She is, perhaps, all that remains of Deepnest now, save infected shells and abandoned weavings.

“I would not have you put the well-being of what little of Hallownest is left over the well-being of your people. The treaty does not hold for those bugs sick or foolish enough to wander into our domain.” Her intent is clear, but better to leave no room for misunderstanding. “I challenge you, Lords of the Mantis Tribe,” she says, unnecessarily. They rise as one, nail-lances at the ready. Staring up at the three on their thrones, she thrusts her needle to the side in the traditional gesture of challenge. She is Hornet, princess-protector of Hallownest, and she cannot lose.

She gives little thought to escape should her challenge go poorly, for she is more likely to perish in flight than in battle, particularly against them.

She is Hornet, princess-protector of Hallownest, but right now she is merely a challenger. Her needle is sharper than any nail, carefully threaded and rethreaded in preparation for this very battle. All that matters is her needle and thread. She is Hornet, princess-protector of Hallownest, though none of that matters here.

Mark of pride hollow knight