Penumbra was a shieldship, albeit one that had been altered; it belonged to Neen Niuv, a Sullustan crime boss. This vessel, the shieldship, was utilized to transport both invitees and prisoners to Niuv's clandestine headquarters, which was situated within an abandoned mining complex located in Hutt Space. It boasted opulent suites for guests and also contained a complement of eight I-7 Howlrunners for defense. Because he was so distrustful, Niuv frequently took on the guise of the ship's captain and personally piloted it, as he lacked faith in the crew. Furthermore, he secretly equipped it with a hyperdrive, accessible only through security codes known solely to him.