The marble pillar cracked under the force of Alcaster's casual grip, hairline fractures spreading through the ancient stone like spider webs. He released his hold immediately, stepping back to survey the damage with practiced neutrality. Four years of intensive use of Life Return training had transformed his body into something that defied the normal limitations of human physiology, but controlling that strength remained an ongoing challenge.
- - -
(I explained it before but he was planning to use life return to put stress on his muscles, then compact them, over and over) PS: This idea isn't mine, at least not the use of life return for increasing muscles, but it is for the compacting them if it matters, dunno, doesn't matter just a ff. Its on another Celestial Dragon FF out there about getting Garp's Strength
- - -
"Careless," he murmured to himself, running his fingers along the damaged marble. "Still too much force."
At twelve years old, Alcaster Reed bore little resemblance to the small child who had orchestrated Fisher Tiger's raid six years prior. Though still youthful in appearance, his frame had been systematically reengineered through Life Return mastery to contain muscle density and increase bone structural integrity, able to show physical feats typically found only in giants. His height remained appropriate for his age—any dramatic physical changes would have drawn unwanted attention—but beneath his elaborate Celestial Dragon robes lay a body capable of feats that would astonish even seasoned marines.
The private training courtyard where he conducted his morning exercises had been reinforced multiple times over the years, initially under the guise of "aesthetic improvements" and later as "safety enhancements" when his growing strength began leaving visible evidence of his capabilities. Today's session had focused on precision control—the most crucial aspect of his development as his power continued to increase beyond what most humans could comprehend.
"The structural integrity of these columns has always been questionable," came a familiar voice from the courtyard entrance. "Perhaps it's time for a complete renovation."
Alcaster turned to find Cipher Phoros approaching, the former CP0 agent's expression as unreadable as ever despite six years of constant interaction. Their relationship had evolved considerably since Fisher Tiger's escape—what had begun as suspicion had gradually transformed into something approaching mentorship, though both maintained careful boundaries around certain subjects.
"Good morning, Cipher Phoros," Alcaster replied, bowing slightly in acknowledgment. "I was just concluding my warm-up exercises."
"Warm-up?" Phoros repeated, his eyes noting the cracked pillar and several scuff marks on the reinforced floor that suggested considerable force had been applied. "Your definition of warm-up has certainly evolved over the years."
It was true. What had once been genuine preparation for serious training had become the extent of what Alcaster could safely practice without revealing the full scope of his capabilities. The gap between his public persona and private abilities had grown exponentially as his mastery of Life Return deepened, creating an increasingly complex balancing act.
"Shall we proceed with today's session?" Alcaster asked, smoothly transitioning away from the topic of his strength.
"Actually," Phoros replied, his tone carrying unusual weight, "we won't have a session. You have been summoned to Pangaea Castle. The Five Elders wish to meet with you personally."
The statement hit Alcaster like a physical blow, though he maintained his composed exterior through years of practiced discipline. A personal audience with the Five Elders—the highest authority within the World Government beneath the mysterious Im—represented either an extraordinary opportunity or catastrophic danger.
"Did they indicate the purpose of this meeting?" Alcaster asked carefully.
"They did not," Phoros replied. "Though I suspect it relates to certain... observations... that have been made regarding your development over recent years."
The implication was clear—his growing strength had not gone entirely unnoticed, despite his efforts at discretion. The question was whether this attention represented curiosity about a promising young Celestial Dragon or suspicion about activities that might warrant investigation.
"When am I expected?" Alcaster inquired, his mind already working through potential scenarios and responses.
"Within the hour," Phoros answered. "I'll escort you personally, though the actual meeting will be conducted privately."
As they departed the Reed family compound for Pangaea Castle, Alcaster reflected on how dramatically his circumstances had changed since that first visit years ago. Then, he had been a curious child gathering intelligence through legitimate channels. Now, he was apparently significant enough to warrant direct attention from the World Government's supreme leadership.
Whether that represented progress toward his long-term goals or an imminent threat to his carefully maintained cover remained to be determined.
The Hall of Authority within Pangaea Castle had been designed to intimidate through sheer scale and opulence. Massive columns stretched toward a ceiling that disappeared into shadows, while elaborate tapestries depicted the World Government's version of historical events. At the chamber's far end, five ornate thrones occupied a raised dais, each one perfectly positioned to convey the absolute authority of its occupant.
The Five Elders sat in their customary arrangement—the tall, thin Elder with the katana on the left, the bald Elder with the birthmark second, the blonde Elder with the goatee in the center, the Elder with the long white beard fourth, and the Elder with the mustache on the right. Each one radiated the quiet confidence that came from wielding ultimate power over the known world.
Alcaster approached with measured steps, his posture conveying appropriate respect without subservience. At twelve years old, he was likely the youngest person ever granted a private audience with the Five Elders, a distinction that was both honor and a potential death sentence depending on their intentions.
"Saint Alcaster Reed," the blonde Elder spoke first, his voice echoing through the vast chamber. "You have grown considerably since our last encounter."
"Thank you for granting me this audience, Elders," Alcaster replied ignoring the comment, bowing appropriately. "How may I serve the World Government's interests?"
"An excellent question," the katana-bearing Elder observed. "Your instructors report remarkable progress in your martial training. Exceptional progress, in fact, for someone of your age."
"I am fortunate to receive instruction from skilled teachers," Alcaster responded carefully. "Cipher Phoros and the other instructors provided by the World Government have been instrumental in my development."
"Indeed," the long-bearded Elder nodded. "But skill alone does not account for the reports we have received. Your strength, speed, and tactical understanding appear to exceed what typical instruction should produce."
The conversation was heading into dangerous territory. Alcaster had always known that his accelerated development might eventually attract attention, but he had hoped for more time before facing such direct scrutiny.
"I have been blessed with natural aptitude," he replied, "and I apply myself diligently to my studies."
"Natural aptitude," the mustached Elder repeated thoughtfully. "An interesting description. Tell us, young Reed, what do you understand about the concept of exceptional individuals within our society?"
The question carried layers of meaning that Alcaster recognized immediately. They were probing not just his abilities, but his understanding of power structures and his potential place within them.
"I understand that some individuals possess capabilities that exceed normal human limitations," Alcaster answered slowly. "And that some of such individuals often serve the World Government in specialized capacities."
"Precisely," the bald Elder confirmed. "The Cipher Pol organizations, the Marine admirals, certain members of our own security apparatus—all represent examples of human potential pushed beyond conventional boundaries."
"We believe," the blonde Elder continued, "that you may possess similar potential. Your recent demonstrations of strength and tactical acumen suggest capabilities that could be of considerable value to the World Government."
This was the moment of truth. The Elders weren't suspicious of his loyalties—they were impressed by his abilities and considering how to utilize them for their own purposes. It represented both an extraordinary opportunity and a dangerous trap.
"I would be honored to serve the World Government in whatever capacity my abilities permit," Alcaster replied, striking the balance between eagerness and humility that the situation required.
"Excellent," the katana Elder smiled—a rare expression that somehow made his aged features more unsettling rather than less. "Your capabilities have not gone unnoticed, young Reed. In fact, we have a proposition that goes beyond simple travel and observation."
"A proposition?" Alcaster asked, genuine curiosity coloring his voice.
"The Knights of God," the long-bearded Elder announced, his words carrying the weight of momentous decision. "The World Government's most elite enforcement organization, answerable only to us and tasked with maintaining order in situations too delicate for conventional forces."
Alcaster's mind raced at the implications. The Knights of God were legendary within World Government circles—Celestial Dragons who had transcended their typical roles as pampered nobility to become active agents of the World Government's will. Their existence was known only to the highest echelons of power, and their operations were conducted with absolute authority.
"You are offering me knighthood?" Alcaster asked, working to contain his excitement at this unexpected development.
"Probationary knighthood," the bald Elder clarified. "Your youth and inexperience preclude full induction, but your demonstrated capabilities warrant consideration for eventual inclusion. This journey would serve as your trial period—an extended evaluation of your suitability for such responsibilities."
The offer was staggering in its implications. As a Knight of God, even in probationary status, he would have access to resources and authority that most government officials could only dream of. More importantly, it would provide perfect cover for investigating the World Government's operations from within their most secretive organization.
"There is an additional consideration," the mustached Elder continued. "Knights of God often possess capabilities that exceed normal human limitations through various means. We would like to offer you the opportunity to acquire an initial enhancement through a Devil Fruit."
The mention of Devil Fruits sent a jolt of excitement through Alcaster that he carefully suppressed. A fitting Devil Fruit would provide abilities that could dramatically enhance his already formidable capabilities, potentially pushing his power to levels that rivaled the World Government's most elite agents.
"The World Government maintains extensive collections of Devil Fruits," the blonde Elder explained, "both in our secure warehouses and extracted from prisoners using Dr. Vegapunk's recent innovations in fruit transfer methodology."
"You would have access to a comprehensive catalog," the katana Elder added, "allowing you to select abilities that complement your existing strengths and serve the organization's needs most effectively."
This was beyond anything Alcaster had dared hope for. Not only were they offering him official sanction for his travels and investigations, but they were providing him with the tools to become genuinely capable of challenging the World Government's authority when the time came.
"I am honored by this consideration," Alcaster replied, bowing deeply. "What would be required of me as a probationary Knight?"
"Loyalty," the long-bearded Elder stated simply. "Absolute dedication to the World Government's interests, willingness to undertake missions of the highest sensitivity, and the wisdom to exercise your enhanced capabilities responsibly."
"During your probationary period," the bald Elder continued, "you will report directly to us regarding significant developments encountered during your travels. Pirates, revolutionaries, kingdoms showing signs of rebellion—all represent potential targets for Knight intervention."
"Your first assignment," the mustached Elder announced, "will be the selection and acquisition of your Devil Fruit. This will serve as both enhancement and test—demonstrating your ability to handle the responsibilities that come with extraordinary power."
"When would such responsibilities commence?" Alcaster asked, working to contain his excitement at these unprecedented opportunities.
"Immediately," the blonde Elder replied. "Your first task as a probationary Knight will be to travel to Impel Down and select your Devil Fruit from our prisoner-extracted collection. This will serve as both enhancement and evaluation of your judgment."
The mention of Impel Down—the World Government's most secure prison—sent a thrill of anticipation through Alcaster. Access to such a facility would provide invaluable intelligence about the government's most dangerous enemies, while the Devil Fruit selection would grant him abilities that could prove crucial for his long-term plans.
"You understand, of course, why this process requires your personal presence," the katana Elder said, his tone becoming more serious. "Devil Fruits possess wills of their own. The selection process cannot be delegated—the fruit must choose its user as much as the user chooses the fruit."
"Moreover," the long-bearded Elder added, "should an accident occur during the extraction or transfer process, an unbound Devil Fruit could theoretically escape containment. Your presence ensures that any such incident would result in immediate consumption rather than potential loss of valuable assets."
The explanation revealed the deeper purpose behind requiring his personal involvement. They weren't just offering him a Devil Fruit—they were using him as a failsafe to prevent valuable abilities from being lost if something went wrong with Vegapunk's extraction procedure, a method he came to know about from his father.
"I understand the risks and responsibilities involved," Alcaster replied solemnly.
"Excellent," the bald Elder nodded. "Then we shall proceed immediately. A catalog of available fruits has been prepared for your review, and transportation to Impel Down has already been arranged."
A thick tome was brought forward by a silent attendant, its pages containing detailed descriptions and illustrations of dozens of Devil Fruits currently held in the World Government's possession. As Alcaster opened the catalog, he was struck by the sheer variety of abilities represented—Paramecia, Zoan, and Logia types spanning the full spectrum of supernatural powers.
His eyes moved methodically through the entries, evaluating each fruit's potential utility for his long-term objectives. Some offered raw power, others provided utility abilities, and a few presented options that could fundamentally change his approach to future challenges.
Then he found it—an entry that made his heart race with possibility.
Moa Moa no Mi (More More Fruit) - Paramecia Type. Originally consumed by Byrnndi World, possible extraction in his capture and incarceration in Level 6 of Impel Down. Grants the ability to increase the size, speed, and strength of any object or projectile by up to 100 times its original parameters. User retains full control over enhanced objects and can apply effects selectively to different aspects simultaneously.
The implications were staggering. Combined with his already formidable physical capabilities enhanced through Life Return, the Moa Moa fruit would allow him to operate at levels that could challenge even the World Government's most elite forces. More importantly, the ability to enhance objects and projectiles would provide versatility that pure physical strength couldn't match.
"This fruit interests me," Alcaster said, indicating the Moa Moa entry. "The capabilities align well with my existing training and could prove highly effective for Knight operations."
The Five Elders leaned forward to examine his selection, their expressions showing approval at his choice.
"An excellent selection," the mustached Elder confirmed. "Byrnndi World was considered one of the most dangerous criminals of his generation before his capture. His fruit's abilities in your hands, guided by proper training and loyalty, could prove devastating to the World Government's enemies."
"Then it is decided," the katana Elder declared. "You will depart for Impel Down immediately. Following successful acquisition of your Devil Fruit, your probationary Knight mission will commence with the travel itinerary we discussed."
As Alcaster departed Pangaea Castle, his mind raced with the implications of what had just occurred. The Five Elders had not only approved his desire to explore the world—they had inducted him as a probationary Knight of God, provided him with resources and authority that exceeded his wildest expectations, and were about to grant him Devil Fruit abilities that would fundamentally transform his capabilities.
Whether this represented a genuine opportunity or an elaborate test remained to be seen. But either way, it marked the beginning of a new phase in his long-term strategy against the corrupt system he had been born into.
The journey to Impel Down would commence within hours. By evening, he would possess abilities that could reshape his entire approach to challenging the World Government's authority.
The game was evolving far more rapidly than he had anticipated, but the potential rewards were correspondingly greater.
Some time later - Calm Belt Waters
The massive gates of Impel Down rose from the Calm Belt like monuments to despair, their imposing structure designed to crush hope in all who beheld them. Alcaster stood on the deck of the World Government vessel as it approached the underwater prison, his enhanced senses taking in every detail of the facility's exterior defenses.
"Young Saint Reed," called Warden Magellan as Alcaster disembarked at the facility's secured dock. The massive man's imposing presence was somewhat diminished by the respectful bow he offered, a reminder of Alcaster's extraordinary status. "We are honored by your visit. The procedure chamber has been prepared according to your specifications."
"Thank you, Warden," Alcaster replied with appropriate authority. "I trust everything is ready to proceed immediately?"
"Of course. We have Byrnndi World secured in the extraction chamber, along with the requisite fruit baskets. As you know, the process isn't guaranteed—the Devil Fruit may manifest in any of the provided fruits, or potentially not at all. However, our success rate has been approximately seventy percent with this method."
As they descended through the prison's levels, Alcaster observed the facility's operations with careful attention. Each floor contained different classifications of prisoners, the systematic dehumanization evident at every level—prisoners reduced to numbers, guards treating them as dangerous animals rather than sentient beings.
"Level 6 houses our most secure inmates," Magellan explained as they passed through increasingly restricted areas. "Byrnndi World has been held here since his capture. His Devil Fruit abilities made him too dangerous for conventional imprisonment."
The extraction chamber was a sterile, clinical space designed for the grim purpose it served. Byrnndi World sat shackled in the center, surrounded by dozens of baskets filled with various fruits of the type that typically housed the Moa Moa no Mi. His eyes held the resigned defiance of a man who knew his fate.
"The process is straightforward," Magellan explained quietly. "Upon death, his Devil Fruit will seek the nearest compatible vessel. The fruit baskets increase our chances of capture, though there's always risk of the power escaping entirely."
World looked up as they entered, his gaze settling on Alcaster with a mixture of curiosity and contempt. "So young to be playing executioner. Tell me, boy, what did the World Government promise you for my life?"
"Power," Alcaster replied simply, meeting the pirate's stare without flinching.
World laughed bitterly. "At least you're honest about it. Most would dress it up in talk of justice and order."
The execution was carried out with clinical efficiency. As World's life ended, Alcaster watched with fascination as supernatural energy seemed to flow from the corpse, seeking a new vessel. One of the fruits in the northeastern basket began glowing with an inner light, its surface transforming into the distinctive spiral patterns of a Devil Fruit.
"Success," Magellan announced with satisfaction. "The Moa Moa no Mi has manifested."
Alcaster approached the transformed fruit, lifting it carefully. The power within was palpable—the ability to enhance size, speed, and strength of objects by up to one hundred times their original parameters.
Without hesitation, he bit into it, immediately regretting the decision as the notoriously awful taste filled his mouth. Power flooded through his body as the abilities integrated with his existing capabilities. He could feel new pathways opening—knowledge of how to amplify objects, projectiles, even aspects of his own body exponentially.
"The integration appears successful," Magellan observed. "How do you feel, Young Saint?"
"Complete," Alcaster replied, flexing his fingers and sensing the vast potential now dormant within them.
The private transport ship provided for his return to Sabaody Archipelago was luxuriously appointed, befitting his new status. As the vessel departed Impel Down, Alcaster found himself alone with his thoughts for the first time since the day's events began.
The communication Den Den Mushi in his cabin began ringing. He answered it expecting official correspondence.
"Alcaster! I heard about your remarkable advancement," came the familiar voice of Saint Marcus Locke. "Probationary Knight status and a Devil Fruit acquisition—quite extraordinary for someone our age."
"Marcus," Alcaster replied, genuinely pleased to hear from his friend. "News travels quickly in our circles."
"The scholarly networks have their own information channels," Marcus chuckled. "I wanted to congratulate you personally before you begin your travels. The places you'll be visiting have fascinating histories."
Over the past six years, Marcus had become one of Alcaster's few genuine friendships. Their shared intellectual curiosity had created a bond based on mutual respect.
"What can you tell me about some of these locations?" Alcaster asked.
"Oh, quite a bit. Water 7 has incredible shipbuilding heritage—techniques passed down for centuries. Fish-Man Island sits at such a unique crossroads between the surface and the depths. And places like Ohara, well, the scholarly ruins there still hold secrets despite the Buster Call."
Marcus continued sharing historical details about various islands—archaeological significance, cultural developments, political changes over the decades. His knowledge was encyclopedic, drawn from his family's extensive archives.
"The recent unrest from Fisher Tiger's continuing influence has created interesting dynamics throughout the Grand Line," Marcus noted. "His raid six years ago still inspires resistance movements. The Sun Pirates' activities have given hope to oppressed populations across multiple islands."
"Fascinating from a historical perspective," Alcaster replied carefully.
"Indeed. Social movements often follow predictable patterns, though each has unique characteristics based on local conditions." Marcus paused. "Your journey should provide remarkable firsthand observations of these dynamics."
They talked for another hour, with Marcus sharing details about trade routes, cultural exchanges, and political developments that had shaped the current state of various kingdoms and islands. As always, he provided information without editorial commentary, allowing Alcaster to form his own conclusions.
"I should let you rest," Marcus finally said. "Tomorrow begins what promises to be an extraordinary period. I look forward to hearing about your experiences when circumstances permit."
"Thank you for calling, Marcus. Your friendship means more than you know."
"As does yours, Alcaster. Safe travels."
As the communication ended, Alcaster reflected on how valuable Marcus's friendship had become. In a world where genuine connections were rare, having someone who shared his intellectual curiosity without threatening his secrets provided stability.
The ship continued through the night, carrying him toward the beginning of his new life as a Knight of God. He possessed the power, authority, and resources to begin making meaningful changes in the world.
The game was entering its most crucial phase, and he was finally equipped to play it at the highest level.