The broadcast echoed over the Training Ground, and Kong's forceful declaration sent all of Marineford into an uproar.
Meanwhile, in Marineford's Family Quarters...
Gern sat beside Zephyr and Garp, a faint smile playing on his lips.
He was still happily slurping his noodles, seemingly unconcerned about the approaching storm.
"Hahaha!" Garp suddenly burst out laughing and slapped Gern hard on the shoulder.
"Fleet Admiral Kong usually looks so stern. Who would've thought he'd show some backbone this time!"
"That's right. I've got a whole new respect for Fleet Admiral Kong!" Gern was surprised by Kong's choice as well, but now it seemed his years of groundwork were finally beginning to take shape.
"Hey, Gern! Tell me what it feels like to beat up a Celestial Dragon!" Garp leaned closer with a mischievous grin.
"You'll have to ask Lipo about that." Gern slurped another mouthful of noodles and glanced toward Lipo, who was swinging her Pearl Carrot by the room's window and doorway.
"Little Lipo!" Garp instantly darted over to her and struck up a conversation.
Watching Garp fool around, Zephyr rubbed his brow. He glanced at the relaxed Gern and couldn't help sighing.
"You've caused such a huge mess. How can you be as carefree as Garp?"
"Haha." Gern shrugged and said with a smile, "Because I've got you backing me up, Teacher!"
A vein throbbed at Zephyr's temple, and he nearly punched him. "You little brat!
"Still, you did the right thing this time. If you'd dared abandon Lipo to grovel before the Celestial Dragons, I would've killed you myself."
"Teacher Zephyr, Lipo is my Adjutant."
"And she's the daughter I took in! Hmph."
After a little more idle chatter, Zephyr calmed down again and began analyzing the situation in a low voice.
"In short, Fleet Admiral Kong has