Schools of fish of every description appeared before them, making their eyes widen.
"Time treats us differently from you."
"I strongly suspect that a hundred years from now, we'll all be lying in coffins underground, while you'll still look exactly as you do today, without the slightest change."
"After all, time has left almost no trace on you."
Kizaru spoke with feeling.
Xia Le pressed his lips together and remained silent for a long while.
He could not refute his old friend's words, because time truly seemed to have stopped for him, having no effect whatsoever.
A hundred years from now, he would be the only familiar face left in this world.
What a lonely sight that would be.
Xia Le felt a chill. He suddenly understood the meaning behind those words.
An undying life might not be a reward at all. It was more likely a curse.
Life ultimately had meaning because it had an end.
Cherishing the people and things before you within that limited time could itself bring contentment and joy.
"Xia Le?"
Kizaru's voice reached him.
Xia Le turned and forced a faint smile, regaining his composure.
"Time really is a difficult problem!"
Only then did he understand why his previous world had so many legends of immortals, and why so many people sought to become one.
It was not merely for themselves, but also for the friends and family beside them.
"Shall we get back to Fish-Man Island?"
Noticing his troubled mood, Kizaru spoke softly.
"Vice Admiral Fisher Tiger has already arrived ahead of us."
"He'll represent me in an initial meeting with His Majesty Neptune of the Ryugu Kingdom."
Xia Le smiled faintly and spoke slowly.
"So what exactly is your objective?"
Kizaru asked in confusion.
"Isn't it obvious enough, Borsalino?"
"I intend to