chapter 9

However, Marine has never set such a precedent. He was directly promoted from the third rank to lieutenant general. This seems insignificant.

After pondering for a moment, Sengoku looked at the crane on the side and asked, "Crane, how do you think we should rank Mu Feng?"

The crane hesitated for a moment before speaking, "Mu Feng has proven his strength by competing with Aokiji. Although there is no precedent, we can make an exception and promote him to lieutenant general."

The Marine generals started discussing among themselves.

"He's incredibly powerful... to be able to compete fiercely with Aokiji Admiral. Rumor has it that he is the grandson of Lieutenant General Garp, which explains his immense strength. Such power can definitely deter New World pirates, making him suitable for a position as lieutenant general in the headquarters."

"Although he has the strength, he is still too young."

The Marine generals had differing opinions on Mu Feng's exceptional promotion.

"I believe it's feasible. Mu Feng has proven his strength, and despite his young age, he is quite capable," Kizaru suddenly interjected.

Kizaru's insight was sharper than anyone else's. Regardless of the outcome of Mu Feng's promotion today, his talent would eventually lead him to become a Marine Admiral, or even a Marine Marshal.

Safeguarding Mu Feng's reputation now would save face for Marine in the long run. Why not do it? It's just a matter of a few words.

Garp stood quietly on the side, avoiding any interference.

Mu Feng was his grandson, and Garp wanted to avoid any appearance of favoritism.

The opinions of Kizaru and Tsuru swayed Sengoku's decision. Just as Sengoku was about to speak, Akainu suddenly voiced his opposition:

"No, absolutely not."

Akainu, who had been silent until now, glanced at Mu Feng and then turned to Sengoku, saying, "Granting Mu Feng the rank of lieutenant general in the headquarters is completely out of the question. He has no merit to justify a direct promotion from a third-class marine to the headquarters. It's absurd. What will other Marine sergeants think? And... Monkey? Huh, Marshal Sengoku, have you forgotten about Monkey D. Dragon?"

At the mention of that name, the atmosphere instantly became tense. Especially Garp, his face grew darker and more terrifying.

Monkey D. Dragon, the son of Garp, had also been a Marine. He was promoted to lieutenant general in the headquarters at a young age, but soon after he defected and formed a revolutionary army.

He took it upon himself to overthrow the World Government and is now considered the most dangerous criminal in the world.

Garp clenched his fist, his arm veins bulging.

Dragon's defection had a profound negative impact on Marine. If not for Garp's status as a Marine hero and Sengoku's unwavering support, Garp would likely be imprisoned in Impel Down by now.

Sengoku's expression also soured. Dragon was like a son to him. Back then, Sengoku had played a role in Dragon's promotion to lieutenant general in the headquarters. None of the lieutenants around dared to speak up.

"Fine... Mu Feng will be awarded the rank of Major General in the Naval Headquarters," Sengoku finally spoke after a moment of silence.

Akainu, upon hearing Sengoku's decision, remained dissatisfied. He furrowed his brow and said, "Marshal Sengoku, I still believe Mu Feng's third-class rank is more appropriate."

"Enough, Sakazuki," Garp suddenly shouted. "If you think the Monkey family is guilty, then come and face me. Also, Mu Feng is my grandson, but he is not part of the Monkey family. What else do you... disagree with?"

Garp glared at Akainu coldly, his body tense as if preparing for a battle.

Garp couldn't change what happened with Dragon, but he would never let Mu Feng suffer in Marine because of his own or Dragon's actions. Even if it meant facing punishment or causing a commotion, Garp would never back down.

"Alright, let's calm down for a moment," Sengoku intervened, standing between the two. "I have made a decision to grant Mu Feng the rank of major general, and it is final. Do you want to fight? Or do you want the news of this disagreement to spread within Marine, causing discord among our heroes and Marine Admirals? Is that what you want? And you, don't you have official business to attend to?"

The last sentence was clearly directed at the Marine generals who had been observing the situation.

In an instant, the surrounding Marines dispersed, avoiding any further confrontation.

Mu Feng's eyes flickered as he looked at Akainu, a hint of icy disdain in his gaze.

I didn't provoke you, yet you dare to challenge me. Don't you know that nothing is more important than preventing anyone from hindering their own promotion?

Well, in that case... don't even think about becoming a Marine Admiral for a long time. Fortunately, I have become a major general. Otherwise, I would have unleashed my full power on you, using my Mangekyō Sharingan. I wouldn't kill you, but I would make your life a living hell.

Mu Feng was not a forgiving person. If you offend me, don't expect me to go easy on you.

"Lieutenant General Crane, Major General Mu Feng, come with me to the office," Sengoku said.

"It seems... you can't stop me from becoming a major general," Mu Feng's contemptuous voice reached Akainu's ears as he walked past him.

Then, he lightly tapped the back of Akainu's head.

"You..." Akainu trembled, pointing at Mu Feng.

But Mu Feng paid no attention to Akainu. If you mess with me, don't expect me to show you any mercy.