Cybernetic Speech Implant (Ultrasonic)
Sarna News
Contents
Overview
A Cybernetic Speech Implant was a special type of cybernetic implant used by various covert agencies. The ultrasonic model of speech implant could change the agent's voice to a pitch outside normal hearing ranges and engage in "silent speech." Particularly adept agents were even able to speak with their mouths closes in a type of ventriloquism. Only another agent with a properly-tuned signal pickup ear or modified communicator could hear this speech.[1]
Only members of the intelligence agencies of the Great Houses had access to these speech implants, and attempting to acquire them on the black market was extremely difficult. Even if the surgery necessary to implant the device was successful there was a chance the agent's body would reject the implant, which would require a second more dangerous surgical procedure, or a chance of permanent disability or madness. Due to the metabolic demands of the implant the agent also suffered from chronic headaches which required constant medication every six hours (and resulted in many becoming addicted to the painkillers). Treatment and recovery time for wounds sustained to the implanted area was also more difficult.[1]
Among the Manei Domini this upgrade was available to all agents, although despite their superior technological base even they were limited to installing only one per agent.[2]
Notes
In RPG play Ultrasonic speech implants have the equipment rating D/B/D and cost 200,000. Only agents with a signal pickup implant or a modified communicator (10% cost increase) can pick up the ultrasonic speech. Standard communicators can be modified to pick up the speech after being physically reconfigured, requiring a TN 15 Tech/Comms test.[1] Speech implants have no effect in CBT play.[2]