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''First Broadcast on August 24th, 2493''<br>
''ONN OPINION/The Perfect Storm™ is a Production of Orbital Content Programming and House Storm.''

[Much like in the most anticipated ads from the ShadowNET, ethereal music starts playing in the darkness.]

"Gone but not forgotten, his style was unique, caustic, and brutal."

[The music continues playing, images of different glamorous sky cities, stations, and Luna Colony appear on multiple screens, slowly zooming out.]

"Chased and judged for his beliefs, he continued to preach the truth to anyone who would listen."

[The music starts to slowly build up, as images now show smiling faces of humans, cyborgs, synths, designer mutants, and replicants.]

"Shot four times, survived four times. Compromised once, and the Sol System feared that was the last of him."

[The music now works itself into a crescendo, thousands of lights appearing in the darkness, the images of cities and people start to flicker, and they disappear shortly afterward.]

"He's risen."

[Hundreds of thousands of credits worth of pyrotechnics go off, revealing a large stage, set in a 360° configuration. Neon lights illuminate the area, as another round of pyrotechnics goes off, and the cameras show a roaring audience, you'd think the most electrifying man in sports entertainment today had time traveled to the 25th century, but not quite. The show's theme song plays.

"LIVE from the Pallas Lunar Stadium in FABULOUS Luna Colony, the first edition of The Perfect Storm™! A star-studded show like you've never seen before! Ladies and Gentlemen, give it up for the man, the myth, the legend, the president, founder, and active member of the Twenty-inch Flaccid Club... BLADE STORM!"

[The lights now reveal a generously sized big band orchestra playing the theme of the show, lasers and lights point to the ceiling as the man himself descends as if he were the third coming personified. He wasn't overly tall, in fact, he was slightly taller than average, but he was also robust. As soon as his feet touched the floor, a grin appeared on his face, and he was ready for action]

"Well hello there folks, it's been a while!" 

[The man is received by a round of applause by the excited crowd.]

"And I told you, I told you I wasn't gonna be alone. Here with me tonight, my friend, and yours too... The man himself, Frankie Blue Eyes!"

[The man at the front of the band turns around and smiles at the cameras, he does have distinctive blue eyes, and he's wearing a classy yet conservative suit, the crowd cheers. The cameras go back to Blade, who's wearing a black suit with red holo details. The man looks middle-aged, with a receding hairline, but with a confident smirk on his face.]

"And lemme tell you, folks, we're just a few minutes in and we've already broken the record of the most watched show in 2493! But enough about you, let's talk about me... We have a few guests that some of you may be familiar with... First, we have the highly intelligent, and lowkey charmingly intimidating CEO of Advanced Research and Experimental Systems, Radu Basarab!"

[The crowd applauds after they hear the name, Blade grins again]

"Oh, you think that's something, don't you? As you know, Mr. Basarab does not show up at public events that easily, and what's more, our second guest is going to blow your mind. He's tall, he's blonde, he's hung like a horse, and he believes that controversy creates cash, the one and only CEO Of Armitech, Adelheid Stromm!"

[The crowd applauds again, Blade seems to study the audience]

"Folks, I've been accused of many things, especially of liking sexy, luscious ladies... But that's not true at all, I like sexy, luscious, smart ladies, and who's smarter than the CEO of Network Systems Incorporated? For the first time, and on her very first public appearance, Miss Emily Langdon!"

[The crowd applauds as Blade winks]

"Time for our first commercial break folks, but stick around!"

[The show cuts to a commercial break, sponsored by Orbital Content Programming, and ARES.]
[The show comes back from break, showing Blade still in the center of the stage. Several charts showing different numbers.]

"Folks, to the surprise of no one, crime is on the rise almost everywhere. And not everyone can afford corporate security. So-called freelance mercs will rather take your credits than keep you safe, some of them even rather harvest your organs to make a quick buck. So what are you to do?"

[Blade manipulates the images appearing around him as if he were a mage.]

"Working for a reliable corporation can save your life, you can get access to services such as the ones the good people from Trauma Team can offer you. You can also get armored transportation to ensure that you make it to your destination in one piece. But when no one can protect you, why not enhance yourself? Why not ensure that you're the one dealing the damage for a change and scare those scummy fucks into submission? My first guest of the night has those answers and more, please give it up for Mr. Radu Basarab, CEO of Advanced Research and Experimental Systems!"

[The crowd applauds as the big band plays the guest into the stage. Both men shake hands as a living room set emerges from the floor, The images and charts around Blade disappear, and both men sit at the set.]

"A pleasure and an honor to have you on the show, Mr. Basarab"

"The pleasure is all mine, Blade, congratulations on your first show, and may you have many happy returns"

[The crowd applauds at the civility of the men]

"So allow me to cut right to the chase. Mr. Basarab, you have released an interesting ad campaign centered around the Olympus line of implants, they all look elegant and classy, but they can also dish out damage like no one's business, you have advertised them as Nanotech, and you are also advertising free modding on each piece of this line, tell us please, how can our viewers benefit from this fantastic line?" 

[Basarab smiles, as now images of the Olympus line appear around both men.]
"Well Blade, we know that the vast majority of augmented individuals have outdated software and add-ons and those are not compatible with the newer products, we at ARES feel like it's time we help out, and we have designed this line to be retro-compatible with older software, but we also made it completely free to mod, those among us who are tinkerers will definitely see this as a welcome feature for sure"

[The crowd applauds both men, and Blade smiles.]

"Outstanding, it really is. And I can only hope that our viewers get to see the rest of the Olympus line and all it has to offer real soon. I've got a question for you, a burning, hardcore one, the one that might not be sexy and kinky... ARES and Mars, from your perspective, what happened there?"

[The crowd 'oohs' at the question, Basarab simply smiles, shrugging.]

"As you know, we lost my predecessor to that unfortunate affair, we simply felt it was time to move on and leave an asset that was burning a hole in our pocket and instead make some money on our way out, I'd say that has worked to our benefit, profiting from new military products while at the same time leaving Mars to those who feel strongly about the planet. I believe my predecessor would have approved of what we did, and how we did it."

"I believe you are right, Mr. Basarab. This is for you, Adam Caine, rest in power, King."

[The crowd applauds again as a graphic showing Adam Caine appears behind both men. Both men applaud, joining the crowd for a few seconds.]

"Folks, it's time for our next commercial break, but not before you get to hear my friend Frankie Blue Eyes sing! When we come back, more guests! This is something you don't want to miss! Take it away Frankie!"

[The crowd applauds wildly, the cameras now focus on Frankie Blue Eyes as he performs before the commercial break.]

[Once the break ends, a clip from Governor Russell plays congratulating Blade Storm for the debut show. The crowd applauds as the cameras now focus on the Blade.]

"We've been having a blast so far, but we're not done yet, folks! Controversy Creates Cash, or so a wise man once said, and to prove it our next guest will give us some answers to some burning questions, please welcome Mr. Adelheid Stromm!"

[The band plays the second guest in, he shakes hands with Blade and Basarab, he then nods to the crowd.]

"Welcome to the show, Mr. Stromm, you're looking quite dashing, if I say so myself."

[Stromm, who was wearing an all-white suit, smiles and nods.]

"Thank you Blade, and congratulations on your show!"

"Why thank you Mr. Stromm... But let's get into the nitty gritty here, shall we? First question, Earth. There's been a lot of talk about what really happened there, Omega AI, Legacy Mechs, and your company have even been accused of being anything except the saviors we know you are, in your own words, what happened there?"

[Stromm nods, listening to the question.]

"As you know, Blade, Earth is home to the remnants of the Transcendence War, which means active mechs, active AI, and very dangerous chimera. What most people either don't know, or forget is that these AIs and mechs are still active, and through protocols we don't fully understand yet, they become active and highly aggressive, and unfortunately, the already ruined Earth Site X-17 suffered the wrath of the Omega AI's. Armitech did the sensible thing, swooped in to save lives, to get them out of danger, and let the highly trained men and women of Armitech take the brunt of the attack, I'd like to think we did save lives."

"And you didn't even ask to be compensated, am I correct?"

[Stromm smiles and nods.]

"I'd hardly consider that appropriate, considering the number of lives that were at risk."

[The crowd applauds wildly, as the men smile. Blade grins.]

"Now THAT is a class act, ladies and gents!"

[The crowd applauds again, including Blade and Basarab.]

"Now, Mr. Stromm, I understand there's quite a lot of controversy when it comes to Armitech and its security contracts, and I believe you know I'm referring to Cocoon Station particularly. There are rumors of brutality on your company's side, and even the competition trying to score some victories while you're engaging in social problems, for the clarity of our viewers, can you tell us the details of Armitech's contract on space stations and sky cities?"

[Stromm nods, his eyes focused on Blade.]

"The Armitech Corporation, much like ARES and the Matsumoto Zaibatsu, is a large entity with a military branch that can be hired to protect corporate assets. From a generous residence, all the way to Capital Stations. We stick to our contracts, and sometimes our contracts come from troubled locations that require more attention. Unfortunately, Cocoon Station has suffered plenty throughout the years: From sabotage to criminal uprisings taking the lives of innocent corporate citizens. The criminal element in Cocoon Station clearly is not open for dialogue, so what we do is speak the only language these people speak: Violence. I know it's aggressive, and perhaps morally questionable, but if our actions ensure that corporate lives are saved, then I'd consider our mission a job well done."

[The crowd applauds, as Blade smiles.]

"So while I have you two gentlemen here, a question. ARES and Armitech, rivals? partners? What's going on there?"

[Both CEOs smile at the question, Basarab is the first to speak.]

"I think both, really. Obviously, we want to be the very best, and so does Armitech, but it's a respectful competition too, we have joint contracts and our working relationship has been incredible."

[Stromm speaks next.]

"I agree with the sentiment, ARES has been a tremendous rival, and also a tremendous ally."

[The crowd applauds once again, Blade appears to be pleased with himself.]
"And speaking of tremendous allies, ladies and gentlemen, please join me in a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and let's welcome the CEO of Network Systems Incorporated, Emily Langdon!"

[The band plays Emily to the stage, as the three men stand up to receive her. She's wearing a very elegant neo-militaristic dress, she seems youthful and is all smiles, shaking hands, and taking her seat.]

"Thank you so very much for joining us tonight, and might I say, Miss Langdon, you are looking stunning!"

[The crowd applauds as Emily smiles.]

"Thank you Blade, you look great yourself, have you lost weight?"

[The crowd laughs, Blade chuckles, looking at the camera.]

"Well folks, my self-esteem has skyrocketed just like that!"

[He turns to his guests as he continues to ask questions.]

"Miss Langdon, NSI's services have come into question. Some claim to have never heard of it until they took over the ShadowNET, some even claim that NSI is not even a real corporation, what can you tell us about that?"

"Well Blade, we get asked that question a lot. We are a different kind of corporation, we work with the service providers, and we keep an eye on the ShadowNET, and we also work in tandem with ARES, Armitech, and Matsumoto to offer complete protection against malicious software, corrupted data, and rogue AI's. The fact that people don't see us advertised is a good thing, it means everything is under control and the NET is safe to use."

[The crowd applauds at the answer, and Blade smiles.]

"We also have a lot of people coming out of the woodwork calling themselves super hackers, claiming they can do all kinds of things the NSI can't do, what do you have to say about that?"

[This time it was Emily smiling.]

"Well Blade, let me answer with a metaphor. You know when you're walking down the street and you see kids playing Corposec and Cyberpsychos, and then they 'shoot' you, and you act as if you got hit? That's what we do with these so-called super hackers."
"Ouch, that's a serious burn."

[The crowd laughs, and Emily continues to smile.]

"And it's also the truth, we are flexible and we sometimes let these hackers go to places they think we don't have eyes on, but I assure you, your guests, and your audience that while keeping the NET safe from malicious attacks is a full-time job, it's our pleasure to provide a digital space where everyone can express their opinions, no matter what they are, and no matter if we agree or disagree with them. But rest assured, we're watching your every move, for your own security".

[The crowd applauds wildly, they are joined by the three men on stage.]

"Very well said, Miss Langdon. How has been your experience working with CEOs of the caliber of Adelheid Stromm and Radu Basarab?"

"Just incredible, I'm experienced in my field, but every time we're working on something together, I feel like I can learn so much more from them."

"So, between you, me, the audience, and the billions watching in the Sol System… Of the three of us, who's the best looking?"

[The crowd 'oohs' again, as the three guests smile, Emily seems nervous as both Stromm and Basarab seem to be saying something with smiles on their faces.]

"I think, Blade, the three of you are part of the Twenty-inch Flaccid Club."

[General laughter and wild applause are heard after the answer, they all seem to be having a good time.]

"Folks, the time for the final segment of the show is upon us, we're gonna cut to our final commercial break, but not before hearing the incredible singing voice of my good friend Frankie Blue Eyes. I want to thank Radu Basarab, Adelheid Stromm, and Emily Langdon for their time! Frankie, take it away!"

[The camera shows Blade shaking hands with the three CEOs, as Frankie gets ready for his final performance of the night, before the final commercial break.]

[The show comes back from a commercial break, and a video package featuring Kei Matsumoto, CEO of Matsumoto Zaibatsu, is shown congratulating Blade on the show. Blade is now in the center of the stage.]

"Before we get to anything else, folks, there's something I'd like to point out... Cocoon Station, we all know it, we all have seen it, some of us have even been there. Sure, it's not the safest place to be, it's not the most glamorous, and they could do something with the smell, but for thousands of people, Cocoon Station is home, and it's also where their jobs, lives, and families are."

[Images are produced around Blade, showing the different streets and sectors of Cocoon Station, including its people.]

"As you know, folks, the Armitech Corporation has the security contract to Cocoon Station, and they have done a fine job. But because of the nigh-unstoppable rise in crime, Armitech had to adopt more strict measures, all in the name of your security and mine. The uniformed men and women of Armitech are risking their lives day in and day out for your protection, and if you allow me, I'd like to salute some of the men behind your security in Cocoon Station."

[The images shift from stills of Cocoon Station to different people, more appearing as Blade goes through the names.]

"Sergeant Tanaka, Sergeant Bruno, Sergeant Bladnum, Agent Nova7, Zetta Schneider, Agent Su, Agent Yui, Agent Tharael Narys. And of course, the man who coordinates all these brave men and women, Commander Jurgen Strahse. Ladies and gentlemen, I ask of you to join me in a round of applause as we pay tribute to these men and women in uniform, upholding Corporate Law and saving lives every single day!"

[The camera shows the audience standing up and applauding, Blade has a very sober expression as he leads the tribute.]

"Thank you, Armitech, for protecting us, and keeping the criminal fucker off our homes, our jobs, and our streets! Keep up the good fight!"
[As the applause dies down, Blade smiles and thanks the audience, the stills of the Armitech members fade around Blade.]

"Folks, it has been a tremendous show, but now it's time for The Storm Has Spoken, a segment of the show where I will tell it how it is. You may not like it, you may not agree with it, but that won't make it any less true."

[Several charts appear around him.]

"FACT: Over 95% of the Space Colonies and Sky Cities in the system have a serious crime problem. Mega LA alone registered over 450,000 emergency calls to corporate security in one week. Think about it folks, almost half a million incidents in one week, in just one Sky City. We're past trying to speak to these fuckers, we're past trying to reform them too. These animals will not change, they will vandalize and loot everything they get their hands on, and you KNOW I'm right. Look at past events in Cocoon Station, every time a building is on fire, or a tower collapses, what happens next? Looters, do they make any distinction? Of course not. Why? Fuck you, that's why. So what's the solution you ask? Iron Fist, fist these people right up their asses until they get the message: We won't be taking any of your shit anymore. You like that? Great, you might have a chance to survive. Don't like that? Well of course you don't, you criminal scum, you're about to get yours."

[The crowd applauds, as Blade continues, this time with new graphics and charts.]

"FACT: Of the people that were on X-17 when shit hit the fan... Again, Armitech managed to help 82% of those people to evacuate. That means ships that evacuated scavengers, explorers, and thrill seekers were facilitated by Armitech. But what happened with the other 18%, you ask? Why don't you ask the idiots who showed up late to the party and tried to play hero, when all they did was get in the way? There are hundreds of people out there, unaccounted for. Well done, morons."

"FACT: Of all the super hackers around, there's no documented breach on NSI, why? Because NSI is better than you, and if Miss Langdon is something to go by, they are also way better looking than you lot. You have to ask yourselves if 'breaching' into something through the NET is really you accomplishing anything with your life, or if it's the NSI operator laughing his ass off at your delusions. NSI has been doing a great job since they took over, and like it or not, they have kept the NET safe for you and me. Truth hurts, doesn't it? The fact of the matter is, at the end of the day you need corporations to do what they do best, and what's that? To keep you safe, to keep your way of life, and keep you provided with the best and newest products. Without them... Well, just like at X-17, and then you do the math, big shot... The Storm Has Spoken!"

[The charts and images disappear, as finally Blade addresses the audience and looks at the camera.]

"This has been a great show, and I am honored and humbled by every single one of you! I'd like to thank you my guests from earlier, my good friend Frankie Blue Eyes, but especially you, yes you, every single one of you watching this show. Even those of you hate watching it. From the bottom of my heart, thank you very much! I wouldn't be here, with a multi-million credit a show contract, and a kickass Lunite apartment equipped with all the accouterments and personnel required to satisfy any and all of my very virile needs. I hope you can join us for the next show and... Bah, who am I kidding? Of course, you'll be here with us, not like you got anything better to do right? Goodnight everybody!"

[The pyrotechnics go off as the band plays the outro to the show, the credits roll. Blade is shown taking off and flying off the stage. Holographic confetti falls on the audience as they are still applauding wildly at the show. This has been an Orbital Content Programming and House Storm production. All Rights Reserved, 2493-2494.]