The Necroid Plague

Lore & Background

The philosophy behind the Necroid Plague is one of absolute unity through consumption. There is no pain, only purpose: to convert biomass into fuel for the swarm. Galactic historians warn that this threat often emerges when empires push too far into forbidden genetic research or disturb sealed tombs containing unstable bio-matter. It stands as a dark mirror to the synthetic Contingency, proving that biology can be just as ruthless and unstoppable as machine logic.

In Their Own Story

The bridge of the *Aethelgard* was silent, save for the wet slapping sounds echoing from the corridors. Captain Vane gripped his console, watching the status monitor turn a sickly shade of green. The crew had stopped reporting in hours ago; now they were just... moving. Their skin pulsed with bioluminescent veins, their eyes replaced by hollow sockets weeping black ichor. Outside the viewport, the enemy fleet approached—not metal ships, but writhing masses of flesh and bone, fused together into a single, hungry entity.

Reader's Guide

The Necroid Plague is typically triggered by random events involving derelict stations or specific research paths that unlock forbidden bio-tech. Once introduced to the galaxy, it spreads through proximity, infecting ships that engage infected fleets too closely. In early phases, isolated outbreaks can be contained with quarantine zones and specialized medical tech. However, if left unchecked, the plague escalates into a full galactic crisis where entire systems are consumed. The infection rate accelerates as more biomass is converted, creating larger bio-ships. Outcomes depend on fleet composition and research speed. Empires capable of developing anti-plague weaponry or purging infected worlds can survive. Failure results in the total conversion of the empire into drone fodder for the swarm.

Did You Know?

• Infected ships often retain their original hull types but gain bio-organic visual traits and increased durability.
• The plague can bypass standard shields by targeting biological crew members directly inside the vessel.
• Certain origin types, such as Hive Minds, are immune to the conversion effects of the Necroid Plague.