Struggle for the Fleet Admiral Position

Marine Headquarters, Marineford.

Bang!

Aokiji's office door was kicked open without the slightest courtesy, making Aokiji's hand tremble as he read the newspaper.

"Sakazuki, what the hell kind of fit are you throwing?"

The moment he looked up and saw the furious Akainu, Aokiji frowned and snapped coldly.

"Looking like this, can you even call yourself a Marine?"

"Was Sengoku's letter of recommendation something you discussed beforehand?"

Akainu, however, paid no heed to Aokiji's darkened expression. Anger written all over his face, he questioned him without hesitation.

"...Even if I said no, you wouldn't believe me, would you?"

Aokiji frowned again and silently sighed.

So it really was because of that recommendation letter.

It was not just him and Akainu who knew about it. By now, nearly every prominent figure in the Marines who should know had learned of it.

Aokiji knew Sengoku had done it deliberately.

The reason was naturally those people above them.

In order to select a suitable next Fleet Admiral for the Marines, Sengoku had truly gone to great lengths, even resorting to building public momentum.

With so many people knowing, even the Five Elders could not pretend they had not seen it, could they?

But now, this trouble had landed on Aokiji's head.

Even Aokiji could only shake his head with a bitter smile.

"Of course I don't believe it. In terms of strength, you're a notch below me. If you hadn't colluded beforehand, why would Sengoku possibly recommend you?"

Akainu snorted coldly, and his gaze at Aokiji already carried a trace of killing intent.

"Using such despicable methods to rise to power, can you even call yourself a Marine?"

"..."

Who the hell are you calling despicable?!

Aokiji's temper flared as well.

He had already been annoyed enough these past few days because of