Each of them saw him differently.

For Marco, he was someone who had yet to find his place in the world.

For Izo, he was someone who showed nothing but acceptance concerning his preferences.

For Haruta, he was someone eager to participate in their pranks.

For Namur, he was someone who was thrown overboard in regular periods, and Namur was the one who had to fish him out most of the time. But he was also someone who never showed any prejudice towards Fishmen.

For Vista, he was a bright youth, eager to learn the ways of the sword.

For Jiru, he was someone who valued simpler things in life, such as a good old pint of ale.

For Rakuyo, he was good company.

For Blenheim, he was someone who could tell great stories.

For Blamenco, he was a bottomless pit with antics that could entertain someone for hours.

For Jozu, he was someone who had wild curiosity that begged to be satisfied, especially when his diamond body was concerned.

For Fossa, he was a piece that the puzzle couldn't do without.

For Curiel, he was a fellow loner.

For Kingdew, he was an enigma.

For Atmos, he was a good person.

For Doma, he was an epitome of raw strength, strength that needed to be cultivated, but strength which was there nonetheless.

For Squardo, he was a friend.

They all viewed him differently, yes, but there was something in him they all saw. That something was hidden darkness that threatened to consume him if left unchecked. Darkness that he hid behind that bright smile of his. Darkness that they could keep at bay.

And so, on that day, on the day that he needed them the most, they all shouted in one voice. Shouted loud enough for him to hear. For the feelings in their hearts were meant for him and him alone. He needed to hear, needed to understand, how much they truly cared for him. Then maybe his inner darkness would disappear.

"Just you wait!"

"We are coming to get you!

"Nobody who hurts you should be allowed to live, Ace! So live, live for us!"

He was their youngest brother, and his soul shone brightly, though that brightness was obscured by the darkness of his self-hate. He was the kind of person who needed pillars to hold him up, otherwise, the strong, yet broken structure that he was would crumble into dust. And they were more than happy to be said pillars.