Chapter 1- The Martian Month
It's not only my parents; it's also my grandparents. We've become Martians. Naturally, there are debates about whether we're still human since we're no longer Earthlings. I am human, yet distinctly Martian—a second-generation Martian. Earth is a three-month journey on outdated commuter ship navigating through an asteroid belt. Very few of us ever depart, and no one arrives anymore. The most pressing issue we face is the growing population, which is our most contentious subject. I've spent my whole life here, born, raised, married, and trained to excel in my community. I can't discern the differences between here and Earth. On Earth, people can freely go outside, but here, stepping outside without a suit means certain death. Our buildings are enormous, and everything is contained within. The botanical dome is my sanctuary; it's where the enchantment unfolds, and I believe it's the closest experience to being outdoors on Earth. I am from Colony 1. We a...