My Dearest Erxi,
I find myself torn in whether or not to tell you the truth of this place. I know how you worry. They said it would be good work, an opportunity, a way out. But people have to know, this installation... it was a mistake to come here, I should have listened to you. I miss you greatly.
Today I saw the foreman's foot get crushed by a load-lifter droid. A swarm descended upon him like carrion birds, like vultures. The buzzing sound they made when they surrounded him... Within moments, his foot was gone, replaced by gears and durasteel casing. He was given the bill, his contract extended and then they told him to return to work. They're replacing us, piece by piece, until we're just like them.
I find myself torn in whether or not to tell you the truth of this place. I know how you worry. They said it would be good work, an opportunity, a way out. But people have to know, this installation... it was a mistake to come here, I should have listened to you. I miss you greatly.
Today I saw the foreman's foot get crushed by a load-lifter droid. A swarm descended upon him like carrion birds, like vultures. The buzzing sound they made when they surrounded him... Within moments, his foot was gone, replaced by gears and durasteel casing. He was given the bill, his contract extended and then they told him to return to work. They're replacing us, piece by piece, until we're just like them.
The noise never ends. The fires never cease their endless blaze. The forge never tires.
Despite everything, there are a few good men here. I am glad not to be alone. We are bonded in servitude, brothers in labour, like soldiers. All we can do is lift each other up when we fall, hide our injuries, keep working. Management monitor all the comms but, a man came by today saying he could smuggle this message out on a code cylinder. Some delivery personnel who has a contact on the outside. Said he knew an Underwriter. Think he's some sort of underground journalist.
Don't risk trying to reply, just know that I'm still alive. I'm always thinking of you. They took the holo I had of you and the kids, along with the rest of our personal effects, but I'll never forget. They can't take that away. I will come back to you, whatever is left of me. My contract is up in a year. I will survive this. I love you.
Yours eternally,
Druva
[Intercepted unsanctioned communication from Tobra Peak. Perpetrator Status: Reassembled.]