driftfleet | regularly scheduled broadcast

[in place of the usual weekly jingle, a harmless announcement chime pings in over the network. a warm, friendly voice is here in place of the usual girl--and some of you may recognize him!]

Hel-lo, passengers! I'm legendary interplanetary commentator Beau, filling in this week for our beloved Diamond. It was about time she had a vacation. We've all had a busy couple of weeks, haven't we?

[normally, the broadcast might be accompanied by some silly sounds or the canned laughter of an audience--but it seems to be a very simple transmission this time. no gimmicks, no distorted sound.]

We're so very sorry about the recent indecent, folks. What can we say? Some people are just so into our fine little program that they want to get a piece of the action themselves--disruptive or otherwise. Atroma does not condone this kind of action against our honored passengers, and we assure you--our best people are looking into the cause of the security breach as we speak.

[--a crackle of static. did that last bit sound a little bit irritated to anyone else? ah, he's back, and he's perfectly pleasant about it.]

And frankly, I'm impressed with how well you all have pulled together. A little bit of teamwork and cooperation goes a long way, doesn't it? Speaking of which--if you've noticed a few extra credits coming your way lately, consider it compensation, from us to you, to help you get your vessels back into ship-shape.

[that's right. totally a present from Atroma and not just a ratings boost. totally.]

So, ladies and gentlemen! Please welcome your phenomenal fifteen new crewmates! Help your newest captains get settled, and give a warm round of applause for the two newest ships in the fleet--the SS Vanquish and SS Windrose!

To everyone watching from the comfort of Marsiva's hospitality deck, not to worry. You'll be getting in on the action soon.

So just sit tight, and remember... the worlds are watching.