Xun Yu nodded with a smile and continued reading. His gaze turned to the rear of the military ranks, where several young officers stood. Two were particularly conspicuous. One was tall, with a resolute face and blazing eyes: Chinjao's grandson, Cai Yi. The other was powerfully built, with a deep, imposing presence: Cai Yi's brother, Cai Buwu. Both had fought valiantly under Chinjao in the N-7 Campaign and earned merit, but more importantly, they were outstanding members of the Happo Navy's younger generation, Chinjao's direct descendants.
"Chinjao, commander of the Happo Navy, Sea-Subduing General, and holder of the Bugeng rank, comes from a family of loyal warriors. Three generations of his family have served the nation, rendering great service to the state. His grandsons, Cai Yi and Cai Buwu, are accomplished youths, brave and decisive. In the N-7 Campaign, they faced powerful enemies without fear and achieved considerable gains, displaying the valor of a military lineage. Mindful that General Chinjao continues to guard our borders despite his advanced age and eminent virtue, His Majesty has specially bestowed generous rewards upon his grandsons, to honor his achievements, comfort his heart, and cultivate future pillars of the Empire."
Hearing this, Cai Yi and Cai Buwu trembled slightly with excitement. They hurried out of the ranks, knelt on one knee, and bowed their heads to receive their honors. Standing farther forward, Chinjao flushed, his aged eyes moist. He was clearly just as overwhelmed.
"By special grant, Cai Yi-" Xun Yu's voice rang out. "One Zoan-type, Mythical Zoan Monkey-Monkey Fruit, Model: Infernape!"
A Mythical Zoan! Another Mythical Zoan!
Once again, quiet gasps sounded through the hall. By granting Mythical Zoans to mid-ranking officers in succession, just how terrifying a backbone did His Majesty intend to build?
A palace attendant brought forward a jade tray