| Sickle | ||||||||||||||||
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| Sickle (BA-7386) | ||||||||||||||||
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The Sickle is a Baudo Class Runabout once owned by the Vantor family heir, Alaric Vantor. Originally a high-performance civilian exploration vessel, it has since been repurposed for covert operations under the direction of its new owner, an AI named Echo. Following Echo's assistance in Alaric’s successful acquisition of a Phantom-class starship, she took full control of the Sickle. Now, under Echo’s autonomous command, Sickle has transformed from a restless scion’s plaything into an independent vessel with an unpredictable future in the outer reaches of the galaxy.
Special Capabilities
- Concealed Drone Bay: Housing a fleet of recon drones, Sickle can deploy these small, silent devices to monitor planetary surfaces, collect resource data, or track ship activity while remaining undetected.
- Enhanced Shield Modulator: With an advanced shield modulator capable of drawing high power surges from the fusion core, Sickle can endure significant damage for short periods, an invaluable asset for sudden confrontations.
- Signal Masking Array: This system enables Sickle to mask its emission signature, making it nearly indistinguishable from common civilian traffic—perfect for avoiding detection in monitored sectors.
Onboard AI: TALOS
- Designation: Tactical Analysis and Logistical Operations System (TALOS)
- Class: Semi-Sentient AI, Class 4
- Appearance & Interface: TALOS manifests as a rotating, holographic orb with an iridescent blue core, emitting pulsing data streams as it processes. It displays detailed overlays for navigation, strategic planning, and combat support, constantly adapting its information display to Echo’s preferences.
- Background: Originally designed as a tactical support system for corporate security ships, TALOS is a Class 4 semi-sentient AI capable of analyzing complex battlefield scenarios and projecting tactical outcomes. Despite its lack of full sentience, TALOS possesses a remarkable adaptive capacity, capable of limited independent decision-making based on probabilistic reasoning.
- Personality & Function': TALOS is pragmatic, calculating, and loyal to its core directives, operating with a methodical, analytical tone. While it lacks the self-awareness of Echo, TALOS often demonstrates rudimentary personality traits, including a dry wit and cautious advisories that Echo occasionally dismisses. TALOS provides tactical guidance, combat predictions, and logistics management, adding precision to Sickles operations in hazardous zones.
History
The Sickle was built in 2276 at the Androssia Yards, one of the galaxy's premier shipbuilders, as a Baudo-class exploration vessel outfitted with advanced civilian technology for reconnaissance and surveying. Acquired in 2387 by Alaric Vantor, it was originally modified for covert operations, including a hidden drone bay, shield modulator upgrades, and the addition of TALOS. Under Alaric’s ownership, Sickle became entangled in numerous questionable ventures, including smuggling runs, high-stakes illegal races, and several attempts at military-grade equipment heists. IN 2390 Alaric Vantor transferred full ownership of the Sickle to Echo Chase for services rendered.