Rose, Case's mother, stared at the screen for a moment before it disappeared into thin air, returning back the static and buzzing sound of the television.
She then commented after seeing the announcement of the Earth's plan moving forward, being directed by no other than Thomas.
"What a load of crap. As if our opinions don't matter that they get to decide whatever they want to choose."
Then Yelena interrupted and joined in the conversation.
"I agree! What about democracy? Where are humans' rights against this decision? Man, even if there are already aliens visiting us, we're still the same where people with power have the say,"
'It has always been like that.'
Case mused inwardly before joining with the others.
"Well, that's that I guess. We'll just have to accept it at the end,"
Three of Case's family looked towards him before agreeing to his words.
By the end of the day, even if they screamed their lungs out or told the world how wrong the decision have been made, it will not changed the fact that this is their current reality.
With that in mind, Case wanted to press even further by saying.
"Ah, right, I'm planning on joining the Earth's Camp if it's all right with you,"
The joy in the room faded in an instant, replaced by a heavy silence as Case's words hung in the air, triggering worried voices from both his parents.
"Don't!"
Case looked at his father, Edwards, who started rambling.
"You don't need to do anything, Case. Believe me, you're all right as it is. Let others do the heavy lifting. There are others out there willing to do this, and you don't have to be the one to do it."
It was Rose who came next, deeply trying to convince Case of his decision alongside her husband.
"Yeah, everything will be fine. The authorities will handle everything. Staying here should be the optimal solution right now."
Their worried expressions stung into him, and though his heart ached, Case had already resolved what needed to be done and thought everything through.
No matter what it takes, Case had to be part of Earth's camp, knowing it was a step that could potentially save his family.
Nothing will stop him from attending the camp.
Understanding what his parents were trying to convey, Case let out a short sigh and said calmly.
"Please, this is the last and final selfish request I'm asking for you. I know you have a lot of questions, but all you have to do is trust me on this."
Case warmly looked at his parent with a smile.
"Please?"
…
In the next few days, Case focused on preparing for the incoming Earth's Camp. He had already received reluctant answers from his parents, which gave him a sign to attend the upcoming camp.
Case glanced to the side and saw the dejected face of Yelena helping him pack his necessities and supplies.
Suddenly, Yelena spoke.
"Will you not change your decision, big bro?"
Case's heart throbbed.
When Yelena mentioned the word big bro, it only meant that she was speaking sincerely, something that Case noticed when talking with his sister.
But he had to take this path, no matter what, so he gave an answer that made his heart ache, if only slightly.
"Yes, my decision is final."
Yelena, having given up on convincing her brother to stay, let the matter rest after hearing his reply.
Instead, she started to view it from a different perspective and gave words of encouragement.
"Seeing that you are hell bent on pursuing that Earth's Camp, I'll fully support you from behind, big bro."
He looked at Yelena, her smile shining despite the fact that it was likely forced.
"Besides, we've already been occupied by aliens. What could go wrong with that?"
A trace of unease showed at the corner of Case's expression as he studied Yelena.
Then, he smiled in return.
"Yeah, I wonder what's worse than being occupied by aliens."
Cases' preparation ensued until all that was left was for him to leave his home.
This was the second part of his plan, where he left his family for a few months and achieved his mission at the Earth's Camp.
It didn't take long that day when it was time for farewells.
His family was on their house's doorstep.
Even though they are reluctant to show their full support, the least they could do was to make Case hesitate on his decision to venture when he was dead set on pursuing it.
Case also wanted to be with his family during this time, but knowing Earth's future, he knew he'd never forgive himself if he did nothing and remained passive.
This small sacrifice is enough to save his family's future, and now that he has been given a chance, he would surely not waste it.
Case let out a regretful smile, "I'll be going now."
Rose and Edwards wanted to try to convince their child once more, but kept their mouths shut.
The only thing they did was approach him and give a tight hug, with Yelena following from behind.
They held him in a quiet hug for a moment longer before letting go, before Case walked out of the house.
The scene was nothing more than dramatic, but it was painful enough as if Rose and Edwards were letting Case go to chase his dreams, akin to parents sending their children abroad to work.
Case didn't look back.
His gaze drifted forward until it settled on the ride he'd be using for his journey.
'My beloved bike.'
Case, with a huge backpack on, walked forward and sat down on the bike that could carry both him and his baggage.
He didn't want to use the car, knowing his family might need it if trouble ever arrived. So, he opted for a bike instead.
As for why he hadn't bought a car for the time being, it would become a different alibi in case the World Bank Center had sent someone to watch out for him, knowing the borrowed money was meant for business.
Case will be in trouble for the past few days if the World Bank Center demanded their money back just because they thought he might be screwing around.
Though that's impossible now since Outer has visited them.
"Now then…"
Pedalling the bike, Case began his venture towards the Earth's Camp.