IdAhhei
Pact laws of body sanctity dictate that all Sazashi get the right to choose at the age of 21 whether or not to keep their Akjhe. The procedure for it is simple, but it is common for most Sazashi to feel a long melancholy afterwards, often for life. They become aware of just how much of a boost their Akjhe gave them, leading to crises of identity, confidence, and joy.
There's an eternal push within the pact by Ah'hei Antagonists that tries to make the age of consent for this procedure earlier.
Studies show that if it's done early in life, the Sazashi will feel no residual trauma.
The state benefits from the timing—the Sazashi first have the right to make the choice at the prime of their life, and are likely to commit to whatever that choice is. When they are full of life, energy, and motivation, Akjhe can feel like a constant drive, a secret weapon, a purpose.
It's easy to take for granted that some old folks are a little feral, or their bodies move against their will at times. Neurological damage is just uncommon enough to take that gamble.
"Well I feel great. I think I'd know if my Akjhe was causing brain damage."
The Sazashi brain fully matures at the age of 27. Just a couple years longer than a Human. Akjhe can't be removed after that. Neurological damage is guaranteed if you try.
In more wicked times, removing a Sazashi's Akjhe was used as punishment. At the same time, on the other side of the world, the Akjhe was excised from young Sazashi before they had even learned to speak.
It's a divisive topic. Blood has been shed over it.
What age would you choose?
Regardless, the law stands. 21.
Abide the Pact.
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