Birth of a Monster | 1 | The Hollow King Novel Series
14 parts Complete MatureKael awakens in the Thornwood Forest, a fledgling monster birthed from the cosmic force known as The Solver. He navigates this sentient and treacherous land, absorbing Essence from corrupted druids and fungal creatures, which allows him to evolve rapidly. As he grows stronger, Kael gathers a following of Hollowborn-outcasts like himself who hunger for survival and power. Together, they conquer an abandoned goblin stronghold, renaming it The Hollow, and begin expanding their territory. However, Kael's rise draws attention from powerful factions. The Silver Inquisition, zealots from the Va'lier theocracy, launches a crusade to exterminate him. They believe all monsters are abominations and wield divine magic that nullifies Kael's abilities. Simultaneously, the Sablewing Guild of adventurers-for-hire targets Kael as a "named monster," seeking bounty and glory. Forced into strategic retreats, Kael absorbs diverse Essences to counter these threats but risks corruption when consuming tainted enemies. He must balance chaotic mutations with structured evolution or risk losing control over his burgeoning power. As Kael cements his legend, rumors spread of a monstrous hive called the Obsidian Maw-a dark mirror of his own faction that consumes entire regions. This looming threat forces Kael to ally with reluctant factions such as the Oath-Eaters and daemon-bound tribes. These alliances come at a cost; many followers are enslaved by their new partners' demonic protectors. As The Solver's influence looms large, Kael realizes he is part of an ongoing cosmic experiment-one that could end in godhood or obliteration depending on how well he adapts to Vael'ari's chaotic nature. Embracing this challenge, he reaffirms his leadership over the Hollowborn and prepares for the next phase of evolution: transcending both mortal and monstrous limits through sheer force of will.