A Study of Locust History (Super Theory)

[SeranSpartan]

This is a super-speculative theory that I've been thinking of and refining for days now. I've seen all of the collectibles and read most of the books. Based on all the information we have so far of the Locust, I decided to compile one gigantic super theory on why and how the Locust exist. It is a very, very, very, long read. So, for those who are really into the Locust, read on.

Chapter 1: The Kantus

The Kantus are a very peculiar species. They seem to be the far more cultured of the Locust Horde. They are able to manipulate wildlife behaviors through very specific sounds and tones that may be inaudible to the human ear. They are evolved as Reptile-like creatures with callous and cracked skin and are very tall and slender in figure. The Kantus have exceedingly long life spans and are able to compile their wisdom and experience.

My theory on the Kantus's ability to control the Hollow creatures come from certain sound waves and patterns that irritate or soothe their consciousness. The Hollow is a very dark place and creatures undoubtedly evolved on senses of smell and sound than sight. The Kantus likely evolved an ability to produce certain sound waves that can trigger certain behaviors in other species in order to survive from Hollow predators like Corpsers. This gift was eventually refined and Kantus were able to learn to emit acute sounds to elicit specific results.

I believe that the Kantus are responsible for the massive tunnels that are dug throughout the hollow. All the old engravings and gateways are the works of the ancient Kantus civilization. The Kantus were once a very peaceful race that cherished nature and cared for its surroundings. Seeing as the Kantus were able to control the native creatures of the Hollow, it is not farfetched to believe that their culture and ways embraced them and sought not to harm their obedient companions. They established schools and institutionalized religions. The Kantus believed in the Trinity of Worms and the absolute sanctity of rockworms.

The Kantus had used Imulsion for primitive fuel to light torches. They also developed pulley and gear-oriented technology for heavy lifting that their rather brittle bodies could not handle. The great Kantus civilization centered itself under Mt. Kadar at Nexus but had very far-reaching outposts throughout Sera.

The Kantus were vastly intelligent in all matters biological. Kantus doctors could heal grievous injuries. They were very advanced in the making of poisons, plant extracts, and concentrated pheromones. They lived with the Hollow creatures in peace, with the exception of a few religious disputes and crusades against opposing Kantus cults.

Chapter 2: Crusade

In the very beginning of Kantus civilization, there were various factions that worshiped different animals. They recorded and passed down knowledge of songs and sounds that could control behaviors of different species. Vast libraries of information, sketches, and biological studies often lined the walls. At first, several primitive sects and shamanistic tribes were scattered throughout the Inner Hollows. In time, they soon developed into independent states. It was not long before conflict arose between the different tribes. The Trinity of Worms Clan was by far the largest tribe. Its culture was influenced greatly by the strength and endurance of the docile rockworm and their prime deity the Riftworm. The Warriors of the Trinity wore arm bands and shin guards made of blessed rockworm hide, not unlike Skorge's armor in appearance. Primitive weapons of all Kantus included spears, spades, and scythes. The Trinity increased in size and eventually declared a crusade against all other Kantus clans. The ensuing war was quick and clean. Wielding the gargantuan Riftworm, the other tribes were quickly subjugated, converted, and assimilated in a relatively bloodless battle. Much of the assimilated tribes had their scrolls and knowledge archived for future use and taming of their respective beasts should the need arise.

Only one tribe eluded conquest. They were the infamous black Kantus priests that controlled the Kryll with utmost perfection. Their low rumbling chants instilled fear in all. The Trinity greatly feared the Kryll and stayed far from their breeding grounds. However, after years of fighting, the fearsome Kryll-callers were nearing defeat. In one final stand, they united in an unholy chorus that brought forth endless masses of Kryll. The Kryll attacked the Riftworm and caused it great injury. In the end, the Riftworm was still able to topple the final Shadow stronghold at great cost to itself. Once the dark chorus was violently silenced, the Kryll simply dispersed. After the battle, the Riftworm burrowed in the Hollows and simply disappeared into the vast caves, whether in hibernation to heal its wounds or in death. The Riftworm had ceased to respond to Trinity calls and was nowhere to be found. In spiteful retribution, the Trinity ordered the cleansing of all the Shadow priests' libraries and burned all records of its existence save for a few scraps of information long forgotten.

Once their rule was ensured, the united Kantus civilization was ushered into an age of peace, innovation, invention, science, culture, religion, and philosophy. They refined their beliefs and renounced violence. The armor of the Trinity Knights was retired except for ceremonial use. The Trinity of Worms religion trumped all others and bound all Kantus together into one. They expanded their land rapidly and chiseled great forts from the rock. The story of the Riftworm soon faded into a documented legend and many wondered when their god would return once again.

Chapter 3: The Drone Horde

Drones are a bipedal, humanoid Hollow-native species. They are evolved to have an extremely sturdy skeletal system and robust muscles. Their brutality is matched only by their numbers. Consisting of a vast majority of males, the Drones are driven by a divided tribal culture that competes for female mates. The Drones are a direct contrast to the Kantus; they are violent, savage, and primitive.

Strength and power are the only two needs of Drone society. Those who are weak are invariably killed or left to starve. Leadership conflicts are constant happenings. The Drones idolize and follow those who they believe are strong. Drones believe in only one philosophy: Trial by Fire. Only those who have proven their worth in battle are allowed to command.

The Drones never had a centralized society up until a certain point. Opposing tribes always squabbled over territory, food, and fuel. Drones have relatively short biological lifespans but live even shorter lives in the unforgiving Hollow. Old Drones that cannot work are ostracized and starve. Old leaders are often overthrown by the young and reckless.

The greatest test for any Drone leader is the fight for a mate. In order to prove his strength to his subjects, Drone leaders spar against Berserkers single-handedly. If the Drone is able to prove himself to the hard-shelled Berserker through brute force and convincing pheromones, then it will submit to him to be mated with in front of all the onlookers. Through this system, the Drones practiced extremely primitive eugenics, in that only the strongest are allowed to breed the next generation.

Berserkers are a phenomenon because of their difference from the rest of the Drones. They are large and might have evolved their infamously hard shells and aggression from predators picking female Drones for easy snacks. At birth, Berserkers are larger than Drones and have a vastly different facial structure and harder kin composition. They grow rapidly for 5 years before maturing physically and sexually where they remain relatively the same for the rest of their lives. Roughly one Berserker is born per 100 Drones. Berserkers are similar to Queen Ants in that they can produce multiple offspring from one copulation. From analyzing a Berserker's anatomy, I dare speculate that they carry offspring in their back, until it is released by opening the entire area and releasing multiple newborn Drones, (roughly the size of an 18 year old human)

Young Drones undergo a rapid growth period in which their height, weight, and muscle mass grows exponentially within the course of 2-3 years. The Drones that we see in the Gears games are merely children with the most rudimentary knowledge and training.

After this short growth period, depending on the amount nutrition and essential minerals are taken in, Drones are roughly 6-10 ft. tall. Very well-nourished Drones may begin to molt their skin as soon as they finish their growth period. However, for most Drones, their skin starts to molt at the age of 5-10 and begins its hardening process. During this time, Drones become naturally aggressive and prone to recklessness. In addition, facial features change and their teeth become more pronounced. Drones begin this process during adolescence and continue up until their adult life. In the Gears games, they would be Grenadiers.

At last, a Drone that completes its molting phase is an extreme rarity considering Drone culture. These Drones are the most revered of all considering their experiences. Their aggression mellows out into patient plotting. Once again, at this stage, their facial features change again. However, biologically, their voices do not. In the Gears games, they are the Therons.

Chapter 4: The Unification of the Horde

At some point in history, the Drones are united under one sweeping conquest. Very similar to the flight of Genghis Khan of the Mongols, one brilliant Theron Warlord systematically conquers all the smaller tribes and assimilates its people. This Warlord captured Berserkers and forces their rape in order to boost war numbers and to deflate the enemy's. In this tumultuous time, numerous weapons were to support the war effort. Technology boomed under his jurisdiction. Torque Bows, Mauler Shields, Flails, Cleavers, Digger Launchers, Bolo Grenades, and others were invented in this time. The dreaded war machines were also created. Wild Tickers sabotage enemy supplies. Bloodmounts and Wretches decimate infantry. Brumaks, Siege Beasts, and Torture Barges were invented to destroy enemy fortifications. Large creatures were restrained against their will in large cranking steel structures that directed their movement. There were no firearms then, so Brumaks were giant battering rams and Torture Barges were siege towers.

In order to feed the growing masses of newborn Drones, the Warlord slaughtered the thriving Rockworm species. Rockworms were once found throughout the Hollows in infinitely abundant numbers. Wherever the Drone Empire moved, their numbers were hunted to near extinction.

The Warlord also invented the Boomer class. Taking selectively large newborn Drones, he ordered that they be confined to a life of food gorging. Boomers were sheltered and fed like kings until they reached a point of inhumane obesity. Over-consumption of heavy-metal laden foods (Rockworm) has detrimental effects on brain development (Real science). Boomers are fed to the desired size and then told one word pertaining to their role. Ex: "Charge!" He deployed this devastating class of large warriors into the fray. Boomers were vital to the army and were often deployed on suicide missions that reasonable Drones were a bit reluctant to carry out. They were an excellent front line soldier able to sponge numerous injuries while dealing unrepairable damage to enemy numbers, morale, and infrastructure.

The Warlord and his successors had eventually completely united all the Drone populations throughout Sera in one violent stroke. Under his iron-fist, an empire built on war and brutality expanded its size with ever increasing tenacity.

Chapter 5: When Worlds Collide

As the Drone Empire grew exponentially in size and strength, they were bound to encounter another indigenous species: the Kantus. First contact was made several centuries before E-Day. The Kantus encountered new life outside one of their outer settlements. Drone hunting parties were slaughtering the holy rockworm by the thousands for food. With haste, the local Kantus leadership sought to intervene this sacrilege. However, miscommunication and quick aggression by Grenadiers turned the encounter bloody. With its local leadership dead at first contact, the Kantus outpost fell quickly to the ensuing Drone siege. Kantus calls relayed a message of high alert to all nearby cities.

The Kantus were largely unarmed and unprepared for the coming onslaught. City after city fell to the Drone Horde. The Kantus warrior monks were no match for the sheer force and might of the Horde. The Kantus were at an extreme disadvantage in the war. They were caught completely off-guard, did not have war technology, were not evolved to be as physically strong, and did not reproduce nearly as fast as Drones did. At this point, the Kantus began to change their ways.

Putting their minds to the anvil, the Kantus created numerous weapons and strategies to combat the Horde. The Kantus thought of many clever ways to route Horde forces and stop sieges. Imulsion moats and the pouring of hot imulsion onto enemy forces below was only one method of defense. The Kantus would often place Corpser nests near their cities and pacify the Corpser matriarch with their hymns. During a siege, the hymns would suddenly become shrill and violent, spurring the Corpsers inside into hysteria. Spotting the nearest threat, often a barraging Brumak or an imposing Torture Barge, the Corpsers would wreak havoc on Drone forces and war machines. As a result, Brumaks are soon bred to attack Corpsers on sight and in time, the behaviors become mutual.

The Kantus also exploited the Nemacyst, an Imulsion consuming creature that propelled itself with a mixture of deadly gases. The Nemacyst traveled in large numbers and were attracted to the smell of ink pheromones left by other Nemacyst as well as imulsion fumes. The Kantus were able to use concentrated pheromones in order to lure "Nemacyst airstrikes" as well as develop noxious Ink Grenades for handy uses.

Lastly, the Kantus tamed the Reavers. Kantus were able to mount the Reaver. However, only very few Kantus were able to handle the pressures of high-speed flight. The constant direction of Reavers by voice in high-speed flight and wind noise is almost impossible. Therefore, Reaver riders in Kantus society were rare but treasured immensely. Ink bombing and behind the lines infiltration were enabled by the Reavers' flight.

Centuries of constant fighting and siege made the Kantus more violent. They began to border savagery. Despite their defenses, more and more cities were falling and their capital in Nexus would soon be in peril. Leadership disputes began to arise throughout the settlements. Some Kantus sects began to turn against the instituted Trinity of Worms. For practical uses, some Kantus themselves began to harvest rockworms for necessary food and armor. Many Kantus began creating war machines for their own purposes, defying their own philosophy of gentleness with nature. Ticker bombings begin to be deployed by the Kantus. The central Kantus government became increasingly desperate. The Kantus looked to the past for answers. Their Riftworm god had forsaken them but its cursed counterpart, the Kryll, still flocked in abundance. Secret studies into the dangerous forbidden art of "Kryll calling" were beginning to make progress as Kantus scholars searched for surviving documents of the ancient Shadow Priests. The demons of their past would now prove to be their redemption.

In the final decades of the war, the Kantus began to plot one final counterattack. Anatomical studies of Drones yielded that all soldiers were male, regardless of rank or role. Kantus doctors were able to create a concentrated male pheromone. The Kantus government developed a secret unit of Kantus to destroy the Drone threat no matter the cost. Their mission was to eliminate the illusive female Drones to decimate Locust numbers. These elite Kantus wore Armored Kantus equipment and usually signified a 'dead man walking'. They were taught in the very basics of Kryll-calling but at the time were still unable to control their feeding. Calling the Kryll was almost certainly suicide. The Elite Kantus were given the full blessings of the Kantus Hierarchy to do their solemn duty and die with honor.

The Armored Kanti rode on Reaver to scout the Drones. They eventually discovered the heart of the Drone encampments. In a typical operation, the Armored Kantus rode alone and infiltrates the Drone encampment. Then it enters the Berserker breeding den where it lures them with the male pheromones into submission. Then, their guard is down, it silently assassinates all of them using some sort of injected poison. Only Berserkers that react violently to all outside stimuli are spared from this fate. The Elite Kantus then attempts an escape. If none is possible, it creates one last supersonic screech that spur the Kryll. All Drones and the Kantus perish in the feeding. Only the violent Berserkers (if any) remain amongst the devastation.

This coordinated counter-attack proves fatal to the Drone army. Their numbers quickly whittle down as their short life span and low reproduction rates take their toll. The Berserker population is dangerously low and the remaining Berserkers are nigh impossible to mate with, aside from coordinated restraint. The Kantus have finally turned the tide of the war, but at an immense cost.

Chapter 6: Peace Amongst Beasts

It is now roughly 200-100 years before E-Day. Both sides of the war are devastated. Neither side can afford to continue the war effort. An uneasy ceasefire is unofficially made. Theron leadership, who once despised the Kantus for being weak, now grudgingly respect them for their resilience and fierce retaliation. Drones live with a shortage of food because of the decimated rockworm population. Average Drone height shrinks and Boomers soon become a rarity. Over the centuries, both cultures had changed remarkably. The Drones, in order to combat the Kantus, had become more clever and conniving. Kantus, in order to combat the Drones, became more savage and blood-thirsty. Soon both their cultures are not so different from one another anymore.

The Kantus begin to clean up the ruined fractures of their civilization. Nexus remains under Trinity governance, but many political factions spring up throughout various settlements. Most are violently crushed, but one rogue sect: The Kryll-Callers resist submission and try to recruit others to their cause. The surviving Elite Kantus are relieved of their armor and duties. The armor suits are displayed in Nexus as the saviors of the Kantus race and are considered to be artifacts in their own right.

The Drones regroup and retreat to a central camp outside Nexus. The remaining violent Berserkers are herded together by lesser Drones that fear for their lives. The remaining Drones are few and hungry but manage their existence. Theron and Kantus diplomatic talks begin for the exchange of food and weapons. The Drones and the Kantus form an uneasy alliance and begin to expand their lands again. They are known to the COG as the Locust.

Chapter 7: New Fronts
(VERY SUBJECT TO SPECULATION)

The Pendulum Wars have begun. As the humans battle above ground, their waste and weapons rain down to the Hollows below. Human mining operations begin to dig deeper and deeper underground and begin to incur on Locust lands. First contact with wild wretches and forgotten tribes of unarmed drones is possible. The anatomy of the muscular Drone catches the attention of COG Command. The secret New Hope facility is established near Mt. Kadar where first human-drone contact was made. Studies of Drone muscle mass, bone density, and adrenaline systems are the keys to a super-soldier. Both genders are used in the ensuing genetic experiments to observe results.

When New Hope is shut down, the successful hybrids are taken to Mt. Kadar. The failures are kept in tanks as Sires. One young hybrid, Myrrah, is extremely intelligent and deceptively strong. The scientists bring much of their portable technology and equipment with them. When they arrive, they encounter a Drone patrol. The Drones sense their own kind among the scientists and hesitate.
The hybrids break their bonds and escape from the scientists. The Drones gun down the humans but see the hybrids as their own. The Hybrids produce Drone hormones, but look human. However, being born in the Hollows, Drones rely more on smell than sight. They are taken in to Nexus. Myrrah takes the scientists' state-of-art equipment and information with her.

The other hybrids die under unknown circumstances. Only Myrrah remains. She properly introduces the Locust to firearms and reverse engineering. She provides the Locust with computers and electronic databases. She empowers the army with reverse-engineered customized COG weapons. Hammerbursts, Gorgons, Boomshots, Gnashers, and Boltoks are mass-produced. The scientists' specialty of genetics and neuroscience enable her to make war machines deadlier than ever. She leads the production of helmets placed on the beasts in order to make them remotely controllable without the use of Kantus calls or forced manipulation. Brumaks, Corpsers, Reavers, Nemacysts, Bloodmounts, and more are all tamed to perfection. With the taming of Nemacysts, previously useless Seeders become their appointed mortars. Nemacysts are ejected from a Seeder and then remotely lead to a target. The more primitive beasts fall out of favor and are forgotten.

Kantus and Drone worship Myrrah for her strength, wisdom, and seemingly divine gifts that she has bestowed onto them. Both races, now united under their new Queen Myrrah are ushered into a golden age. Drones restore their numbers through both cloning AND coordinated Berserker rape. Drone ranks and a hierarchy system is established. Therons now require voice modification by trained Kanti to prove their rank. The Kantus are relegated to their native religious and intellectual roles as scholars. The Trinity of Worms religion is revised to include Queen Myrrah as a goddess.

Roughly 40 years before E-Day, the Queen soon begins campaigns to remove all resistance to her rule. At around the same time, the Kryll-Caller faction disappears from their temples and venture into the unexplored dark hollows to escape persecution.

Domesticated rockworm meat and strict food rationing wipe out hunger, but reduce Drones to a standard height of 6 ft. Drones are converted into the Trinity of Worms religion. The Locust Horde has reached its peak.

Chapter 8: The Hierarchy of the Locust and the Subsequent Lambent Invasion

Drones, under the standard food rationing, grew to an average of 6 ft. They are given rudimentary education on their assigned role and are to work without question. All Drones must undergo mandatory military service or training.

Grenadiers are adult Drones. They are irrational, aggressive, and violent, but at times can be sadistically conniving. Due to their constant skin molting process, Grenadiers voluntarily remove their armor as it is uncomfortable and restricting. It is a combination of daring bravado, comfort, and pride. Because of the tendencies of a Grenadier in battle, they have a very low life expectancy. However, those that survive wounds return with even harder skin and more bloodlust. Grenadiers that survive battles, constantly prove themselves on the front lines, and live long enough to become an Elder Drone are promoted to Therons.

Therons have different but similar facial structure to Grenadiers. Their voices do not change naturally. All Therons are to become apprentices of the Kantus in order to be officially promoted. As apprentices, they are educated on military tactics, religion, and learn to wield the Torque Bow. When enlightened Therons graduate from Kantus apprenticeship, they must endure the process of throat scarification. It is a ritualistic process that only a Kantus can perform successfully. A Theron must endure the pain of a ritual knife scrapping the inside of its throat. The result is a Theron with an hoarse voice to prove its official status as a full-fledged Theron Guard. Its voice is impossible to replicate by any natural Drone's vocal chords.

Boomers still exist for the sole purpose of heavy duty labor, but must also undergo military training.

A few years before E-Day, the first Lambent Drone is reported. Similar cases spread throughout outposts located near Imulsion. Further research of Imulsion reveals its true identity as a dormant parasite. Myrrah orders a complete cleansing of all affected sites, but the infection spreads too quickly. The entire Horde is militarized and mobilized against this new and foreign threat but it is too much. There is simply too much Imulsion. Thousands of Drones turn lambent everyday. Victory is almost impossible. There is no way to escape the Imulsion, unless...

Queen Myrrah looks to the surface, remembering the horrors of New Hope and the petty squabbles amongst the destructive humans above. Their refinement of the Imulsion only sped up its mutation rate. She enlists Adam Fenix's aid. He fails to help her in time, and the Lambent begin to win the war.

Queen Myrrah has no other choice for her people and gives the order to "Rise."


Thank you for taking the time to read the entire theory if you did. If you simply skimmed it, thanks anyway.
If anyone could provide constructive criticism, comments, or opinions, that would be great. I know this is flawed and speculative in many ways but I tried to make it as comprehensive as humanly possible. So please, do take the time to read at least some of it and give me some ideas on what I could revise.

Edit: I have recently revised my theory to include some details of the Savage Kantus prior to being united under the Trinity of Worms. I have also added details hinting to and contributing to my theory of General RAAM. You can read that here: http://forums.epicgames.com/threads/...-came-to-be%29

Thanks everyone for reading and the positive comments!

[OnyxProdigy]

I read the whole thing..

And it is the most convincing thing ive ever read.

I'm with until further notice.

[CSR8MILE]

I absolutely loved reading this man, amazing. The only things I disagree with are the Kantus being their own civilization and Queen Myrrah being a test subject, I just don't like that line of thinking. Almost all of the other stuff though, especially the explanation about Boomers was awesome. Fantastic job. 5 stars.

[XGhostX]

I read every word of it.

Interesting, but I would like to know how much is correct.

I originally thought there were 3 species: Drones, Boomers, and Kantus, with the Zerkers being female Drones. I never thought a Boomer was just an obese Drone.

[DragonzZilla]

Awww... I wanted to post some of this stuff.

[SILLYPICKLE97]

I like it, this is the best explanation for why Queen Myrah is Human "looking"

[Trashball Cole]

I stopped reading before the start of Chapter 6 to write this comment, and every single word fits REALLY well. Kudos to you man.
The Kantus/Drone War was really creative! I was imagining in my head a new Gears game based on this "Locust Civil War" that you came up with!
Nice work! Time for me to finish reading this.

[Crimson Ninja]

Really great read, if this would be the actual origins Epic went with, I would be very happy with it.

[DragonzZilla]

But anyway, kudos. Greatest Explanation for Gears of War, my good man.

[Primopratsy]

great work man.

Read it all.

[Pandut]

Read it all as well. Just want to say, instant respects, SeranSpartan. I'm damn glad to see someone else that doesn't believe in that "Locust are lambent-infected humans" bull.

The insight on the beginnings of both the Kanti and Drones is almost exactly the way I had depicted it. A constant state of war and survival of the fittest. Excellent work, friend .

[RGC_guitarguy]

Did anyone notice that the Myrrah looks WAY different in GOW3 than she did in GOW2?

[XGhostX]

I agree GuitarGuy, because she had those tentacle-like things on her back.

[RGC_guitarguy]

Yeah, it made no sense to me...WTF HAPPENED TO HER BETWEEN THEN AND NOW?!?!?!?!

[OnyxProdigy]

It was just her clothing man...calm down.

[8nasher]

I agree with the Kantus theory but not the Drone. I believe that Drones were rather created than actualy an original species on Sera. My theory comes from the fact that New Hope research facility seems to be where the first Drone prototype the "Sires" were created. There are other reasons that this seems more likely such as the fact that COG research indicates that Brumaks were bred from apes. This would sugest that Drones could very much have been bred from human children at new hope "Save the children. Thats what they always say. In this case were actualy doing it". From collectables found at New Hope we learn that they were indeed experimenting on children such as Ruth "Ruth is clearly experiencing extreme swelling in her joints and frequently cries out in pain during the night. She also exhibits rather erratic and unpredictable behavior, though this is quite understandable considering her situation and symptoms. There is a strange discoloration in her eyes, and her breathing often sounds labored. Her nails grow at a faster rate than normal, though her hair grows at a markedly reduced rate. I'll keep trying to find some type of medication to alleviate her pain without adversely affecting our studies" Read closely, this description reveals traits that can relate to Beserkers the female locust e.g. "erratic and unpredictable behavior" But we know that once New Hope gained to much media attention from a lapse by one of the employes the children were taken to mount Kadar. There is just to much evidence suggesting that the sires have some conection to the orign for us to rule out that they were a race created by humans and brought to Mount Kadar rather than a original species. Just think, would epic really go to the efforts of making a whole chapter about the sires and New Hope if it had no relevence or conection to locust?

[AvgStaR]

Read it all as well, really enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing!

[Jiraytio]

Awesome awesome awesome i want more more more more more more more please

[SeranSpartan]

Wow, thanks for all the positive feedback! It is nice to see others who are as interested in the Locust as I am.

I agree with the Kantus theory but not the Drone. I believe that Drones were rather created than actualy an original species on Sera. My theory comes from the fact that New Hope research facility seems to be where the first Drone prototype the "Sires" were created. There are other reasons that this seems more likely such as the fact that COG research indicates that Brumaks were bred from apes. This would sugest that Drones could very much have been bred from human children at new hope "Save the children. Thats what they always say. In this case were actualy doing it". From collectables found at New Hope we learn that they were indeed experimenting on children such as Ruth "Ruth is clearly experiencing extreme swelling in her joints and frequently cries out in pain during the night. She also exhibits rather erratic and unpredictable behavior, though this is quite understandable considering her situation and symptoms. There is a strange discoloration in her eyes, and her breathing often sounds labored. Her nails grow at a faster rate than normal, though her hair grows at a markedly reduced rate. I'll keep trying to find some type of medication to alleviate her pain without adversely affecting our studies" Read closely, this description reveals traits that can relate to Beserkers the female locust e.g. "erratic and unpredictable behavior" But we know that once New Hope gained to much media attention from a lapse by one of the employes the children were taken to mount Kadar. There is just to much evidence suggesting that the sires have some conection to the orign for us to rule out that they were a race created by humans and brought to Mount Kadar rather than a original species. Just think, would epic really go to the efforts of making a whole chapter about the sires and New Hope if it had no relevence or conection to locust?

First off, thanks for reading and writing your own beliefs down for discussion.

To address this: I do not believe that the Drones are artificial. This is a very popular theory that I would like to try to disprove. Remember that New Hope facility is opened during the Pendulum Wars. To give you the complete benefit of doubt, let's say for the sake of argument that New Hope is opened at the VERY start of the Pendulum Wars (79 B.E.) The program is a great success and Drone hybrids are produced within the very first year of operation. Marcus discovers New Hope on 15 A.E. That means that the New Hope facility and by association, Drones have existed for roughly 94 years.

On E-Day, Drones existed for only 79 years. I do not believe that a population of a few hundred genetic experiments could multiply to millions of Drones within the course of 79 years. It is almost impossible both mathematically and resourcefully. Take a roughly low number of 10,000,000 Drones on E-Day. It is arguable that millions of drones DIDN'T exist on E-Day, but how else would a planet-wide invasion work? The 'Horde' had unstoppable numbers by COG reports. So for now, just divide the estimated 10,000,000 by 79. That would mean that a minimum of 126,583 Drones are produced each year, NOT COUNTING death rates. You just can't generate so many large organisms in such a short time artificially or without large numbers to begin with.

Furthermore, the theory does not fully explain why the Queen is so different from the rest of the Drones. I believe the hybrid theory works best when it is applied to the Queen only because it adequately explains why she is unique and looks human but is accepted amongst the Locust. (She is both) It is not as big a stretch to believe that 1000 genetic experiments dwindled to one genetically superior female in the course of 80 years. But as I highlighted in the beginning of Chapter 6, the whole part was very subject to speculation.

In any case, thank you for bringing your detailed opposing beliefs into the discussion.

[urdumb2]

Did you stop to think that Ruth might be the queen after her complete transformation and Adam fenix was there at the end before New hope was shut down and had met Ruth before he transformation

[SeranSpartan]

Did you stop to think that Ruth might be the queen after her complete transformation and Adam fenix was there at the end before New hope was shut down and had met Ruth before he transformation

It is a remote possibility that Myrrah is Ruth, but I tried not to be specific when mentioning Myrrah because her identity is a toss-up. All I am theorizing is that Myrrah was ONE of the many hybrids brought to Mt. Kadar from New Hope.

Also, the possibility of Myrrah knowing Adam from a top-secret COG meeting involving scientists is also a possibility. But I don't have enough information to build that idea on a solid foundation. All I know is that she contacted him for help, we don't know anything about their relationship. The answer to this and many of our questions is in the data disc given to Baird.

[Cursed Rider]

Great theory man, and a great read also! Even if this is not what really happen in epic's canon at all, its totally worth reading it!

The civil war idea is nice, especially when the horde and the kantus finally realize they have become very similar in behaviour because of the long war... I was thinking drones would ultimately enslave kantus or kantus would do some of their "magic" and dominate drones with their chants, but I liked your explanation a lot... Simply brilliant.

The thing I personally don't like much is the boomer explanation. To me, drones and boomers could be like gorillas and chimpanzees, or orcs and goblins, for example. Two different breeds, one more "smart" and agile, the other more primitive and strong. They come from the same species, but their environment or something has made them evolve different. And this could include kantus as another breed as well, since they all have the same rock skin and similar body disposition (one head, 2 legs, 2 arms etc).

Anyways, great job putting all together! I have to sleep now, but I'll definetly get another read and give you some more feedack.

[SeranSpartan]

Great theory man, and a great read also! Even if this is not what really happen in epic's canon at all, its totally worth reading it!

The civil war idea is nice, especially when the horde and the kantus finally realize they have become very similar in behaviour because of the long war... I was thinking drones would ultimately enslave kantus or kantus would do some of their "magic" and dominate drones with their chants, but I liked your explanation a lot... Simply brilliant.

The thing I personally don't like much is the boomer explanation. To me, drones and boomers could be like gorillas and chimpanzees, or orcs and goblins, for example. Two different breeds, one more "smart" and agile, the other more primitive and strong. They come from the same species, but their environment or something has made them evolve different. And this could include kantus as another breed as well, since they all have the same rock skin and similar body disposition (one head, 2 legs, 2 arms etc).

Anyways, great job putting all together! I have to sleep now, but I'll definetly get another read and give you some more feedack.

Thank you for taking the time and reading and the kind words! As far as I know, Epic didn't give a canon at all about this, so we're almost completely in the dark except for the few collectables and information we have. I made this theory based on that information and tried my best not to leave anything out.

I am aware of the theory that Boomers may be different breeds of Drone. I don't have any evidence to refute that so I suppose we must agree to disagree. Personally, I just don't understand how Boomers can evolve independently and naturally. They're strong but morbidly obese and are very unintelligent. I don't think they'd stand a chance being alone in the Hollows. We've also never seen a Boomer Berserker nor have we ever seen a Boomer in any different stage of life unlike the Drone to Grenadier to Theron development. <-- (Speculation: but I think I can argue the point if you would like to know) This leads me to believe that Boomer are manufactured from large Drones at birth and then die early of inevitable health complications or in battle.

However, to continue, the notion that Boomers are simply over-nourished Drones and can grow to 10 feet tall conveniently provides a base for RAAM's existence and explains his height. I have a theory explaining RAAM as well, but I suppose that is for another thread.

[SuperKingBender]

Thank you for taking the time and reading and the kind words! As far as I know, Epic didn't give a canon at all about this, so we're almost completely in the dark except for the few collectables and information we have. I made this theory based on that information and tried my best not to leave anything out.

I am aware of the theory that Boomers may be different breeds of Drone. I don't have any evidence to refute that so I suppose we must agree to disagree. Personally, I just don't understand how Boomers can evolve independently and naturally. They're strong but morbidly obese and are very unintelligent. I don't think they'd stand a chance being alone in the Hollows. We've also never seen a Boomer Berserker nor have we ever seen a Boomer in any different stage of life unlike the Drone to Grenadier to Theron development. <-- (Speculation: but I think I can argue the point if you would like to know) This leads me to believe that Boomer are manufactured from large Drones at birth and then die early of inevitable health complications or in battle.

However, to continue, the notion that Boomers are simply over-nourished Drones and can grow to 10 feet tall conveniently provides a base for RAAM's existence and explains his height. I have a theory explaining RAAM as well, but I suppose that is for another thread.

Explain RAAM! I really enjoyed the read and its one of the best explanations of locust so far and I wouldn't be surprised if it were true! Good job

[SeranSpartan]

Explain RAAM! I really enjoyed the read and its one of the best explanations of locust so far and I wouldn't be surprised if it were true! Good job

Thank you! I'm glad you like it.

It's pretty speculative and I think it's big enough to warrant its own thread, so I might tweak it and make another thread on it to keep it independent from this one as they are two separate.

Edit: I made a new thread. Go here to read my theory on RAAM.

http://forums.epicgames.com/threads/...-came-to-be%29

[Barrick]

Great read, very well done!

[Addysdaddy]

Read it all!! Best explanation I have I have seen

[Leather Lumberjack]

Dude! That was great! Speculative or not it was fun to read. An interesting take on the origins of the Locust. You should add in how you think RAAM is so different from the rest of the drones this actually sounds reasonably plausible. I noticed a few bits were off but they were very minor and by no means took away from the integrity of the...theory I guess lol RAAM is one of my favorite characters, and since I'm not extremely creative and I liked this story, you should throw his story in there. Purely for my benefit lol

Edit: so like 5 minutes after posting that, I read through some other posts, and you totally explained RAAM already lol awesome. Gonna go read that now!

[Mantis Tobagadin]

... Great read, have you sent this to any of the DEVS yet? maybe they can impliment it somewhere, the story makes sense but of course it would need to come from Epic for everyone to believe it, personally to me its great though, Kudos

[SeranSpartan]

... Great read, have you sent this to any of the DEVS yet? maybe they can impliment it somewhere, the story makes sense but of course it would need to come from Epic for everyone to believe it, personally to me its great though, Kudos

Thanks for the kind words! That is an interesting idea... I didn't really consider sending this to the devs but I thought it would have been stellar for a mod like Flak to read it. My main intent was to write it down, share it, and get some feedback which has been pretty amazing so far.

Personally, I don't think Epic would ever endorse any theory no matter how much sense it makes. They purposely left it all open to interpretation and discussion. We are doing exactly what they intended with this! For them to openly come out and confirm anything would instantly discredit everything else; which I doubt they would do.

We can only read, examine, and speculate for ourselves what can possibly explain everything we've seen so far while doing the Locust justice at the same time. I'd like to think that I've succeeded in doing that, being the Locust enthusiast that I am.

In any case, thanks for reading and replying!

[FeRRATE II]

Drones restore their numbers through both cloning AND coordinated Berserker rape

LMFAO new sig. awesome stuff man you have good writing style/technique.

[King Crimson]

Very well written and thought out. Makes sense.

[WaRgAzM999]

A very convincing thread. Read the whole thing and seems VERY thought out. I would believe this if it were not speculation in parts. 10/10

[Shaggury]

Man i read it all and i think it all fits perfectly

Great work !

[TAO Devil]

that was a great read!

Although, i do have to point out that the New hope facility was created to study immulsion mutations of the miners and that an Epic Dev already leaked to us that Myrrah is a human immune to Immulsion, not a hybrid.

[Masterphailure]

I particularly enjoyed this read, made me feel like Sera was a planet destined to endure war over and over. Although the Myrrah story seemed a bit off, everything else seemed plausible. Good work using your imagination, maybe EPIC will use some of your theories to create a real back story!

[Esparza]

it all macks chence know. thanks for riteing this i didnt now anything about the locust at all

[NFI]

that was a great read!

Although, i do have to point out that the New hope facility was created to study immulsion mutations of the miners and that an Epic Dev already leaked to us that Myrrah is a human immune to Immulsion, not a hybrid.

Where did Epic say this about the Queen, Tao? I never heard that.

[Crain]

This theory is sweet, and it makes a lot of sense of why the locust went savage after the Hollows flooding, I do think that the Kantus and Drones would be related species though. The Drone classes does make sense but it doesn't really explain certain locust like the Sniper(goggles) or the hunters, who seem smarter than the average drone, would those just be specialized locust with more training or education?

[TAO Devil]

Where did Epic say this about the Queen, Tao? I never heard that.

A dev posted it on the forums, but his post was removed several days later.

Is it true? No idea. Makes sense though