Chapter 20: The 20-Year Rule

The morning was crisp and clear as the Li family gathered around the breakfast table, their maps and notes sprawled out amidst dishes of morning sustenance. The sun cast long shadows through the windows, painting patterns of light and darkness across their plans. The family was buzzing with anticipation and curiosity about the day ahead.

Li Mei, always the de facto leader of their scholarly quests, outlined the day's objective with a determined gleam in her eye. "Today, we delve into the heart of the '20-Year Rule,'" she announced, her voice carrying a mix of excitement and seriousness. "This rule shapes not just the lifespan but the psyche of the immortals here. We must understand both its practical applications and its deeper implications."

Li Jietang, looking up from a dense tome he had been studying, added thoughtfully, "It seems this rule is their way of balancing eternity with responsibility. Every twenty years, each immortal must justify their continued existence. That's a significant burden to bear."

Wei Chu, ever the empath, considered the emotional aspect. "Imagine the pressure and the motivation it must instil. Knowing that your immortality hinges on your contributions must drive them to constant self-evaluation and improvement."

With a slight chuckle, Li Enle, the youngest, interjected, "Kind of like having the toughest performance review every twenty years, huh?"

Li Mei smiled at her brother's comparison, appreciating his ability to find humour in the gravitas. "Exactly, Enle. Today, we meet with some of these immortals and the scholars who study this rule. We need to hear from them what it's really like to live under such a mandate."

Nods of agreement circled the table as they finished their meal, the energy of the upcoming explorations filling them with palpable excitement. They gathered their gear and set out, ready to confront the realities of the "20-Year Rule," each member keen on unravelling how such a law influenced the fabric of immortal society.

In the excellent, shadowed halls of the Realm's Historical Society, the Li family met with Long Shen, a historian specializing in the legislative chronicles of immortality. His study was lined with ancient books and scrolls, the air thick with the scent of time-worn paper.

As they settled into worn leather chairs, Li Mei initiated the discussion. "Long Shen, we're intrigued by the 20-Year rule. Can you explain its origins and how it fundamentally impacts those subject to it?"

Long Shen, adjusting his glasses, began, "Certainly. The rule was instated several millennia ago during a time of great turmoil. Unchecked and numerous, Immortals began to skew the natural balance of the realm. The rule was necessary to ensure that immortality was both a privilege and a responsibility."

As he spoke, a young scholar hurried past, her arms laden with heavy tomes. She paused, overhearing the conversation. "Are you discussing the Reevaluation Rituals? It's fascinating yet daunting how immortals must justify their existence every twenty years based on their contributions to society."

Li Jietang, curious, asked, "What exactly happens during these rituals?"

Long Shen nodded to the young scholar, who set down her books and joined in. "During the ritual, immortals present their achievements and efforts before the Council of Elders. The council then deliberates on whether they have contributed enough to warrant the continuation of their immortal status. It's a profound moment of reckoning."

Sensitive to the emotional weight of such events, Wei Chu remarked, "It sounds incredibly stressful. To have your fate so directly linked to your productivity..."

The scholar sighed, "Indeed, it is. But it also instils a sense of purpose and urgency in one's life. Knowing that your time could be limited pushes many to achieve great things."

Li Enle, trying to lighten the mood, quipped, "Guess it puts a whole new spin on midlife crises, doesn't it?"

Laughter briefly filled the room, easing the heavy atmosphere. Long Shen smiled appreciatively. "Quite right. But remember, this rule also fosters a community intensely dedicated to the realm's betterment and progress. It's a double-edged sword."

As the discussion wrapped up, the family thanked Long Shen and the scholar for their insights. As they left the historian's study, their minds buzzed with new information and a deeper understanding of the complex dynamics of immortality under the 20-year rule, ready to explore further the societal and personal impacts revealed in their conversations.

As the Li family continued to explore the implications of the 20-year rule, they ventured into the bustling heart of the realm, a lively market square where immortals from all walks of life gathered. The vibrant atmosphere was tinged with an undercurrent of urgency that permeated every interaction. To better understand how this rule influenced the social fabric of the immortal society, the family engaged with various citizens, each offering a unique perspective on their way of life.

Li Mei approached a group of artisans, their hands skillfully crafting intricate artwork that reflected the realm's rich history. "Your work is beautiful," she complimented, then gently steered the conversation towards the 20-year rule. "Does this rule influence your art in any way?"

One artisan, a potter with clay-stained hands, nodded thoughtfully. "Absolutely," he began, his voice mixed with pride and pressure. "Knowing that our time to contribute is measured, many of us push ourselves to create something truly memorable. It's a motivation but also a sword hanging over our heads."

Nearby, Li Jietang engaged with scholars debating the rule's merits. "It drives our society forward, encourages innovation and constant improvement," one scholar argued, her eyes alight with fervour. "But," another countered, "it also breeds a sense of never-ending competition and stress. Some of us wish for a life where we are valued for more than our achievements."

Li Enle, ever curious, struck up a conversation with a group of younger immortals at a café. "Does the rule affect your relationships?" he inquired, sipping a steaming cup of the local brew.

A young immortal's expression, a mix of resignation and determination, replied, "It does. Relationships here are often shadowed by the rule. We forge bonds, but there's always the awareness that one's time might not be renewed. It makes some relationships intensely vivid but others painfully transient."

Observing a family in the market, Wei Chu told Li Mei, "The rule seems to cast a long shadow over personal dynamics. Every action, every choice might be seen through the lens of survival rather than genuine expression."

As they regrouped, the family discussed their findings. Li Mei reflected, "It seems this rule while driving society toward greater heights, also imposes a significant emotional and psychological toll. The balance between motivation and stress is delicate."

Li Jietang added, "And without such a rule, would this society achieve as much? It's a complex equation of growth versus personal well-being."

Their discussions revealed a society striving for excellence but grappling with the inherent pressures of an imposed countdown to justify one's existence. This exploration deepened the family's understanding of the profound impacts such governance could have on societal progress and individual lives.

The Li family's journey into the heart of the immortal society brought them to the personal stories of those directly affected by the 20-year rule. Their next step involved speaking with several immortals nearing their time for reevaluation, each carrying a unique story that shed light on the multifaceted impacts of this daunting regulation.

In a tranquil garden, the family met with Caelan, a poet whose works had touched many hearts. As they walked among the fragrant blooms, Caelan shared his reflections. "Every word I write now feels heavier, charged with the need to resonate deeply enough to justify my continued existence," he confided to Li Mei, his voice tinged with pride and anxiety.

Empathetic to his plight, Li Mei responded, "It must be challenging to balance genuine creativity with the need to meet such existential criteria."

Caelan nodded. "Indeed, it is. My poetry is my life, yet now it is my plea for more life."

Nearby, Li Jietang and Li Enle spoke with Duàn Lifen, a scientist whose innovations in energy sustainability had revolutionized their city's infrastructure. While showcasing her laboratory, Duàn Lifen shared her perspective. "There's a thrill in knowing that my work contributes significantly to our realm. Yet, the approach of my evaluation stirs a fear of not doing enough," she revealed, her eyes reflecting a mix of determination and concern.

Li Jietang, curious about the practical implications, asked, "Does this pressure enhance your work, or does it sometimes lead to compromise?"

Duàn Lifen paused, her gaze drifting to a complex array of energy converters. "Both, perhaps. The desire to excel drives innovation, but the fear of failure can lead to rushed decisions."

As they continued their interactions, Wei Chu and Li Wei met with a healer named Lysander, who had spent his last twenty years developing new healing techniques. Sitting in his serene clinic, surrounded by patients benefiting from his work, Lysander calmly accepted the rule. "I've made peace with it," he told Wei Chu. "My work saves lives; if that is not enough, I accept the council's decision gracefully."

Wei Chu, moved by his humility, reflected, "Your dedication is clear, and the impact profound. It's inspiring, yet poignant."

These interviews illuminated the complex tapestry of emotions surrounding the 20-year rule. Each story, laden with personal achievements and the looming dread of reevaluation, vividly depicted the rule's profound emotional and psychological effects. The Li family gathered after these conversations, deeply affected by shared insights. Li Mei summed up their feelings, "These stories are a powerful reminder of the human—or rather, immortal—cost of such a rule. It pushes for greatness but at what cost to personal peace and creative freedom?"

The Li family's investigation into the 20-year rule culminated in a spirited debate held in a public forum of the immortal realm, where scholars, immortals, and philosophers gathered to discuss the ethical implications of this profound regulation. The setting was a grand hall, its walls lined with ancient tapestries that depicted the realm's storied history—a fitting backdrop for such a consequential discussion.

Li Mei opened the debate by posing a crucial question to the panel and the audience, "Does the 20-Year Rule truly foster a meritocracy, or does it thrust our society into a relentless race where achievement is prized over genuine well-being?"

A renowned philosopher, Dr Aelius, responded thoughtfully, "While the rule incentivizes remarkable contributions to our society, it also risks creating an elite class where only the most visible achievements are recognized, potentially overlooking quieter yet equally valuable contributions."

A passerby, intrigued by the discussion, joined as the debate progressed. She introduced herself as Seraphine, a teacher. "I've seen young immortals burn out under the pressure. They're driven by fear of non-renewal rather than a genuine desire to contribute. How do we reconcile this with our ethical standards?"

Li Jietang, reflecting on Seraphine's input, added, "It raises a valid point about the mental health implications of such a system. Are we sacrificing the holistic well-being of our people for the sake of progress?"

Wei Chu, always sensitive to the undercurrents of emotional wellness, noted, "The rule might also discourage taking risks on innovative but unproven ideas if the reward systems are too rigidly defined. True innovation often requires the freedom to fail."

Contributions from various attendees enriched the discussion, each adding layers of complexity to the debate. An immortal artist argued, "We need a balance. Achievement should certainly be celebrated, but not at the cost of our deeper happiness and peace."

As the debate drew to a close, Li Enle humorously remarked, "Maybe we need a rule that evaluates how happy people are with their achievements, not just the achievements themselves!"

The laughter that followed lightened the atmosphere, but the deep philosophical and ethical questions raised by the 20-year rule remained. The Li family left the forum with a deeper understanding of the nuanced implications of the rule, aware that such societal structures, while designed to foster excellence, must also consider the broader impact on the community's overall well-being.

The Li family was granted the rare opportunity to witness the Evaluation Ritual, a ceremony steeped in tradition and significance within the immortal realm. Held in the majestic Hall of Continuance, the venue was a marvel of ancient architecture, with towering columns and a domed ceiling that seemed to echo the weight of countless past ceremonies.

As the family entered, they observed the immortals being assessed, gathering nervously. Each participant wore a ceremonial robe embroidered with symbols representing their life's work and contributions. The atmosphere was charged with a palpable mix of anticipation and apprehension.

The ceremony commenced with a gong, its deep tone resonating through the hall. The Council of Elders, venerable beings who had served the realm for centuries, took their seats at the head of the room. Each council member held a tome of records detailing the achievements and contributions of those evaluated.

Li Mei watched intently as the immortals approached the council. They presented artefacts, scrolls, or sometimes intangible displays of magical prowess, each symbolizing their accomplishments. The criteria for evaluation were stringent, focusing not only on the magnitude of their achievements but also on their impact on the realm's prosperity and the well-being of its inhabitants.

The emotional climate in the room was intense. Li Enle, sensitive to the mood, whispered to Li Jietang, "It's like watching someone's entire life being judged in a few moments."

Li Jietang nodded, his expression sombre. "It's a profound responsibility for the council, too, deciding someone's fate like this."

Each evaluation ended with a silent communication from the council, a subtle nod or a shake of the head, signalling the continuation or end of the immortal's journey. Some faces showed relief and joy at the nod of approval, while others struggled to maintain composure when faced with the end of their immortality.

As the ceremony concluded, Wei Chu reflected on the experience, "It's a deeply moving process. It makes you appreciate the gravity of living under such scrutiny."

Witnessing the Evaluation Ritual gave the Li family a deeper understanding of the 20-year rule's profound psychological and societal impact. It highlighted the delicate balance between encouraging excellence and imposing immense psychological pressure on the realm's citizens.

After witnessing the intense Evaluation Ritual and absorbing the diverse opinions surrounding the 20-year rule, the Li family gathered in a quiet corner of the Hall of Continuance to reflect on their experiences. The echoing footsteps of departing immortals provided a sombre backdrop as they delved into the implications of what they had seen.

Li Mei broke the silence first, her voice thoughtful, "Seeing the ritual firsthand, it's clear how much pressure this rule places on immortals. It makes me think about the ways we measure our own lives. Perhaps we should focus more on the meaningfulness of our actions rather than their scale or recognition."

Li Jietang, always considering the practical aspects, nodded in agreement. "It's about quality, not just quantity. We can apply this lesson to ensure we're not just busy but truly contributing to something bigger than ourselves, whether we have an eternity or a lifetime."

Wei Chu added, "It emphasizes the importance of each day. Every action and choice contributes to a legacy, immortal or not. It's a reminder to live deliberately."

Li Enle, quietly absorbing the discussions, said, "Yeah, it's like deciding what kind of story you want to tell with your life. Makes you think about what really matters."

The family nodded, each lost in thought for a moment. Li Mei concluded, "Let's carry this understanding forward. Let's ensure that our time, however much we have of it, is spent creating a positive impact."

Their conversation, though brief, deepened their resolve to live intentionally and meaningfully, inspired by the profound lessons drawn from the immortal realm's daunting yet enlightening 20-year rule.