The Hollows

Lore & Background

Cliff Unger established The Hollows as a sanctuary for those willing to confront the Beach directly. Unlike the general population, which fears BTs as monsters that trigger Death Stranding events, this faction views them as guides or necessary components of existence. Their base is situated in a region heavily influenced by chiral network anomalies, allowing them to maintain constant contact with the other side without immediate physical dissolution. The group's ideology centers on the belief that keeping death separate from life is what causes the cycle of tragedy. They argue that humanity must learn to coexist with the dead to survive long-term. This philosophy is deeply personal for Cliff, driven by his relationship with his son, who became a beacon between worlds known as the Heartman. Their technology and methods differ significantly from Bridges' equipment. While Porters use chiral network devices to track packages and BTs, The Hollows utilize their own systems designed to amplify Beach signals rather than suppress them. This makes their presence detectable but also dangerous for those not prepared for the spiritual weight of their operations.

In Their Own Story

The rain fell harder as the Porter approached the perimeter fence, the chiral network device buzzing with a low, dissonant hum. Beyond the rusted metal gates, the facility lights flickered in an unnatural rhythm, pulsing like a heartbeat against the dark sky. Shadows moved along the walkways—not BTs, but people who seemed to phase slightly out of sync with reality. A voice crackled over the radio, calm and devoid of fear: 'You cannot deliver what is already lost.' The Porter paused, looking at the glowing silhouette of Cliff Unger on the balcony above, watching them from a world that was not quite this one.

Reader's Guide

The Hollows operate under a philosophy that death should not separate humanity from its past or future. Led by Cliff Unger, they seek to permanently bridge the gap between the living world and the Beach rather than keeping them apart. Unlike Bridges, who aims for reconnection through delivery logistics, this faction believes in direct integration with the other side to save the species. Their structure is hierarchical but centered around Cliff's vision of salvation through sacrifice. They view BTs not as enemies to be killed, but as necessary intermediaries guiding souls. This stance puts them at significant odds with the United Cities and Bridges, who see BT contact as dangerous contamination that triggers Death Stranding events. Ultimately, their goal involves the Heartman, a child capable of traversing both realms safely without harm. By harnessing this potential, they aim to prevent future catastrophes by normalizing the presence of the dead among the living. This radical approach creates deep tension with Porters who prioritize safety and separation for the sake of human survival in the physical world.

Did You Know?

• Cliff Unger's motivation is deeply tied to his son, known as the Heartman, who acts as a bridge entity.
• Members of The Hollows do not fear BTs in the same way Porters do, viewing them differently.
• The facility is located in an area with high chiral network activity and BT concentration.
• Their methods often involve manipulating Beach signals rather than suppressing them.