2 Hollows
Hollows are physical manifestations of Requiem released into reality. Unlike Wraiths, Hollows were never human and possess no previous identity. They exist solely as autonomous organisms created when the pressure of Requiem within reality exceeds its natural limit.
A common analogy compares the phenomenon to an overflowing cup. Every time a person becomes a Wraith, a portion of that pressure is relieved, as though water has been removed from the cup. However, Requiem continuously accumulates over time. Once the pressure becomes too great, it "spills" into reality, creating Hollows.
Hollows possess only one instinct: destruction. They attack humans, Wraiths, animals, and even other Hollows if necessary. They do not hunt for survival, territory, or food, they simply exist to spread chaos until destroyed.
Despite their appearance, Hollows are not truly living organisms in the conventional sense.
Every Hollow is composed almost entirely of condensed Requiem and possesses a single Core embedded deep within its body. This Core anchors the Hollow to reality and is the only vital component required for its existence.
As long as the Core remains intact, a Hollow cannot be permanently killed. Limbs may be severed, its body torn apart, or even reduced to fragments, yet it will continue to regenerate until the Core is destroyed. Its exact position can vary slightly depending on the Hollow's anatomy.
No two Hollows are identical.
Their bodies are formed by unstable Requiem, resulting in endless variations in size and shape. Some resemble distorted humans, while others take on animalistic or entirely unnatural forms.
Common characteristics include:
- Jet-black bodies composed of condensed Requiem.
- Uneven limbs and asymmetrical proportions.
- Jagged teeth of irregular size and placement.
- Horns, spikes, claws, or other abnormal growths.
- Dense shadow-like aura surrounding the body.
Certain regions of a Hollow may develop significantly denser tissue than others, creating naturally armored sections capable of resisting tremendous force. These mutations appear randomly and vary between individuals.
Hollows possess little to no intelligence.
Most act entirely on instinct, attacking the nearest living target without hesitation. They cannot be reasoned with, negotiated with, or domesticated.
Hollows originate from structures known as Hollow Nests.
A Hollow Nest forms when Requiem begins leaking into reality at a single location. The substance spreads across walls, ceilings, floors, and surrounding objects much like rapidly growing mold. Over time, the Requiem decays into a semi-organic biomass that consumes its surroundings.
Once sufficient biomass has accumulated, the Nest begins producing Hollows directly from its walls and organic growths. If left unchecked, a Hollow Nest can continue expanding indefinitely, creating increasingly dangerous outbreaks.
Destroying a Hollow Nest prevents the creation of new Hollows but does not eliminate those that have already emerged.
