Chapter 26: Serving as an Admiral
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Two more days passed, and the remaining two competitions concluded smoothly.
As Roja had anticipated, the final results were clear: Aokiji and Kizaru emerged as the other two promoted admirals.
Now, with Roja among them, the trio made their way to Fleet Admiral Sengoku's office. Roja walked at the center, naturally commanding attention.
Along the way, every Marine they passed saluted them with respect, their eyes brimming with awe.
Kizaru, with his usual laid-back demeanor, glanced at Roja and asked, "Roja, have you decided on your epithet?"
Every admiral had a title that signified their role and presence within the Navy—like Kizaru for Borsalino and Aokiji for Kuzan. Roja, now poised to join their ranks, was the only one without one.
"Admiral Kizaru," Roja replied calmly, "I've already decided."
Kizaru waved a hand dismissively, his tone casual but tactful. "No need for formalities, Roja. We're equals now—just call me by my name or code name."
Aokiji chimed in, his tone friendly yet respectful. "That's right, Roja. You're undoubtedly the strongest among us. Seeing your strength firsthand during the competition, I must admit, it's humbling."
Roja smiled faintly and replied, "Admiral Aokiji, Admiral Kizaru, you flatter me. But let's skip the formalities. My code name will be the White Dove."
Both admirals nodded in approval.
"The White Dove, huh? It suits you," Aokiji remarked.
Kizaru added, "Freedom and peace, gentle yet powerful. It does seem to fit you perfectly. Well, Admiral White Dove, we'll be counting on you."
Their words carried sincerity—Aokiji, due to his close ties with Sengoku, genuinely sought camaraderie, while Kizaru, ever the pragmatist, recognized Roja's strength and wanted to stay on good terms.
Roja silently mused at the scene. I never imagined I'd one day be walking these halls as an admiral of the Navy. It's an unexpected turn, but a fascinating experience, nonetheless.
By now, Roja held two identities on the seas. To the Marines, he was Admiral White Dove, a symbol of justice and strength. To the rest of the world, he remained a mysterious figure who often clashed with the Navy.
Either way, Roja realized that these dual roles would serve him well.
Just then, an electronic sound echoed in Roja's mind.
Ding!
Congratulations, Host! You've checked into Sengoku's Office and acquired the peak realm of the Great Swordsman!
Roja felt a surge of warmth in his body, and countless insights into the way of the sword flooded his mind.
He chuckled inwardly. As I thought, Sengoku's office is a significant location in this world.
After quickly digesting this newfound knowledge, Roja pushed open the door to Sengoku's office.
Sengoku was already seated, his expression composed as his sharp eyes assessed the three admirals standing before him.
"All of you," Sengoku began, his tone firm yet warm, "are the finest warriors chosen from this promotion conference. You've proven your worth as admirals. Especially you, Roja—you've exceeded all expectations. With your strength and leadership, I'm confident we'll bring peace to these seas sooner than ever."
He turned to Roja. "Have you decided on your epithet?"
"Yes," Roja replied without hesitation. "The White Dove."
"White Dove," Sengoku repeated with approval. "An excellent choice."
With that, Sengoku officially assigned positions to Roja (White Dove), Aokiji, and Kizaru. The promotion of the three new admirals was quickly reported to the world, with the ever-diligent Morgans spreading the news through his newspapers.
Across the seas, the news caused a stir.
Many focused on the unexpected rise of Admiral White Dove. Some hailed Roja as a powerhouse who surpassed even his fellow admirals, pointing to his decisive victory over Akainu as proof. Others criticized the Navy for elevating an outsider so quickly, interpreting it as a sign of the Navy's desperation.
But regardless of opinion, one thing was clear: White Dove Roja was a name that no one would forget.
As the three admirals were about to leave Sengoku's office, Roja's eyes caught a report on the desk. It detailed the corruption of a Marine officer, Captain Nezumi, and the plight of Cocoyasi Village.
Ding!
Check-in task released: Cocoyasi Village. Reward: Noah's Ark. Deadline: 7 days.
Noah's Ark.
Roja's eyes lit up. The legendary ship... It must still be resting near Fish-Man Island.
Sengoku noticed Roja's hesitation. "Roja, is something on your mind?"
Roja nodded. "Fleet Admiral, I have a request."
"Oh? Let's hear it."
"As someone who joined the Navy suddenly, I fear my reputation might create unnecessary tension within our ranks. I'd like to take a month to solidify my standing—by hunting pirates and proving my worth."
Sengoku's eyes gleamed with approval. He slapped the table and stood up. "Excellent! That's the spirit I like to see. What do you need? Troops? Ships?"
Roja shook his head. "Just one warship will suffice."
Sengoku smiled. "Take Kalifa with you as your deputy, and I'll ensure you're equipped with a top-class admiral warship. Do us proud, Admiral White Dove."
"Thank you, Fleet Admiral."
As Roja left the office, a determined smile played on his lips. It's time to take to the seas again. If I want true freedom, power is the only answer.
With that, he stepped into the sunlight, ready for his next adventure. As he walked, he noticed a shadow flit across the horizon…
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