After the speech ended, Longinus did not leave immediately. Instead, he walked down from the stage and warmly greeted every person there.
In this world of strict hierarchy, few people would do what Longinus did. Even Aokiji and Garp, who were equally popular within the Marines, were at most mild-mannered. They would never lower themselves like Longinus and greet people one by one.
After all, those two were simply too lazy!
"You have not officially received your posts yet, so there is no need to call me Fleet Admiral. Just call me senior."
"Yes, I was once Teacher Zephyr's student as well. Those truly were days worth remembering."
"You are... Jess? Of course I remember you. How could I forget that brave little fellow from back then?"
"Adonis? That is your name, right?"
Almost everyone who had crossed paths with Longinus had their name mentioned by him, and the sight left the new recruits beside themselves with excitement.
By the time Longinus left, what he saw in those recruits' eyes was fervor and impulsiveness.
"My friend, thank you for letting me witness a perfect speech!" Morgans said, puffing out his belly in his albatross form granted by the Bird-Bird Fruit. "Once today's speech report goes out, I believe even more people will choose to join the Marines!"
"More importantly, how is your Hero Series Reports project coming along?" Longinus asked.
"Caw caw, how could I forget something the Fleet Admiral cares about?" Morgans said, patting his belly. "But are you really not planning to include yourself?"
"No need. I can hardly be called a hero." Longinus sighed sincerely. "If I can ensure those true heroes are remembered, then this Fleet Admiral will have done something worthwhile."
"Your humility puts others to shame!" Morgans said, flapping his wings. "But it is