Ep 13. Orac

Blake's 7 is a science fiction TV show originating from the 70s that still enjoys a dedicated following to this day. The show takes place in a distant future where a group of rebels, led by Roj Blake, tries to overthrow an oppressive government that rules the galaxy through fear and terror. Blake and his crew, a colorful bunch of characters from all walks of life, fly aboard Liberator, a stolen spaceship of unknown origin that possessed incredible capabilities, allowing them to match their enemies' firepower and go beyond it. Along the way, they face all sorts of thrilling adventures and dangerous foes, some human, others alien, as they try to liberate the galaxy.

The last episode of season 1, named Orac, takes its title from a curious device that the crew wants to acquire. Orac is a supercomputer of immense power and intelligence, built by one of the galaxy's greatest scientists, Ensor, who has since died, leaving the machine to his daughter, Veron. Orac's potential could be a great asset to Blake and his rebellion, but it's not going to be easy to come by. Not only is Veron fiercely protective of her father's invention, but there is also a bounty on her head, and ruthless bounty hunters are after her and Orac.

The show begins with Jenna, one of Blake's crew, in a spaceship, monitoring Veron's movements on the planet Aristo. Veron is a nervous wreck, staying in one place for too long would be disastrous, as the bounty hunters would eventually find her. Jenna is trying to come up with a plan to get Orac but is frustrated with Veron's constant reluctance to cooperate. Veron is scared for her life and thinks that Orac is cursed.

Meanwhile, back on the Liberator, Avon, a cynical and highly intelligent computer technician, has been studying Orac's technical specifications. He's convinced that Orac has tremendous potential that has yet to realize. He argues with Blake that Orac's acquisition would be the ultimate victory for them, as it would grant them unparalleled strategic advantages over the Federation, their mortal enemy, and probably win the war. Blake is more cautious, reminding Avon that Orac's powers are theoretical and that the scientists who built it died before they could verify them.

As Avon and Blake debate the pros and cons of pursuing Orac, it becomes clear that there's a third interested party that has already started their own mission to get their hands on Orac. Space Princess Vila, a notorious pirate known for her daring and ingenious heists, has discovered Veron's location and wants to cut a deal with Blake to give him the location of Orac in exchange for a hefty cut of the bounty and a safe passage out of Federation space. Vila, who is notorious for double-crossing her allies, is not the most trustworthy partner, and Blake has to navigate carefully around her demands.

As the tension mounts and the stakes get higher, the show takes us on a thrilling journey through the galaxy, packed with space battles, daring rescues, and plot twists galore. Orac is a pivotal episode in Blake's 7, and it sets the stage for the second season, introducing new characters and plot threads that will shape the show's narrative for years to come. With its engrossing storytelling, memorable characters, and cutting-edge special effects, Blake's 7 remains one of the most beloved and influential science fiction shows of all time.