While the Sea Wolf set off on its expedition to the Shattered Star Region, Earth Civilization had not stood still either.
The evolution of its species, the transformation of its technology, and its desire to explore beyond its borders drove this emerging civilization toward the grand stage of the cosmos...
"Bro! I told you, you don't need to worry about me. I've grown up, and I can go out into the world on my own!"
Alice pouted, complaining to Martia on the communications screen.
"What do you mean, you've grown up? You're only seventeen. You're still a child! In most countries, you'd still be a minor!" Martia was rather flustered.
"When you said you wanted to strike out on the moon, the commuter shuttle only took three hours to get back to Earth, so I let it slide. Now you're telling me you want to fly out of the Solar System?
"In another two years, are you going to tell me you want to venture into a black hole?"
Faced with his beloved little sister's rapid leaps toward the stars, Martia felt less worried than reluctant to let her go.
That was why his instinctive response upon hearing Alice's plans was to oppose them with all his might.
"That's just my biological age! Earth Civilization's Basic Law defines adulthood as 'independent thought,' 'independent conduct,' and 'financial independence.'
"I've completed all the virtual courses for the intelligence major at Atlantis Star University with excellent grades. My academic qualifications already surpass yours, and I'm perfectly capable of thinking independently.
"Independent conduct isn't a problem either. I've lived alone all these years while you've been in the military. On the other hand, without me, you never know where your next meal is coming from. It's obvious who looks after whom.
"As for financial