Editing Scourge (section)

===Possession===
Scourge larvae have the ability to integrate themselves with the nervous systems of other creatures, taking control of the victims body in the process. It is reported to take up to several months for full integration with a human host, an experience that is understood to be incredibly painful for the victim. It is believed that Scourge hosts retain full awareness whilst possessed, leading to a long life of constant pain and eventual insanity.

Shortly after integration, Scourge hosts lose the ability to produce pigments, essentially becoming an albino. In addition, the host begins to sweat profusely and constantly resulting in extreme dehydration. The resulting thirst is such that many Scourge take to drinking the blood of the fallen, both friend and foe alike.

Possession of a host gives the Scourge access to all of its abilities, immunities, and memories of its victim. This knowledge allows the Scourge to utilize the technology and infrastructure of the host species for their own ends. This ability to possess, adapt, and repurpose makes the Scourge [[Tyranid|the apex predator of the galaxy.]]

The Scourge parasite can extend the lifespan of its host for several centuries although as the parasite ages its grip on its host's body begins to falter. Scourge "Aged Ones" are known to twitch and spasm erratically as the tortured consciousness of the host begins to manifest. Eventually, the Scourge dies, often before the host itself, [[grimdark|thus leaving an insane, screaming, convulsing, pain-wracked albino behind.]]