Abyss Shriek (Final)

Lore & Background

Beneath the crumbling streets of Hallownest lies the Abyss, a place where light cannot reach and the Void sleeps. The Abyss Shriek is not merely an object but a conduit, allowing the Knight to briefly awaken fragments of this slumbering power. When used, it calls forth small voidlings that mimic the behavior of the larger entities found in the deepest caverns. This charm reflects the Knight's growing affinity for the Void as they progress through their journey. Unlike other artifacts that rely on the kingdom's fading magic or the Radiance's influence, the Abyss Shriek taps into something older and more primal. It suggests that the Knight is not just a vessel of light, but also capable of wielding the darkness required to restore balance. The existence of such an item hints at the Pale King's experiments with controlling these forces. By placing it within reach in the Deepnest, he may have intended for his chosen vessel to learn how to weaponize the very thing that threatened to consume them.

In Their Own Story

The water was cold and still, reflecting nothing but the darkness above. The Knight stood on a narrow ledge, the abyss yawning below like an open mouth. A single glow hovered in the air—the charm waiting to be claimed. As the hand reached out, the shadows seemed to ripple, sensing the presence of another Void child. With a soft chime, the artifact was secured. In that moment, the silence of the Deepnest felt less heavy, as if the darkness itself had acknowledged its master.

Reader's Guide

The Abyss Shriek is a potent charm acquired deep within the treacherous caverns of Hallownest. To obtain it, the Knight must navigate the flooded passages of the Deepnest, utilizing flight abilities to reach high ledges hidden from view. Once equipped, this artifact taps into the raw energy of the Void residing beneath the kingdom. Mechanically, the charm activates upon striking an enemy with a nail attack or spell. It summons two small, spectral voidlings that latch onto nearby foes and deal damage over a brief duration. This effect does not consume additional mask shards beyond the initial equip cost, making it efficient for sustained combat. However, its activation relies on landing hits, so melee-focused builds benefit most from its synergy. Strategically, this charm excels in crowd control scenarios where multiple enemies surround the Knight. The summoned voidlings can distract aggressors, allowing for safer retreats or follow-up attacks. Players often pair it with charms that increase attack speed to trigger the summons more frequently. While not essential for survival, its ability to summon allies makes it a favorite for those seeking to master the darker arts of the Void.

Did You Know?

• The voidlings summoned by this charm deal damage independently of the Knight's nail strength.
• It is one of only two charms in the game that summons external entities to aid in combat.
• Finding this item requires navigating a section of Deepnest typically guarded by aggressive enemies.
• Its design features swirling black patterns reminiscent of the Void Heart.