《Journey for Destiny: One Piece》


 Prologue: Red Sands

    ''Fuck me, this is it eh? I wonder what name Jessica decided to give our boy, at least I hope it''s a he?'' ''hmm Waking up to the smell of cooked bacon on Saturday morning.


    Jessica and the kids in the kitchen greeting me lazily.''


    '' Annual Christmas cards from Mom signed with love. I always wanted a simple life a good life. Jessica I''m sorry, I lov..," Chris thought as his last faded away.


    ___________________________________________________________________________


    In a treacherous city in Iraq during the height of the War on Terror. In a convoy of Army humvees, a detachment from the 75th Ranger-Regiment was tearing its way through enemy lines.


    The detachment 8th Platoon, making its way toward a high profile target. The platoon consisted of two squads, first squad under Sergeant.Macross and second squad under Sergeant.Chris Stevens. With the whole of 8th Platoon falling under Lieutenant.King.


    " We''re two kliks out," Cpl.Dune''s voice rang over the radio.


    "First squad you''re on me," said L.King with his usual unhappy tone.


    "SGT.Stevens, Second squad will circle round the square and push ahead to point A," LT.King orders over the radio. "Yes sir!" Both squad leaders reply in unison.


    As four humvees from Second squad separated from the convoy heading further North.


    "Alright, Second squad listen up! We are expecting light enemy resistance based on Intel on insurgent movement in this A.O. Fireteam leaders follow your designated roles from the pre-operation briefing," Chris reiterates.


    ''Today feels way the fuck off, something stinks.'' Chris couldn''t help but think in the back of his mind. Maybe just a soldier''s superstition or perhaps battle forged instinct.


    "Confirm your targets there is a civilian presence. There will be no air support this time we can''t risk collateral. Watch your sectors and stay frosty gentlemen LET''S DO THIS," Chris roars!


    "YES SERGEANT!" Second squad replied with furor.


    Within five minutes Chris''s squad had reached point A. Their humvees moved through the tight roads in single file, the convoy flanked by multistory buildings. When the last Humvee drove past a tire on the roadside approaching the intersection of a side-road.


    BOOOOOOM! A deafening explosion shocked Chris who was in the passenger seat of the lead Humvee. He looked back to see truck four almost in half and coated in flames.


    ''Fuck ambush,'' was Chris''s first thought.


    "Contact! At nine o''clock nine o''clock,'''' voices rang out amidst gunfire.


    TATATA...TATATATATA...TATATA...TAT


    The Browning .50 mounted gun on truck two began to sing. The guns rounds were shredding cement walls and punching through stone, any human hit instantly turned into a red mist.


    Chris could see shadows move on the rooftops and through windows in the building at two-o''clock. Realizing the convoy was surrounded and knowing there could be no survivors from truck four. Chris quickly ordered the remaining vehicles to punch it in full reverse down the side road to the right of and slightly behind tuck three. While returning fire.


    "All trucks reverse down that road in the alley behind us. Gunner one return fire, move"


    Without missing a beat the three drivers reversed the humvees and turned the corner in tandem, quickly without breaking formation. This manoeuver was executed with a precision born from constant training.


    With truck three now in the lead down the road with truck one bringing up the rear.


    With the maelstrom of bullets lessening as the only line of sight left of the convoy was directly twelve-o''clock in front of the alley. Insurgents had yet to move to a position above the alley.


    "Fuck this man, fuck!"


    Chris and his squamates clinched their teeth and cursed as bullets broke their windshield and whizzed by inches from striking them.


    After traveling forty meters down the road the humvees came to an abrupt stop, as the road in the alley was blocked by a barricade of cars.


    As soon as truck one halted Chris opened the passenger door.


    "Everyone into the building on the right, fire and move," ordered Chris.


    Before the driver of the last truck could open the door a round struck his face.


    Causing a quarter of his head to disappear, killing him instantly.


    "Nooo Carmike!" Chris bellowed. A gut-wrenching feeling hitting him at the loss of his friend and comrade.


    Chris gnashed his teeth while he ran toward cover out of the alley in the first floor of the multistory building.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.Over the radio, " Second Squad come in," said LT.King.


    " What''s your situation? Report," LT.King sounding more ragged this time.


    " LT this is SGT.Stevens we are caught in an ambush." Chris''s voice growing darker,


    "We are surrounded and pinned down. Soon our position will be overrun." Chris had a noticeable look of fear on his face.


    "SGT-Macross is dead, along with the target this mission is over. Can your squad breakthrough," LT.King asked?


    "No sir half of my men are dead," Chris replied with audible pain in his voice.


    "I see that''s unfortunate," LT.King continued, "the remainder of first squad and I will fall back for extraction," he said coldly.


    "Chris I will make sure Jessica knows you died a hero," LT-King said without a hint of remorse.


    ''Wait what the fuck? He can''t be serious just leaving us here!''


    "Sir, you can''t, what do you mean?'''' Chris was alarmed at what he had heard.


    Nothing but silence came over the radio, there was no reply from LT.King.


    Chris was left with a blank expression as what had just transpired sunk in.


    ''We''re being left to die.'' Thought Chris grimly as he was crouched behind a stone wall on the second floor under enemy fire.


    Chris commanded his men to the best of his ability during this short-lived battle.


    The remnants of Second squad fought bravely killing many of the oncoming enemies with grenades and rifles.


    What Chris heard next caused his heart to nearly stop. With wide eyes, Chris and his men looked up toward the sky with suffocating anticipation in their throats.


    They could hear the roar of jet engines overhead followed by the whistles of death.


    The trading of gunfire ceased as a series of vicious explosions rang out all around.


    BOOOOM...BOOOM...BOOOM...BOOOOM


    At this moment Chris cursed LT.King with all of his being.


    ''Oh fuck you LT!''


    Chris dove down the stairwell colliding with the ground below head first, he lost consciousness as a bomb struck his building.


    Chris slowly opened his eyes Intense pain washed over him. His chest and abdomen felt crushed while his left arm was completely numb.


    The building had collapsed on one side with fire everywhere as smoke filled the air stinging his eyes.


    (cough) "ahhh" Chris yelled as pain filled his senses. With all of his will and effort, he rose to his feet. Looking at the collapsed rubble from the second floor.


    ''Shit guys, could any of you have survived?''


    The building was starting to crumble. Chris limped his way through an exit created by a hole in the wall.


    ''I can''t hear my eardrums must be busted.''


    After slowly making it to the street what he saw shocked him. Bombs turned once great building into rubble. Cars on the street where in flames ash and debris filled the air. On the ground, charred corpses littered the street. Making way down the graveyard with poor visibility. Chris lost his footing when what he stepped on shifted.


    After a painful fall, Chris landed in warm mud, with a glance at his hands he realized it was blood. Chris was plenty bloody but he knew it wasn''t his. "What the fuck."


    With unsteady eyes and a heart full of fear he slowly turned to look at what he had slipped on. "AHHH SHIT!" He shrieked a cry full of pain. "Oh no," he exclaimed.


    A woman''s decapitated head looked back at him; while disfigured he could still make out the expression of agony on her face. As soon as Chris peered at the grotesque scene he quickly lost the contents of his stomach, nothing came out but blood and water. ''Oh God please''


    Without the strength to stand again, Chris rolled onto his back and looked at the beautiful azure sky above.


    "As a soldier, I''ve accepted imminent death. During deployments on the battlefield, I would always imagine my death. Thoughts of my death were always present sticking to me. With me like the guilt, I felt leaving my wife at home alone while I went off to fight a war she didn''t support." (cough)...(cough) "Picturing myself the hero of the classic.


    I would take a bullet for my battle buddy. Shot in the chest brazier-red blood would leave me. While my squad mates would come around me as I sacrifice myself to save a brother." Said in a voice barely audible. "That was the image set, my death in my mind.


    Not like this...I couldn''t imagine my death being so useless," Chris said.


    Toward himself or Heaven he wasn''t sure which.


    As he thought his final thoughts.


    Chris Stevens succumbed to the cold embrace, losing consciousness for the final time.

 01: Judgement

    "Uh...where am I?"


    ''This doesn''t make any sense I''m dead right, so we do have souls after all?''


    ''Is this all there is to the afterlife, no lake of fire or endless paradise? ...Just nothing''


    ''That is disappointing; I hope not all of our afterlives are the same they deserve better than this.''


    "Hello!" ''Damn nothing. Huh, I didn''t hear my voice!''


    ''Did I go deaf from the explosion?'' Chris tried touching his ears.


    "Therese nothing there oh shit I can''t feel anything; I don''t have a body." Chris soon realized he was in an amorphous state.


    " So this is death huh? Well, this sucks just a soul alone in an endless void, damn."


    Chris had none of the mortal needs, no sleep, no senses. His form was nothing more than a collection of thoughts and memories.


    "Oh Lord If you hear this prayer...tsk I don''t know any prayers."


    "Probably should have read my grandfathers Bible at least once," Chris said with a feeling of sadness and regret.


    "hahaha, How long have I been here?!"


    "Days, months, years? Fuck me; Hell would have been better than this!"


    Chris had spent an indistinguishable amount of time in the void with his thoughts.


    He had revied his entire life from his first memory until the moment of his death.


    Mulling over every decision he ever made.


    "LT.King If I ever meet your ass again.."


    schlik


    The sound of metal sliding across metal resounded in Chris'' mind.


    "Ahhh I can hear!" If Chris had a body, he would cry tears of joy at the simple sound.


    Chris turned towards the origin of the noise. It was two enormous metal double-doors that expanded for what seemed like miles in all directions. They opened slightly, and Chrisses soul shot into a white wormhole.


    "Ahhhhhhhh!'' Chris screamed in his mind.


    There was suddenly a sense of rapid velocity as he moved through the tunnel.


    The wormhole ended in mid-air at the perfect center of a massive chamber.


    Chris dropped to the floor.


    "Yes, I can feel again," Chris said in a loud voice.


    When Chris looked down at himself, his current form was his body from his past life.


    He was in a primal and transparent state. While he was shaped like his old body and had his senses returned to him, it wasn''t the same as having a physical body.


    "wow, what''s this place?'' With a look of utter amazement, Chriss peered at the vast chamber around him. A dome-shaped space with a golden floor, and a clear crystal cover.


    On the outside of the dome was endless space filled with, trillions of stars, planets, and galaxies.


    ''Beautiful.'' Chris felled a tear.


    Chris turned his ethereal body to the front of the chamber.


    He saw three enormous beings that appeared to be bright nebulas, full of stars the same shade as the gaseous substance that sent wisp in every direction from their ''bodies''.


    Two beings flanked one larger nebula in the center. To the left side a red-orange cluster of stars and gas which felt like a sporadic concoction of fear and rage. All the while possessing an air of nobility.


    Dead center the largest of the three nebulas was a neutral gray color. It exuded a sense of perfect calm.


    This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.On the right was pure¡ªwhite nebula with a tent of light blue. When Chris looked at this one, he felt a sense of joy and warmth embrace his entire being.


    Chris wore an awkward expression that appeared to be happiness and fear at once.


    "Chris A. Stevens, your soul, has been reviewed, and a verdict reached," Said the entity in the center of the trio.


    "ah.. hello, what is this?" Chris asked.


    "Your Judgement," said all three in unison.


    "I see. Whom has decided my fate, if I may ask," said in a humble tone.


    "Love," Chimed a melodic voice from the White-blue being on the right. ''So soothing, she must be all the love there is in the world.''Chris thought.


    "War! I only participate in the judgment of true warriors." The red-orange being bellowed with a most intimidating voice.


    In a surprise, Chris reflexively stiffened into the position of attention.


    "Ever the soldier," War said with an imperious tone.


    "Hm hm hm," a light giggle was released from the right.


    "ah um this was, it just felt right!" Chris said clumsily. ''Did she laugh? Ah, whatever.''


    Chris remained straight as a board but was now facing his judges with a serious expression.


    "Ballance," said the grey nebula in the center of the trio.


    ''What an odd combination, I wonder?'' Chris let his eyes pan the panel of judges.


    "I know why War is here, but this still doesn''t make sense to me, what about you two?"


    "Your soul is one of great capacity for love. Even in death, you held concern for others in your thoughts," Said Love. "It''s quite the display of affection, rarely seen in man."


    "You possess the heart of a true warrior! Faced with certain death, you continued to fight. A power possessed by few," War stated matter-of-factly.


    Balance started, "In death, every soul is judged by a scale automatically. Karma tips the scale one way or the other, paradise or damnation await."


    "If judgment by the scales of karma are automatic than why has it taken me so long to be here?" Chris asked confused.


    Feeling more anxious with every sentence.


    "Yours is a special case, your soul was removed from the confines of karma on Earth, and brought before this panel," Balance answered.


    "Are you Gods? Why me?" Chris was even more confused.


    "We are aspects of life born from the desires and actions of humans, spanning all worlds." Balance continued, "as such, we maintain War, Love, and Balance in the multiverse."


    "Your soul contains attributes deemed necessary," Ballance finished.


    Feeling a lousy premonition creep into his mind.


    "Okay deities what''s the verdict?" Chris asked in an uneasy tone.


    If Chris had a heart right now, it would be beating at a thousand bpm.


    "You are a noble soul worthy to be the champion of balance; you will reincarnate," the deities said together.


    "What!?" Chris exclaimed.


    ''That sounds better than the alternative; I was sure of hell for me.''


    "Please continue," Chris felt relieved at their decision.


    "You shall belong to a world absorbed with chaos. You must bring balance to it.


    In some way, unknown the aspect of Chaos was able to break the rules of the universe and directly interact with a world. Without the ability to do the same I am sending a representative into the world to counteract the effects." Balance used the most severe tone yet.


    "That sounds like a monumental task. What assistance can you offer?


    "The most that I can interfere at present is inserting you into a specific point in time before the beginning of the strife." Balance sounded almost apologetic.


    ''Seriously? That''s ridiculous, well if I don''t do it only thing left is hell, fuck it; I''ll go!''


    "You got a deal, and I''ll be your champion," Chris said with a stout resolution


    "HAHAHA, there is one thing I could give you," War interjected


    Chris'' eyes lit up. "What is it? Chris said.


    "The warriors'' soul stone."


    "What does it do?"


    "Figure it out yourself!" War yelled startling Chris.


    He took the soul stone, the moment it made contact with his hand his soul absorbed the mystical gem which brought searing pain but for a millisecond. After Chris confirmed the conversation was over, he said.


    "Drop me in fourteen-years ahead of time boss." Chris had decided it was time to begin.


    The high dome vanished into nothing as Chris'' soul shot into a white hole.


    "Shit I was so unnerved and relieved I wasn''t going to hell I forgot to ask where I''m going!"

 02: Alpha and Omega

    The next time Chris could open his eyes light struck them harshly. Blinking multiple times his vision slowly cleared. He looked around as much as possible, but he couldn''t move his head. What he could see was a wooden ceiling and a wall with everyday fixtures.


    Directly in front of him, he saw woman long past her prime. With grey hair and a sun-battered face. "Oh my Maria he''s wonderful; a healthy boy," said the woman while holding him in her aged hands.


    ''Uhh?'' Chris didn''t know what was happening at first but soon gathered his bearings.


    ''I was just born wasn''t I?''


    The elderly woman passed him over to a young woman sitting upright on a bed.


    The young woman seemingly exhausted and sickly in form. However, her current state did little to detract from her appearance.


    ''Wow!'' Chis thought as he looked at her face.


    The young woman''s complexion was as fair as freshly chiseled alabaster; her skin smoother than polished marble. Long hair made of golden silk draped over her shoulders.


    When the newborn reached her arms, at last, the young goddess'' lips parted revealing a smile that softened stone.


    A pair of fresh eyes explored her face with curiosity the baby''s gaze halting on her eyes.


    Maria''s eagle-like eyes mesmerized him instantly; angular and sharp, the color of bright sapphire. Holding a dangerous beauty one look could cut a man down.


    Chris peered into her deep blue eyes shining with the light of maternal love.


    Mother and child meeting for the first time.


    "Hello my little one; my love," Maria said.


    "Gugha.." Chris tried to reply.


    An intense emotion washed of his entire being an emotion long forgotten to him.


    He began to bawl like the baby he is.


    "Wah wah wah."


    "There there are you hungry? Here mommy is here" Maria said with a tired voice.


    As she brought him to her bosom, Chris felt at peace. For the first time in a world unknown, he felt the warmth home.


    After being fed and coddled the baby began drifting into sleep.


    SLAM the door to the small room shot open.


    "Where the child let me see them!'''' Said a man loudly while barging into the room.


    The baby''s eyes shot open, now looking toward the man as he towered over the bedside.


    A tall, burly man with bronze skin and matte black hair. A dark goatee adorned his strong face.


    Wearing a white and blue uniform, his shirt with the sleeves cut short, and a white overcoat was hanging on his shoulders. His thick muscular arms littered with scars and tattoos spread wide.


    ''Uh..who? That uniform a soldier...no those are epaulets he''s an officer.'' Chris thought.


    "Maria, darling I came as fast as I could. How''d it go?" Said the bear.


    Before the tired young mother could speak, an angry voice cut in.


    "Sir.Francis! The madam is in need of rest, and this was very taxing on her body; you know her condition," chided the old midwife.


    The man rubbed the back of his head with an uneasy look, not expecting the scolding.


    "Ahh, umm...sorry"


    "It''s quite alright Sakura, (cough) could you leave us?" Asked Maria lightly.


    "Madam... I''ll go get the doctor," Sakura said. Then headed for the door shooting a knowing glance toward Francis while closing the door.Unauthorized reproduction: this story has been taken without approval. Report sightings.


    "Maria he''s beautiful. What is his name?" Francis asked.


    "Alva D." Maria began looking at Francis with such joy.


    "Alva, yes a fine name for a Drake!" Francis replied with his maw spread wide.


    He continued " D." you want to pass on that name?


    "Yes like my father, and grandfather," Maria replied.


    "I see, hello there Alva, my son."


    ''Alva D. Drake, not bad.''


    ''So he''s my dad. Damn, he''s big, tall, muscular and tan. He reeks like a mixture of fish and blood. A sailor?'' Alva thought while looking at him.


    Suddenly Maria broke out into a coughing fit, and blood flew out of her mouth.


    She began gasping heavily before she passed out she handed Alva over to Francis.


    Francis quickly ran to a nursery across the hall and placed Alva into a crib.


    "Wait here son," Francis yelled as he shot through the door towards the hall at a speed Alva couldn''t follow. ''He teleported!'' Alva couldn''t believe it.


    Soon Alva could hear screams throughout the house.


    "Mariaaaaa!"


    ''Mom!'' Alva was worried about his mother he didn''t understand the issue, but he could tell it wasn''t right.


    However being a newborn was difficult as he could no longer stay awake.


    ___________________________________________________________


    When Alva woke up again, he saw his father was sitting by his crib with tears in his eyes.


    Swollen and red-eye sockets sat on his pained face.


    The fire in his eyes was gone extinguished by the tears.


    "Maria..dammit why¡­" Called out the hoarse voice of Francis.


    Soon Francis noticed Alva awake and looked at him. He rose to his feet picked Alva up and sat back down with the child.


    "Hey, little guy," said in a low voice "You have your mothers eyes."


    Francis looked down at his son unable to smile.


    "Mommy loved you very much you know?"


    "She left ahead of me...b-be-before she left, she said ''Make sure he grows up safe and make sure he knows mommy loves him. I''ll miss you both with all my heart.''" Francis manages to say almost choking on the words.


    The words hit like a wrecking ball onto a dam.


    Alva felt a rupture deep in his heart; he burst into tears.


    Francis followed suit crying along with his son.


    A while later, Francis not knowing if his son could understand his words or be just hungry. Calling for a woman who stood just outside of the door in the hall.


    She soon entered, she was a heavy built woman around the age of thirty or so. The lady had a large stomach and swollen breast. She also had a mournful look.


    Francis handed Alva over to the wet nurse and picked up a bottle of whiskey from the nightstand.


    With a short "Feed him," Francis left the nursery with a friend in hand.


    Alva wasn''t hungry, but he ate anyway, he was heartbroken.


    ''She...she died because of me'' Alva could not help but think.


    Spending the next months, eating as much as possible even when he wasn''t hungry and sleeping when he wasn''t tired. While this stage in life was boring, Alva knew that this was essential to development.


    "I have to grow as fast as possible; this is boring as hell just laying here."


    At five-months-old Alva began kicking his legs and holding them in the air as much as possible, when in his crib he would use the rails to stand until he couldn''t anymore.


    After a month of this, he could stand on his own. At six months he had figured out how to balance his odd body. Memories of balance helped much in this. As soon as Alva could walk he was running whenever no one could see him.


    "I can''t push it too much, but I should be able to develop quickly." Alva instinctually felt the need to grow as much as possible.


    "It''s sure inconvenient not being able to speak in front of Lisa or Sakura yet," Alva said.


    Alva''s wet-nurse and caretaker Lisa quickly noticed Alva was special. She would see him looking at her and listening carefully to her words when she spoke.


    He only played with the wooden shaker for a toy, and almost never laughed at her faces. She caught him say a word or two. Lisa even saw him walk once. Lisa was a veteran mother with three children of her own, so she knew something wasn''t quite right.


    "I ought to tell the Cappin'' his sons a gin-u-ine genius when he gets back to town," Lisa mused in an accent unique to herself.

 04: A New Era â… 

    The days began to blur as days turned into weeks, then months.


    Alva spent his days listening to those around him for any information he could gather.


    The scope of the information available was severely minimal. Lisa was a simple woman who rarely concerned herself with the latest news or events outside of gossip among the other housewives. Alva only had contact with Sakura at meals, and by chance in the hall.


    He would ask his father any one of his myriad of questions; however, Francis has been gone for almost nine months now. None of the servants in the house knew when they could expect the masters'' return.


    From what Alva could gather, he was on the coast in a giant port city seagulls, and the smell of the sea filled the air.


    The dinner table consistently full of, fruit, various aquatic life, and chicken clued him in as well.


    From his windowsill Alva could see a clock tower in the center of hundreds of stone buildings with terracotta roofs, reminding him of Kings Landing from his favorite show.


    Over the last eleven months, Alva slowly revealed more and more of his intelligence and ability to Lisa and Sakura. Taking care not to do too much too soon.


    Alva didn''t know what their reaction might be.


    If he was labeled a monster child and cast out, he didn''t know how to sustain himself.


    By now he was walking around the house and chatting with the adults matching their level.


    Initially all of the servants where shocked, however, they then grew excited about the future of the Drake house lead by a great prodigy.


    Lisa often left her three-year-old son Clyde to play with Alva.


    Opening the door.


    "Oh little Alva," Lisa said. "playing soldier again? Which game is it today squats, sit-ups or what ya call it¡ª jumping jacks? "


    "Push-ups and box jump," Alva said.


    "A new game? Why don¡ª


    "Mama, mama Alvi not playin with me!"


    Clyde ran to his mother.


    "Okay, sweetie; Alva why not play a game you can play together?"


    Lisa wanted the boys to get along.


    Alva ignored her "Lisa will dad be home in time for my birthday?"


    "Ah uh umm I¡ªsure he will! Let me go ask Sakura to make sure."


    Turning on her heels as fast as a dancer Lisa was out of sight before the door could close.


    Alva burst with laughter. "Works every time."


    Clyde turned to Alva "Play?"


    "No."


    Alva then dropped to the floor to finish his push-ups.


    Clyde returned to playing with the model boat in the corner.


    After seeing his growth, Alva decided to start physical training early. With his first birthday still three days away he was shocked to see his size.


    " This body is incredible I''m already 37 inches(95 cm) tall and at least 40 pounds. (18kg) I bet I''ll be as tall as my father, maybe taller."


    _______________________________________________________


    Alva''s birthday came, only eating a bit of a cake as a part of the regular dinner to celebrate. Francis had not returned, so Alva had a meal with the servants Sakura the maid, Doppins, the chef, and Lisa joined with her son Clyde.


    That day Sakura received a reply in the mail. A letter from Francis; he was ordering her to teach Alva reading and writing. When Alva is ready, she is to give him the key to the study.


    It only took a day for him to master the writing system and earn the key.


    This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.Moving down the hall from his bedroom Alva opened the doors of Francis'' study.


    The room was larger than the dining room, with a wooden desk in the center.


    Bookshelves lined the walls from floor to ceiling.


    A large map hung on the wall behind the desk labeled South Blue.


    "Jackpot" Alva entered the study with a grin.


    Alva spent the next two weeks reading all he could.


    He learned he was in the Kingdom of Briss on Sky Fang island.


    Among many other things about geography, history and the political system of Briss and the world at large.


    _______________________________________________________


    One afternoon while Alva read, the study door swung open Francis stumbled into the room.


    "Alva, I have returned!"


    "Father you''re back, when did you get to port? I would have come to meet you."


    "Before noon, I had to celibate our safe return, my promotion, the weather and...


    "¡ªI got it, congratulations," Alva said.


    ''Wow, he''ll come up with any reason to drink.''


    The smell of alcohol permeated the air.


    "The men kept me there longer."


    "I see," said Alva "Father teach...


    ¡ª"Great news! Gold Rodger was captured. AHAHAHA Justice prevails!"


    ...Ah, Who?" Alva was perplexed by the outburst.


    "The worst criminal to sail the seas. Pirate King Gold Roger, we got him!"


    "Son, have Sakura pack your things we are going to Loguetown!"


    Throwing an empty bottle on the floor Francis walked to his room and closed the door.


    "What the hell?" Alva was left in the study.


    Today was the first time Alva saw the city outside of his home. Alva watched the city from his window seat heading down from the residential area to the harbor in a carriage.


    He could see almost all of Briss kingdom¡ªnestled between the sea to the north and mountains in the south, lush jungle covering their base¡ªa large city on a larger island.


    A city full of life and activity merchant stalls lined the main road. Citizens and visitors alike filled the sidewalks and stores. Vibrant colors and various sights filled his eyes as no two buildings were the same.


    To the average observer, the city seemed faultless¡ªclean streets full of happy people.


    To the more astute observer, however, this was just the surface.


    Alva looked into the allies and saw groups of children in rags, and not everyone on the street wore the same uncaring smile. A man wearing less than a desirable set of clothing looked into Alva''s eyes.


    "Father," Alva said, "Why do the people look at us like that?"


    "Because we are nobles. The Drake family have held prestige serving the crown for generations. My older brother inherited the household while I was appointed a knight, but we are Drakes all the same."


    "I see, and the people?"


    "They are the envious lower class. As a branch family, we are not at the top of the food chain, but we stand far above them."


    The rest of the way was silent as Alva considered his fathers'' words.


    '''' I''ve seen that look plenty, anger with a hint of hope. Looking at the wealthy as the source of their misery. That won''t last long...'''' Alva thought.


    Arriving at the harbor Alva was impressed by the size of the Marine ships. Having never been on the sea before he was excited more than he would show.


    The trip to Loguetown was uneventful, as they sailed in almost a straight line. Alva spent his time exploring the parts of the ship he was allowed to see and sneaking into the places he wasn''t


    While fishing Alva saw giant shadows move in the depths of perfectly calm water.


    "What''s that?!"


    "Son that''s a sea king they nest here in the calm belts around the grand line."


    "It''s huge! I''m glad it didn''t attack us." Alva was scared of the massive monster.


    "HAHAHA yes, that would be horrifying. Sea kings would normally attack any ship in their territory, but it didn''t notice us. All marine ships are coated on the underside by sea-prism stone a sort of camouflage," Francis said


    "This really is a crazy world," Alva said.


    They arrived on the day of the execution.


    The island was full of people tens of thousands possibly even hundreds of thousands.


    Alva felt an unnerving feeling in the air as all the people moved in the same direction in perfect silence. It was the strangest thing he had ever seen.


    "Are all of these people here to see the execution of a single pirate?" Alva said.


    Standing next to his father they stood with another group of marines.


    Francis gave a precise salute to a Vice Admiral in the front.


    "Alva see that man, that''s the legend Garp D. Monkey he is the only person ever to best the pirate king," Francis said

 05: A New Era â…¡

    On a hot and muggy day, thousands filled the square in Loguetown.


    A platform erected in the rear of the square, the main street of Loguetown leading right to a ramp extending to the top of the platform.


    Alva looked all around at the masses, no one spoke, but the looks on their faces told


    a lot on their own.


    Most looked of anticipation and excitement, others looked scared, or relived.


    However, a few among the crowd had eyes full of sadness.


    The world waited in anticipation for the end of a legend.


    The mood in the air affected all present including Alva and his father.


    Francis began to sweat more than he would on any other hot day.


    Seeing the Marines behind him in a similar state to his father Alva began to re-evaluate the situation.


    "Did I misunderstand how much of a deal this was? All these people, this atmosphere I feel Like I''m about to suffocate. What''s going on?"


    "Father," Alva said "what does it mean to be Pirate King? Who is Gold Roger?"


    Francis was startled by the sudden break in silence.


    "Well uh, Gold Roger is the most powerful man in the world. He is a pirate who has sailed the seas for decades; they say he is the only man ever to navigate all of the Grand Line. I also heard he amassed great wealth in the process that rivals the world nobles.


    But there is one thing I know is a fact¡ªhe is the most powerful man in the world.


    He has destroyed entire armies, and brought nations to their knees by himself."


    "That''s insane! Those are just rumors right?"


    "No son, it is an undisputed fact."


    "This is what makes him Pirate King."


    Francis then turned back toward the platform.


    "What the hell," Alva said in a whisper.


    The metal double door opened and multiple men were wearing brown guard uniforms armed with polearms. They moved toward the platform in the square. Clearing a path as they went.


    Two guards each with steel spaulders covering the shoulders marched to the top of the platform and took a position.


    Peoples eyes became focused in a single direction down the main street not even blinking. The execution had begun.


    Alva felt restless and uncomfortable. His knees felt week, and his clammy hands shook slightly. His stomach felt weird; his head hurt somewhat.


    It was getting harder to breathe; his heartbeat started to rise.


    Alva closed his eyes and clenched his teeth.


    A bell began to toll.


    " ah, Something is coming...." Alva said


    A tall man with black hair wearing a large red naval frock coat.


    With bound hands, the man walked down the main street surrounded by four guards.


    Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.The crowds'' eyes went wide, and children fought their way to the front to see.


    Alva could feel something emitted from multiple directions.


    When he focused on them, in his mind, he began to see six red lights in various locations of the island. three stationary dim lights spread in the crowd of the square


    .


    One powerful and vibrant light was located the farthest away in some part of the city. Another large light was in front of the Marines, It was like a bonfire and moved like flames.


    The most extensive and most alarming light the size of a burning building was slowly getting closer to Alva''s position.


    The most considerable light emitted the most energy that felt like heat waves leading back to a single point. When this source of the red light stopped directly in front of Alva, his eyes shot open.


    Alva saw Roger standing there staring at him.


    When Alva met his eyes Rogers smile disappeared as his face became serious.


    Time slowed down when their eyes met, Alva felt a sensation come from the deepest part of him.


    Gold Roger held eye contact with the young child.


    Roger said, "Your name?"


    "Alva D. Drake yours?"


    "Gol D. Roger."


    Upon hearing the boys name, Roger''s smile returned to his face larger than before


    "Keep moving!" A guard commanded.


    AHAHAHAHAHA Roger laughed as he turned back toward the platform.


    Only the guards and a few Marines were close enough to hear the exchange of words.


    Garp grew tense when Roger stopped.


    After Gol D. Roger sat on the platform, a voice called out from the crowd.


    "Pirate King! What did you do with all of your treasure?"


    "You want my treasure? You can have it! I left everything I gathered together in one place. Now you''ll just have to find it!!"


    Gol D. Roger yelled as the executioners'' blades pierced his body.


    He died with a massive smile on his face.


    The crowd was shocked¨D then they exploded into wild cheers!


    The clouds burst as the rain started to fall as if the heavens themselves began to weep.


    _______________________________________________________________________________________


    While the crowed went into as frenzy.


    Alva noticed the largest light fade in his mind.


    Something ruptured in his soul as a searing pain came from his chest.


    Suddenly an intense killing intent engulphed the entire island.


    A blood-lust so thick the air felt heavy and cold. To the most acute warriors, it was like a red miasma surrounding all living things on the island.


    A blood-lust so powerful it affected everyone and everything like the sun.


    A cold chill washing over them all like a severe hurricane from the underworld, they felt the reaper''s scythe at their necks.


    The animals that could still move fled for their lives not stopping until they hit the ocean.


    The babies and small children lost control of their minds and fainted.


    Along with the weaker willed, women and children of all ages soiled themselves and dropped to the ground to start crying.


    Hardened men and Marines knees grew weak shaking violently, many of them dropping to the ground and losing the content of their stomachs.


    Monkey D. Garp was one of the strongest men on the planet having fought countless battles to the death without hesitation.


    He had never felt anything like this.


    Alarmed he tried to activate his armament Haki and prepare for combat, but he couldn''t focus long enough to cover more than a single fist.


    Garp searched for the source of the danger with urgency.


    Having bloodshot eyes and haggard breath, he fared better than most.


    "What in the world!" Garp managed to push the words out.


    Garp was shocked to the core when he spotted a small child left standing clutching his head.


    Alvas was the hypocenter of the killing intent.


    Every muscle on Alva''s body was bulging, and his skin was turning red, his veins pulsating. Wisps of steam rose off of him. Alva''s crystal blue eyes replaced by irises the color of blood.


    Garp turned toward Alva when he met his eyes Garp saw a 15-meter tall demon lusting for his life.


    He did not advance, he did not want to, his instinct told him not to and he didn''t dare disobey. Garp took two steps backward with tin legs.


    Garp closed his eyes and focused his mind when he opened them the apparition was gone, and a child remained.


    Suddenly Alva fell face forward into the ground, the aura of death left the island, allowing sound to return to it.


    Being permitted to breathe again, Francis ran toward his collapsed son.


    "Alvaaaa!"

 06: Good Luck Brat

    On that day for the world, the Great Age of Pirates began, and for the people of Loguetown the birthplace of the pirate era. The death of one legend gave rise to another


    The ''Demon of Loguetown.'' Some believe it was a curse from Gold Roger.


    Some say it was the Devil of the Sea. The people all told their version of the story.


    Everyone has their theories as to what happened, and they multiply by the hour.


    When Alva opened his eyes, he was lying on a couch in a small dusty room.


    He felt the same energy from the square in the room.


    Springing up Alva saw Vice Admiral Garp sitting in a chair wearing casual clothes and eating rice crackers.


    "You woke up, and I was beginning to think you might die."


    "Where am I and why are we here?"


    Alva hated surprises and being at the mercy of strangers.


    "Francis said you were special," Garp said


    "We''re in the storeroom of a bar, the owner is an old friend of mine," Garp said


    Alva just continued to listen to him.


    "I brought you here. After what you did at the square¡ªthe Marines will be hunting you."


    "What happened exactly? I blacked out after Gol D. Roger was executed."


    Garp looked at Alva intently as if trying to study him.


    "You don''t remember?"


    "No I don''t," Alva said, "Please tell me why you helped me you''re a marine right?"


    " I am¡ªyour father is also a marine. When I saw the look in his eyes while he held you;


    I realized if I wanted to get to you I would have to kill you both."


    "Why didn''t you?"


    "Because that would mean I wasn''t any better than a pirate!"


    Garp acted offended at the question.


    What Garp failed to mention was when he looked into Francis'' eyes he thought of his own son.


    Garp informed Alva of what had taken place excluding some parts, naturally.


    "I see, thank you sir" Alva bowed his head.


    "Kid, what was that are you a monster? I wouldn''t think that was something a human could do."


    Alva thought hard about how to answer.


    '' Damn you War, if you weren''t such a damn cheapskate with the info.''


    "Honestly I don''t know; something happened after I met Roger.


    My body started to hurt, and I was scared!"


    Alva tried his best to convince Garp of his naivety; luckily he was still so young.


    " ¡ªI am human!"


    "Hahahaha, well then I will accompany you and your father back to Briss. I have business in the South Blue anyway. I can''t leave something so dangerous be," Garp said


    Garp headed for the door.


    "Kid there''s something dangerous inside of you. As a Marine, I won''t let that danger roam free. Get some rest we set sail in the morning."


    Before the door closed behind him.


    "Garp, make sure he doesn''t drink too much for me okay?"


    Garp laughed again as he walked out.


    On a marine ship headed toward Briss.


    "Sir, there are pirate ships port side distance 800!"


    Called from the crows nest.


    "Dammned pirates, picking a fight with the Marines? Like hell it''s your era," Garp said


    "Sir they number three ships in total, what are your orders?" Francis was looking toward Garp expectantly.


    "Commodore Drake, this is your ship, I have not taken command I leave it to you."


    "We retreat, or we fight," Garp said. With the look on his face betraying his words.


    "We fight," Francis said, "Marines don''t run from pirates!"If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    "Well said!" Garp precoded to walk to the bow of the ship.


    "Allow me to assist," Garp said; " Alva let me show you the power of the Marines!"


    "Bring me cannonballs!" He shouted.


    Some men quickly brought him two 10 inch(25.5cm) rounds.


    Garp took a stance holding one cannonball in each of his hands.


    "What''s he gonna do with those rounds? Those are at least 100lb(45.4kg) each," Alva said.


    Garp swung his arms back then threw the cannon balls at two of the pirate ships.


    "Fist-Bone Meteorite!" he yelled as the two cannon balls broke the speed of sound creating a massive shockwave.


    The projectiles ripped through the ships 700m away exploding on the inside of them.


    Two enemy ships started to sink. The third ship immediately turned 180.


    "Strike!" Garp pumped he fist with a satisfied look on his face.


    "What the hell!" Alva''s jaw hung open


    Every person had wide eyes and slacked jaws.


    "This world is insane; I could understand the giant sea creatures, different evolution fine, and the wack geography whatever. But this, the people are this different? Is there even a human limit? With this kind of strength¡ªI''m a fucking idiot! I have completely underestimated how hard this was going to be; I''m so weak."


    Alva felt an instinctual desire from inside of his soul.


    "If someone who emits that light is this powerful. Garp wasn''t the only one out there either. I can''t miss this opportunity."


    "Damn the last one ran away," Garp said.


    "Garp sir," Alva said "please train me!"


    Alva called out to him while bowing deeply.


    "I refuse," Garp said


    "Please!''


    "Alva!" Francis started "Watch your tone; do you realize who you''re speaking too? He is a Vice-Admiral he doesn''t have time to deal with your nonsense¨D"


    Garp held up his hand toward Francis.


    "Oh? Why do you want me to train you; your father is strong?"


    "Father is good with the blade, determinately, but what I need is beyond his capability.


    I need help to control that; also I have a dream! For my goal and those I care about, I need power!" Alva was clutching his fist. "It has to be you!"


    "Power huh, what will you do with it," Garp said


    "Achieve my dream!"


    "What dream is that?''


    "That''s my business!"


    Garp''s face grew serious.


    "Alva you still have your education," Francis said


    "Father I have already read almost all of the essential books in the study.


    From what Skura says I''m already better with numbers than you are," Alva said looking intently at his father.


    "Ah...You are still too little!" Francis said reclaiming some pride as a father.


    "I am already more than twice the size of most kids my age; I will be big enough."


    Seeing the look in his sons'' eyes, Francis wavered.


    "How could I face Maria again if I let something happen to you?" Shaking his head


    "It''s too dangerous," Francis said


    Alva took in a large breath.


    ''Sorry dad, but I can''t let anything stop me here.'' Alva thought.


    "It may be dangerous, but this world is dangerous. There are tigers in the jungle, giant-eagles in the sky, and who knows what monsters lay in the sea.


    You saw it your self the times are changing; pirates just dared to attack Marines.


    In this world, It is more dangerous for me to stay weak! Mom would let me go," Alva said.


    Hearing this Francis lost his resolve.


    "hahhhhh¡ªFine you can train, but under one condition. You promise you won''t die, and you make your mother proud!" Frances straightened his back with these words.


    "I promise," Alva said, "but that''s two conditions."


    "One was a condition, the other was my wish," Francis said


    Alva started to smile; he faced Garp with fire in his sharp eyes.


    Seeing this Francis gave a nod to Garp and left to his quarters to have a chat with his comrade Captain Morgan.


    "Oh, Maria what am I gonna do? Alvas'' just as stubborn as you were," Francis said as he walked.


    "bwahaha" Garp burst into laughter.


    "Okay kid I''ll train you if you can pass one little test," Garp said.


    "I''ll do it," Alva said


    "Even if it kills you?"


    Alva paused for a moment.


    ''I''ve already died, the only reason I am experiencing this right now is that Balance and the others showed me mercy. I am his champion!''


    "What is life without a dream? I will not let fear stop me, for my dream I''ll throw away even the fear of death!"


    ''How bad could it be? I''ve done worse.'' Alva thought


    "Then your test starts right now, follow me," Garp said.


    Garp went into the lower deck and returned with a rope.


    They walked to the stern of the ship.


    "Can you swim?" Garp had a mysterious glint in his eye.


    "Yes I can," Alva said.


    "Good, In two days we will reach the calm belt, if you can manage to stay in the water until we get there you pass," Garp said.


    Garp tied one end of the rope to a post.


    "Will you take the test?"


    ''You have got to be kidding.'' Alva thought


    "tsk...I will!"


    Alva grabbed the rope from Garp and walked off the end of the ship without hesitation.


    Garp was pleasantly surprised to see this. He sat down on the stern cross-legged. He loosened the tie around his neck.


    "Good luck brat," Garp said with a smile on his face.

 07: Mirari

    Alva was pleasantly surprised; the water was comfortably warm and extremely salty more so than what he remembers from the Atlantic on earth. At first, it stung his eyes, but he adjusted.


    "Brat you''re on your own if something wants to eat you. You might die out there, "Garp said


    Initially, Alva had no issue swimming along behind the ship after three hours however it became hard to move his legs. He adjusted the way he was swimming.


    Trying to waste no movements conserving energy.


    "You didn''t eat breakfast right? Why don''t you just come on out of there and we''ll eat?" Garp said


    Garp had two bowls of fresh soup in his hands. The aroma they gave off was a testament to the cook''s skill.


    "Shut up old man, a deal is a deal," Alva said


    "We''ll see what your attitude is when night falls," Garp said to himself.


    After seven hours in the water, the sun sunk below the horizon.


    Alva''s hands started to go numb, blisters forming on them.


    The water''s temperature dropped rapidly, becoming colder and colder.


    It got harder to breathe, harder still to move.


    Using his will, Alva focused solely on his breathing.


    Gaining a sense of ''regularity'' he switched his focus onto his legs.


    Struggling to keep his head above water.


    Clouds covered the sky Alva was lost into the darkness.


    Unable to see the rope he was holding Alva tied it around his chest


    losing his grip on it now was certain death.


    Unable to see, the only thing he could hear was the waves wash over him.


    Fear set in, the uncertainty gnawing at his sanity.


    A predator could be coming to eat him this very moment he wouldn''t know.


    Unable to defend himself if he was attacked, in this helpless state he doubted if he could even call for help in time.


    "Hell Week was nice; I wish I were back there," Alva said.


    Unable to control the fear he started distracting himself with memories of things he had done in the past that sucked


    After hours he started to regain control of his mind.


    He pushed every sense still available to him to the max. Attempting to feel the subtle movement of the water


    Thirteen hours in the water Alva started to focus his mind intensely on every muscle in his body. Trying to create a connection so they would keep working.


    Alva slowly learned that there was a natural rhythm to the water, moving with it instead of against it.


    He moved his body into different positions to suit every wave.


    Staying above water became much easier.


    Alva was relieved when the sun started to rise, and he was out of the dark but still in danger.


    His heart rate had dropped dangerously low; he could no longer feel his legs.


    Looking back regularly to make sure they were still kicking.


    "I can''t do this," Alva said


    ''Of course, you can''t you''re weak.''


    ''We died because of you.''


    Alva heard voices.


    "It wasn''t my fault it was, it was.." Alva said.


    "Brat you''re still in there!?"


    A voice called out drawing his attention.


    "I was sure you would come out before dark," Garp said.


    "I..I won''t lose," Alva said


    "It''s okay to stop now, why push yourself?"


    Garp was wearing only his pants and white dress shirt today. Garp sat back in his spot with a book and crackers in hand.


    By eighteen hours in the water, Alva''s hands where split open covered in blisters that where cut through by the rope. Nothing but large gashes left of his palms.


    "Fuck," Alva said.


    Alva quickly held his hands above water, he pulled himself under his hands and caught the blood in his mouth.


    Garp''s smile disappearing from his face he became serious as he watched intently.


    Alva struggled desperately to keep blood out of the water.


    Now only floating on the water facing the sky.


    "Such tenacity," Garp said.


    two hours later the bleeding finally stopped, but Alva was unable to let his hands touch the water.


    Hours passed, and Alva started to lose consciousness dehydration and exhaustion setting in.


    "I guess this is as far as the kid can go," Garp said as he started undoing the buttons on his shirt.This content has been misappropriated from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.


    Suddenly a young boy in a sailor shirt rushed to the railing of the stern.


    "YOU CAN DO IT!! HANG IN THERE!''''


    Alva was startled by the roar. He began to regain focus.


    Other marines hear the noise and came to check it out


    shocked to see Alva in the water.


    "We''ve got to get him out of there,''" marine A said.


    "We can''t!" the boy said.


    "What are you saying look at him he''s gonna die!" The group of marines said.


    "He''s being a man!" The boy said, "he doesn''t want to quit!"


    All of the marines looked into Alva''s eyes only to be shocked; his look was fierce. They felt that if they pulled him out of the water, he''d kill them.


    "Can''t you see his condition chore boy? We have to do something," Marine A said.


    "I got it," chore boy said.


    The chore boy took off running; he quickly returned with a rope and a canteen.


    He tied the end and dove off the ship giving Alva some water.


    After being pulled back up to the deck, the chore boy looked toward Garp.


    "He didn''t fail because of me right?"


    Garp looked troubled.


    "He only fails if he leaves the water," Garp said, "Although..."


    ¡ª"THANK GOODNESS!" the chore boy yelled happily.


    "I was scared all of his hard work would be wasted because of my interference," chore boy said.


    "HAHAHAHA what''s your name?" Garp was amused.


    "Theodore sir!" "Most just call me Ted."


    "When I saw him working so hard I just had to do something; I have never seen someone so cool!" Ted said with shining eyes.


    "Can I sit here and watch?"


    Garp just gestured for him to sit down.


    At twenty-four hours in the water, Alva began to hallucinate.


    Using all of his will to not give in.


    He heard voices and saw Jessica and his ex-squad mates in the water.


    All are telling him he should quit or die.


    Suddenly the wind picked up, and a massive wave knocked Alva into the ship.


    Cutting his head open, bringing him back to reality.


    "Shit." Alva watched blood drop into the water.


    Alva scrambled his thoughts thinking of a solution.


    "It''s a gamble but.."


    Alva closed his eyes and focused his mind; trying his best to sense when something was coming.


    After five minutes he began to see outlines of blue light all around him.


    After more time he could hear voices.


    They confused him, and he thought they where more hallucinations so he focused even deeper¡ªreaching a flow state in his mind. The blue lights started to take shape.


    Alva saw two lights the shape of giant sharks heading towards him rapidly.


    His worst fears had come true. Breaking concentration he could no longer see any blue lights.


    "I will not die here; I can''t!"


    Alva''s heart rate increased his beaten and torn muscles burned.


    His blood started to heat up when he saw two shadows move in the water near the surface.


    "I will not die here!"


    Alva''s eyes turned red.


    A powerful killing intent burst from him.


    A red aura seemed to surround his body.


    Finns broke the water''s surface as the sharks approached.


    when they reached ten meters from Alva, they stopped dead in the water.


    Less than a second later the two sharks swam even faster in the opposite direction.


    No one outside of this distance could feel it, but Garp noticed it.


    "There it is again," Garp said. "Amazing"


    Ted was amazed to see the sharks run away, completely oblivious as to why.


    "Oh god, I''m alive!" "I don''t know what this is, but I felt like I wanted to kill everything."


    "I need to get a handle on this, I can''t go killing everyone every time I get pissed off," Alva said.


    ''It has to be the soul stone'' Alva considered multiple possibilities in his mind, trying to find a solution.


    __________________________________________


    Ted and Garp left to eat dinner. The sun was starting to set.


    After being in the water for thirty hours, his mind was going blank


    Alva could not think at all, and he could no longer move every muscle in his body was destroyed, far surpassing the limits of his young body and that of grown men. He was floating there on the water in agony looking up at the stars. He was done, just waiting for someone to come along so he could ask them to pull him out of the water.


    "Alva my boy you still out there?" A very drunk Francis was leaning over the railing.


    "Hows the test going?" "Bwahaha Its okay you don''t got to answer."


    Alva focused on Francis'' words; they called his mind back to him.


    "Father, I...I''m sorry after all I said, I..." Alva spoke in a hoarse and low voice.


    "¡ªYou know Alva, you''re a lot like your mother," Francis said.


    Being interrupted Alva just listened.


    "Yeah you got her eyes and her soft hair, but most importantly you have her heart."


    "Maria was stubborn and strong-willed I never won a single argument haha¡ªbut she was kind hard working. The day she found out she was pregnant was the happiest day of her life. She immediately called her sister; then she started to panic because they didn''t grow up with a mother.


    She was worried she would be a bad mother.


    She spent the next week going to every mother in the city asking for advice and tips, that''s how she met Lisa, when they saw how serious she was about it they got serious about helping her. She looked funny running around with a book taking notes."


    Tears formed in Francis'' eyes.


    "A couple of months before you were born she got the idea to make you a blanket, but she was terrible with her hands and couldn''t sew.


    She spent hours every day practicing. ''It has to be perfect.'' she''d say.


    I would tease her about all of the bandages around her fingers, and she would get embarrassed, then mad. At night she would get Sakura to teach her when she thought I was asleep. Haha, a prideful lady she wanted to show off the blanket she made herself."


    Francis paused for a long time.


    "She loved you very much son...and I know you will make her proud," Francis said.


    "Dad, could you tell me more about her? Where was she from?"


    "She was from Baterilla, would you like to visit your aunt?"


    "Yeah," Alva said.


    With tears running down his face Francis went back to his quarters.


    Alva also had tears in his eyes; half sadness and half frustration.


    Francis'' words stirred the embers in Alva''s heart reigniting the flame.


    "Mom thank you, I promise not to waste this life you gave me. I will never quit again," Alva said


    He meant every word with all of his being.


    By the thirty-fourth hour Alva could not move, he winced in pain and held his breath when a wave washed over his face. Relying solely on his luck to make it through this ordeal.


    ______________________________________


    The wind started to howl, and the waves picked up


    growing larger they violently crashed into Alva.


    No one had returned, and Alva could no longer call for help as the waves stifled his breath. He started to sink into the turbulent water.

 08: Storm

    Alva panicked as he felt water fill his lungs.


    Reaching out toward the light above he sunk deeper into the black depths.


    His consciousness began to fade.


    His body grew cold and still as his heart stopped beating.


    Alva was prepared to succumb to the darkness once more.


    Before Alvas eyes could shut.


    CRACK!! BZZZZ


    The sky and the sea flashed purple.


    Alva''s vision flashed a blinding white.


    "Alva.."


    He saw his mother in the light for a millisecond.


    Electricity scattered in all directions an arc hitting Alva''s left shoulder.


    Millions of volts assaulted his body the current passed through him.


    His nervous system went haywire his heart restarted beating, then felt like it was going to burst.


    His blood vessels ruptured, his skin was searing all the muscles he had were twitching.


    Alva''s spirit erupted, his eyes turned red, the dangerous aura returned. Energy filled all of his cells.


    They began to regenerate rapidly¡ªthe bodies natural healing process was kicked into overdrive. The gashes on Alva''s hands filled in, the dry cracked and sunburnt skin shed replaced by a new darker layer.


    The burnt flesh quickly healed leaving white scar tissue in its place.


    His muscles were broken down and replaced by thicker denser muscle fibers.


    Alva''s skeleton grew more extensive and denser the bones were stronger than before.


    His entire body morphed, a thicker more powerful version replacing it.


    Alva had never felt pain of this caliber as if his nerves were all torn.


    He blacked out his vision turning red.


    Hearing the sound of a lightning strike near the ship Garp ran out onto the top deck worried, assaulted by sharp rain and strong wind as the storm raged.


    What Garp saw at the end of the ship shocked him. In the short intervals of light given off by the flashes of lightning in the sky, Garp was able to discern a silhouette standing on the railing of the stern.


    The form fell froward Garp rushed and caught him.


    Alva had blood-shot unfocused eyes.


    Without a shred of fat on his body, he looked malnourished, fragile¡ªhis ribs were visible.


    His hair changed color and grew out and his fingernails where longer. The skin on his fingertips was torn and bloody.


    The most surprising change was his height he grew slightly over five inches taller.


    "What happened?" Garp carried Alva to the ships doctor as fast as he could.


    ___________________________________________________________________________


    Three days passed.


    "Doctor, have you learned anything about his condition?" Francis said.


    "Well, sir from the test I''ve conducted It appears that after he was struck by lightning.


    A phenomenon accrued causing the cells in his body to replicate unnaturally fast healing his organs. Which quite possibly saved his life. Based on the scarring on his body, the shock reached his heart; which should have killed him. Frankly, it''s a miracle that he is alive," Dr.Cross said.


    Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on."This accelerated repair did not come without side effects, however. From what I can figure Alva has lost anywhere from twenty to twenty-five years from his lifespan."


    "I see," Francis said


    "His cells have returned to a normal state, and his growth has stopped."


    "Considering his age his new size is extraordinary, to be 3''7(109.3cm) and 60lb(27kg) he is already larger than some five-year-olds at twelve months old..."


    Alva awoke to discover he was in the infirmary. He could hear a woman and his father speaking in the room next door. Throwing off the blanket covering him, Alva stood in front of a mirror. He had regained his healthy appearance, looking better than before. His hair now reached below his ears with white ends.


    He ran his hand over the Lichtenberg pattern scar left by the lightning.


    The scar started on his left lateral deltoid extended down his left arm stopping at the elbow, and over the shoulder across his chest toward his heart and up the side of his neck slightly


    The white scar is contrasting with his beige skin, looking almost like a tattoo.


    "Badass," Alva said.


    While technically disfigurement Alva decided to wear it like a badge of honor, proof he had survived. The scar had a certain charm to it, as no two would ever be the same.


    Alva was starving the IV he was on keeping him alive and hydrated but did nothing to satiate his hunger.


    After a bath and the most significant meal, he had ever eaten Alva slept for twenty hours.


    The ship arrived in Briss at the crack of dawn. The suns rays broke between the Skyfang mountain range. Creating a picturesque scene. Alva watched the sunrise from the deck.


    "It is quite the view right?" Dr.Ross said approaching Alva.


    "I''ve never seen anything as beautiful," Alva said. Looking at the mountains towering into the sky he felt peace.


    "How are you feeling kid," Dr.Ross said.


    "Never better doc."


    "Doc?" She shot him a questioning glance.


    "I''m doing great, thank you, ma''am," Alva said, nodding slightly.


    "Hey kid, I''m not old enough for ma''am you know!"


    "Eh...Excuse me, what should I call you?"


    "Dr.Ross or big sis is fine." She said looking a bit annoyed


    "What''s your first name?"


    "Angellica," she said.


    The pair stood there admiring the view for a while.


    "Are you going to cut your hair short again?"


    "Nah, I''ve never had long hair before¡ªI like it," Alva said.


    "Even though the ends turned white?"


    "Yeah, it''s a gift from my mother after all."


    She looked at him like he was crazy.


    The ship docked at the harbor. Full of people merchants, fishermen and ferrymen all busy with their morning task.


    "I got to go find the old man," Alva said. "Thanks, Angie, bye."


    Alva smiled to Angellica showing his bright white teeth.


    With a quick wink, he rushed off.


    She chuckled as Alva ran into the distance.


    Angie thought that with his facial features. A strong jaw, perfect nose and flawless skin. Paired with his unique eyes and smooth black hair that had white highlights; Alva had a charming and exotic look.


    She knows he wil be quite the looker when he''s older. Tall dark and handsome, she lamented the fact that she had missed the future lady-killers strike range by just ten years.


    ____________________________________________________________________


    Alva found Garp and Francis speaking on the pier.


    "Garp sir," Alva said.


    "Ah, Alva you''re looking better. You were on death''s door," Garp said


    "About the test, I know..."


    "¡ªYou Pass." Garp had a broad smile.


    "But I didn''t make it to the Clam Belt?"


    "You never needed to, It was to test your resolve, you could have come out after the first night, and you would have passed," Garp said, "After you looked so determined, I got curious to see if you could make it."


    "I ALMOST DIED BECAUSE OF YOU, YOU BASTARD! YOU STUPID OLD MAN.."


    Alva grabbed the nearest sharp object that looked like it could cause damage and lunged at Garp''s throat, being restrained by Francis. If looks could kill Garp''s head would roll.


    "BWAHAHAHA, Your training starts tomorrow be up at 5:00 am," Garp said while walking away, ignoring Alva''s barrage of insults.

 09: Foundation of Blood

    Before dawn on Skyfang island, loud sounds of impact heard from a courtyard.


    Alva was striking a thick wooden post with punch-kick-knee combinations.


    During his past life, he had reached a very high proficiency in a few martial arts.


    On base he was an assistant instructor of the U.S hand-to-hand system, for years he taught Rangers how to kill with their hands. Alvas preferred fighting style is heavily reliant on Muy Thai, Krav Maga, and a Jiu-Jitsu/SAMBO hybrid.


    "Alva you''re already out here? It''s so early. You woke me up," Francis said.


    "How long have you been out here it''s not even 4:00?!" Francis was annoyed at being awoken so early.


    "A couple hours," Alva said


    "You that excited? I have never seen someone so eager to rush into hell ahahaha!"


    "Cal it a routine."


    "What were those weird movements son?"


    "Oh, that''s my personal fighting style."


    "Who taught you something like that?"


    "Uh...I came up with it myself."


    "Forget it then, you haven''t started training wouldn''t want to form bad habits," Francis said. Waving his hand and smiling at his imaginative son.


    "Oh? Would you care for a demonstration if you win I''ll throw it away, If I win I do what I want," Alva said


    "Stubborn brat, deal."


    Francis figured he would humor his son and show him that his old man was capable.


    Both of them stood adjacent to each other in the middle of the training field.


    Alva tossed his father a wooden dagger.


    "What''s this?"


    "For training," Alva said "kill me" with a severe expression.


    "Hyaaaa!"


    Francis lunged forward with a well trained orthodox stab


    .


    Alva instantly lowed his body and pivoted sideways.


    Francis was surprised to see the quick, agile movement. What he saw next, however, changed his entire worldview.


    Alva grabbed Francis right wrist knocked the knife away while pulling his arm down in a circular motion. At the speed of lightning, Francis was on the ground.


    Alva held the captured arm extended under his knee and in a wristlock. With his leg over Francis'' elbow, left foot pressing down on his neck.


    Francis was in shock the impossible had just happened. His large figure was thrown by a child 1/3rd his size.


    "It''s not over!" Seeing his small son holding his wrist with just one hand he thought it was his chance to overpower him.


    Alva applied pressure to his hold threatening to break the arm in two places. Francis felt the pain and ceased his struggle.


    Alva pulled out a wooden pistol with his free hand.


    "Bang you''re dead," Alva said.


    Francis was a mental wreck he was frustrated, embarrassed and happy all at once.


    He had been disarmed and ''killed'' by a child. His child, he was proud of his son.


    Francis knew Alva was a genius, his reading, and mathematics skills well beyond his age. Francis thought they were just lucky their kid was smart, but with this, he knew he had underestimated Alva.


    Alva was a natural fighter with his talent paired with his naturally flexible and robust body. He was a thoroughbred born for combat.


    However, for Francis, all of that seemed almost complimentary to Alva''s most alarming talents. That which could not be learned, Alva''s ferocious spirit and indomitable will.


    Francis had an epiphany Alva is not a prodigy; no, Alva is indefinable.


    Francis did not know what Alva was, but he knew one thing he wasn''t human.


    For the first time, Francis looked at his son and felt fear.


    Fear for what he could become.


    "You didn''t say you would be armed as well," Francis said.


    "I never said I wasn''t, besides in that position I had plenty of ways to perform the kill."


    Francis looked into his eyes; they did not show hesitation. He unconsciously created more distance from Alva.


    "Your opponent was un-armed and subdued why kill them?"


    "To engage the next opponent," Alva said.


    Francis was shocked at this. It left a bad taste in Francis'' mouth but realizing his reasoning was correct he had no retort. On the battlefield, the enemy is rarely alone.


    While he had thought this practice for a fight; Alva was training for war.


    "I was wrong, do as you wish," Francis said.


    _____________________________________________________________


    Garp arrived after breakfast.


    "Alva you have shown that you have the spirit your body is weak it will snap like a twig. It is too soon for my training. So we will work on your foundation body and mind," Garp said.


    "so," Francis said, "during this time while we build up your strength I will train you in swordsmanship and marksmanship."Reading on this site? This novel is published elsewhere. Support the author by seeking out the original.


    "Unfortunately your training is on a tight schedule. With my promotion I have been transferred to Marine HQ I must report to my new post in five months. Luckily my branch post replacement will arrive soon so I can focus solely on training you. With Vice Admiral Monkey''s help, I may be able to delay this for a while more, but that''s the limit," Francis said.


    "I understand father."


    "For me, this decides how long we have to get you into fighting shape," Garp said.


    He pulled out a transponder snail with long blonde hair.


    "When this rings, your training is over. I do not know how much time you have to train, but it''s at least a few months. How far you get in that time is up to you, prepare yourself."


    Garp''s tone gave no room for protest; this was final.


    ''This is shitty, all that and I don''t even know how long I get to learn from him for?''


    "I understand Instructor Monkey!" Alva bowed.


    "Garp is fine."


    "Yes sir, instructor Garp," Alva said.


    "Tsk I see you are ready, so let us begin," Garp said. Looking a bit annoyed.


    Alva was wearing a pair of custom black boots with steel covering the toe, sole, and heel. The steel was black and texture coated. A pair of loose fitting dark green pants tucked into his boots, and a black belt was holding them. A black sleeveless tank top for a shirt. Alva''s hands were wrapped up to the middle of his forearms. Protecting his skin and supporting the wrist.


    Garp left, Francis walked forward taking off his coat.


    "Let''s begin first is 1.500 push-ups, 1.000 sit-ups, and 500 laps," Francis said.


    "Laps around the courtyard?"


    "Around the town now begin!" Francis shouted.


    "Yes, sir!''


    The days of eternal hell had begun. The schedule was brutal the morning was five hours and thirty minutes of strength and conditioning. Flexibility, endurance, and weight training. Followed by two hours of full contact sparring.


    After lunch, it was five hours and thirty minutes of sword training.


    When Alva displayed impeccable marksmanship after just one day of practice, his father decided it wasn''t necessary.


    Alva used his knowledge of science and anatomy to maximize the benefits of all of his training. He ate a special diet and commissioned doctors and apothecaries to make multiple supplements and medicines. No expense was spared, much to Francis'' dismay.


    After three months Alva''s schedule switched to three hours of strength training and ten hours of sword training. Alva finished his fathers'' training in seven months.


    Alva had grown 3inchs taller and put on a whole 20lb(9kg) of muscle.


    He had reached the max of the body''s potential for his age utilizing his DNA to its fullest.


    Garp had supervised Alvas progress during this time taking an advisory role, correcting mistakes and giving tips.


    Alva was looking at his current state.


    "Holly shit I''m jacked, I bet Ill look like Goku by the time in an adult," Alva said


    Alva spent no small length of time making poses in the mirror. Daydreaming about his future body, the body he had always dreamed of obtaining.


    In his past life he was incredibly fit, but due to his age, lifestyle and genetics he never archived the coveted godlike figure that every boy who grew up in the 80''s wanted.


    Especially after watching actions movies and DBZ in high school.


    Alva focused intently on reaching a near perfect balance between slow twitch muscle fibers(Red), fast oxidative fibers(red), and fast glycolytic fibers(white). Soon all of his muscles would be the mythical pink muscle allowing him to stay lean and contain a lot of power. His fighting style required him to be extremely fast and agile.


    Alva believed there was no such thing as too much speed after all.


    Francis was a master in fencing, and a sword style only known to the royal family of Briss called the Water Dance. Francis'' father had married a Royal Dutchess of the Salti house. While not the main family they still had access to the techniques.


    This marriage was very controversial among the nobles and the central Salti family.


    It raised the status of the Drake house disrupting the balance of the four great houses of Briss under the crown. It also disrupted the freedom of the King, making it harder for the crown to crack down on the Drake house as they were now related.


    Facing possible pushback from any decision affecting the Drake house from within the Salti house.


    Raising the Drake house from Earl to that of Marquis they now had the pedigree to marry the royal family directly. Potentially putting someone outside of the Salti house in the line of succession for the firsts time in 700 years.


    In time King Cicero Salti''s fears would be realized with his son. Under pressure King Caesar Salti''s second daughter princess Roxana would marry Marquis Horatio Drake, Francis'' older brother, and Alva''s uncle. Putting Horatio''s daughter Elizabeth on the short list currently fifth. This among other things has increased tension between the Drake house and King Caesar.


    Alva was a quick study in the sword; he mastered all of the stances and twenty basic strikes of fencing and kenjutsu in this time.


    He had begun learning the Water Dance this week. A style that suited Alva nicely, it could be used with any blade including knives. A style involving orthodox grip and reverse grip stances utilizing agile movement to deliver powerful strikes to the opponents vitals. Key philosophies of this style are, to move fluently and strike with grace. One strike one kill, transitioning between opponents smoothly.


    Designed for fighting multiple opponents Alva liked the Water Dance very much, understanding why it was secret as it was so deadly.


    Being a rare style never seen outside of Briss, it was tricky to counter for all but the most adept swordsmen.


    Alva was excited all this time to prepare for the primary training.


    "Kid, you ready for a work out?" Garp said while cracking his knuckles.

 10: Baterilla Chronicle

    For the next ten hours, Alva was hunted. Garp savagely pursued him through the nearby jungle at top speed. If Garp caught up to him Alva was attacked, a single punch sending him careening through the air his body struck trees toppling them.


    Garp''s relentless pursuit reshaped the landscape.


    Garp would throw boulders, felled trees and any large animal unlucky enough to be in arms reach. Alva forced to dodge the missiles with all of his ability one hit could critically injure or kill him.


    "Boy, you''ll die in this forest! Bwahahaha" Garp had an air of playfulness, but his attacks could kill.


    When night finally came Alva was collapsed on the ground he could no longer move.


    In both lives today was the hardest ''''workout'''' he had ever done.


    Alva was covered in wounds, his arms and shins were fractured from blocking.


    His body was covered in bruises and cuts. Sweat would pour into them causing more pain. The most severe injury was a two-inch piece of stone shrapnel from an exploding boulder. The piece of rock was stuck in his right shoulder.


    Garp sat down joining Alva looking at the stars.


    "Still alive?," Garps said.


    "Hmmm"


    "Kid, you are amazing. I have never seen such raw potential. It is why I''m gonna push you to your limit; it would be a waste if I don''t push you further than I managed to go."


    Alva could hardly listen.


    Garp carried him home.


    "We''ll continue tomorrow."


    That night a doctor stayed up late tending to all of the wounds.


    The next morning all of the cuts were gone, and the fractures started to heal.


    A large gash remains stitched shut on the shoulder.


    Alva looked like a mummy wrapped in bandages.


    "This is crazy, I had always heard human potential was limitless, but in this world, it''s so true." Alva was even more excited for his training.


    "let''s get after it!" A favorite saying he picked up from the guest Navy SEALs at the Army Special Forces Underwater Operations School.


    Alva continued his morning routine.


    Garp received a call this morning from Sengoku.


    Francis went to Alva


    .


    "Alva, I have to leave for Marineford today, would you like to live there?"


    "No father I will remain here to finish my training," Alva said.


    "Very well, on the way, I could drop you off at your aunts'' place."


    "Really? I need to go ask the old man for time off!"


    "No need, I have to return to HQ as well," Garp said. Walking in on the conversation.


    "What about my training?"


    "I will return in a week," Garp said


    "Then it''s settled Alva pack your things," Francis said.


    Alva packed clothes and other "necessities" as well as his brand new custom Khyber knife. With a 16inch blade, with a black spiral pattern on the blade like damascus steel. Black steel handle with gold fixture along the bottom with a shops seal. An actual work of art. He paid a young master-smith 2.600.000Beli to devise the method to produce a new damascus like alloy.


    ___________________________________________________________________________________


    Alva used his Knowledge of damascus steel, alloys and chemistry to assist the smith whenever possible. It took six months but they did it, the result was a metal comprised of carbon steel, sea-stone alloy, and four other metals masterfully fused together.


    Wayland, the smith, gave Alva a discount of four million for the smithing method.


    Alva sold the method with conditions.


    1. The method for forming Damascus must be a guarded secret.


    2. The smith may never sell or share the technique.


    3. Only use it yourself and teach it to one apprentice only.


    4. The materials used for any product can never be shared, even with the customer.


    5. The method is never to leave Briss.


    6. At the threat of death or torture. The secret is not to be shared with the Crown of Briss or the World Government. The secret of the material and production method are to go to the grave.


    7. All conditions of the blood pact will be inherited along with the secret technique and information regarding it that is passed on.


    Wayland instantly agreed, the contract was strict but nothing he wasn''t willing to accept. He would only pass this secret on to his apprentice if they also agreed beforehand and signed his copy in blood as well.


    Alva and Wayland Davenport signed a contract in blood, forming a blood pact.


    Alva sealed the agreement with an RSE.


    If any of the terms of the agreement were broken, Alva would kill Wayland, his apprentice, anyone else that knew or had exposure, and all of their family. Legally of course; as this was a blood contract with the Royal Seal to Enforce on it.


    The RSE Something only nobles could get their hands on. However, its use was very rare.


    If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.In Briss, once this seal was used on a document, not even the Crown could protest with any actions taken against another in case of infringement if it was stated in the agreement. If a blood agreement with this seal said.


    Upon infringement of the terms above, your wife is to be beheaded, the King himself could not punish the one who took her head.


    Alva went to such lengths to protect the secret behind this new metals creation for one reason. It was world breaking; according to Wayland nothing like it existed.


    The knife could cut through steel and iron easily, it could also damage sea-prism stone which was as hard as diamond.


    Wayland proclaimed this knife had the sharpest edge he had ever seen and it would almost never dull. The most shocking information Wayland shared was the fact that this blade could kill anyone even people with "Devil-Powers" as he put it. Making this blade a real terror to all.


    Alva was very interested in these powers.


    Wayland knew this would change his life. He could charge any amount for one of these custom blades making him a fortune.


    Wayland had charged Alva 6.000.000 Beli, but he had achieved something, and without Alva, it wouldn''t have been possible.


    The final price was 2.000.000Beli, but Alva threw in an extra 600.000Beli Wayland assumed it was a tip and a bribe the blood pact was binding, but it was considered extremely rude.


    To Wayland Davenport, money was always the start of the best of partnerships.


    Similar blades will be made in time; however Alva''s would remain one of a kind. Alva had provided high-quality sea-prism stone ore something Wayland could not get his hands on alone. As a true craftsman, Wayland relished the opportunity to work with the forbidden material.


    Alva obtained 3.000.000 Beli last weekend from a local drug dealer, the man was pushing a black powder substance, it appeared to be a poppy product and had the effects of opium. Alva noticed a large number of addicts in the slums of the city while running through the district.


    That day Alva beat random junkies in the allies until he got a name.


    LaCroix, Alva followed him home that night from the intersection he sold from.


    Alva broke into his house and killed him in his sleep. He stole 1.300.000Beli from a hidden compartment in the wall. Then Alva burned down the house with all drugs he could find inside.


    LaCroix real name Walter had a bounty of 2.000.000Beli on his head. Alva got a random guy to turn in his head at the Marine station for 300K of the reward money. The passerby threw up when he opened the sack with Walter''s head in it.


    LaCroix worked for a larger criminal net-work on SkyFang island Alva noted he would have to address that issue later. Along with the guards that left LaCroix, a wanted man, alone to do business in broad daylight.


    _______________________________________________________________________________


    Alva named the Damascus Khyber knife Gilgamesh.


    Alva used the rest of his money for all new gear.


    Black leather gloves with steel plates on the back of the hand.


    New black armored boots. Dark brown pants with extra pockets and a black belt.


    A pistol and brown leather holster put behind his back on his belt.


    All covered by a long dark red leather coat the shoulders and upper back were darker leather, three silver buttons fastening the two together seamlessly. The long sleeves of the coat were unzipped at the wrist and rolled up to the elbow.


    Alva modeled the coat after Dante''s from Devil May Cry but customized it a bit.


    With a black Drake family sigil on the back. The sigil, an eagle wings spread with a knife held in its beak.


    With new cloths Alva decided to cut his hair he left the shoulder length but had it shaped evenly and undercut slightly from his sideburns to his ear. He hated when hair touched his ears, the military ingrained it into him. He wore his hair tied back in a ponytail leaving only a lock of his bangs free to drape over his forehead.


    Alva had his weapons concealed, but his walk and eyes gave people a sense that he was dangerous. If he weren''t a child, many pedestrians would assume he was a famous criminal.


    Alva boarded his fathers'' ship before noon.


    "What took you so long?" Francis was annoyed he had been waiting for Alva for at least an hour.


    "Sorry I had to go pick up my new coat and cut my hair. I also had my pistol cleaned and..." Alva began listing of a myriad of things.


    "What''s with all that you know you are visiting your aunt, not the king," Francis said.


    "It''s my first time in Baterilla I wanted to splurge a little." Francis couldn''t reply he didn''t want to continue this conversation. His son was dressed head to toe in brand new and shining cloths even having his boots shined. However his clothes were practical, he looked ready for combat. Francis mused Alva was the stylish soldier and laughed to himself.


    The trip to Baterilla took a day. When Alva disembarked alone, Francis gave him 50.000 Beli to eat and get back home with.


    Alva left the port and headed for an inn. The elderly innkeeper thought it was cute Alva was brave enough to travel on his own. After getting a room, Alva decided to go find his aunt in the morning.


    On his way to the address, his father gave him. Alva was shocked to see what was going on around the town marines and government officials swarmed all over the place frantically searching houses.


    "What are they doing?"


    Alva quickly noticed that most women where being searched and detained.


    He noticed the look in the eyes of the marines and the panic in their voices.


    He had seen it before and new it wasn''t good.


    These men were on edge and frantic making them dangerous.


    Alva came across a disturbing scene.


    A gang of Marines was dragging a pregnant woman out of her home.


    She had tears in her eyes, reaching out for her husband who was restrained by a marine.


    When the man broke free from the marines.


    BANG!


    He was shot in the chest as he lay on the ground bleeding he was still reaching for his wife.


    The woman began to shriek, and scramble for her husband.


    The marine pulling her away let go, and punched her in the face.


    The woman dropped to the ground, the marine then kicked her in the stomach, and dragged her away by her hair.


    Alva was seething with anger he began to move forward.


    A marine pointed a rifle at his head.


    "Halt! Do not interfere."

 11: Baterilla Chronicle â…¡

    Alva locked eyes with the tall Marine centering a rifle on him.


    Taking steady telegraphed steps towards the large man.


    "I am Alva D. Drake son of Commodore Sir. Francis Drake of Marine Headquarters, take your aim off me marine!"


    The marine was startled he lowered his rifle. As the boy approached, he began to feel smaller and smaller.


    "Seaman First Class Kipp detain him!" A shrill voice came from the rear.


    "We are enforcing an edict of the of the World Government not even an Admiral could interfere. Cease boy, or you will be shot for obstruction!" Said a lanky man in a pinstripe suit, with a gold World Gov symbol pinned to his breast. Holding a smoking gun.


    "Now SFC Kipp," the official said. Kipp aimed his rifle at the boy''s head once more.


    Alva moved a step closer, the tip of a cold iron-barrel now pressed against his forehead.


    Alva''s glare was not leaving the eyes of the young Marine. Kipps'' hands began to shake.


    Alva wrapped his right hand around the barrel of the rifle.


    Kipp tried to pull away, but the rifle was set in stone, unmoving.


    Alva closed his grip around the rifle making a crunch sound.


    Alva released his hand Kipp stumbled to the ground dropping his oversized paperweight.


    Fear washed over him as he peered up at Alva now towering over him.


    Alva turned his glare to the Official in the rear. For a brief moment, the man saw his own death. Sweat rolled down his back.


    Alva''s coat was now on the ground revealing the leather straps around his torso and waist. Alva''s steady hand hovered at his side slightly behind him, ready to draw.


    "We have the woman let''s go," the Official said.


    The government official left quickly.


    Alva ran to the man on the ground applying pressure to the wound and CPR, but to no avail, the man bled out within two minutes.


    "These fucks," Alva said. Gnashing his teeth.


    Unbeknownst to Alva, a witness to this scene shared his feelings, multiplied by a level.


    A camera flashed.


    Not understanding what''s happening on this island Alva went to his aunt urgently fearing she would be in danger as well.


    In ten minutes Alva reached the address.


    Alva knocked on the door multiple times; there was no answer.


    Five minutes....ten minutes...an hour time passed as Alva just waited by the door.


    He could feel someone was inside, so he decided to wait them out.


    "This is the home of Portgas D. Rouge right? Aunt Rouge open up."


    Alva heard a lock turn; the door opened slightly.


    "Does that mean to come in?" Alva slowly walked through the doorway.


    The room was dark with the curtains drawn, and a few candles lit the room.Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    "Close the door." A strained female voice sounded from the far side of the room.


    Alva turned to see a woman with long blonde hair leaning on a table.


    She looked similar to his mother except her eyes are normal and soft.


    Wearing al lite-blue dress Alva thought she was a beautiful young woman.


    "Aunt Rouge nice to meet you," Alva said with a smile.


    "Ah who.. those eyes, Alva!?" Rouge was shocked


    "Yeah, it''s me."


    "How you''re just a toddler but you''re so big, and those scars and..''


    Rouge was at a loss for words she had seen Alva once at Maria''s funeral he was a big and cute baby. She could never imagine a nineteen-month-old child could ever look like this. As he hung up his coat, she could clearly see his weapons and scars. What stood out the most was one odd scar peeking out above his collar, it shot out in multiple directions. Rouge started to imagine what kind of life her nephew lived.


    Alva was clearly no normal child; an aura hung around him the boy somehow seemed savage.


    "Maria..." Rouge said. She was starting to think about how Maria would feel seeing this.


    A sudden hug brought Rouge out of her worried thoughts.


    "I''m happy to see you''re okay after I saw what was happening here I got worried," Alva said. Rouge simply smiled the child was abnormal but her nephew all the same.


    She loved her sister dearly naturally this love extended to Alva as well.


    ''That''s it can''t be.'' Alva thought. While hugging Rouge, he felt the pulsing energy from her the same that emitted from Garp and few others. Alva closed his eyes and focused his mind on the source.


    What he saw shocked him, in the darkness was a bright red light in the form of Rouge.


    Small wisps of light stemming from her form were wafting through the air like a gentle flame. Alva was surprised for multiple reasons with this discovery.


    Rouge was the first female he had confirmed to emit this energy and appear as light in his mind. Because of Garp and Roger Alva assumed all people possessing this light were powerful fighters. Seeing the delicate and soft Rouge posses the same light blew that theory out of the water. Also, he felt a second source of the energy it was faint, but when Alva focused on Rouge''s torso, he noticed a small flame in her lower abdomen.


    ''she''s pregnant? So even an unborn baby can have it wtf?''


    Bringing more questions than answers.


    They spent the rest of the day talking with each other. Alva was happy Rouge reminded him a lot of his mother. He really enjoyed her stories about Maria; It gave him a sense of connection to his mother.


    Alva himself didn''t quite understand how he had become so attached with his mother having spent so little time with her. It was just instinctual, and it warmed his heart, so he fully embraced it.


    "Aunt Rouge, you''re hiding in here aren''t you?"


    She was taken aback at his words. Seeing this Alva continued speaking.


    "The curtains have been closed all day, you avoid the windows, and when you opened the door, you made sure no one could see you."


    Rouge was stunned, never expecting a child to pick up on those details.


    The look in her eyes soon changed.


    "It''s okay I''ve seen what''s happening out there. Do you know why the Marines attacked Baterilla, targeting women?"


    Rouge''s eyes turned dark; she began to cry.


    "They are looking for a child," Rouge said. She seemed apprehensive.


    ''That''s fucking insane!''


    "You can''t be serious! All of this killing and pain over a child what the hell is the government thinking!?"


    Alva lost it; he couldn''t understand why they would go this far, it was cruel, it was wrong. It didn''t just anger Alva as a person; it enraged him on a deeper level.


    Looking at Rouge he thought of his mother, and the fear she must be feeling for herself and her baby. When he remembered the pregnant woman from this morning, he thought of Jessica and his own unborn child. The Government''s actions awakened his wrath as a father.


    Before Rouge could continue speaking. Alva started.


    "Aunt Rouge It''s getting late I should go."


    "Ah wa.. you can stay here during your visit," she said.


    "I shouldn''t intrude, I have already paid for a room at the inn," Alva said.


    "I''ll come by tomorrow for breakfast."


    they parted for the evening.


    Alva immediately returned to his room on the second floor of the inn.


    Changing into an all-black outfit from head to toe, capping it off with a ski mask he made himself out of light material.


    Alva opened his window and closed his eyes; he focused his mind.


    He started to hear voices, all over Baterilla he focused deeper filtering them until he pinpointed the voices of women in pain.


    When clouds rolled in front of the moon, a black figure with red eyes landed in the alley below and blitzed off.

 12: A Dark Night in Baterilla

    Baterilla was especially dark tonight a blanket of clouds blocked out the moonlight, engulfing the town in black. The streets sparsely lit by flame-bearing lanterns, creating separated sections of dimly lit areas. Shadows moved sporadically on the roads and on walls.


    The air was hot and humid a suffocating feeling pervading the island.


    Marines heavily patrolling the streets devoid of pedestrians, the occasional scream or gunshot would echo through the air. Military occupation was in full effect, to the dismay of the populace.


    Alva moved atop the buildings headed for the closest voice screaming out in his head.


    He could feel all of their emotions, the anger, sadness, fear. He could feel them all mixing in his mind. The negative feelings were pushing his mind further away from himself.


    "Ah I can''t take this I''m going to go insane..."


    Alva stopped on a roof over a dark alley between two tall buildings.


    A woman was struggling below, surrounded by three marines.


    The first was holding her down while stifling her screams, a second was trying to r**e her. Another younger marine was keeping watch near the road.


    Seeing this was the last straw Alva lost it, his human mind let go giving way for something¡ªprimal.


    Alva stepped forward.


    A hollow thud came from the end of the alley. The marine holding the woman down had a bad feeling he looked down the alley but couldn''t see anything It was wholly too dammed dark.


    Not hearing any noise other than the struggle of their new prey he turned his attention back onto what he was doing.


    Suddenly a shwick sound was made; the man violently thrusting his hips stopped abruptly.


    Blood sprayed all over the woman and the marine pinning her arms.


    His head rolled backward off of his shoulders.


    The woman''s heart seemed to stop, she almost lost consciousness.


    The last marine froze all he could see is two red orbs shining in the darkness before he could stand a hand grabbed his head thrusting it sideways.


    When a knee harder than stone collided with his right temple launching his skull followed by his body into a brick wall. Blood burst from his fractured skull in two places from his ruptured eye socket and his split crown. The marine instantly blacked out, narrowly avoiding instant death.


    The young woman stared into the red eyes thinking the angel of death had come to take her from this cruel world finally.


    She attempted to speak, but nothing came out.


    She sat on the ground shaking. She held her head down preparing her heart for death.


    When a red headkerchief floated onto he lap bearing a black eagle and a blade.


    When the frightened woman finally looked up all she could see was the legs of the downed marines being drug around the corner.


    The alley was left occupied by herself and a headless corpse.


    She held the headkerchief tightly as she bawled uncontrollably vowing in her heart never to forget the monster that saved her.


    Alva moved with his two and a head prisoners through the streets, stealthily avoiding the light and the Marine patrol''s, until he reached deep into the forest.


    The marines regained consciousness when cold water washed over their faces.


    When the rays of the rising sun were temporarily blinding them both.


    When their vision finally cleared they were able to make out their situation.


    The younger one saw a short man clad in all black standing in front of them both.


    The only part of him visible was a pair of perfectly calm blue eyes the rest of his head covered by a black mask.


    When his vision left the figure in black, he noticed the head of Petty Officer York strung up on a rope tied to a tree branch slowly turning in front of him.


    He tried to scream but his mouth was stuffed with a cloth, he then tried to move. It was a useless effort.


    Unauthorized use: this story is on Amazon without permission from the author. Report any sightings.His hands were bound together, and his arms tied to the trunk of the tree¡ªabove his head. His feet were likewise bound together, and tied to the tree, lastly a rope wrapped around his waist tightly secured his body to the tree.


    He was suspended off the ground, the tight ropes cut into his skin.


    Looking to his right, he saw fellow Seaman First Class Hopps in an identical position bound to the tree next to him. SFC.Hopps was in a much worse condition than himself blood poured from his head and face.


    Alva walked up to the confused young man and removed the gag while holding his index finger to his lips under the mask "Shhhh" Alva tried to signal to the man to be quiet.


    As soon as the gag was removed.


    "AHHHHHHHHH HELP SOMEONE HELP!!!" The young marine tried with all of his heart to attract attention in the thick forest.


    Alva stared at the man disappointed, he apparently didn''t understand who was in charge.


    Massaging the bridge of his nose Alva looked at the young marine in annoyance, but let him scream for an entire minute.


    Alva then punched his face, busting his nose. The marine had never been hit so hard he could no longer breathe through his nostrils.


    "Scream all you want no one can hear you, now shut the fuck up until I tell you to speak," Alva said.


    Fear filled his eyes.


    "Name and rank?" Alva unsheathed Gilgamesh pointing it toward his throat.


    "Ahh... uh, Ellis Dellia...Seaman First Class," the marine said.


    Alva promptly punched him in the mouth, sending a spatter of blood into the air.


    "You will address me as sir," Alva said, in a low tone.


    "...yes sir," Ellis said.


    Ellis was bewildered and uncomfortable calling someone so short they had to stand on a bucket to match his height sir, and his voice was so high pitched. His captor was clearly a child. When he looked into Alva''s eyes he did not hesitate to comply, this kid hit so damn hard.


    "Ellis, do you know where you are?" Alva retracted his long knife.


    "No sir," Ellis said.


    Alva lightly cut his leg.


    "Ahhhh," Ellis began to scream.


    "That was a lie, don''t fucking lie to me. Where are you?" Alva moved closer.


    "Ah ugh dammit I don''t know" Ellis began to sweat.


    Alva cut his leg again this time lower than the first.


    "You better think about your answers," Alva said.


    Alva then placed the gag into his mouth once more. Moving his bucket in front of the other marine he placed his hand on this one''s gag.


    "You gonna scream like a bitch too?"


    He shook his head.


    "Good you don''t want to piss me off."


    Alva removed the gag, and the marine started gasping for air, his nose was already broken, he could hardly breathe through the cloth.


    "Name and rank?"


    The older marine said nothing.


    Alva stabbed his leg, then cut his chest it was shallow but painful.


    "What did I say?"


    The older marine was less cooperative than his accomplice.


    The marine just stared at Alva. Seeing this Alva brought out a roll of cloth from his bag. Unrolling it revealed an assortment of tools and a few small blades.


    Alva swapped his black gloves for a pair of smooth red leather ones, that fit tightly to his hands. Alva picked the pair of pliers and returned to the older marine.


    The man began to sweat as a bad omen washed over him.


    Alva began to pull out all of his fingernails repeating his question after each one.


    "NAME AND RANK," Alva said.


    "VMMMAHHH...Sam Hopps...Seaman First Class," SFC Hopps said.


    "What day is it Sam?" Alva said while slapping his face.


    "I..I don''t know," Sam said.


    Alva broke one of his fingers then stuffed the gag back into his mouth.


    "Think about your answer," Alva said then brought his bucket back in front of Ellis.


    He removed Ellis gag.


    "Where are you?"


    "In a forest on the island of Baterilla, in the South Blue," Ellis said. His voice was shaking, he had never seen anything so vicious done to another human before.


    "Why are you here," Alva said, a cold glint in his eye.


    "My unit was ordered to come to this island sir," Ellis said.


    Alva then punched his stomach.


    "Wrong answer," Alva said, "why are you here?"


    "Because you brought us here..."


    "¡ªAND?"


    Ellis thought very hard about his next answer scared of the pain if he got it wrong.


    "Sir, I''m here because of what I did?"


    "Yes that''s right Ellis now confess," Alva said. Walking over to his tolls he grabbed a curved skinning knife.


    "Confess?"


    Alva then slid the thin blade along Ellis'' arm removing a patch of skin.


    Among his screams, Ellis wet himself.


    "Confess what happened last night," Alva said in a low tone.


    "I..I didn''t want to I swear, PO.York grabbed the girl after we left the bar. He ordered me to look for anyone on the street, I¡ªI didn''t know what was gonna happen!"


    Ellis began to cry drivel. Alva gaged him again.


    "That''s right Ellis you helped them r**e her, and you did nothing. You are a coward and scum...probably waiting your turn," Alva said.


    "The only way scum like you deserves to live is if you''re useful scum. Tell me what I want to know, and you go home. If you don''t then you can join this scum!"


    Alva thrust Yorks head in front of Ellis who began to have a mental breakdown.


    Seeing Ellis was currently useless Alva moved in front of Sam.


    "You ready to talk?" Alva raised the bloody knife in his hand, slowly rubbing it against Sams'' face.


    With wide eyes, Sam looked at the blade.


    Alva could feel their fear.