Thoracic Module

More than half of the Ardent’s total mass is concentrated in the thorax of the ship. This disc-shaped module contains many vital parts of the ship, including the habitation systems and primary reactor complex.

If every other part of the Ardent were to be destroyed, the reinforced thorax could sustain the crew indefinitely until help arrived.

“Spinneret” Local Propulsion System

Like most Alliance voidcraft, the Ardent employs bimodal travel. To cross great distances such as the gulf between star systems, she is equipped with a Manifold Collapse Drive (see below). For intrasolar manoeuvres and small spatial adjustments, she relies on the eight Spinneret-class engines mounted to the back of the thoracic module.

Spinnerets were originally a Vari design, having been intended for high-density freighter craft. It is a testament, if one were needed, to the size and complexity of the Ardent that she needs so many Spinnerets to move through local space. It is also a tribute to the ship’s stability, and its inertial dampening systems, that it does not shake itself apart as it does so.

Agricultural Biome

Much of the free space of the thoracic module is dedicated to agriculture. These are the larder and the lungs of the Ardent; fields, hydroponic gardens and terraces are laid out carefully by gardening drones to maximise the yield of edible plants, medicinal compounds, and atmospheric gasses.

This “green space” is also an onboard leisure area, where the Ardent’s crew gather under distant starlight and close fluorescence to explore simulated vistas. No matter how far the Ardent flies, there is always a familiar horizon aboard, and the feel of real flora underfoot.

Crew Quarters

The Ardent’s living quarters consist of two habitation cylinders, which are themselves made up of modular cabins, or “pods”. Every member of the crew has their own pod, which is equipped to support all vital functions. The rotundas connecting the pods are communal areas with facilities for entertainment, group dining, and other activities.

Automated cleaning and provision systems keep the pods fully functional and well-stocked at all times. The system is responsive to crew needs and requests: for example, via A-COM request, pods may be combined to allow partners or working groups to cohabitate.