When you go to the New World, you must be cautious. It's not as safe as you think, and it's not as dangerous as you imagine either. There are threats there that you can't even fathom."
That evening, at Zefa's home, the two sat at the dinner table, talking for hours, but it was mostly Zefa advising Satoru.
Since taking Satoru as his apprentice, Zefa had always treated him like a son. Despite Satoru's obedient nature, which made him easy to care for, Zefa's feelings were genuine. It reminded him of when his own son was the same age as Satoru when he first became his apprentice.
If Garp knew what Zefa was thinking, he'd probably find it amusing, especially since after becoming Roger's father, he'd eventually find himself in a fatherly role to Whitebeard. He might even take the chance to show off to Whitebeard about it.
"I'll be careful," Satoru said.
"There are many people in the New World who can threaten your safety. Only those are worth worrying about.
First is Whitebeard, known as the strongest man in the world. His Shock Fruit has immense power, and even I would have less than a one-in-ten chance of winning against him. Then, there's the captain of the Beast Pirates, Kaido. His strength is formidable. We fought once when he was still part of the Rocks Pirates. I wasn't his opponent back then, but I could see his incredible resilience and recovery, and it's said that he now possesses a mythical Zoan fruit.
Then there's Big Mom, the captain of the Big Mom Pirates. Her power is at least on par with Kaido's, and her Soul-Soul Fruit is dangerous. Be cautious if you cross paths with her. Lastly, there's Shanks of the Red-Haired Pirates. He was once an intern on Roger's ship, and although our admirals haven't faced him in battle, the fact that he survived in the territories of both Kaido and Big Mom speaks volumes. Shanks probably possesses the same strength as them."
Satoru listened carefully to Zefa's advice. He knew Zefa was speaking out of genuine concern, like a father looking out for his son.
There were a few more names mentioned, but they weren't as much of a threat compared to the ones above. Zefa wasn't sure if those people had mastered the use of the Conqueror's Haki, but Satoru noticed a pattern — most of these powerful individuals were former members of the Rocks Pirates, and only Whitebeard had been separated from them.
"I understand, Master. I'll keep all of that in mind," Satoru replied.
"You know your own nature. You're not impulsive. But you must also remember, the moment you become the commander of the G8 base, everyone there will be under your command. Even if they question your orders, they can't disobey. Soldiers are bound by duty, and their lives will be in your hands. So, always think carefully before giving an order."
Zefa continued sharing his experiences as a commander, offering life lessons that Satoru would carry with him. It was clear that Zefa was putting a lot of thought into Satoru's future in the New World.
Later that night, Zefa sent Satoru to bed, and the next morning, Satoru boarded the Yellow Ape's warship on his way to the New World. Yellow Ape was preparing to deal with a pirate group, and Satoru was coming along for the ride.
"Thanks, General Yellow Ape," Satoru said.
"No trouble, no trouble," the Yellow Ape replied lazily. "If we run into pirates on the way, you can help me handle them."
It was clear that the Yellow Ape didn't mind having a little extra help, especially from someone as capable as Satoru. His laid-back nature showed in his words.
"Then I'll make sure to help out if pirates appear," Satoru responded.
On the warship, Satoru spotted Chris, who had already noticed him. After all, with someone like Satoru around, no one would miss him.
"Satoru, you're assigned to Admiral Yellow Ape's warship too?" Chris asked, his voice filled with excitement. It seemed he was happy to see a familiar face in his new workplace.
"No, I'm just going to the G8 base in the New World, but I'm hitching a ride with the Admiral."
"Oh," Chris said, sounding a little disappointed. "Then be careful out there. The New World might be tough for you, but you're strong, so you should be fine."
Satoru had heard similar warnings from Zefa, but it never bothered him. He appreciated the care others showed him.
"Don't worry about me. Worry about yourself. You're still weaker than I am."
Chris chuckled and punched Satoru in playful retaliation. The two exchanged jokes, their bond growing stronger as they traveled into the New World.