Star Republic

Chapter Three: The Conversation between the snail and the Fish

The snail had previously learned that on the water's surface, one could read books; the rabbits had an excellent printing technology, and some trees helped them grow suitable materials for paper.

The fish-person told the snail, "The smartest ones are the plants; they have vast knowledge, and they can directly digest the thoughts and memories of animals."

The snail responded, "The worlds above and below the water have different paths leading to the same destination. However, it can be confirmed that the history of the underwater world predates that of the surface, and the ancestors of surface creatures also originated from the underwater world. I wonder what questions the underwater plants want to know?"

The fish said, "Plants pursue strength; they believe that nothing in the universe is eternal, even the perfect combination of animals and plants. Hence the saying, 'Even a soaring dragon must return to the dust.' Although animals can cooperate with plants for regeneration and rebirth, and plants can gain new life experiences and produce new species limitlessly, this cycle of life and death still concerns them. Because the most basic substances will eventually face depletion."

The fish described the appearance of this plant — it was a flower! Then it asked its first question: "Can life, and even this planet, exist eternally? It truly hopes that such a beautiful home will not meet its end after billions of years."

The snail thought for a moment and replied, "No. That's what's precious about our nation; living beings are always vigilant, considering the distant future from the present moment. This question has crossed my mind before. I asked the merpeople, and they told me: 'If matter continually awakens until the smallest particle, it can perpetuate its will indefinitely. The ability to think shouldn't be limited to just the mind but should extend to any part of the body, even to a single cell, a molecule, an atom, or even smaller. All should become independent units with individual wills. However, this may lead to the death of the original life will. If many molecules within a cell possess such a will, the cell is likely to die first. If an atom also possesses such a collective will, the original will of the atom may become a thing of the past, indicating a change in its old attributes, and a new will would be established. This process of continuous awakening downward would be endless, leading to the goal of eternal life.'"

The fish was somewhat puzzled and asked, "What is awakening? Why does the awakening of smaller matter often lead to the death of the original construct?"

The snail explained, "Awakening refers to the tendency of smaller matter to become independent and take actions or make choices in line with its own ideals and needs, which inevitably conflicts with or differs from the will of the original material construct. Many overlook the power within the small; however, 'small' possesses just as much value as 'large' in pursuit. Because the 'small' contains infinite energy! It's not impossible that unseen small objects, due to their immense power, can defeat giants who are strong in individuality but weak in strength. The macroscopic world is actually dominated by the microscopic world; every smaller particle is a small universe with immense power. Therefore, instead of seeking to devour or possess external objects, strengthening the internal material composition leads to stronger power and unlimited potential. Our nation of Lakeia is hailed as the most powerful life planet in the universe, but it doesn't force any planet or life to submit to itself, nor does it plunder the resources of other nations. This isn't conservatism but a different direction in the pursuit of power."

Continuing, the snail pondered, "What is life? What is death? Am I truly real now? Do I cease to exist after death? Presumably, the plants on the surface can also replicate two identical individuals. It's evident that this 'self' is not unique; it can be replicated or reborn. Strictly speaking, there's no absolutely identical substance, but why should there be? Am I the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow? Different, indeed. It's apparent that I am in a state of change. Before birth, time is eternal, as nobody knows the starting point of time, nor can anyone know. Relatively, nobody will know the endpoint of time either. Constraining myself within a certain time frame is a low perspective; such a 'self,' no matter how brilliant in a short time, will ultimately face death, and death is final. Therefore, limited life spans satisfy limited material pursuits, which are quite superficial! The life on our planet can stand the test of eternity; even in death, it won't lose eternity. So, I believe our nation of Lakeia can live forever, eternally exist!"

The fish nodded.

As a long-term resident of the underwater world, the snail was delighted to communicate with visitors from the surface. The species on Lakeia were countless, but ultimately, they were one family. Hence, the snail could answer any question. It said to the fish, "Because animals on the planet Lakeia either die naturally or choose to do so, the feared death in other nations becomes the starting point for rebirth in our nation. The bearer of the spirit is matter; since it's matter, it can be replicated and continued. Therefore, the animals on this planet, with the help of plants, can achieve immortality, as they obtain new carriers. However, what am I exactly? Humans are the sum of all environmental influences, not just the sum of real factors but also the sum of historical causes."Different birth experiences and environmental factors result in even identical species exhibiting different sensitivities and experiences. Individuals with active minds and spirits are particularly influenced in terms of intelligence and character by such differences. Therefore, no two individuals are ever absolutely identical, and by extension, no two substances can be absolutely identical. However, believing oneself to be the universe's sole entity is misguided; such a singular spirit cannot be sustained or inherited by all things and is doomed to perish. Therefore, the origin of the unique self is a special mission bestowed by time and space, which can also ascend to a common mission."

The fish responded, "My special mission? And our common mission?"

"Yes, our seemingly individual needs are actually consciously or unconsciously fulfilling our missions. Invisible hands are propelling us to complete our missions."

"We shouldn't think that any part of our body, including cells, should always remain attached to us. If they revolt or rebel, we might consider their needs, reducing resistance to revolution, even at the cost of sacrificing ourselves, as this would lead to a stronger self. Does a person's leg have an obligation to remain attached to the body for others to command? If one day it could run on its own, would I be happier to see it gain freedom rather than forcibly retain it? Fish tails are not obliged to remain forever attached to fish, and snails' shells are not obliged to provide shelter. So, everything relies on fate, and we must respect the will of all things and ensure that our own life's meaning contributes to the continuous development of all things. From a certain perspecrack, after a certain period of existence, an individual's life should end, allowing the cells, molecules, and atoms that constitute it to have the opportunity to recombine and provide the material basis for new life."

The snail continued with fervor, "The future of this planet: large animals, birds, fish, plants, insects, air, freshwater, and fertile underwater soil—all components will attain the realm of thought! Nature and instinct will still play a role, but every tiny particle will rise to the level of human thought. Our nation of Lakeia has never engaged in oppression, harm, deception, or a***e. Therefore, the life system of Lcrack can develop unimpededly and progress rapidly. We comprehend the essence of life and death; our life system can circulate between life and death, promoting development, accumulation, and enhancement within the cycle. Only the flesh dies; the will remains immortal! When alive, we fulfill our given missions; after death, we disperse into countless life forms. I seem not to exist, yet I am everywhere."

After a moment, the snail paused and asked the fish, "Did you understand? I'm referring to the aggregation of countless smaller lives, so I'm merely an aggregation of other smaller lives. Smaller matter contributes to the unlimited continuation of larger life forms. Therefore, Lakeia will not die; she will live forever!" The fish nodded in agreement, saying, "Yes, indeed! Lakeia is the most beautiful planet in the universe, so we must ensure her eternal existence!"

The snail also nodded in agreement, "Yes."

The fish then asked, "We inhabit the most beautiful planet in the universe, where there is no enmity, killing, humiliation, or survival of the fittest law between lives. However, will there come a day when stronger life forms invade us and e*****e us? What kind of power will we use to protect ourselves and our home then?" The fish couldn't help but worry about this aspect and sought answers.

The snail replied, "That's a good question, thinking ahead and being prepared. Behind our beauty lies unfathomable power! There's no evidence to suggest that ferocity implies strength or that ferocity brings strength. When you descended, you must have seen the ancient vines in the water; they have survived from the distant past until today, and will continue to do so in the future. The prowess of the vines and merpeople is immeasurable, but they seldom participate in our activities because they consider the long term and are burdened with more difficult missions, even devoid of happiness. However, isn't the source of strength found here? Pursuing short-term goals and immediate happiness makes it difficult to shoulder greater responsibilities. When individuals shoulder larger goals, they have more lasting motivation and a broader perspective. On the path of struggle, there will be a continuous influx of new energy to help push the wheels of history forward! With the power of merpeople, their fists can pulverize stars! It is said that they are the highest combat power on this planet. These creatures can easily change the properties of elements on their bodies, meaning they can change the category of elements related to themselves.""It can vaporize like air, flow like liquid, be as hard as diamond, and exhibit the properties of radioactive elements in an instant. They have expanded their power to the atomic level. Such creatures have actually died many times over. But with each death, it signifies the end of their past form. A new self is born anew within the ancient vines, becoming stronger with the help of the vines."

"I wonder what powers exist on other planets? However, all things in the world are composed of matter, so everything is interconnected and shares the same origins. Some planets constantly pursue possession to satisfy their desires or accumulate strength for survival security. But this is trivial and limited. Imagine someone claiming ownership of the universe. Does such a proclamation have any meaning? None. Nations establish hierarchical structures to safeguard the operation of power, but this is just a historical period before the awakening of the entire nation and cannot change the fact that predators and nations are weak. True strength is not built upon the weakness of others; this is both laughable and pitiful. Our planet, Lakeia, can foster a beneficial cycle of awakening within the structure of matter, continually evolving towards self-improvement. In other words, while others look up, forward, and toward the bigger picture, we look down, backward, and toward smaller aspects, making us stronger!"

The snail paused for a moment, noticing the fish's curiosity still directed towards it. It continued, "Where else in the universe can snails and ordinary fish have such a conversation? Where else do lives inherit wisdom and power from birth? And where else are lives so willing to embrace death, returning everything to nature to facilitate new accumulation? Look, there are no chemical plants here, no workshops; no armies, no conspiracies. Yet, greatness is evident everywhere, and beauty is ubiquitous! Even the smallest snails and most common fish are eager learners. Human creation does not require prior anxiety; it is the essence of life itself. Every molecule of matter contains the potential for creation, and infinite power awaits human development, wouldn't you agree?"

The fish took a moment to come back to reality before hastily nodding in agreement, saying, "Yes, yes, yes!"

The fish continued, "Merpeople are the most powerful beings here!" The fish added, waving its tail and somersaulting.

The snail took over the conversation, saying, "There is no such thing as the best; it only depends on the criteria and unique judgment of the evaluator. Overall, merpeople are indeed powerful and very attractive, as far as I've seen. Since coming out of the ancient vines, they have been taken care of, and they, in turn, take care of other life forms on this planet. Today, countless plants and animals thrive on this planet, thanks to the care of the ancient vines and merpeople. However, from what I know, many of these merpeople not only lack reproductive systems but also digestive systems. They are born robust from the vines, with knowledge and experiences inherited from the womb. Their purpose at birth is to fulfill a mission or task. As they age, although their vitality remains undiminished, their size decreases to that of small fish. At this point, most merpeople choose to return to a vine. However, some merpeople split themselves into many small fish. Some attach themselves to aquatic plants, some return to the vines, some go to distant plants, some continue to live on, making themselves as small as insects, and so on. The merging and splitting of life are vividly displayed in them! Different memories and thoughts are entrusted to different creatures, giving other plants the impetus to renew themselves."However, there are also merpeople who are unique, not fond of being born with all knowledge and understanding, and not wanting to be powerful from the start. They forsake intelligence and strength, choosing instead to work hard. Perhaps this way, they gain clumsiness and the need to eat to replenish energy, but this effort makes challenges more meaningful! With the help of certain plants, merpeople can even acquire genders."

"In the aquatic world, many animals have their own genders, preferring hard work over advantages," said the fish.

Upon hearing that it was about the surface, the snail said to the fish, "There is denser air on land, and the surface can receive the light and energy from the stars. I bet the scenery must be great! Can you carry me up there?"

"Sure!" replied the fish, waving its tail.

The appearance of merpeople is exquisite! Different merpeople vary in appearance and physique. Spread-out fins, closely arranged scales, friendly expressions, beautiful eyes! Enchanting tails, ever-changing postures, agile arms, and fish-like bodies. They are the laborers underwater, and I cannot praise them enough with words! We naively believe that humans are the most beautiful, which is my limitation. The author writes this book to tell the world: there is more to greatness than what we know; the universe is vast!

Fish said to the snail, "I'll carry you up now."

"Okay."

With its back facing the snail, the fish slowly moved its body, finally climbing onto the fish's back, sticking closely to it. The fish prepared to return to the shore.

On the way, the fish asked the snail, "Suppose there is conflict in the universe, how should we distinguish right from wrong?"

In a relaxed manner, the snail answered from the fish's back, "Distinguishing right from wrong in the universe requires considering the customs and written laws of other countries, aiming for moral construction and fairness beneficial to society. Otherwise, honest workers will be disheartened, while the scheming will be triumphant, slowing down the progress of society. Although judging good and evil is not difficult in itself, the so-called impartial executors are humans, inevitably influenced by human characteristics and interests. Moreover, with social resources and power led by dominant groups, the neediest citizens for justice are often in a position of needing rescue, making their progress long and arduous! Fortunately, on this planet, there is no pressure of existence or material interests' opposition, and the foundation for biological development is very strong. Therefore, there is no room for the crafty to manipulate. The strengthening of citizens relies on the benign progression of the biological system rather than a state organization maintaining the order of hierarchy, nor the concept of obedience and hierarchical differentiation based on private ownership. In fact, most organisms can distinguish between right and wrong. However, once their eyes are blinded by interests or due to the psychology of fearing the strong, people may mistake a deer for a horse."

One carried, one listened; one spoke, one journeyed to a new world.

I believe this is a very interesting topic. Before the wicked gain power, they need to be cunning and manipulative, calculating their moves; once they gain power, they will reveal their true nature, without any restraint, acting tyrannically! Therefore, to eliminate wickedness, two things are needed: strength and wisdom. With these two, justice can be served.

"All ideas are based on the existence of matter. Therefore, as long as we fully understand matter and its correlations, the precious abstract entities such as spirit, will, and thoughts that extend from matter will become clear. Some powerful merpeople can clearly understand the historical causes and current environment of the birth of other lives and the consciousness of influencing the behavior of such lives. The butterfly, known as the second-largest force on this planet, can penetrate the bodies of others without harming them but can read all their thoughts. Even how many brain cells there are in the mind, how many atoms are operating, and what they are thinking can be counted! With the strength and diverse abilities of merpeople, we will be invincible!"

"Yes, invincible!" replied the fish enthusiastically. By this time, they had reached the middle layer of the water.

"In other countries, devices can also scan people for identification, which is beneficial for judging right from wrong. Using such scans for candidates can ensure that those wielding power are gentlemen, reducing the possibility of citizens' misselection. Therefore, candidates must undergo this type of examination beforehand."

The fish listened with rapt attention as they swam upstream, while the snail delivered an almost impassioned speech on its back! They arrived at the surface, the fish nearing the shore, and the snail slowly climbed onto the land. The snail saw the real sunlight, the land surrounded by flowers and grass, breathing in the pure fresh air! It saw countless flowers and various playful animals, simply overwhelming. It also saw Dr. Turtle.

The fish bid farewell to the snail and turned to swim towards the bottom of the flower. The roots of the flower knew that the fish, who had made promises in the beginning, had swum over. Its roots enveloped the fish, reading its memories. Afterwards, the fish happily swam away to continue its journey of life.