The Thorns Collective

Lore & Background

Some veteran Proxies suggest that 'Thorns' may simply be a nickname for rogue agents operating outside Guild contracts, scavenging dangerous artifacts without HIA oversight. Others believe it is merely a myth used to scare novice explorers away from unstable Hollow sectors. Regardless of the truth, the name serves as a reminder of the unseen dangers lurking beyond the safety of the Sixth Street.

In Their Own Story

The rain slicked the neon signs of Sector 5 as Ben checked his Bangboo for signal interference. 'You hear that?' she asked, pointing to the static on her comms. 'Just noise,' he replied, though a chill ran down his spine. Somewhere in the background, a distorted voice muttered about 'The Thorns' before cutting out. They moved deeper into the Hollow, knowing better than to chase ghosts.

Reader's Guide

While The Thorns Collective lacks official documentation, understanding the concept helps Proxies navigate New Eridu's underworld. Their alleged goals remain speculative, potentially involving unauthorized artifact retrieval or Hollow manipulation outside HIA jurisdiction. Leadership structure is entirely unknown, with no confirmed figures ever linked to the name in public records. Public reputation is mixed; some view them as dangerous vigilantes, while others dismiss them as a fabrication. In the ongoing conflict against the Hollows, they represent the uncertainty of unregulated operations that can complicate official missions.

Did You Know?

• No official HIA report has ever confirmed the existence of The Thorns Collective.
• The name often appears in Proxy forums as a cautionary tale for new explorers.
• Similar names sometimes appear on graffiti near unstable Hollow entry points.
• Some believe the term refers to specific enemy types rather than human agents.