Disclaimer: Do I even have to do this at this point? I wish I was someone as amazing as Oda, but alas I have to wait and work hard to achieve what he has!

Warning: This is going to be a very dark story. nsfw content (blood, angst etc) is going to take place.

Note: I have no idea how often this is going to be updated.

Credits Cover picture: EzariaUmiko on Deviantart! (Thank you sweetie! The fic is partly written for you hehe)

Enjoy! ^^

City of Lost Dreams 2

''I will be the one that's gonna hold you

I will be the one that you run to

My love is a burning, consuming fire''

-Source: Skillet

Prologue:

There was not much activity on this morning in Edward Newgate's office.

Not until that person visited at least..

Edward was checking the school's finances as was often needed. Though he never had to worry about the budget he was still always precautious and prepared in case new developments took place. You never knew what these times could bring forth.

Sighing Edward looked out of the window into the morning sun that colored the sky pink. He wondered what happened to the good old days. The Government changed a lot ever since they took away his best friend.

Lately, the Government had been stirring once again. He had an idea of what was happening. He'd been around in this country for too long after all.

What worried him however, was how he was going to protect his family, his only treasure. It was really the only thing that mattered to him. He had to make sure the next generation would survive in this kind of society.

Looking up from his laptop, which he still didn't understand even after all the supervising from his eldest son Marco he pondered for a moment about the visitor who was about to knock on the door.

As predicted, a short and firm knock was heard and Edward allowed the visitor to enter. He was only slightly surprised to see the red headed Shanks. Remembering the time he temporarily took him in after having lost his adoptive father a smile appeared on the old man's face. ''The swabber boy..'' He greeted.

Shanks chuckled. ''Pretty unusual to meet like this, isn't it? I usually only meet you in drinking contests at Makino's bar.''

Edward found it funny hearing him call it Makino's bar, even after they got married and she promoted him from swabber boy to manager. ''Then there must be an important reason why you chose to meet me in this god forsaken suit.'' Suits weren't exactly comfortable after all.

Shanks features tensed a little. ''Then let's get straight to the point.'' He stood before Edward's desk with his only hand clenched into a fist. ''The rebels are moving.''

Chapter 1:

Ace:

Ace always knew he was able to lucid dream, which was a very handy ability to have, but now he couldn't change the dream no matter how hard he tried. He knew already it would give him a headache once he woke up. Everything was blurry. He could barely keep his eyes open and had to carefully take step for step because he was afraid he would fall in an endless black pit.

A man he didn't know was standing in front of him, yelling at him. Ace long ago stopped caring about people that stoop so low as to simply yell at you for no particular reason for this man really did have no reason to act like this. Not to mention that it was only a dream.

''WOULD ACE D. PORTGAS PLEASE REPORT AT THE PRINICPAL'S OFFICE, THANK YOU. I REPEAT..'' The man yelled in his face. Confused he looked around and realized what he was screaming. Scoffing, he closed his eyes and concentrated very hard.

He suddenly jerked up his head, having a red spot on his forehead from keeping it on his arm and looked around once more. All the eyes in the classroom were pointed at him. Some were laughing, not believing he did it once more.

''What is it this time?! I swear I turned up for every class this semester!'' He suddenly shouted at no one in particular.

''Would Ace D. Portgas please report at the principal's office, thank you.'' The voice of his father repeated.

Muttering he was on his way already, he quickly packed his book and pencil and ran towards the Teachers' wing.

Opening the door without knocking first, which was normally the 'rule' in this school he grumpily looked at his dad. '' What is it this time pops? Rumors are spreading already. ''

Not that he cared about that either, but still. The familia had to endure enough rumors the past three months after all that's happened to Koala and Sabo.

Koala however, was also sitting in front of the desk which surprised him because she was, again, just like her oh so sweet boyfriend, one of the 'example' students in college. ''W-Whuutt…'' He stuttered. ''What could you have possibly done to receive his wrath, sister?'' He asked with raised eyebrows.

She sighed and looked at pops instead.

''There's an emergency. Naasir called her just now.''

''Naasir? Why? What happened?''

''Don't you have the beeper with you, Ace?'' Koala interrupted with a worried look.

How did she know about the beeper? ''I..'' He started while automatically grabbing his belt. The beeper however was indeed not there. ''Shit.. I don't..'' Immediately understanding the dire circumstances he wanted to leave already. ''Where is she?!'' He asked impatiently, not believing they were calmly sitting there.

''In the Back Streets. But wait, Ace. This guy might be too much for you.'' Pops wanted to stand up but Koala managed to interrupt once more.

''Please, let me go with him. We can handle him together.'' Again, how did she know about all this stuff?

''Just hurry up!'' He then answered through gritted teeth. He wasn't good at staying patient.

Koala stood up and glanced over at pops once more for confirmation. When he gave them a nod, Ace grabbed her hand and ran outside.

Reaching his car, unlocking it and opening the door to the passenger's seat for Koala, he sat behind the steering wheel himself and threw both his and Koala's backpack in the back. Starting the engine he raced towards the backstreets which were only ten minutes away from here if he was lucky. ''Where are they at?!'' He demanded for there was not even time to come up with a plan.

''Near Hachi's Takoyaki stand.'' She calmly answered, probably coming up with tactics already.

Unwillingly, his stomach growled at the mention of the Eastern food.

''Really Ace?! At this time!?''

''Sorry! I can't control my stomach okay?'' He answered a bit offended. At the same time, he was worried to death about what could possibly have happened there. Why didn't she contact him earlier anyway? If she was going to leave to the backstreets to meet her 'dearest' then she was supposed to let Ace know about it since he was responsible for her. Sure, it was terrible of him to forget his beeper, but he still had his phone..

They arrived at the place and at first, he couldn't see anyone. Before stepping out of the car, he opened a small drawer in front of the passenger's seat and took out a small handgun. Both on guard, they cautiously stepped out and observed the neighborhood.

Since it was early in the afternoon the market wasn't active and thus the streets were almost empty. Old apartments showed these really were the Back Streets and anything could happen here. Worry managed to root itself in Ace's stomach as he couldn't directly make out where Naasir and the others were.

Koala suddenly ran forward however and gestured for Ace to follow her. Being reminded of what he was getting her involved with he stopped her by holding her arm. ''Hey, wait up Koala. I can't get you into this mess. Sabo would never forgive me.''

He knew it was useless since she shot him one of her stern death glares. ''I am a Sun member and since Naasir called for me I am obliged to help him. No matter how strong the enemy might be.''

''But, listen, you know how strong he is right? And I'm pretty sure Naasir didn't call you so he could get you involved with this fight.'' He still tried.

She only shook her head, broke her arm free and continued running in the direction she wanted to go to in the first place. ''They're probably in this open square where Kohza lives. That's where she wanted to go right?''

As usually, she was very sharp and he was a bit lucky he had her with him anyway since he probably would have randomly searched in every street hoping for the lucky strike since his worried side took over. ''Our first and most important priority is to protect Vivi. You get them out of there as I hold him off, okay?'' He explained. She knew exactly what he was talking about and nodded. Though, she probably had her own plan already.

It was his job as an 'illegal' bodyguard to protect Vivi. She wanted to go to a normal college and lead a normal life but it wasn't possible because she was so famous throughout the country. Her father asked therefore his pops for protection. And thus, Ace was chosen to keep her company whenever they went to school. Of course, he got paid, but he did it willingly because she was his friend and she was part of the familia. If this helped her to have as normal a life as possible, then who was he to say no? Anything for your family right?

They reached the open space between several blocks of apartments and almost immediately understood the current situation.

Vivi, not being able to use self defense stood behind her 'dearest' Kohza while he took a defensive position in order to try and protect her.

Naasir was the one who faced their enemy. The enemy.. was someone they were all acquainted with. He had a dark skin, a longer nose just like Usopp and an eternal sneer on his face. It would have looked scary if he didn't wear shorts with bright colored flowers on them. This man was called Arlong and he had been an enemy of the familia ever since he betrayed the Sun members and murdered Nami's mother.

Naasir's arm took a nasty hit since the middle of the bone in his underarm stuck out of its place slightly. He had a wound on his head which made blood drip over his face. Because of that, he had one eye closed, probably because he couldn't see through it due to all the blood, and that gave him quite a disadvantage.

Before Ace could stop her, Koala ran over to Arlong, without making any noise which was quite remarkable and jumped in the air to kick his head. Arlong however, noticed her at the last second and wanted to grab her leg, hadn't Ace shouted: ''STAND DOWN OR I'LL SHOOT!''

Honestly, he didn't like fighting with guns. He only used it in situations like these, which were pretty rare already and preferred to fight with his bare fists.

Wisely, Arlong listened and Koala kicked him in his jaw. A crushing sound was heard and once again, Ace had to remind himself to never seriously anger this girl.

Relief washed over Kohza and Vivi's faces, but Naasir on the other hand.. being the overprotective brother he was, shot Ace a furious look.

He did try to stop her right?

Naasir couldn't blame him now.

Ace stepped closer, ignoring his male friend and ordered Arlong to hold his arms in the air. Koala approached Ace, walking backwards, because no one trusted Arlong, and took Ace's phone out of his pockets. She was already dialing the police's number when the former Sun member did indeed make his move and now it was Ace's turn to show off his skills, which he gladly demonstrated.

Taking this as a sign, Koala made her way to Vivi and her boyfriend when Arlong addressed her. ''Feeling good being able to try and make it up to bro Tiger, stupid little girl?'' It made her stop running.

This was something she was still really struggling with. She was nowhere near over her past and everyone feared she never really would be since memories didn't disappear. On top of that, she was the only 'white' girl who got accepted by Fisher Tiger. This was enough reason for Arlong to hate her for he expected their organization to exist of 'outsiders' only.

''Shut the fuck up, Arlong!'' Naasir yelled angrily, but it wasn't really convincing as it normally would have been had he not been reduced to such a weakened state. ''She's part of the family! Big bro would have been proud of her! Unlike you.'' The last part came out as a warning. ''Koala,'' He continued softly. ''Go. Take the princess and her boyfriend out of here. We'll deal with him until uncle Jinbei arrives.'' She still didn't move, glancing back at Arlong who had tried to make her life miserable like so many others.

''It's alright, go.'' Ace added with a reassuring nod.

Koala made her way to the other two again and dragged them into one of the smaller streets, knowing the Back Streets like the inside of her pocket. Not that girls' pockets were that big, but well.

Having that out of the way, Ace could finally go all out. He knew Koala would take care of them and if she wasn't able to, then Kohza and Vivi would definitely know.

Vivi was the Crown Princess of this country. Even though she was raised in the palace, Kohza had been around ever since they were kids and made sure she knew enough about the entire country. He made her experience the Back Streets first hand, she didn't mind getting dirty, hated the fashion police and always tried to help people. She would be an amazing queen and Kohza would be a great king. They were really dependable and people wondered all the time if she was actual royalty for this behavior was quite unusual for a princess.

Naasir's condition was worsening with the second and it was clear he was suffering from his broken arm.

Many questions ran through Ace's head as they were reunited with their former friend. Why did he show up now? How did he escape the Government? And why Vivi of all people? It definitely wasn't a mere coincidence they ran into each other. And knowing Arlong, he always had a plan. So what was his purpose? He wasn't fighting yet, and judging from his posture, he wasn't planning to either, unless he wanted to do a surprise attack, which wouldn't really be a surprise anymore. If he wasn't here to take Vivi or worse, kill her, then what other possibilities were there?

Aside from the questions that busied his mind, there was also this rage building up inside him. After all he's done, how dare he show up like this so casually? And as an enemy for god's sake!

As straightforward as Ace might be, this situation was really confusing for him. Koala had already called the police, and with that being said, she had called Rocinante. He used to be a Marine soldier and is now more of a freeloader helping out Vice-Admiral Smoker from time to time. Since he was always quick, Ace was confident he could show up any moment. These were probably the few people Ace would trust when it came to Government officials. He overall despised this kind of society, and even more after all the things that happened the past years.

Naasir was doing his best to stand up to his former superior, but it was clear as day Arlong outmatched him. Koala and Naasir had only been apprentices up until a short while ago.

''You seem to be quite close with her, Naasir. Why fucking protect the white girl!?'' Arlong finally opened his mouth only to spout crap.

Ace was getting tired of this already but he could use it to his advantage too. Talking meant wasting time, so more time for boss Jinbei and Roci to get here right?

Naasir fell to one knee. He seemed worn out which was only to be expected. Ace didn't know how long he had to hold off Arlong before Ace and Koala arrived so he gladly took over.

''You'd say after so many years people start trusting each other and build up a bond of friendship. In their case, it's sort of a siblinghood. Why are you interested in this, Arlong? Jealous?'' That somehow ticked him off which could be a bad thing since he was trying to waste time by talking and not fighting.

''C'mon boy. You can't possibly think you can beat me. Naasir already lost. Want to go through the same? Eh?''

Ace had his gun still pointed at him, afraid of what he might do if he lowered it. Then again, Arlong didn't give off the vibe he was intimidated by it at all. Even worse, he was underestimating Ace.

''How is your little brother doing? Still angry he couldn't get his revenge on me?'' Arlong then asked, clearly amused.

''Don't you dare start about that!'' Automatically, he went into a defensive state, not taking any insults about his family.

''Ace! You know he's just trying to tick you off! Don't fall for it, man.'' Naasir tried to stop Ace, but it took him all his willpower not to go after that long nosed bastard that made Nami and her sister suffer so much.

''What is your plan, Arlong?'' Ace replied without answering his questions.

''You know I'm not just going to tell you that right? It would be fucking stupid really. Now tell me, how much more time are you trying to waste down here? I'm getting tired. When is the police coming? Or did these scumbags abandon the Back Streets?''

Ace gulped, having expected Arlong would know this. It was a basic strategy after all. It's been used so many times people got tired of it. ''If you don't plan on fighting us, then put your hands behind your head and sit on your knees.'' He demanded with the gun pointed at his opponent's forehead.

Arlong, who was still amused, shook his head instead. ''If these marines aren't coming within the next few seconds then I'll just escape on my own. I'm starting to like this freedom you see.''

It was ironic, wasn't it? He was marked with the very mark of freedom.

''If you were planning on shooting, then you should have done so already. The effect of it is gone now. Guns have become boring. Try something better, bastard!''

Ace shot a quick glance at his friend and he understood the sign immediately. Naasir swayed a little but made his way backwards in the direction Koala ran off too with Vivi and Kohza. They couldn't risk them getting into danger now he didn't know how or when Arlong was going to escape.

He abandoned the gun and ran forward instead. Approaching Arlong he held up his fist and slammed it in his direction. Arlong swiftly dodged it and grabbed Ace's arm instead. Instinctively, Ace kicked his shinbone which was always effective. Arlong's leg wanted to give in to the pain, but naturally, he didn't and twisted Ace's arm instead until he faced him with his back. Looking backwards, he spit at Arlong, hoping it would reach his eye, but didn't.

With his other arm, Ace slammed his elbow in his stomach and managed to free himself while Arlong doubled over from the pain. Not taking any chances, he folded his hands so they became one big fist and punched him in his neck. Arlong fell on the ground, unconscious.

Panting, he turned around to see whether Naasir was gone yet, only to see him gasping at the scene.

''What?! So easily? How?!''

''Well, you saw me. I was basically defending myself. These are tricks you could use in case you're being robbed or when you're being attacked.'' Ace simply explained.

King Cobra had made sure he received these combat lessons so he could protect Vivi whenever needed. Three of the palace guards taught him a lot which was really helpful since that girl had a habit of getting herself into trouble.

Roci arrived, only to trip over his feet as soon as he entered the empty square, standing up and acting as if that didn't just happen and whistled approvingly. ''He's still alive right?'' He asked with his always soft voice. Sometimes it seemed like he couldn't do anything else but whisper. Ever since Sabo noticed it Ace started to wonder why that was.

''Only unconscious. You better put handcuffs on him before he starts plotting his revenge on me.'' Ace knew perfectly well Arlong didn't go all out. In fact, he held back greatly and allowed him to knock him out. It worried him slightly, knowing he had some kind of plan and only hoped Smoker would be able to get it out of him. ''Yo, Roci. Can I leave him to you? I need to check up on the girls and Kohza.''

Roci nodded and waved, absentminded because of their enemy before them.

Ace put an arm around Naasir's shoulders so he could support him and together they walked in the direction the others ran off too. ''You can take my phone to call her.'' Naasir offered.

He did as he asked and dialed her number. ''Where are you at?''

When she explained where she was, he hung up and they continued to the others. They chose to stay at Kohza's place for the time being. It was good since Naasir probably couldn't hold out much longer.

Once they were inside however Naasir went straight to Koala who had expected this approach and stood in front of him, daring him to tell her off. He had to admit, for a shorty like her that was pretty brave because the fellow Sun member was furious.

He approached her and stopped in front with his face up close. ''I told you to let Ace come here! And I told you to stay at school! What part of staying at school didn't you get, Koala?!'' Naasir threw his left arm in the air in an angry gesture. ''Arlong could have beaten you so easily! You know how dangerous he is!'' Suddenly, he forgot his bone was broken, but who was Ace to mention that?

Koala crossed her arms and looked up at the taller man. ''It's my own choice Naasir! Starting a rant now won't work. I'll do it just as easily next time. I need to learn it in some way! And being protected by you all the time won't help me improve my skills! '' Koala fired back refusing to back down.

So that's what happened when a girl grew up with fearsome karate masters who were the 'illegal' police in the Back Streets huh? He didn't mind that at all. Sabo could use someone who could scold him from time to time.

Naasir was probably used to this side of her and only became angrier. ''Randomly getting yourself involved with this isn't what Jinbei had in mind when he decided to raise you!'' He shouted in her face. It may have been kind of rude to do so, but these two sparred, fought, laughed and even shared a bed so it was really just a normal reaction for her. Naasir was only worried after all.

In return, Koala stepped closer towards the fellow Sun member and was really angry too. ''Oh, I'm sorry I didn't get to choose what I want to do! Why can't I be part of the organization!? I'm not a silly little girl that can't protect herself, you know!?'' Koala snapped and shouted back at her brother, friend or whatever he was now.

''At least you have a chance to lead a normal and good life with a possible marriage in the future! We didn't get that chance sister! We gave you that choice! So don't you dare throw it away by randomly trying to fight a dangerous criminal!'' These words hung in the air as everyone in the room stayed quiet.

Ace noticed she was struggling with what to answer now. Naasir was right.. The other Suns didn't get these chances and put all their faith in Koala. They wanted her to be happy and protect her from all these dangers in the Back Streets. Arlong was just one small example for what was out there.

Ace scratched his head and decided it was best if he stopped Naasir now. He had to get treated. ''Hey, she was only trying to help. I brought her with me, so blame me. Leave it for now, okay?'' He wasn't really good with words but Naasir grudgingly stepped back and sat down after Kohza pushed him softly by holding his hand on his shoulder.

And now it was Ace's turn to scold someone.

He turned to Vivi who was staying suspiciously quiet. She had her lips pursed, her hands folded behind her back and looked everywhere except in Ace's direction. ''And what was miss Princess thinking when going to the Back Streets during school hours without notifying her bodyguard in disguise? '' He asked skeptically.

Vivi looked at the ground with a stubborn look. She was probably trying to play the victim, but failed. ''I beeped you.''

''Only after you got into trouble.''

''You didn't take it with you to school, did you?''

That little smart ass.. ''That doesn't matter right now! '' Ace folded his arms. ''You got us into trouble because you wanted to visit your boyfriend.'' Both Vivi and Kohza wanted to speak up but Ace cut them off. '' No, no, no! Girl, you're going back to school right now.'' He pointed towards the door and held a staring battle with the blue haired female until she gave in by throwing her arms in the air and stomp out of the small room. Ace then looked questioningly at Koala and she followed her new friend.

''Did you have to do that?'' Kohza asked after putting some alcohol on a cotton ball to clean Naasir's wound on his head.

All Ace did was raise an eyebrow as an answer. ''I'm leaving him to you. I'll bring the girls back.'' He also needed to check up on Rocinante since he really wanted to know what this was all about.

Ace walked outside and met up with the females. They were both not in the best mood and they silently decided not to say anything to each other for a while. Reaching the plaza once more, he noticed Rocinante was gone with Arlong. He assumed he must be taking him to Smoker.

Back in the car, Vivi took the passenger's seat this time and Koala one of the back seats. Being a bodyguard did have its privileges. He had a brand new car, a Chevrolet Impala that made all his wishes come true. He was seriously in love with this car. It was matt-black and rather small which made it easier to drive through the city. It didn't stand out too much either, though, every man would probably recognize this as an expensive one. There was no way Ace could have afforded it on his own, even if he spent time in his garage during the weekend with Thatch and Marco.

Stopping at school, they stepped out and were approached by Sabo and Marco. ''Roci said Arlong has been imprisoned at Smoker's office for the time being. They're going to interrogate him there.'' His stepbrother Marco explained. Ace couldn't help but snicker at his wiggling pineapple hair when he walked.

Sabo embraced Koala in a tight hug and demanded the story with his pleading eyes.

''Let's talk about it tonight at the bar. School's over.'' Students came marching through the front doors of the building and Vivi quickly met up with Nami. The three girls were planning to go shopping before coming to the bar. Koala let go off Sabo who didn't like that at all and waved good bye at Ace and Marco.

As expected, Sabo forcefully turned Ace around. ''She isn't hurt, is she? Why did you let her go with you?''

''Don't worry. I managed to make her get Vivi and Kohza out of the way so they could hide.'' He left out the part where she tried to attack Arlong on purpose for obvious reasons.

Sabo took a deep sigh and placed his backpack in the car along with Ace's and Koala's. ''Going to the garage? ''

''Yeah, want to come?''

Sabo nodded and Marco announced he still had to work a few hours before he could join them at the bar and strode back into the building. Ace watched his back disappearing slowly. Turning around, he stepped into the car, ignoring the signs his body was trying to give him.

If Arlong managed to escape and cause a stirring in the city so easily, then what were they up for next? Ace feared the answer already.

Please leave a review with feedback!