Sengoku's words were like a bomb dropped into the hearts of every Marine below the platform.
Had they not been well trained, they might already have erupted into an uproar.
Everyone was exclaiming inwardly:
Why? Fleet Admiral Sengoku hasn't even reached retirement age. Why is he retiring?
Is Fleet Admiral Sengoku resigning?
So Admiral Kuzan is being promoted to Fleet Admiral. I was wondering why he didn't have any epaulets.
I fully support Admiral Kuzan becoming Fleet Admiral!
I have no objections to Admiral Kuzan taking over as Fleet Admiral.
Yet quite a few others had different thoughts.
Onigumo thought, Hmph! It's all that damned Lott's fault! Otherwise, how would Kuzan ever have gotten the Fleet Admiral's position!
Doberman thought, Kuzan, you only got your position as Fleet Admiral by stepping over Admiral Akainu's corpse.
Sengoku's voice continued, "I'm old now, and my stamina isn't what it used to be. I'm no longer fit to serve as Fleet Admiral.
"I believe Fleet Admiral Kuzan will lead the Marines to new heights of glory."
With that, he handed the little Den Den Mushi to Kuzan.
Kuzan took the Den Den Mushi and scratched his head, unsure where to begin.
Only after a long while did he drawl, "Ah, well... I'm Kuzan. I'm honored and happy to become the new Fleet Admiral.
"I know many people still don't understand or are unhappy with my taking over as Fleet Admiral.
"But I'll do everything I can to dispel your doubts.
"I'll strive to lead the Marines into becoming true Marines!
"At the same time, I hope you'll all freely offer corrections and criticism in our work going forward.
"Please share your valuable opinions and suggestions with me."
As Tsuru listened to Kuzan's impassioned speech, she easily picked out one particular line.
She turned