Marine Headquarters, Fleet Admiral's Office.
A great many people had gathered here. Practically every vice admiral still at headquarters was present, and a group of people stood at the back as well—every one of them a rear admiral from headquarters.
But what was most astonishing was... even the three admirals, who rarely attended meetings, had gathered here, including Aokiji, who was still wrapped in bandages.
However...
"My, my. I only went to the Sabaody Archipelago for a few days, and you ended up in such a sorry state. Is that kid Garp just took in really that strong?"
Aokiji lifted a corner of his eye mask and cast a helpless glance at the sharp-faced uncle beside him. "...Rather than strong, he's a complete and utter lunatic. Anyway, I never want to fight him again for the rest of my life."
"Eek! How terrifying."
Kizaru wore a frightened expression and even maliciously patted his chest. "But hearing you say that makes me want to see what that kid actually looks like. To think he made even you avoid him like the plague."
Aokiji lazily rubbed his eyes and yawned. "Haven't you seen him before?"
"I've seen him a few times, but never paid much attention." Kizaru crooked his lips in a grin. With that sneaky, rat-faced look, he seemed more like a thief than a Marine.
Yet those words were not a lie. Though he always looked frivolous, he was in fact extremely arrogant... or perhaps he simply liked leaving things unfinished. For example, after defeating pirates, he could clearly arrest or instantly kill them, yet he would ignore them over some trivial matter.
This style of conduct had enraged Sengoku more than once, but this old hand was completely unfazed. You could talk all you wanted; once you were done,