Chapter 135

**Chapter 135**

This time, no matter how furious Garp was, he couldn't change the outcome.

He could rely on his seniority and achievements to act willfully at times, but **Dragon couldn't.**

Kong sighed, rubbing his temples. He knew arguing with Garp was pointless, so he tried a different approach.

"Garp, calm down," Kong said. "Actually, this escort mission is quite significant. The commander-in-chief is **Carl**—are you really still worried with him leading the way?"

Kong cast a glance at Carl. The young Admiral merely smiled slightly, saying nothing.

Sengoku the Buddha, arms crossed, nodded and spoke in a deep voice.

"In previous years, **CP9** always handled the escort work. Since the task was given to our Navy this time, it means the World Government sees us as more valuable."

Kong's eyes glimmered with approval. **This** was why he had chosen Sengoku as his successor—**he understood the bigger picture.**

Tsuru added, "This is an opportunity. If we handle this well, the Navy might gain even more influence within the World Government."

Sengoku and Tsuru exchanged looks before turning toward Garp, an apologetic glint in their eyes.

Garp scowled.

He **didn't care** about influence or politics.

All he saw was one simple fact—**his two old friends weren't going to help him this time.**

Still, he refused to give up. His voice rose with frustration.

"I don't think they have any good intentions!"

Kong's expression darkened.

"Enough!"

His palm **slammed** against the table, the impact making the entire room jolt.

"Garp!" he barked. "Have you forgotten who you are? The responsibilities you carry?!"

Garp clenched his fists, gripping the edge of his coat.

Then, with a deep sigh, he slumped back into his chair, defeated.

Kong ignored him and turned his attention to Carl, who had remained silent throughout the heated discussion.

"Carl, this mission is crucial. You must ensure the **Celestial Dragon** reaches Mary Geoise safely."

Carl nodded solemnly. "Don't worry, Fleet Admiral Kong. I will personally guarantee the Celestial Dragon's safe arrival."

Compared to Garp's **defiance**, Carl's **calm professionalism** was far more reassuring.

Kong nodded in satisfaction.

"Then I'll leave it to you!"

Carl kept his serious expression, though inwardly, he found the situation amusing.

To him, the **Celestial Dragon** wasn't some **exalted being**—he was just another **spoiled tenant**. And Carl?

He was just collecting the **rent.**

As Kong continued discussing mission details, the meeting was nearing its end when—

"Let me go this time too!"

**The room fell silent.**

Everyone turned to stare at Garp.

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

Garp crossed his arms.

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

Carl's gaze sharpened.

If Garp got involved, it would be a **serious obstacle** to his plans.

Thinking quickly, he responded,

"Vice Admiral Garp, isn't my presence enough? Are you questioning my ability?"

The words were **sharp.**

Everyone exchanged glances.

Carl was known for his **easygoing nature**, so seeing him speak so bluntly was surprising.

But considering he had just been promoted to **Admiral**, Garp's insistence could be interpreted as **undermining his authority**.

Realizing this, Garp quickly softened his tone.

"Carl, don't misunderstand me. I'm not questioning your ability. I'm just worried about Dragon."

Carl's eyes glimmered with amusement.

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

Garp hesitated.

He **couldn't** say that Dragon had been acting strange lately.

That wasn't something to discuss in front of others.

After a pause, he muttered, "The kid's been acting a little off. I'm worried he might do something reckless."

Before Carl could respond, Kong's voice **cut in firmly**.

"Of course, Carl is the commander-in-chief. His current rank is **Admiral**!"

Kong **emphasized** the word.

It was a clear reminder to Garp that Carl **outranked** him.

But Garp—**stubborn as ever**—completely ignored it.

Sengoku, sensing the tension, stepped in.

"I think we should let Garp go. It'll show the World Government our sincerity."

Tsuru nodded. "Yes. Garp's reputation with the World Government… hasn't been the best. If he takes the initiative to **escort** the Heavenly Tribute, it might help smooth things over."

The two of them had **felt guilty** about not backing Garp earlier.

This was their way of **making amends.**

Zephyr, however, looked displeased.

"But this is **Carl's** mission. I don't think it's appropriate!"

Carl gently **tugged Zephyr's sleeve**, speaking in a soft tone.

"Instructor Zephyr, let it be. Since Vice Admiral Garp wants to come, let him."

Zephyr frowned but **relented** under Carl's calming demeanor.

Carl turned to Kong.

"Fleet Admiral Kong, I have no objections to Vice Admiral Garp joining the mission."

Kong looked **relieved**.

As the highest-ranking officer, **handling Garp** was always a **headache**. Carl had just saved him from a bigger argument.

Garp's face lit up, but before he could celebrate—

Carl added, his tone **firm**,

"However, I want to make one thing clear. If anyone disobeys my orders during the mission—**I will not hesitate to act ruthlessly.**"

Garp **froze** for a moment.

Then, surprisingly—he **nodded.**

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.

The meeting proceeded smoothly, and before long, Kong finalized the **personnel assignments** and officially adjourned the discussion.

As everyone stood up to leave, Garp **grinned at Carl**, clapping him on the shoulder.

"Thanks, kid!"

Carl just **smiled** in return.

But deep down, he was already planning his next move.