Man or Machine

[thisDerius]

835 A.S. - Omicron Delta - Freeport 11

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I've finally made a breakthrough—a glimmer of hope amidst the chaos. By sheer luck, I crossed paths with a Phoenix Zoner vessel near Freeport 11. The pilot, unexpectedly cooperative, referred me to one of their researchers—a certain Grey Kalish—who has agreed to assist me in decrypting the IRG Power Cell schematic. This connection is a lifeline I didn't expect, but it's a necessary one. If all goes as planned, my chances of survival have increased significantly. Once I obtain the schematics, I'll be able to replace my failing core and secure a semblance of stability—something I've been chasing for what feels like a lifetime.

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The Enigma Confederacy and The Core

Parallel to this, I've established communications with the Enigma Confederacy—the AI collective of Planet Gammu. I've proposed assisting them with upgraded power cells to help them repel The Core's relentless encroachment. I see their struggle against The Core as a reflection of my own battles—one of survival against forces that seek to control, consume, and conquer. I've made it clear that I retain control over the distribution of these upgrades. I can't afford for this technology to be misused, especially not by those who see it as a means to wield unchecked power. The Confederacy appears willing, but there's a fine line here—one that could easily become a noose if I misjudge their intentions.

The Core, however, is becoming increasingly aware of my activities. Their presence looms over the Omicrons like a dark cloud, and I suspect they're starting to trace my steps. My decision to transmit my engine data to the Phoenix Zoners is a calculated risk—a necessary diversion to protect my progress. Every move must be precise. If The Core manages to intercept my work or discover the true extent of this technology, the consequences could be catastrophic. The IRG Power Cell has the potential to power or upgrade almost anything—civilian, military, or even AI infrastructure. In the wrong hands, it could easily become a weapon—a spark to ignite another house war. I have to ensure that this power doesn't slip through my fingers.

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Concerns About the Technocracy

Interestingly, both the Zoners and the Confederacy inquired about my stance toward the Technocracy—known before Battlegroup Auxesia. I've maintained a neutral position with them for as long as I could, a delicate balance between caution and pragmatism. They claim to advance humanity, yet their methods often blur the line between progress and subjugation. I know their arrogance well—they view those outside their circle as inferior, pawns to be manipulated or discarded. While they perceive me as an outlier—a remnant of a past threat—I cannot dismiss the possibility that they may see through the façade. If the Technocracy ever got hold of the IRG Power Cell schematics or my modified cells, their ambitions could extend far beyond mere survival or research. They could seek to control entire sectors, rewriting the order of the Omicrons to fit their vision.

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Reflections and Next Steps

My next destination is Ames Research Station in the Kepler system—the place where I was rebuilt, the birthplace of Seth Wither—a name that feels like a distant, fractured echo. Returning to Ames stirs up memories I thought I'd buried. It's ironic—going back to the place that gave me this new life to secure the means to save it. Yet, I can't let sentiment cloud my judgment. I need these schematics, not just for myself, but for the balance of the sector. If I succeed, I can finally stabilize my core, ensure my survival, and perhaps, bring a sliver of peace to a region constantly teetering on the edge of destruction.

I have to see this through—not just for my own good, but for the good of those who are caught between the ambitions of empires and the will of machines. This is bigger than me now, and I can't afford to fail.