Part 2/11:
Little is known about the early history of the Combine, but it is widely speculated that they began as a singular species that evolved on their home world. As they advanced technologically, they mastered the manipulation of dark energy, leading them down a path toward imperial aspirations. With their thirst for conquest, they likely experimented on the lesser life forms around them, transforming them into tools for war to achieve their ultimate goal: the domination of all sentient life across various dimensions.