General[]
The Liveware Problem is a Stream-class Superlifter, a modified Delta-class GCU, originally constructed by The Culture. After a long and distinguished service, including during the Idiran War, the ship underwent a significant transformation to increase its capabilities and chose the path of an Absconder, operating independently from The Culture.
Design[]
The Liveware Problem started its life as a relatively slim 3D delta shape, "like an elegantly pointed pyramid".
It was later transformed into a Superlifter, with a more block-like structure, square-sectioned, and slab-sided. The transformation made it powerful and fast, vital for its primary role as a tug for smaller spacecraft.
It used biological avatoids rather than purely-artificial avatars, both to interact with humans and to act as independent agents that can blend in among other civilizations.
Service history[]
The Liveware Problem served the Culture faithfully for 3,500 years, seeing action in the Idiran War, and then serving as a tug. It then entered a prolonged period of retirement / independent exploration that lasted for about 800 years. It developed a special interest in the Shellworlds, and particularly in Sursamen.
Assistance to the Sarl[]
Upon learning about the distressing situation of the late Sarl king, the Liveware Problem extended its help through its avatoids.
This culminated in a violent confrontation with a Morthanveld guard ship, which had been corrupted by an Iln entity. In the ensuing battle, the Liveware Problem sacrificed itself, resulting in a vast radiation blast and destruction of both vessels.