Overview
Encroachment is a phenomenon in Neverness to Everness that describes the unpredictable effects experienced by ordinary people who come into close contact with or study Anomalies. The closer a person gets to an Anomaly, and the longer they spend near one, the more likely they are to experience these effects. Encroachment can impact both the body and the mind, and its consequences range from minor disturbances to permanent transformation.
How Encroachment Works
Anomalies emit an influence that affects the people and environment around them. Ordinary humans who approach, observe, or attempt to study Anomalies are exposed to this influence. Over time, prolonged exposure can trigger Encroachment, resulting in changes that are often unpredictable. The effects vary depending on the type and severity of the Anomaly, the individual's exposure duration, and their personal constitution.
Connection to Espers
Throughout history, prolonged exposure to anomalous phenomena caused some humans to develop supernatural abilities. These individuals became known as Espers. In this sense, the existence of Espers is directly connected to Encroachment: the same anomalous influence that threatens ordinary people is also the source of Esper powers. This creates a complex dynamic where the source of danger and the source of power are one and the same.
Implications for the Story
The Bureau of Anomaly Control manages Encroachment risks as part of its mandate. The Bureau monitors Espers and restricts civilian access to Anomaly sites specifically to minimize Encroachment exposure. The relationship between Anomalies, Encroachment, and the awakening of Esper abilities is central to the game's narrative and informs many of the conflicts between the Bureau, the Circle, and independent Esper organizations like Eibon Antique Shop.
Known Effects
Physical changes: Alterations to the body ranging from minor symptoms to significant transformation.
Mental effects: Psychological changes, altered perception, and in extreme cases, loss of rational thought.
Esper awakening: In rare cases, Encroachment triggers the development of supernatural abilities, creating new Espers.
Environmental contamination: Areas heavily affected by Anomalies may show persistent Encroachment effects on the local population.