Lucifuge

Origins and Initial Outbreak

The Lucifuge, initially known as Deep Space Madness, emerged during the Great Timocracy of Mankind Era, introduced by unknown parties. Initially dismissed as a psychological quirk affecting off-Earth dwellers, the virus's true nature was revealed after a devastating outbreak in North America. The Lucifuge's highly contagious and insidious effects led to widespread social disruption, as infected individuals sought each other out, forming conspiracies and cults. These groups' actions were characterized by a complete lack of empathy and shame, sparking widespread fear and mistrust.

Neurological Impact and Consequences

The Lucifuge virus targets specific brain regions, particularly the prefrontal cortex, inducing tumors and lesions in other areas. This damage results in a contagious manifestation of the Dark Triad personality traits: narcissism, Machiavellianism, and psychopathy. Infected individuals exhibit extreme liberation from social norms, devoid of empathy or shame, while still retaining memories of these traits to hide their nature. The virus's impact on cognitive function and behavior enabled the ruling powers to discredit dissidents, labeling them as victims of the Lucifuge. This propaganda tactic contributed to the fragmentation of the Great Timocracy, with outer planets breaking away to form the Free Planets, some of which were governed by actual victims of the virus and therefore suffered under brutal despotism.

Legacy and Eradication

After the First Reptid War weakened the Free Planets, the GTM asserted control and introduced a vaccine, effectively containing the virus. Research into brain organoids enabled the development of treatments to cure the brain damage caused by the Lucifuge. While occasional outbreaks still occur, medical intervention allows for full recovery, albeit with potential intellectual impairments. Its eradication has enabled the Pan-Solar Consortium to promote social cohesion and stability, ensuring that the horrors of the Lucifuge era remain a distant memory, at least most of the time.