy, you'll be able to meet my Papa!”

*They giggled, jumping a little around.*

[buglings-official]

"We weren't planning on....."

Thorns voice trailed off as she was met with big pleading eyes from song. He was begging for yet another detour.

They had made plans to go to deep docks to go swimming. And now they were, presumably, going to escorted a child back to it's father?

"You know what? Yes. Let's go meet your father."

Plans were thrown off the stag beetle long ago anyways.

Song clapped his claws, creating little soul sparks as he did.

"Yes!"