Time flew by. For three days, negotiations and deliberations unfolded silently between Marine Headquarters and Mary Geoise.
At last, a transfer order bearing the Fleet Admiral's seal and the World Government's special authorization stamp was placed before Gern.
"Gern, this is the 'compensation' you wanted." Sengoku looked even more exhausted than he had three days earlier.
He pushed the document toward Gern, his tone grave, each word seemingly carrying an immense weight.
"Although the World Government... has agreed in principle.
I must warn you again: Douglas Bullet is an extremely dangerous individual. His destructive power and unpredictability far exceed anything you can imagine.
If he causes any trouble out there, any chaos that spirals beyond control,
you, Gern Reginald Sigma, will bear full responsibility!
The Marines and the World Government will not shoulder any consequences for you!"
In other words, virtually all risk and responsibility had been stripped away from them and placed squarely on Gern's shoulders alone.
"It's what I'm owed." Gern picked up the transfer order, scanned its harsh conditions and final authorization, and smiled in satisfaction.
As for Sengoku's stern warning, he had no intention of offering any assurances or rebuttals. He simply maintained that inscrutable smile.
It was as though he had already dismissed all consequences-or possessed absolute confidence that he could keep everything under control.
Yet Gern's silence only made Sengoku more uneasy. Still, things had already reached this point. There was no turning back.
Without lingering any longer, Gern put away the transfer order and turned to leave the Fleet Admiral's Office.
But just then, Sengoku suddenly called him back.
"Gern."
Gern stopped without turning around.
"Fleet Admiral Kong's tenure is over. I am the Fleet Admiral now. I hope you understand that."
"Heh." Gern gave a soft chuckle, then walked out.
He left