Diary Entry 1

Another day, another round of combat simulations. The Phoenix's training suite has become my second home. Today's program focused on close-quarters engagement, replicating the cramped corridors of a derelict freighter – the sort we might encounter out on the Rim. My pulse rate spiked early, as always. Even the simulated threat of those… things... brought back flashes. The simulation used the old "infected human" model. It’s still chillingly effective. My groupings got tighter, my reaction times were faster – a marked improvement from last week. I managed a 74% success rate, which is the best I’ve hit yet, but it’s still not good enough. I need to drop that reaction time even more. Later, I ran some simulations with varying types of weapons – pulse rifles, railguns, even the archaic slugthrower. The variety is useful, but the need to be proficient with all of them feels like a losing battle. I need to focus.

Diary Entry 2

The black market net chatter was particularly lively tonight. I spent hours sifting through the encrypted channels, a digital back alley of weapons dealers and information brokers. My goal was the same: find an edge, a way to be better, faster. I saw plenty of pulse weaponry modified for higher firing rates, but the stability was all over the place, like trying to hit a target with a wet noodle. Some of the railguns being offered had significantly increased power output, but at the cost of a massive drain on the power cell – and the recharge time was abysmal. One dealer was pushing something called the “Wraith Carbine.” It boasted a high rate of fire and decent accuracy. The intel claimed it was used by some of the more unscrupulous corporate security teams with less-than-stellar reputations, known for their brutal efficiency rather than their moral compass. I bookmarked it. Probably too good to be true, though.

More concerning were the whispers about a new strain of the infection cropping up in the outer colonies. It was classified as “variant Omega” and supposedly displayed increased aggression and transmissibility. This set my teeth on edge. I’ve marked it in the Phoenix’s memory banks. Another reason why I can’t be slow, can’t hesitate. I tried to get specifics, offered some rare mineral samples from a recent mining expedition, but the information broker went cold on me after that. It seems like some things they aren’t willing to give up or be paid for. I got the distinct impression that some information is more valuable than any material.

Diary Entry 3

I spent a good portion of my morning looking into exoskeletons. I know it sounds drastic, but at this point, I'm not ruling anything out. I sifted through technical specifications and maintenance manuals of several different models. The 'Crusher' line was built for heavy work in asteroid fields; slow, and clunky, not what was needed for the kind of quick response I need to be when moving through tight spaces. The 'Viper' models were more agile, but their armour plating was minimal. The 'Predator MK II' seemed like a good balance, offering enhanced strength and speed as well as a decent layer of shielding. The issue with all of them, obviously, is weight and bulk. The Phoenix wasn’t exactly built to house heavy, bulky things. I'd need to modify the interior of the ship. The money is also a factor, of course. Black market tech wasn't exactly low-cost. I'd need to sell a lot of those mineral samples I mentioned before in this case. The investment was definitely considerable, but the potential increase in combat effectiveness was tempting. It was a lot to consider. I decided to put that thought process on hold. For now, I'll focus on the training. If I can keep improving my times, maybe I won't have to rely on those crutches.

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Diary Entry 4

This night, I went back through the black market intel, this time trying to trade some intel on not just any infected hotspot, but the source. I found channels and sent out data packets with coordinates and recorded encounters, hoping to get something in return. A few offered low-level info, all of which I already knew. One channel, however, seemed more promising. They offered me a heavily modified version of the Wraith Carbine, equipped with a targeting module and a custom ammunition type. They wanted specific data and I obliged. I hated those bastards who didn't contain this thing. I should have ordered my frigates to blow that place sky high back then.

Diary Entry 5

Got the Wraith Carbine today. It's a beautiful piece of tech, sleek and dark with that unsettling hum I've heard whispers of. They say it chews through armor like it’s made of paper. While efficient, it just doesn't have the same visceral thrill as a good close-quarters fight with my ship. Those are where your skills truly get tested, the dance of thrust and fire. This weapon, though, is more of a safeguard, a "just-in-case" for when things turn truly ugly. Phoenix is humming along nicely, still hauling ore from the Kaelos mines. Glad I got back into that. Mule and Hydra are doing their part as well, the reliable workhorses they are. And old Tanker, that cranky fuel-guzzler of a vessel, keeps all our tanks topped off. Wouldn’t be anywhere without her.

Diary Entry 6

The new exoskeletons arrived. Went with the Predator MkIIs, like I planned. That was a painful dent to the savings, but it felt like the right choice. I spent the better part of the day running tests; the thing is a marvel. The strength and speed boost is significant, but the maneuverability feels organic, not like some clunky tin-can. I've been thinking more about possible personnel drops. It feels increasingly important to be able to quickly respond in person, not just with ships, now. The Predator seems like that perfect balance between power and agility. I hope they live up to what they promise. The infection…seems to be under control, at last. A few stragglers here and there, but nothing like the chaotic mess it was. Time to get back to trading routes and mining ops. The stars call, and credits need to be made.