In recent years, archaeology had begun to flourish, with adventuring parties sailing around the world to search for treasures from the old era.
He had heard that, over the years, some people had reached what had once been Laugh Tale, the final island Pirate King Roger had reached.
And recently, the Empire had made a momentous decision: it would explore the moon.
Under Vegapunk's leadership, technology grew ever more powerful and advanced. Xia Le could already see traces of his previous life in it.
Time continued to pass.
Year 55 of the Empire.
Xia Le sat quietly in the cemetery, feeling neither sorrow nor joy.
Before him were familiar names, one after another, including that of his wife, Boa Hancock.
Yet he himself remained as youthful as a twenty-year-old, still in his prime.
Xia Le lost his sense of purpose. When all his loved ones were gone, what good was invincible power?
"Father!"
An aged voice rang out, and Xia Le turned around.
He saw his son's face, already showing signs of age. The white hair at his temples made it all the clearer that he was no longer young.
Looking to the side, he saw his second daughter, her husband, and their family, with a crowd of children behind them.
"It's time for you to abdicate."
Xia Le spoke softly.
Then he stroked his son's face.
"Spend some time with your children."
Xia Ming froze. After a long silence, he nodded gently.
He had indeed occupied this position for far too long.
The following year, Xia Ming abdicated, and a new emperor took the throne.
The Empire seemed to enter a new cycle.
Xia Le remained in his little courtyard and never went out again.
His children passed away, then his children's children. Before he knew it, the Empire