He began by acknowledging the achievement, but then his tone shifted, turning serious.
"However, promotion—especially to the rank of Colonel and to a critical position such as commanding a quasi-carrier fleet—cannot be based solely on momentary military merit. Qin Beiwang is only twenty-two years old, with just a few years of military service. He lacks long-term, multi-position experience and has never been tested in the overall coordination of large-scale battles or the complex political-military environment."
He scanned the room, emphasizing, "Seniority is not just about time; it represents the accumulation of experience, an understanding of human nature, and a deep comprehension of the operations of a vast military system. Abruptly elevating him to such a high position may fail to command respect. The Federation's military promotion system emphasizes gradual progression, which protects the individual and ensures the stability of the armed forces. If we set this precedent, could it incite unrest among junior officers, leading them to believe that military merit can override all traditions and seniority? Could it cast doubt on the fairness and seriousness of promotions? These are all negative impacts that must be carefully considered."
Ruan Xingwei's words reflected the views of a significant portion of senior, conservative generals within the General Staff. They did not deny Qin Beiwang's talent but were concerned about the chain reactions and impact on the military's established structure that breaking the existing rules might cause.
As soon as he finished speaking, a relatively young general across from him, Major General Chen Qingyu, who wore two silver stars on his shoulders, straightened slightly. He belonged to the more active "young faction" within the General Staff, placing greater emphasis on practical ability and results.
"I cannot fully agree with Admiral Ruan's emphasis on seniority," Chen Qingyu said clearly, his tone neither submissive nor arrogant. "Extraordinary times call for extraordinary choices. With the Empire pressing step by step at the border, the Battle of Savannah has exposed the rigidity in some of our tactical thinking and adaptability. The fact that Qin Beiwang could achieve such results deep within Imperial territory with a newly formed fleet precisely proves that he possesses disruptive tactical thinking, extreme command resilience under pressure, and a keen sense for seizing fleeting opportunities—qualities many of our officers, promoted step by step, lack."
His eyes burned with intensity. "Seniority can be accumulated, but the ability to create miracles in desperate situations is one in ten thousand. We should not be bound by numbers like 'age' and 'years of service.' The Federation needs heroes, but even more, it needs heroes who can win battles! Promoting Qin Beiwang exceptionally is precisely a declaration to the entire military and all citizens: in the Federation, ability and military merit are the highest rungs of the promotion ladder! This will not only greatly boost the morale of frontline soldiers fighting with their lives but also attract more talented young people to join the military, because they can see that here, talent will not be buried, and victory will be rewarded as it deserves—generously!"
He paused, his tone growing even more forceful. "As for Admiral Ruan's concern about 'commanding respect'—in the military, the hardest truth is victory! The results of Savannah are there for all to see; the battle reports of annihilating the Megalodon and defeating three elite Imperial fleets have already spread. At this moment, who would still question whether Qin Beiwang's ability is insufficient to command respect?"
It is more likely admiration and aspiration!
This is the perfect opportunity to curb the Empire's arrogance and showcase our Federation's enterprising spirit!
If we stifle such a fierce general's edge by clinging to outdated conventions, or fail to provide him with a platform to play a greater role in time, that would be a true loss and dereliction of duty!"
General Ruan Xingwei's conservative caution and Major General Chen Qingyu's radical support each drew echoes from their respective followers. The debate echoed in the circular hall, with neither side able to convince the other.
Both viewpoints had their merits, leading to a temporary stalemate.
Chief of Staff General Lü Yanlin, seated at the head of the table, listened calmly for a moment. Seeing that the debate was unlikely to reach a consensus quickly, and given the urgency of the front line battle reports and the importance of General Wen Tingtao's proposal, he raised his hand again and gently tapped the table.
The crisp tapping sound gradually quieted the debate.
All the generals' eyes focused on him.
"Since both sides hold their ground and have valid points."
Lü Yanlin's voice was steady, devoid of any emotional bias.
"Then, following procedure, we will proceed to a vote."
He stated clearly.
"Those in favor of approving the proposal by General Wen Tingtao, Commander of the Myriad Stones Star Domain Theater—namely, to exceptionally promote Qin Bei Wang to Colonel and, in principle, agree to his formation and command of a Rapid Maneuver Strike Group equipped with an Aircraft Carrier—please raise your hands."
The hall fell silent for a moment, then hands began to rise one after another.
The younger generals who supported Chen Qingyu's view acted decisively, while some centrists or those who prioritized actual combat achievements also slowly raised their hands.
Lü Yanlin's adjutant quickly tallied the votes.
"Those opposed to this proposal, believing it should be postponed or handled through regular procedures, please raise your hands."
Lü Yanlin continued.
General Ruan Xingwei was the first to raise his hand, his expression serious.
The generals around him, who similarly valued seniority and stability, also raised their hands, including several respected veterans.
The adjutant tallied again, then leaned in and whispered the count into Lü Yanlin's ear.
Lü Yanlin gave a slight nod, swept his gaze across the room, and announced the result.
"In favor, 49 votes.
Opposed, 49 votes.
Abstentions, 1 vote."
A tie.
This result sent a low ripple through the hall.
All eyes once again turned in unison to Lü Yanlin. As the Chief of Staff presiding over the meeting, he had not yet cast his own vote.
Now, his final vote would directly determine the fate of the proposal, decide Qin Bei Wang's destiny, and potentially influence the Federation's military talent strategy for some time to come.
Ruan Xingwei's lips moved slightly as if he wanted to say something, but in the end, he remained silent, merely staring intently at Lü Yanlin.
Major General Chen Qingyu subconsciously straightened his back, his eyes filled with anticipation.
Under the gaze of dozens of pairs of eyes, Lü Yanlin's face showed no hesitation or struggle.
He didn't even pause to think, as if his decision had long been made.
Slowly, but with absolute clarity, he raised his right hand.
"I am in favor."
His voice was not loud, yet it struck everyone's hearts like a final, decisive hammer.
The votes in favor became 50, and the proposal was passed.
"Meeting recorder!"
Lü Yanlin lowered his hand, as if he had merely completed a trivial action, his tone returning to its usual calm efficiency.
"Compile the proceedings and voting results of this deliberation—approving General Wen Tingtao's proposal regarding Qin Bei Wang's promotion and fleet expansion—into a detailed formal document.
Attach a summary of the main supporting and opposing arguments.
Submit it immediately in the name of the Joint Staff Department to the Federal Supreme Command for final review and order signing."
"Yes!"
The recorder responded promptly, fingers flying across the terminal.
Lü Yanlin's gaze swept over his colleagues, each with varying expressions, before finally settling on the location of Savannah on the Star Chart. He couldn't help but sigh inwardly.
"Qin Qianfan!
You truly are enviable. Not only did you marry the Federation's most beautiful female general, but your son is also this remarkable!"