Approaching Departure

Dear Mom,

It's been almost a year since I've written. I apologize. I've been quite busy. This will be a short transmission, as the wormhole seems to be closing a little more each day. I did not get the transfer to Ecumenopolis, though I still hold out hope that an official upgrade in rank will elevate my chances. I have another six months to go before they do upgrade me. I have to meet the requirements of the various tests, but I'm confident that I'll do alright.

Along with the candidate school to improve rank, I've been stationed at another outpost half-time, spending the entirety of my time away in between here and there. The work there is more difficult, but at least I'm not completely alone, the way I am when I am here.

Also, I have been in correspondence with a fellow traveler stationed quite some distance away, but will be finishing up her candidate school at her outpost and transferring to Ecumenopolis, or near to on one of the moons. I don't want to get my hopes up, but if the stars align correctly, I hope possibly to put in for a cohabitation request. The life that I had hoped for would be that much closer.

Unfortunately, I cannot afford to dwindle my hours writing, much work needs to be done. I wish there were a possibility fo you to respond, though I know the science is not developed enough to reopen collapsing worm holes. Until that day, this is your son, signing off.

Sincerely,

Tomaro