The Dead Universe is a mysterious and malevolent realm that exists beyond the plane of "normal" space. Those who enter are said to become dead in both body and mind, and are forced into the service of a vast, dark intelligence. This all-controlling evil presence is known only as "The Darkness"; even its minions understand little about it except that it is wholly devoted to the obliteration of all life. These goals have been directed by the space-lost crew of the original Ark in service of the grand plan of the Expansion. Those exposed to the baleful energies of the Dead Universe cannot survive long outside of it, necessitating the Ark crew's reliance upon Galvatron, who for unknown reasons can travel beyond indefinitely.