The Life of a 'Martian'

          CHAPTER 2

           The Martian sat on the edge of a cliff overlooking the vast desert of his home planet. He gazed at the two moons in the sky, thinking about the history of Mars and how it had once been a thriving world. But that was before the Great Cataclysm, when the planet was devastated by a massive volcanic eruption. Now, all that remained were the ruins of ancient cities and the bones of long-dead Martians. But the Martian knew there was more to the story than that.

           As Zephyr sat on the edge of the cliff, he wondered what it would be like to walk on the surface of Mars. He had read about the ancient Martian cities, built by a race of people long gone. He imagined what it would be like to see the ruins with his own eyes, to touch the ancient stones and feel the history of his people. But Zephyr knew that such a journey would be dangerous. The surface of Mars was a harsh and unforgiving place, with deadly storms and a thin atmosphere. But still Zephyr knew that the risk was worth it. He was determined to see the surface of Mars, to learn more about his people and their past. He knew that there were others like him, who dreamed of exploring the planet. And he knew that he was not alone in his desire to know more about the mysterious race that had once called Mars home. But he also knew that his people would never allow him to leave the safety of the underground city. They would never allow him to risk his life on a journey that they saw as futile. 

    Zephyr's thoughts were interrupted by the sound of footsteps behind him. He turned to see his friend, Aria, approaching. Aria was a few years older than Zephyr, and she had always been more adventurous than him. She had often spoken of the surface of Mars, and of the ancient cities that waited there. And now, as she looked at Zephyr, she could see the longing in his eyes. "You want to go to the surface, don't you?" she asked. Zephyr hesitated, but then nodded. "

Aria sighed. "You know it's impossible. The Elders would never allow it. They say it's too dangerous." "I know," Zephyr replied. "But I can't stop thinking about it. I have to see it with my own eyes." Aria looked at him, her expression softening. "I understand," she said. "I've always wanted to see it too. But you know the risks. The storms, the lack of oxygen, the radiation..." Zephyr nodded. He knew all the risks, but he also knew that he could not stay.