Plaga are parasitic demons belonging to the Lowborne family within the Insecta Order. As parasites, their eggs are laid in the bodies of other creatures, though fossil records have shown that spore-like particles were once used.
Biology
The pupae has an outer shell consisting of an elastic, inner layer and one right, outer layer. When shedding, the pupa releases unique hormones that encourage molting.
As molting progresses, the inner layer breaks down. The pupa absorbs the layer’s nutrients for later nourishment. When the new exoskeleton is about ready, the pupa takes in air. The pressure enlarges its body and destroys the old exoskeleton. As the pupa increases in size, so does the pain experienced by the host during these instars.
The host’s body’s efficiency in breaking down the discarded exoskeleton is reflected in its time as a carrier. Prolonged host bodies, adapted and primed for parabiosis, break down the discarded chitin easily. This allows the body to recover nutrients and create new foreign tissue to ease growth. Newer host bodies rely on the pupa to consume its own discarded chitin.
A pupa typically undergoes 3 to 4 instars in its adolescent life before undergoing a final molt into adulthood. It’s not until the first instar that the pupa becomes more active and begins migration to the nutrient-rich gut, settling between the spine and kidney. This location is crucial as it allows the pupa to feed and manipulate the host through its spinal column.
Upon the final molt, the pupa expands upwards, preferring its final attachment spot to be snug within the thoracic spinal region. It is there that it can exert control through nerves, hormones, or mental suggestion.
Depending on caste, the pupa devours its host’s internal organs replacing the internal structures with itself. These newly created cavities house additional limbs.
Nictating Membrane
Like other vestigial parts, the nictating membrane is restored to it’s original purpose and strengthened. When a threat is detected, colony members will display their membrane in anticipation of a skirmish. Additionally, it is used to protect the host’s eyes from minor UV rays.
Time and scar tissue buildup has been seen to increase the opacity of the nictating membrane. Newer additions to the colony can be identified by their film-like translucent membrane that offers little protection.
More sentient individuals may not utilize their membrane. It’s theorized this may be a visual indicator that they consider themself of an upper caste or are more focused in blending into human spaces.
Partial Host Development
In normal development, the pupa undergoes a final molt where it will have fully parasitized its host. Should a very particular set of sequences occur, the usual lifecycle of the Plaga can deviate resulting in unique metamorphoses.
Behavior and ecology
Communication
Plaga communicate primarily via chemicals, aura, and acoustic signals to convey important information, including status, between adults.[x]
Immature larvae and pupae are mute, unable to create sound without hardened mandibles. They are still receptive to the hive’s communications. This allows the developing brood to learn the complex language of the hive and immediately communicate upon reaching adulthood.
The regent and soldier castes grant the plaga additional means of communication allowing them to project their voice, thought, and sight through the hive.
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