The Five Elders: Akainu's Indomitable Spirit Despite His Disability Deserves Commendation

"..."

His words were met with another round of silence.

Aokiji had been recommended by Sengoku. It was hard to guarantee that the two of them did not share some special connection.

The Five Elders could not remain silent about that.

If Aokiji truly became Fleet Admiral, it would be like pushing the Marines away from them.

The Five Elders would never allow that!

The Marines were the World Government's watchdog and the blade in its hand. Although the Marines had never been exposed to much of the core intelligence—

They still would not sit by and watch such a useful blade be pushed away.

"Since that is the case, there seems to be no need for further discussion. Let Akainu take over as Fleet Admiral. Does anyone object?"

Seeing that no one wanted Aokiji to become Fleet Admiral, the Five Elder who had been tapping his cane spoke again.

"Seconded..."

"But Aokiji was the victor after all. We must also consider whether the public will accept this. How should we proceed?"

The Five Elders nodded one after another, though someone still raised a question.

After all, Aokiji was currently the victor.

His duel with Akainu had been witnessed by the entire world.

Forcing Akainu into the position of Fleet Admiral now—

Without a reasonable explanation, it would be difficult to convince anyone.

Compared to the struggle for Fleet Admiral, the Marines losing their unity would be far more troublesome.

"The victor? Did we authorize their battle?"

Yet the Five Elder holding the cane remained perfectly calm.

"Since we never authorized it, and they had no direct orders from the World Government, was it not merely a dispute born of youthful pride?"

"I think Akainu is a fine lad. Even knowing he was injured, he did not fear a challenge.