One Piece: Starting in God Valley as a Slave

However, this time, no matter how excited Garp was, he could not change the final result. He could rely on his seniority and merits to do something willful, but Dragon could not.

Kong was also helpless and could only appease him.

"Garp, calm down. Actually, the escort mission this time is quite significant. You see, the commander-in-chief is Carl. Are you still worried with him leading the way?"

Kong glanced at Carl, who smiled slightly and said nothing.

Sengoku the Buddha folded his arms and nodded, saying in a deep voice,

"In previous years, the escort work was always carried out by CP9. Since this task was given to our Navy this time, it means that our Navy holds a more important position in the World Government."

After hearing this, Kong looked at Sengoku with approval, thinking that he truly was his chosen successor.

Tsuru continued, "In this case, we must seize the opportunity. It might allow our Navy to gain more influence within the World Government."

After saying that, Sengoku and Tsuru looked at Garp, a hint of apology in their eyes.

Garp didn't want to think about the complex politics. He only saw one thing—that his two old friends might not help him this time.

But he still didn't give up, and said angrily, "I don't think they have any good intentions!"

"Enough!" Kong's expression darkened as he slammed his hand on the table, scolding,

"Garp! Have you forgotten who you are? What responsibilities you're carrying?"

Garp clenched his fists tightly, and He pulled at the corner of his coat, shaking his head slightly.

"Alas!" With a heavy sigh, Garp sat back in his chair dejectedly. Kong ignored him and turned to Carl, who had remained silent throughout the discussion.

"Carl, this mission is very important. You must ensure the Celestial Dragon reaches Mary Geoise without incident."

Carl replied solemnly, "Don't worry, Fleet Admiral Kong. I will make sure the Celestial Dragon arrives safely at Mary Geoise."

Compared to Garp's resistance, Carl's composure seemed much more reassuring. Kong nodded in satisfaction and said,

"Then I'll leave it to you!"

Carl kept his serious expression, though he found the situation a bit amusing. For him, the Celestial Dragon was more like a troublesome tenant than a VIP—he was just going to collect the rent.

As Kong outlined the mission's precautions, the meeting was about to end when Garp suddenly said,

"Let me go this time too!"

"Huh?" Everyone was stunned for a moment, and Kong frowned,

"Garp, stop causing trouble. What's your reason?"

"This is Dragon's first time participating in such an important mission. As his father, I want to be there. Is that so unreasonable?"

Carl narrowed his eyes. If Garp really got involved, it would certainly hinder his own plans. Thinking quickly, he responded,

"Vice Admiral Garp, isn't it enough that I'm here? Are you questioning my ability?"

The words were sharp, and the others looked at each other in surprise. Carl was usually kind to his colleagues, so it was unusual to see him speak so directly. However, considering Carl had just been promoted to Admiral, Garp's words could easily be seen as a challenge to his authority.

Garp realized his mistake, and his tone softened, "Carl, don't misunderstand me. I'm not questioning your ability. I'm just worried about Dragon."

"Oh? Dragon's strength is no weaker than that of an ordinary Vice Admiral. I wonder what Vice Admiral Garp is worried about?"

Garp looked embarrassed. He couldn't openly say Dragon had been acting strange lately, could he? That wasn't something to share publicly!

After a pause, he finally said, "The kid's been acting a little off lately. I'm worried he might do something reckless. That's why I want to keep an eye on him."

He quickly added, "So please let me go with you. I swear I won't interfere with any of your orders!"

Before Carl could respond, Kong interjected, "Of course, Carl is the commander-in-chief. His current rank is Admiral!"

Kong emphasized the title "Admiral," clearly directing his remark at Garp. But Garp, determined not to be an Admiral, ignored the jab completely.

Sengoku the Buddha glanced at Garp and said, "I think we should let Garp go. This will show the World Government our sincerity."

Tsuru nodded in agreement. "Yes, Garp's reputation with the World Government hasn't been the best. By taking the initiative to participate in this escort mission, we might even ease tensions."

Sengoku and Tsuru, feeling guilty for not supporting Garp earlier, saw this as a chance to make amends.

Zephyr, however, wasn't pleased. "But this is Carl's mission. I don't think it's appropriate!"

Carl gently tugged at Zephyr's sleeve and said softly, "Instructor Zephyr, let it be. Since Vice Admiral Garp wants to join, let him."

Zephyr, still a bit indignant, grumbled, but Carl smiled and reassured him before turning back to Kong.

"Fleet Admiral Kong, I'm fine with Vice Admiral Garp joining the mission."

Relieved, Kong gave Carl a grateful look. As the top leader, it wasn't easy for him to handle such strong personalities in the room. Carl had just saved him from a bigger headache.

Garp's face lit up with joy, but before he could celebrate, Carl added firmly, "However, I want to make it clear. If anyone disobeys my orders during the mission, I won't hesitate to act ruthlessly."

Garp froze for a moment, but quickly agreed. The others saw nothing wrong with Carl's warning—after all, he had already shown great leniency by allowing Garp to join.

With that settled, Carl's usual gentle smile returned as he sat back in his chair. The rest of the meeting proceeded smoothly. Kong, eager to avoid any further disruptions, quickly finalized the personnel assignments and adjourned the meeting.

As everyone stood up to leave, Garp turned to Carl with a big grin, thanking him.

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+95 chapters on p@treon/tambeerg