Day 1, 2143 hours. Black Box Entry #2. Acting Commander Silverberg, Order 2nd Naval.
Pvt. Blobby reports hard contact with my former comrade Cpt. Niverio himself. G-d help him. I've requested additional resources be allocated to Blobby, but I don't know the time delay till I can send aid personally. Other comrades report to be in excellent condition. I'll take their word for it. I have ordered my flagship commit to a full broadside upon that of the Traitor's henchman, Colts.
The moon shines brightly as I stand outside, gripping the guardrail as I nurse a small glass of brandy. Even out here I can hear my men belowdecks celebrating with what ration I've allocated them. As much as I'd like to remind them we are at war, I can't help but smile at the prospect of my soldiers enjoying my command. Reports of mutinies here, incompetent command there, and petty rivalries within the chain of command abound, but my men seem to positively enjoy working for me, and we are able to routinely deliver the results required of Navymen. I would give my life for these troopers, and they for me.
But that's enough reflection. If the men don't quiet down, the enemy will eventually find us.
NOTE: My communications officer and one other captain are reporting infiltration to enemy comms, despite my constantly disparaging that as a fruitless attempt. My personal officer reports that Niverio's faction is considering a joint strike with us against "Captain Resign." Perhaps some time long after this rift between us mends, we can commandeer this joint strike. But for now, battle is battle, and this battle is that of one force against another.
There is no avoiding war; it can only be postponed to the advantage of others.
- Niccolo Machiavelli