Reading settings
Chapter 1093: Only Wish to Better Protect the World! (Third Update)
The six, including Mima Amatori, received their medals and left the stage, successfully pushing the conference atmosphere to a climax.
Meanwhile, Kong Ye returned to his seat.
This time, Zephyr stepped onto the stage in his capacity as Air Force Headquarters Marshal.
He was there to present the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order' to the representatives of the Air Force troops who participated in the conquest of the 'Zero Magic World'.
This unit was the Air Group under Admiral Kizaru.
Their main merit was the successful occupation of Adil, the capital of the former Nefertari Elf Kingdom in the 'Zero Magic World', and securing a 'Gate of the Holy Land' that leads to Another World for the World Government.
Although the process wasn't difficult, whether it was the Elf Kingdom, the Gate of the Holy Land, or the 'Elf Stone' hidden in the mountain range—the source of all Wind Stones, blasted in half a thousand years ago by Brimir using Void Magic: 'Life'.
Each of these held immeasurable value, so it was natural to grant high-spec rewards.
One could say they were lucky.
Or perhaps Borsalino was lucky enough?
With this expedition, he also received an East First-Class Medal, but because he was in space and couldn't return in time, he was unable to attend this Awarding Ceremony.
However, his adjutant, Ran from the Imperial Arms World, went on stage as a representative to accept the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order' and the 'East First-Class Medal' presented by Zephyr.
As for the Elite Medals attached to the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order'...
Because of the large quantity, they would be sent to their barracks afterward.
At that time, every soldier under Kizaru would be able to wear a beautiful medal on their chest.
This included the Eldians who were part of the Airborne Unit!
This much-suffering nation finally saw a glimmer of hope, causing Historia on Noah's Ark to tear up at this scene.
Next, Zephyr returned to his seat, and Army Headquarters Marshal Raimon stepped forward.
He first presented the 'Army Headquarters Marshal Unit Commendation Order' to the Army troops that made outstanding contributions in the combat in the Ninja World.
This was the Third Division and Fifth Division under Sakazuki's First Main Combat Legion.
Because they were the troops fighting the Demon Army on the frontline.
Their casualty count was unprecedented since the World Government opened the Star Gate.
Vice Admiral Charlotte Oven and Vice Admiral Dalmatian, as Division Commanders, represented their troops on stage to accept the 'Army Headquarters Marshal Unit Commendation Order' presented by Raimon.
Similarly, the attached Elite Medals would be sent to their barracks afterward.
As for their personal medals, there were none.
After all, they didn't do anything too noteworthy.
If they were given medals, then Vice Admirals like Onigumo, Fabian, and Doberman would also have to be given one.
But medals would not be so cheap.
In fact, although this conference ceremony was enhanced by ceremonial music and the host's words, the process was actually quite tedious.
It was just watching one group of people go up to receive awards, step down, and then watch another group go up.
But no one cared about this tedium.
Because everyone below the rostrum was looking forward to the day it would be their turn.
Those medals and Commendation Orders were not only honors but also closely related to military merit, prize money, treatment, and promotion.
Moreover, as a super-large power organization like the World Government, this kind of formalistic activity was also essential.
It could embody the collective consciousness of the group, reflecting the importance and care of the higher-ups.
It established advanced role models, encouraged behavioral norms, cultivated collective cohesion, and enhanced collective competitiveness.
At the same time, it emphasized the authority of the World Government over all ruled worlds, including the World, and expanded its influence in society.
Especially for the citizens of the newly conquered Zero Magic World and Ninja World.
This public broadcast of the Supreme Military Command Commendation and Award Ceremony was enough to make them deeply realize that the World Government's rule over them was no longer possible to shake in the slightest.
The originally fluctuating popular support quickly stabilized, and the turbulent social atmosphere also recovered calm.
They began to actively accept and understand the World Government laws and regulations.
After Army Headquarters Marshal Raimon returned to his seat.
They saw Dean Gareth Marrick of the Supreme Military Command rise again.
Kuzan, Sakazuki, Kaido, and others below the rostrum were immediately moved.
Because they knew the main event was coming!
"Now announcing, by order personally signed by Supreme Executive Committee Member, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, Vice Admiral Sir Crocodile is formally appointed as Army Headquarters Admiral, Code Name 'Sand Crocodile', and is hereby granted the Admiral rank, Admiral Coat of Justice, and an Admiral Gold Star Medal!"
"Furthermore, in recognition of Admiral Sir Crocodile's outstanding contributions and exceptional military merit in the Ninja World, he is awarded the 'Wave Cross War Medal'!"
The words spoken by Dean Marrick into the microphone caused another uproar throughout the venue.
First was the confirmation of the third Admiral candidate for the Army Headquarters.
Although everyone had speculated before, it was still not the same as it becoming a fact.
Also, the 'Wave Cross War Medal'.
This is only awarded to high-ranking officers who have excellently completed command missions in large-scale wars and successfully achieved strategic objectives, or who have carried out special operations in life-threatening situations, demonstrating courage and dedication.
Since the World Government established this medal system, only Admiral Ghost Shark had been awarded one.
Indeed, Bullet, sitting in his position, looked disdainfully at Crocodile who had stood up, while the latter retaliated with a cold laugh.
"What you have, I also have, and what you don't have, I will have in the future!"
Then Crocodile swung the jet-black Coat of Justice behind him.
Under everyone's gaze, he strode towards the brightly lit rostrum with his polished leather boots.
"Ya ah—hahahahaha————"
In Alabasta, Shukaku stayed in its territory castle, watching the virtual screen projected into mid-air by the Den Den Mushi, and immediately slapped its round belly, letting out a sharp, wild laugh.
"Great! Great! Old Sand really became an Admiral!"
"Let's see who dares to provoke me in the World from now on!"
In the screen feed, Crocodile walked up to Dean Gareth Marrick.
He first took off the Coat of Justice belonging to a Vice Admiral.
Then he picked up the Coat of Justice with the Admiral shoulder insignia held by the ceremony attendant and put it on.
Next, he allowed Dean Marrick to pin the 'Admiral Gold Star Medal' and the 'Wave Cross War Medal' onto his suit chest, and then extended his hands to receive two gold and red official certificates.
Finally...
Admiral Sir Crocodile slowly turned around, faced the entire auditorium, and powerfully scanned every corner.
Finally, his gaze fell upon Douglas Bullet.
The two stared at each other, neither giving way.
From this point on, Admiral Sand Crocodile was finally born!
This also meant that the Admiral positions of the Army Headquarters were fully staffed!
Akainu, Ghost Shark, Sand Crocodile!
Not long after, Crocodile, who had splendidly become an Admiral, did not sit back in his second-row seat. Ignoring Aramaki's resentful gaze, he plopped down next to Bullet and said with a low, cold laugh:
"I told you I'd catch up, and it won't take long~~"
Bullet scoffed, "Hmph, perhaps in terms of identity, but not necessarily in strength, you stupid Crocodile!"
"Alright, let's find a place to test it out, you rotten Shark. I've just mastered a new strength!" Crocodile sneered with disdain, pursing his lips.
"Next, I shall announce again, by order personally signed by Supreme Executive Committee Member, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, Vice Admiral Issho is formally appointed as Marine Headquarters Admiral, Code Name 'Fujitora', and is hereby granted the Admiral rank, Admiral Coat of Justice, and an Admiral Gold Star Medal!"
[Whoosh!]
Instantly, everyone's gaze focused on Issho, who was slowly rising.
They hadn't expected two Admirals to be promoted simultaneously today.
"Congratulations, Issho," Kuzan said with a light smile.
Issho replied in a low voice, "I only wish it allows me to better protect the World, the citizens, and the justice in my heart." After speaking, he simply tidied his clothing and walked step by step towards the rostrum.
(End of Chapter)
The six, including Mima Amatori, received their medals and left the stage, successfully pushing the conference atmosphere to a climax.
Meanwhile, Kong Ye returned to his seat.
This time, Zephyr stepped onto the stage in his capacity as Air Force Headquarters Marshal.
He was there to present the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order' to the representatives of the Air Force troops who participated in the conquest of the 'Zero Magic World'.
This unit was the Air Group under Admiral Kizaru.
Their main merit was the successful occupation of Adil, the capital of the former Nefertari Elf Kingdom in the 'Zero Magic World', and securing a 'Gate of the Holy Land' that leads to Another World for the World Government.
Although the process wasn't difficult, whether it was the Elf Kingdom, the Gate of the Holy Land, or the 'Elf Stone' hidden in the mountain range—the source of all Wind Stones, blasted in half a thousand years ago by Brimir using Void Magic: 'Life'.
Each of these held immeasurable value, so it was natural to grant high-spec rewards.
One could say they were lucky.
Or perhaps Borsalino was lucky enough?
With this expedition, he also received an East First-Class Medal, but because he was in space and couldn't return in time, he was unable to attend this Awarding Ceremony.
However, his adjutant, Ran from the Imperial Arms World, went on stage as a representative to accept the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order' and the 'East First-Class Medal' presented by Zephyr.
As for the Elite Medals attached to the 'Air Force Marshal Unit Commendation Order'...
Because of the large quantity, they would be sent to their barracks afterward.
At that time, every soldier under Kizaru would be able to wear a beautiful medal on their chest.
This included the Eldians who were part of the Airborne Unit!
This much-suffering nation finally saw a glimmer of hope, causing Historia on Noah's Ark to tear up at this scene.
Next, Zephyr returned to his seat, and Army Headquarters Marshal Raimon stepped forward.
He first presented the 'Army Headquarters Marshal Unit Commendation Order' to the Army troops that made outstanding contributions in the combat in the Ninja World.
This was the Third Division and Fifth Division under Sakazuki's First Main Combat Legion.
Because they were the troops fighting the Demon Army on the frontline.
Their casualty count was unprecedented since the World Government opened the Star Gate.
Vice Admiral Charlotte Oven and Vice Admiral Dalmatian, as Division Commanders, represented their troops on stage to accept the 'Army Headquarters Marshal Unit Commendation Order' presented by Raimon.
Similarly, the attached Elite Medals would be sent to their barracks afterward.
As for their personal medals, there were none.
After all, they didn't do anything too noteworthy.
If they were given medals, then Vice Admirals like Onigumo, Fabian, and Doberman would also have to be given one.
But medals would not be so cheap.
In fact, although this conference ceremony was enhanced by ceremonial music and the host's words, the process was actually quite tedious.
It was just watching one group of people go up to receive awards, step down, and then watch another group go up.
But no one cared about this tedium.
Because everyone below the rostrum was looking forward to the day it would be their turn.
Those medals and Commendation Orders were not only honors but also closely related to military merit, prize money, treatment, and promotion.
Moreover, as a super-large power organization like the World Government, this kind of formalistic activity was also essential.
It could embody the collective consciousness of the group, reflecting the importance and care of the higher-ups.
It established advanced role models, encouraged behavioral norms, cultivated collective cohesion, and enhanced collective competitiveness.
At the same time, it emphasized the authority of the World Government over all ruled worlds, including the World, and expanded its influence in society.
Especially for the citizens of the newly conquered Zero Magic World and Ninja World.
This public broadcast of the Supreme Military Command Commendation and Award Ceremony was enough to make them deeply realize that the World Government's rule over them was no longer possible to shake in the slightest.
The originally fluctuating popular support quickly stabilized, and the turbulent social atmosphere also recovered calm.
They began to actively accept and understand the World Government laws and regulations.
After Army Headquarters Marshal Raimon returned to his seat.
They saw Dean Gareth Marrick of the Supreme Military Command rise again.
Kuzan, Sakazuki, Kaido, and others below the rostrum were immediately moved.
Because they knew the main event was coming!
"Now announcing, by order personally signed by Supreme Executive Committee Member, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, Vice Admiral Sir Crocodile is formally appointed as Army Headquarters Admiral, Code Name 'Sand Crocodile', and is hereby granted the Admiral rank, Admiral Coat of Justice, and an Admiral Gold Star Medal!"
"Furthermore, in recognition of Admiral Sir Crocodile's outstanding contributions and exceptional military merit in the Ninja World, he is awarded the 'Wave Cross War Medal'!"
The words spoken by Dean Marrick into the microphone caused another uproar throughout the venue.
First was the confirmation of the third Admiral candidate for the Army Headquarters.
Although everyone had speculated before, it was still not the same as it becoming a fact.
Also, the 'Wave Cross War Medal'.
This is only awarded to high-ranking officers who have excellently completed command missions in large-scale wars and successfully achieved strategic objectives, or who have carried out special operations in life-threatening situations, demonstrating courage and dedication.
Since the World Government established this medal system, only Admiral Ghost Shark had been awarded one.
Indeed, Bullet, sitting in his position, looked disdainfully at Crocodile who had stood up, while the latter retaliated with a cold laugh.
"What you have, I also have, and what you don't have, I will have in the future!"
Then Crocodile swung the jet-black Coat of Justice behind him.
Under everyone's gaze, he strode towards the brightly lit rostrum with his polished leather boots.
"Ya ah—hahahahaha————"
In Alabasta, Shukaku stayed in its territory castle, watching the virtual screen projected into mid-air by the Den Den Mushi, and immediately slapped its round belly, letting out a sharp, wild laugh.
"Great! Great! Old Sand really became an Admiral!"
"Let's see who dares to provoke me in the World from now on!"
In the screen feed, Crocodile walked up to Dean Gareth Marrick.
He first took off the Coat of Justice belonging to a Vice Admiral.
Then he picked up the Coat of Justice with the Admiral shoulder insignia held by the ceremony attendant and put it on.
Next, he allowed Dean Marrick to pin the 'Admiral Gold Star Medal' and the 'Wave Cross War Medal' onto his suit chest, and then extended his hands to receive two gold and red official certificates.
Finally...
Admiral Sir Crocodile slowly turned around, faced the entire auditorium, and powerfully scanned every corner.
Finally, his gaze fell upon Douglas Bullet.
The two stared at each other, neither giving way.
From this point on, Admiral Sand Crocodile was finally born!
This also meant that the Admiral positions of the Army Headquarters were fully staffed!
Akainu, Ghost Shark, Sand Crocodile!
Not long after, Crocodile, who had splendidly become an Admiral, did not sit back in his second-row seat. Ignoring Aramaki's resentful gaze, he plopped down next to Bullet and said with a low, cold laugh:
"I told you I'd catch up, and it won't take long~~"
Bullet scoffed, "Hmph, perhaps in terms of identity, but not necessarily in strength, you stupid Crocodile!"
"Alright, let's find a place to test it out, you rotten Shark. I've just mastered a new strength!" Crocodile sneered with disdain, pursing his lips.
"Next, I shall announce again, by order personally signed by Supreme Executive Committee Member, Saint Jaygarcia Saturn, Vice Admiral Issho is formally appointed as Marine Headquarters Admiral, Code Name 'Fujitora', and is hereby granted the Admiral rank, Admiral Coat of Justice, and an Admiral Gold Star Medal!"
[Whoosh!]
Instantly, everyone's gaze focused on Issho, who was slowly rising.
They hadn't expected two Admirals to be promoted simultaneously today.
"Congratulations, Issho," Kuzan said with a light smile.
Issho replied in a low voice, "I only wish it allows me to better protect the World, the citizens, and the justice in my heart." After speaking, he simply tidied his clothing and walked step by step towards the rostrum.
(End of Chapter)
