- 5 Hives - Factions and Patrons in Necromunda setting / Xenos Influence

08 Dec, 2024

Xenos Influences

Xenos influence in Necromunda is a subtle but insidious force. While the Imperium strictly forbids any contact or dealings with aliens, the underhive’s desperate and opportunistic inhabitants often exploit xenos technology, resources, or alliances.

Key Xenos Factions and Influences

Genestealer Cults

• Description: Secretive organizations worshipping the Hive Mind, infiltrating human society to pave the way for Tyranid invasions. They appear as loyal citizens until their rebellion begins.
• Reputation: Masters of subterfuge, Genestealer Cults thrive in the shadows, spreading influence through insidious means.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • The Hidden Hive
    • Disappearances in the hive point to a cult. The gang is hired to investigate, uncovering more than they bargained for.
  • Web of Deceit
    • A trusted ally begins acting strangely. The gang must uncover if they've been compromised by xenos influence.

Eldar Outcasts

• Description: Rogue Eldar or exiled members of Craftworlds, seeking ancient artifacts or hidden knowledge in the hive. They rarely trust humans but may manipulate them for their goals.
• Reputation: Mysterious and aloof, Eldar are both feared and envied for their advanced technology and psychic abilities.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Shadows of the Past
    • Eldar artifacts cause temporal anomalies. The gang is approached by an Eldar seeking to prevent a catastrophe.
  • The Silent Alliance
    • An Eldar ranger offers assistance against a mutual foe but requires a dangerous favor in return.

Drukhari Raiders

• Description: Sadistic Dark Eldar slavers and warriors who occasionally venture into the hive for slaves or sport. Their raids are brutal and often leave lasting scars on the survivors.
• Reputation: Terrifying and unpredictable, Drukhari are seen as nightmares brought to life.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Soul Harvest
    • The Drukhari plan a major raid to capture slaves. The gang must defend their community or risk enslavement.
  • Dark Bargain
    • The Drukhari offer the gang advanced weapons in exchange for aiding their raid, testing their morals.

Kroot Mercenaries

• Description: Alien mercenaries seeking genetic material to evolve their species. Kroot may ally with humans for a time but always pursue their own mysterious goals.
• Reputation: Pragmatic and deadly, Kroot are both respected and distrusted for their alien nature.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Predator's Pact
    • Kroot hunters seek a deadly beast in the hive. The gang can assist for a share of the reward.
  • Genetic Quest
    • The Kroot desire genetic material from specific targets. The gang must capture or eliminate these individuals.

T’au Agents

• Description: Spies or operatives of the T’au Empire working to spread the Greater Good through propaganda or covert alliances. Their presence is subtle but dangerous.
• Reputation: Seen as insidious manipulators, the T’au rarely reveal their hand directly.
• Narrative Hooks:
  • Whispers of the Greater Good
    • The gang is approached to spread T'au ideology subtly. Accepting could bring benefits but also accusations of heresy.
  • Sabotage Strike
    • T'au agents plan to cripple Imperial defenses. The gang must choose to aid them or alert authorities.