Chapter 51 The Commander's Resolve

The battle ended as expected, with Satoru effortlessly defeating the base's navy troops. Now, they all lay sprawled on the ground, staring blankly at the sky. Their defeated expressions painted a vivid picture of disbelief—they couldn't even fathom what had happened. Moments ago, they were ready to challenge their new commander, and in the blink of an eye, they were reduced to this.

Satoru glanced at the scene before him. "Not bad. Their combat capabilities are impressive."

Even though the fight was over in moments, Satoru was mildly surprised. Each of these soldiers had mastered Armament Haki to some degree—a standard skill for New World marines. It reminded him of the marines he saw during the Dressrosa arc, where even cannon fodder wielded Armament Haki. Clearly, in the New World, Haki was no rarity, even among ordinary soldiers.

Standing off to the side, Garp chuckled at the display. "Seems like you've completely broken these thorns. They're tame now."

"Of course," Satoru replied with a smile. "In this world, strength is the only language everyone understands."

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#### A Serious Talk

Once the commotion settled, Garp took Satoru aside to discuss important matters. The two walked to the office, where Garp, as always, made himself comfortable in the main seat. Satoru didn't mind and casually sat across from him.

"This base," Garp began, his expression serious for once, "is the most dangerous naval outpost in the New World. It's smack in the middle of Kaido's and Big Mom's territories. Since its establishment, this place has been under constant harassment from their forces. It's been nearly destroyed several times."

Hearing this, Satoru's expression didn't falter. Garp continued, his voice tinged with concern. "The Navy higher-ups put you here because of your potential, but make no mistake—Kaido and Big Mom aren't opponents you can take lightly. Both of them wield advanced Conqueror's Haki."

Garp paused, gauging Satoru's reaction. "So, do you still want to stay here? You could request a transfer—no one would blame you."

Without hesitation, Satoru replied with a confident grin, "Of course I'm staying, old man. This place is perfect for me. If Kaido and Big Mom don't come knocking, I'll find a chance to meet them myself. And Whitebeard, too—I'd love to see how strong he really is."

Garp stared at Satoru, his stern gaze softening into a smile. "You're a stubborn brat, just like the rest of us. Even if you don't share our blood, your personality fits right in."

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#### A New Mission

Garp eventually sighed in resignation. "Fine. Do what you want. Zefa wanted me to convince you to return, but it looks like I've failed."

Despite his casual tone, it was clear Garp was deeply worried. He and Zefa were like protective parents, reluctant to see their child face unnecessary danger. Still, Satoru's determination was unshakable.

"Don't worry, old man," Satoru said, his tone reassuring. "I'm strong—nothing's going to happen to me."

"Haha! Good to hear," Garp laughed. "But don't let that confidence turn into arrogance—it'll get you killed."

"I know. I'll stay cautious."

Before leaving, Garp added, "If you get the chance, stop by Windmill Village. Luffy and the villagers miss you."

Hearing this, Satoru's thoughts drifted to familiar faces—Luffy, Makino, the village chief. It had been two years since he last visited, and though he missed them, he knew he couldn't leave the New World anytime soon. Here, he was surrounded by enemies, and any absence could invite disaster. For now, his focus had to remain on strengthening the base and subduing the surrounding pirates.

After a few final words, Garp excused himself, claiming he was heading back home for some "well-earned vacation." Satoru smiled, knowing Garp was more excited to see Luffy than to escape work.

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#### Training the G8 Navy

Left in charge, Satoru wasted no time. Before launching any campaigns against the pirates in the region, he focused on improving the base's soldiers. Despite their basic mastery of Armament Haki, their combat skills were unrefined. Most of them relied solely on brute force, slashing their swords without any real strategy.

Satoru decided to teach them the **Six Powers**—the signature combat techniques of the Navy. He didn't expect every soldier to master all six techniques, but each of them had to learn at least two to improve their survival rate in future battles.

Though Satoru himself had only mastered **Finger Pistol** and **Tempest Kick**, his proficiency allowed him to teach the other techniques as well.

"Mastering these moves isn't about talent," he told the soldiers during their first training session. "It's about persistence. If you can understand the basics, you'll be that much closer to surviving out there."

Under his guidance, the soldiers began their grueling training. They didn't know it yet, but this was only the beginning of their transformation. With Satoru at the helm, the G8 base was destined to become a formidable force in the New World.