BACKGROUND
A child is born on Mars to Earth-born parentsāone of whom (the mother) fled to Mars in defiance of custody agreements on Earth. The child is now claimed by the father on Earth, who insists the baby was taken without consent and demands repatriation under interplanetary parental rights.
This marks the first major interplanetary custody dispute, sparking massive legal debate in both Martian and Terran jurisdictions.
KEY CONFLICT
Martian Law recognizes all individuals who set foot on Mars as provisionally bound citizens with the right of survival superseding geopolitical allegiance.
"Once born under Mars' sky, your blood belongs to its soil. You may visit Earthābut Mars shapes your bones."
The Martian Provisional Constitution allows for dual citizenship for minors, parental custodial reviews, and a child's right of return to Earth upon reaching the Age of Adaptability (12-14 Martian years), after passing a gravity-readaptation and psychological evaluation.
MARTIAN LEGAL AMENDMENT
"Any child born on Mars, of Earth-origin parentage, may petition for Earth citizenship at the onset of adolescenceābut may not be forcibly returned unless proven to be in material danger or unlawfully relocated."
If the mother brought the child to Mars in violation of Earth law or without dual consent, her actions can be considered "Interplanetary Abduction" only if Mars and Earth share an extradition pact (which is still debated).
ETHICAL AND SCIENTIFIC ARGUMENTS
Pro-Mars Argument
"The child has already begun physiological and psychological adaptation to Martian gravity, radiation levels, and cultural identity. Returning them to Earth could trigger catastrophic bodily rejection and trauma."
Pro-Earth Argument
"The child was taken without consent from Earth. Earth is their natural birthplace, with better conditions for growth, development, and protection."
REGENT'S ROLE
The Regent of Mars is forced to make a landmark ruling, balancing Martian sovereignty, child welfare, and diplomatic relations with Earth. The case draws massive public attention, and political factions divide:
The Red Soil Coalition wants to grant full Martian custody. The Earthborn Unity Party supports the father's claim, favoring legal repatriation.
The Regent must uphold The Balance Doctrine, which values individual rights above political origins.
THE REGENT'S DECREE
"This child is a child of two worldsāclaimed by blood, born by fate. The Martian soil may have cradled her first breath, but the echo of Earth still calls her name. Until the day she may choose with wisdom and will, neither world may own her future. She shall remain under Martian protection, under supervised care, with both parents granted monitored access. At the Age of Adaptability, she alone shall decide which star she follows."