Hello and Happy Update Sunday! This one's a long one, but its got lots of good stuff... if you catch my hint. ;)
Enjoy!
Chapter 25
Ashina groaned, shifting in the bed, but unable to get comfortable. Ace's heavy arm tightened around her waist and pulled her closer to his chest. She shoved on his shoulder and kicked away his legs.
"Ugh, you're too hot," Ashina complained.
Ace chuckled, still half asleep, and mumbled, "Open the window."
She slid to the edge of the bed, pushing to her feet, before padding over to the window in their bedroom. Their little house. It was small, with an open layout of a family room, kitchen, and small eating area. A door off the kitchen led to their bedroom and the small bath. Ashina opened the window, enjoying the cool air of the early dawn. Padding back over to the bed she sat on the edge of the soft mattress.
Ace's fingers brushed against her back. "You okay?"
"Just uncomfortable. Little one has their foot in my ribs."
She felt him shift behind her before his warm heat was at her back. His hair tickled her as his lips pressed to the curve of her shoulder. Warm hands slid down her sides and then over the swell of their child. "Marco says we only have maybe six weeks to go if he doesn't come early."
"I want him to be healthy, but early would be nice."
Ace chuckled. "Bad night of sleep again?"
"Yeah, I can't get comfortable and then when I would, little one started to do flips and kicks."
"Not my boy," Ace teased, before pecking her cheek. "Get dressed, I'm sure Marco is awake. We'll go bother the old bird."
Ashina giggled, turning her head to catch his lips in a kiss. When they broke apart Ashina stood from the bed again and crossed the room to her trunk. She rifled through the stack of clothes for her undergarments, a loose, pink dress, and the pretty navy-blue kimono with the cherry blossom flowers Izo surprised her with for her birthday. The hem brushed the floor as she tied the matching cotton sash around what should have been her waist. Instead, the bow sat just above the swell of her growing baby bump.
When she turned around, Ace was buckling his belt, boots already on his feet. Ace grinned as he watched her move to the desk, the one his crew had carried off the ship for the duration of their stay. Their belongings helped furnish the little house, or at least the bedroom. Mihar built their table and chairs in the kitchen. He crossed the room, watching her as she brushed her hair and then braided it, tying the ends with a piece of leather cord.
She stood and he waited for her to join his side, smiling at the slight waddle to her walk. She left her boots on the ship, trading them in exchange for a pair of soft leather flats, that were easy to slip on and off without having to bend over. Ace rubbed a hand across the bump, dipping his head down to kiss her once more, before opening their bedroom door and heading for the front door.
Marco, Thatch, and Izo stayed in a house together, built between Pops and their house. While not quite as large as Pops, it boasted three bedrooms, one for each Commander, along with the shared kitchen and living space. Ace knocked softly on the door and waited, one hand resting on the small of Ashina's back.
The door cracked open and then swung open fully. "Morning. You're up early," Marco said, stepping back to let the couple inside the house.
It was Ashina who answered in a whisper, "Little one was having a party, couldn't sleep."
"I'll make some tea," he said, heading for the kitchen. "Have a seat."
Ace guided Ashina over to the kitchen table, pulling out her chair before sitting in the one beside her.
"So little one was active this morning," Marco asked, lighting the fire in the stove and setting the pot of water over the flame.
Ashina hummed, rubbing a hand over her bump. "He's always active when I'm not."
Marco chuckled. "That's because your movements throughout the day lulls him to sleep, at night you're not moving."
"So he has to?" she remarked, a teasing tone to her voice.
Marco shrugged as he brought three cups to the table. "I'm just telling you the facts."
"Gee, thanks doctor. Got a solution to make him sleep when I do?"
"Change position."
Ashina snorted, pointing a finger at her round torso. "Do you see this? There is no comfortable position. I can't sleep on my back. Can't sleep on my right side, and if I try to lay on Ace, he's too hot."
"Never thought I'd hear her say that either, seeing as she's always cold. Maybe I passed on my devil fruit."
Marco shook his head. "Not possible. You're probably just hot because of all the changes to your body. You'll go back to wanting Ace as your personal space heater after you've had the little one… maybe."
"Maybe?"
Marco brought the teapot over and set it on the hot pad in the center of the table. "Well, I can't say for sure. You've gone through a massive hormonal change, your body will most likely go back to how you were before, but some women don't."
Ashina sighed, reaching for the teapot and pouring herself a cup of tea. She sighed again as the steam reached her nose. "Hmm, green tea with citrus, my favorite."
Marco leaned back in his chair, as Ace took the pot from her and poured Marco and himself a cup. "Thatch brought a large bag along."
"Where along the way did anyone stop for supplies? Glass windows? All the wood? Shingles?"
Marco chuckled softly. "Vista's group sailed our way, making a stop at an island nearby, one that has a large trading port, and gathered supplies. Mostly dry goods, some other goods that will last a while for cooking, medical supplies, and some luxuries, and of course the building supplies. They made a quick stop a few weeks ago to drop off the cargo and then were gone. It's a risk for too many of us to be off the seas, rumors would begin, so the supply run was done quickly."
Ashina hummed in understanding, blowing gently on her tea as she raised the cup to her lips.
"Where will the ships sail while we're here?" Ashina asked.
It was Ace who answered, "Different routes throughout the New World. It'll be a good time to do the territory checks. We mapped out travel routes so the crews spread evenly throughout the territory."
Marco nodded. "We usually split into groups for that anyway, most typically remain on the Moby, but we've split like this before. The other Yonkos, Marines, and pirate groups will be none the wiser. Thankfully, your pregnancy has stayed off the radar."
Ace frowned, his hand sliding to her thigh, fingers lifting up to brush the swell of her bump. Her eyes caught his and she gave him a reassuring smile.
"The World Government would have a field day, or a heart attack. Especially if they knew who my father really is."
Marco laughed then, snorting as he set his cup down on the table. "I'm still surprised they haven't made that connection yet."
"They may know," Ashina said with a shrug. "They can't be that stupid, at least the Admirals can't, right? Letting it be known that one Yonko's blood daughter is sailing with another Yonko's crew, much less that Ace and I are lovers, can you imagine the terror that would cause if people believed Papa and Pops made an alliance?"
Marco nodded. "We have in a way, because of you. It's not been outright stated, but we've met with him, he's boarded our ship, slept on it even, and no fighting ensued. It's unheard of on these seas for two Yonkos to meet without a little bloodshed."
Ace scrunched his nose, frowning. "I don't know if I'd want to fight Shanks. He's Ashina's father and Luffy's idol. He's also made it to Yonko status without a Devil Fruit."
"Luffy?" Marco asked, raising a brow. "Your brother? Has he set out for sea yet?"
Ace shook his head, grinning. "Not yet. In May he'll turn seventeen. He'll head out then. East Blue won't know what hit it, reckless idiot."
"Oh, little brother much like older brother?" Ashina teased, giggling before she took a sip of her tea.
Ace snorted. "Worse."
Marco rolled his eyes. "Can't be any more trouble than you."
Ace shook his head. "Luffy's one dream is be King of the Pirates. It's all he's ever talked about, and I've known him since he was seven. He already had his Devil Fruit, even then. He's rubber, so he knows no fear of pain. He just fights. Hopefully he's not a crybaby anymore."
Ashina smacked his arm playfully.
"Ouch, woman! What was that for?"
"Don't be so loud, Thatch and Izo are still sleeping. And, you shouldn't talk about your brother that way, it's not nice."
"But it's true! Luffy's a crybaby."
Marco shook his head, as the door to Izo's room opened.
"What's all the ruckus, the sun is barely up," Izo said, trudging out of his room, loosely tying the sash of his kimono as he walked. "Ooh, good morning, Ashina, you're looking radiant. Ace, you must be the cause of the commotion."
Ashina snickered as Ace scowled. "Am not."
Ashina patted his leg. "Are, but that's okay. We still love you. Good morning, Izo. Marco made tea. Sorry for waking you."
"That's alright." Izo retrieved a spare cup and then sat in the only vacant chair, between Marco and Ashina. He poured himself a cup of tea and then relaxed in his chair. "Surprised Thatch isn't awake yet."
Marco chuckled. "I'm sure he had a tiring night."
Ashina raised a brow, but before she could ask for an explanation Thatch's door swung open. Jora stood frozen in the doorway as four sets of eyes turned to look at her. It was clear, based on her disheveled hair and oversized robe that she had stayed the night.
Ashina smirked at her, winking as she greeted the woman. "Morning, Jora."
"What are you just standing there for?" Thatch's voice reached them before the man appeared in the doorway behind Jora, wearing nothing but a pair of lounge pants. "Oh, good morning."
Ace chuckled. "Have a nice night?"
Jora blushed a deep pink, but Thatch merely smirked, slipping a hand to Jora's waist as he stepped around her.
"Hell yeah. You?"
"Until my kid decided to have a party," Ace said, pulling on Ashina so she moved to sit in his lap. "Here, sit."
Thatch shook his head. "Jora, have a seat. I'll start breakfast. Pops up yet?"
"Don't know," Marco replied as Jora sat down in the vacant chair, eyes downcast and a blush still tinting her cheeks. "Ace and Ashina showed up here, I made tea, and here we are."
The boys started a conversation for plans for the day as Thatch began to prepare a small breakfast for the Commanders. It was routine now; Thatch's division took care of the breakfast foods for the main crew while Thatch cooked a smaller breakfast. The Commanders and Ashina ate together with Pops, a few mornings the nurses, Tanaharu and Jora, joined them. Lunch and dinner were shared as a whole, usually outside if the weather permitted.
What wasn't routine was Jora being in the little house this early in the morning. Ashina nudged Jora with her foot, catching the woman's attention. Jora was clearly uncomfortable having been caught with Thatch, and Ashina knew she wanted to escape.
Ashina stood, taking Jora's hand. "We'll be back, gentlemen," she said, smiling down at Ace. "We're going to go wake up Tanaharu."
"Yoi, wake Pops too, if he isn't already up."
Ashina waved a hand, nodding to Marco. "Got it. Let's go, Jora."
Jora sighed as the door to the Commanders' house closed behind them. "Thank you."
Ashina snickered. "You're welcome. Have a nice evening?"
Jora blushed softly, but smiled. "Yes."
"How did that go down?"
Jora smiled as they walked past Ashina and Ace's house. "He found me at the little hot spring late last night. We started outside."
"Nice," Ashina interjected.
"Oh, like you haven't done it outside."
Ashina laughed, "Lots of times. Almost every adventure exploring a new island. But please, continue, you started outside, then what?"
Jora rolled her eyes, "It's no wonder you're pregnant," she teased, and then sighed softly. "We went to his room. I didn't intend to stay, I was going to slip out and come back here."
Jora stepped onto the porch of the small house, the one Pops had insisted on being built for Jora, Tanaharu, and Banshee.
"But?"
"But, he said to stay. He was half asleep, and maybe he didn't mean anything by it other than it was late, but when he didn't kick me out this morning… I'm not trying to get my hopes up, but this environment… being on this island…"
"It's different," Ashina finished. "I get the same feeling. It's been a long time since I've been stationary like this. Even when I was with the Revolution, there were always missions, things that needed to be done. This is calm, this is… what life would almost be like if Ace and I weren't pirates."
"Prefer it?"
Ashina shook her head, smiling, "I can't imagine my life any differently. I don't mind being here, but I want to be on the sea, to be free. I understand the risk with a small child, but I love being with Ace, and he's always wanted to be free, to be strong. What's more fitting than being a pirate?"
The two women entered the house, and Jora closed the door. "I like the decorating job," Ashina said softly.
Tanaharu, Jora, and Banshee decorated the little house using several of their own lanterns, tapestries, potted plants, and other belongings. The little house consisted of one room that was both the kitchen and living area, a small bathroom with a loft above for sleeping. Brightly dyed and pattered fabric draped between the beds, creating the illusion of privacy and three separate sleeping spaces.
"Deuce arranged for some of your crew to help bring a few of our things from the Moby. We are going to be here for a few more months. You've still got a month or more to go before you pop."
"Please don't remind me. I feel like I could pop now. I'm going to sit. Are you going to change clothes?"
"Yes. Tanaharu, I know you're awake," Jora called out, heading for the stairs, while Ashina sat on one of the overstuffed cushions on the floor.
Tanaharu chuckled. "I see you didn't come home last night."
"And why would she?" Banshee added. "I knew she wouldn't when she left for the hot spring. Young man kept his eyes on her all night at the bonfire."
Ashina chuckled, as Jora screeched, "He did not!"
"He did," Ashina interjected, looking up at Jora. "You did too."
"Did you at least enjoy yourself?" Tana asked, stepping into view already dressed for the cool day. The change from Winter to Spring on Sphinx was mild, but the breeze could be cold, which was when Ashina was thankful for Ace's warmth.
"Of course she did. Outdoor sex is always wild sex."
"Ashina!"
Ashina burst into laughter, and then smiled at Jora. "I'm just teasing you. Come on, we all know Ace and I have sex. The evidence is pretty clear."
Banshee laughed. "You and that boy have been going at it for soon to be two years dear."
Tana laughed. "Jora and Thatch have been having their little sleepovers for far longer. Jora what's your secret?"
"Thatch always uses a condom," she snorted.
"Hey!" Ashina shouted defensively. "We used a hormone pill. According to Marco we're the one percent where it doesn't work."
"Damn. Does Ace have super sperm or something?" Tana asked on a giggle.
"He is a D," Jora commented.
Ashina just laughed. "I wondered the same thing, the super sperm that is. Don't let him hear it, you'll inflate his ego."
Banshee cackled as she came down the stairs, Tana and Jora following behind her. "It was just meant to be. Two o' you lovebirds made a baby."
"The baby is hungry."
"Me too," Tana added. "Is Thatch cooking?"
"Yes. We're supposed to wake Pops, too, and have him join," Jora answered.
"Well then let's go."
"One problem, ladies," Ashina said, silent chuckles shaking her shoulders.
"What?" Jora and Tana asked in unison.
"I can't get up from this cushion."
.
.
.
"Is the blindfold really necessary?" Ashina asked as Marco secured the fabric.
"Yes. If you see it, then it's not much of a surprise, yoi."
"I'm going to fall."
"No you won't," Ace said, kissing her cheek. "I won't let you fall. Besides, we aren't walking very far."
Ashina huffed but took Ace's hand as they started to walk. His other hand slid to the small of her back, guiding her. When they reached the three stairs of their porch, Ace scooped her up. Ashina let out a shriek, swatting at Ace as he set her on her feet once more.
"A little warning next time, Flame Boy?"
Ace grinned sheepishly. "Sure."
Marco opened the door to their little house, and Ace guided Ashina inside.
"I don't understand what all the fuss is about. I know what the inside of the house looks like. Unless you've done something drastic in an afternoon, it's all the same-" Ashina trailed off as Ace pulled the blindfold from her eyes.
She blinked a few times, taking in the sight before her, before her hand covered her mouth, the softest of gasps escaping her lips.
Mihar stood behind a wooden cradle that sat in the middle of the living room. The cradle was made from dark wood and polished smooth. It was large, coming up to Ashina's thigh. The carved feet allowed the cradle to rock and sway, but not tip over.
"Mihar, what is this?"
"Well, you know I've been busy with a special project. Surprise, Missus. It'll be sturdy enough to take to sea once you go back. Won't have any worries of the little one getting tossed out in a storm."
"You built this?" Ashina asked in a soft whisper, barely able to get the words out as her throat tightened and her vision blurred.
"Yes."
Ashina moved around the cradle quickly, throwing her arms around Mihar's neck and hugging him tightly. "Thank you."
He patted her back, hugging her gently. "You're welcome, Missus. Only the best for little Fire Fist."
Once Ashina stepped back, Ace grasped Mihar's hand, pulling him into a much manlier hug. "Thanks, Mihar."
"Of course, Commander Ace."
Ashina brushed her fingers along the rail of the cradle, a soft smile tugging at the corner of her mouth while her other hand rested on the curve of her belly. Little Sabo moved, pressing against her palm as he stretched. Warm fingers sliding down her arm caught her attention, and she turned to see Ace looking at her, eyes bright with emotion.
"You okay?"
"Yeah. Sabo's moving."
Ace stepped forward, hand slipping to her side to press against her bump. Little Sabo kicked hard against his father's hand.
It was then she realized they were alone in their small house. "Where did everyone go?"
"They stepped outside, thought you needed a moment. We'll see them at dinner."
"Ace… we're going to have a baby."
Ace chuckled. "Just now figuring that out, Missus?" he teased softly. His lips pressed to her temple as he pulled her closer, wrapping his arms tightly around her. "We're going to have a baby."
While Ace still wasn't sure he was going to be a good father, and he didn't know anything about raising a kid or taking care of a baby, he wanted it. The feel of Ashina's arms, reassuring and tight around his waist helped sooth him. She needed him, he wanted him, she loved him. Nothing else in the world mattered more than her, and soon his child. The doubt still crept up in the back of his mind, unwanted, and Ace did his best to ignore the memories and voices that rang out, because he wasn't worthless. He may have been born the son of the devil to the world, but his child would never be called such things.
"Ace?"
"Hmm?"
Ashina pulled back, eyes catching his as her finger tips brushed his cheek. "I can tell what you're thinking, and your wrong. You're going to be amazing. You are amazing. I love you."
Ace smiled gently, he pressed his lips to her forehead and then caught her gaze again. She'd never fully understand how much he needed her, how she helped him in so many ways. "I love you more."
.
.
.
The bonfire roared and the smell of roasted meats filled the air. Ace watched from his log as Marco twirled Ashina around the fire. It was a bit of an awkward dance due to her belly, but Marco still managed to lead her around in circles. She was laughing, which made Ace smile despite his inner turmoil. They were getting closer to her due date, to the day his son or daughter would enter the world. There was nothing he could do to stop it from happening, but he wasn't sure he was ready either, despite his excitement.
"Ace."
It was Pops who called out for him, so Ace stood and walked the short distance over to the older man's chair.
"Yeah?"
"What is bothering you, my son?"
Ace shook his head. "It's nothing, Pops. Just worried about Ashina."
"There's nothing to worry about, she's in good hands with Marco and Jora. Now, tell me the truth, son. What's bothering you?"
"What if I'm not a good father?" Ace asked softly, eyes still on Ashina, but he was unfocused, lost in the past.
Devil. Demon child. He doesn't deserve to live. Those words, spoken by the villagers of Dawn Island, would forever haunt his mind. The closer they came to Ashina's due date, the louder the voices became in his head. Talking to Ashina helped. She reminded him how he wasn't what anyone said he was, but the memories were persistent.
Pops' hand clasped onto his shoulder, squeezing softly. "You'll be a good father, son. Remember, you are a child of the sea. You're my son. Your child will love you, look up to you, because you are his father and you'll be a damn good one. Heaven forbid you have a daughter, but she'll be the same."
Ace frowned, looking at Pops. "How can you be so sure?"
Pops just grinned, taking a drink of sake before he answered. "Because you're worried about it. Ace, son, you have nothing to fear. You are not Roger. You are not a devil's child, and neither will your child be. Look at his mother, nothing evil or bad could come from her, or from you. What you've been given, son, it's a gift, a child of your own flesh and blood. Not many get to have that in this life."
"I don't deserve it," Ace said softly.
Pops laughed, but then turned serious once more. "You do, boy. You do." He clapped Ace on the shoulder again. "Now, go dance with your woman before Marco woos her with his fancy footwork."
Ace chuckled, but Pops words has quieted the voices in his head. He still had his doubts, but Pops was right, nothing evil or bad could ever come from Ashina, and maybe, just maybe he'd be as good of a father as Pops' believed he would.
Marco spun her around as Ace approached, sending her into his arms.
Ashina let out a soft 'oof' as she collided with his chest. His arms went around her waist as she tilted her head to look up at him.
"You okay?" she asked softly, catching his eyes.
Ace smiled. She knew him too well. He couldn't hide from her, and he didn't want to. "Thinking. Worried. Pops gave a good pep talk."
Ashina smiled softly, reaching up on her tiptoes to press a kiss to the corner of his mouth. "Stop doubting yourself, Flame Boy. No matter what anyone said years ago, you are good, and they don't matter. They don't know you like I do. They'll never see the man I see, and that's their loss." She took his face between her hands and pulled him down to her level. Her voice was a whisper as she spoke. "You are not Roger, just as I'm not my father."
"Your father is a hell of a lot better."
Ashina shook her head. "You don't know that. You know Roger from other people's opinions. People who weren't close to him, who didn't know him. Maybe you should ask Shanks about him, or Rayleigh if we ever go back to Sabaody. I'm sure he wasn't perfect Ace, everyone has their flaws, but he must have loved you if he asked Garp to protect you. That should count for something, right?"
The corner of his mouth twitched with the faintest of smiles. "Maybe."
"Hey," she said softly, catching his eyes. "We're going to be fine."
Ace slid his hands to her sides, rubbing across the swell of her belly. "You should get off your feet."
"Hmm. Dance with me instead," she said, taking his hands and pulling him around in a circle.
Ace drug her back to his chest, grinning as her belly bumped into him first. "You're not so graceful anymore Missus Spade."
Ashina giggled as Ace twirled her around. His footwork wasn't nearly as good as Marco's, but he was learning.
"I waddle when I walk, too."
Ace snorted. "It's cute. I like your waddle."
"You better. It's partially your fault I waddle to begin with."
"Partially?"
"Takes two to tango, darling."
Ace grinned. "I like tangoing with you."
Ashina laughed, making Ace's grin widen.
"Yo, lovebirds!" Thatch called out, catching their attention. "We need two more players for cards, come here."
.
.
.
Ashina was sitting in the rocking chair that now sat in the corner of their bedroom. It was another surprise from Mihar, this one a surprise for both of them, since Ace knew about the cradle. A pale yellow blanket was in her lap, one Ace didn't recognize from the baby things they bought on various islands.
"Where'd that one come from?" Ace asked, walking into the room, smiling as Ashina looked up.
"Little Old Lady Anne gave it to me today. She knitted it."
"Oh?" Old Lady Anne was older than Pops, a tiny, frail woman, with a sharp tongue and knowing eyes. She was the eldest person in the village, and deeply cared for Whitebeard and his crew. She was also one of the few brave souls who would come interact with the crew during their more rambunctious times.
Ashina hummed, holding it up toward Ace. "It's really soft," she added as he approached.
Ace fingered the knitted blanket, a smile tugging at his mouth. "That was nice of her."
"A gift for Newgate's grandchild she said."
Ace snorted. "He's well-loved here on Sphinx." Ace dropped to his knees in front of Ashina, hands moving to her belly. "Hi, Sabo." He leaned closer to pressed a kiss to her belly.
Ashina giggled. "What are we going to do if it's a girl?"
Ace pulled back, eyes wide, which made Ashina laugh harder. "Don't look so shocked, you know it's a possibility! We've just called little one Sabo for so many months now, because we think it's a boy, but it could be a girl."
Ace smiled before he pressed another kiss to her bump. "I won't lie, I don't know how I'd feel about a little girl. But I love our baby, Ashina, so it doesn't matter boy or girl."
Running her fingers through his dark hair, Ashina smiled down at him. "Me too. Old Lady Anne asked a whole bunch of questions, old wives' tales that are supposed to determine the gender."
"And?"
"Well according to my cravings, sleeping patterns, emotions, and balance... it's a boy. But according to my morning sickness and some weird ring test she did, swinging a ring on a string above my belly... it's a girl."
Ace snorted. "More results lean toward boy."
"That they do."
"What's Marco thoughts?"
"Well, based on little one's heart rate, Marco says its most likely a boy, but to not hold our breath."
Ace chuckled, hands rubbing over her bump. The kick that landed on his palm was solid. "He's strong."
"And big. And turned the right way."
"The right way?"
"Head down," she said, rubbing the lower swell of her stomach before drifting higher, near her heavy breasts. "Feet up here."
"Oh."
"Any day now."
Ace leaned in and pressed his lips to her bump again. Ashina brushed her fingers through his hair, smiling as he kept his lips pressed to her body.
"Nervous?" she asked softly.
"For you. I don't want to see you in pain."
Ashina smiled as Ace lifted his eyes to her. "Well, Little Sabo has to get here somehow."
"What are we going to do if it's a girl? Do you have a girl name picked out?"
Ashina smiled softly and nodded.
"Really?" Ace pulled back, wide eyes looking at her. She hadn't mentioned anything to him about girl names.
"Yeah," she replied, rubbing a hand over the bump. "Rose."
"Rose?"
Ashina nodded and added softly, "For your mother, it's not quite Rouge, but-"
Ace cut her off, pressing his lips to hers. He pulled back slightly, the tip of his nose brushing hers as his forehead pressed against hers. "I love it."
.
.
.
Ace noticed the way Marco watched Ashina as she moved around the little campground. The outdoor area was the common place to spend the day, dotted with picnic tables and large logs carved into benches around different firepits. Ace rose from his place with a group of the old Spades and headed for Marco.
"What are you doing?" Ace asked, noticing the small notepad in Marco's hand as he reached his side. Marco stood off from the large groups, leaning against the side of the large crew house.
"Timing her contractions," Marco replied casually, as he made another tally mark on the paper.
"What?" Ace asked, eyes darting to Ashina and then back to Marco. "Contractions, does that mean she's…? Shouldn't she sit down? Lie down? Do I need to take her in the house?"
Marco chuckled, patting Ace's shoulder. "Chill, brother. It's just early labor. It's better for her to be up and moving, keep her distracted and her mind on something else. This could last for hours. The contractions are too far apart for me, or her, to do anything about it. Watch her. About every fifteen to twenty minutes she pauses. It's only for a handful of seconds. By the time they're coming closer, when the real action is about to happen, she'll be ready to lie down herself."
"Does she know?" Ace asked, worry tinting his voice as he glanced at Marco before sliding his eyes back to Ashina.
"I'm sure she does, but I'm keeping an eye on her just in case."
"How long?"
"Until the baby arrives? Hours probably. Who knows. Her body will decide, but I won't let her labor past a certain point before I would medically intervene. We're nowhere near close to that point. I promise Ace, nothing is going to happen to her. She's strong, she's healthy, she's going to be fine."
Ace nodded, eyes sliding to Ashina. He watched as she talked to Thatch, hands waving about as she spoke. She continued smiling to whatever Thatch was saying in reply, but Ace noticed the way her hand slid to her lower belly, the slight pinch of her eyebrows. He glanced over at Marco to see him make another mark.
"It's late in the afternoon, she probably won't go into active labor until tonight. Relax, Flame Boy, but get ready. You'll be a dad by tomorrow." Marco grinned at him and clapped him on the shoulder before shoving Ace playfully.
"Now go, enjoy the last moments you'll ever get alone with your woman," Marco teased, laughing at Ace's scowl.
Ace's scowl morphed into a grin before he replied, "Baby has to sleep sometime." He said, already walking backward toward Ashina. He turned around and trotted the rest of the way to her side.
Ace wrapped his arm around her waist, pulled her close to him and pressing a kiss to the top of her head. She leaned into his side, enjoying the warmth of his touch against the muscles of her lower back. She carried on her conversation with Thatch and a few of his crew, while Ace rubbed gentle circles on her hip.
The early spring sun was beginning to set when Ace could tell the contractions were starting to take their toll on her. He leaned down to whisper in her ear. "Want to go relax in the house with me? Take a nap?"
Ashina nodded, turning her head to brush her lips against his.
Thatch pretended to gag. "Ugh, gross love birds. Go do that somewhere else."
"Excellent idea, Thatch. Later, see you at dinner," Ace called as he led Ashina away from the scattered groups and toward their house.
Thatch watched the pair go as Marco approached. "What's that all about?" Thatch asked.
Marco chuckled. "She's in labor," Marco replied, watching the pair disappear into their little home and thinking that he was glad to have set up the medical equipment last week.
"She's what?" Thatch bellowed.
"She's in labor. Early stages, but laboring still. She'll want to take it easy from this point on. Ace was smart to take her back to the house. Her contractions are becoming more regular."
"Does Pops know?" Deuce asked.
"Of course," Marco defended. "He'll be a grandfather again by tomorrow."
Thatch chuckled. "Think Ashina's gonna break Ace's face?"
Deuce laughed with him, but disagreed. "Nah, she might get a good hit in on his junk though."
Marco rolled his eyes. "I'll check on her after a while. Unless Ace comes running there's not much to do but wait. She'll need to eat dinner if she's able."
Thatch nodded and stood from his stool, stretching loudly. When he relaxed he grinned at Marco, "Looks like life's about to get a whole lot more interesting."
.
.
.
Ace's warmth felt good against her side, but her attempted nap was a restless one. Ashina couldn't get completely comfortable with the tightening of her muscles and womb with every contraction. Ace's fingers trailed up her thigh, finally awake. He'd either managed to fall asleep despite all of her tossing and turning or his narcolepsy had kicked in.
"How are you feeling?" Ace asked softly.
"I'm okay. The contractions are stronger now, but the time in between is nice. It feels almost like a really strong menstrual cramp."
Ace scrunched up his nose, remembering the times when he'd been Ashina's personal heating pad and the restrictions it put on their sex life. That was something they hadn't had to worry about for many months now.
Ashina giggled, smiling down at him from where she sat on the bed. "They'll only get worse. I'm thirsty and hungry, and it sounds like we have company."
Ashina stood, pausing to take several deep, slow breaths before she padded across the room. Ace jumped out of the bed, moving quickly to follow behind her as she opened the door.
Marco, Thatch, and Jora sat in the kitchen while Izo and Deuce sat in the living room playing a game of chess. Tanaharu sat beside Deuce on the small couch, while Mihar, Aggie, and Saber played cards on the floor with Kotatsu curled up near them.
"How are you?" Marco asked.
"Hungry. Ace said you were counting my contractions."
Marco nodded. "Yes. I thought you'd prefer me to wait as long as possible before we have to check you."
"Check me?" Ashina asked as Ace pulled out the vacant chair for her, ushering her to sit down.
Jora smirked and wiggled her fingers. "Got to see how far you've dilated."
Ashina frowned. "Suddenly, I'm not so hungry."
"Hey, that's what I'm here for," Jora said, adding on a laugh. "At least it will be my hand and not Marco's."
Ashina nodded in agreement while Ace looked puzzled. His eyes widened after a moment as his jaw dropped open. "Oh. Oh! I'll uh, stay out here for that."
Marco chuckled, unfolding his arms to push the covered tray toward Ashina. "Eat while your still hungry, Ashina. You'll need the energy."
Ace bent down, pressing a kiss to her temple, his lips lingering on her skin as she breathed through a contraction. "I'll get you a glass of water."
Ashina lifted the lid of the tray, eyes sliding to Thatch after she took in the contents of the platter.
"Thought you'd like some of your favorites," Thatch answered her silent question with a grin.
Ashina eyed the takoyaki balls and the onigiri, which if it was one of her favorites was stuffed with Thatch's special marinated, grilled beef and pickled veggies. There was also tempura shrimp and vegetables. She decided on one of the onigiri first, humming in delight when the flavors hit her tongue, confirming her belief of the filling.
Ace swiped one of the balls of rice as he set her water down on the table. He leaned against the wall until Marco stood from the table. "Sit and eat," Marco said. "We've already eaten. There's another tray on the counter. I'm going to move the equipment and supplies into your bedroom. Jora, help me prep the bed."
Jora nodded and stood from the table, following Marco to the corner of the room where the different monitors and machines sat. Ashina turned her attention back to the food and used a pair of chopsticks to pluck a takoyaki from the pile.
"Where's Pops?"
"With the rest of the crew. He'll come here later," Thatch answered her. Looking at Ace, Thatch could tell the young man's attention was on Ashina and that Ace was clearly watching for signs of her discomfort. His eyes slid back to Ashina to see her pause from eating. Thatch studied her as she closed her eyes, breathing evenly, clearly compelling herself to relax. After a moment she opened her eyes. She took a drink of water before plucking another takoyaki from the stack.
"We're about to have a little Red Fire Fist," Thatch joked, grinning as he leaned back in his chair so it rested on only two legs. "The world won't know what hit 'em."
.
.
.
Ace rubbed circles on the small of Ashina's back, watching helplessly as she breathed through another contraction. Her hair was braided, courtesy of Jora, to keep it out of her face and she had long since shed her heavier kimono. She now wore only a thin nightgown. She sat on the bed, which was covered in a soft blanket on top of a large plastic sheet to protect the bedding underneath. Ashina's legs were curled under her as she sat between his legs. The contractions were coming faster, the length of rest in between shorter and the duration of the contraction longer.
"Damnit," Ashina swore, shoulders slumping forward as her palms pressed against the mattress, trying to relax and breath during the brief moment of rest.
The next contraction came quicker than the last, catching her off guard. Ashina cried out, struggling to breathe through the pain. When the contraction faded, she leaned back until she fell into Ace's chest. His arms went around her, supporting her, as she shifted her legs out from under her. Ace felt her tense before she let out a low moan, eyes squeezing shut as she tried to focus on breathing.
His eyes flicked up as the door opened and Marco, Jora, and Tanaharu strolled in. Jora closed the door behind them and moved to wash her hands in the bathroom like Tana, while Marco neared the bed. He waited until the contraction passed before speaking.
"How close are they?"
Ashina breathed deeply, but before she could answer another contraction hit. She squeezed Ace's forearm as he whispered soothing words of encouragement in her ear.
Marco arched a brow. "Close. You're almost there. It shouldn't be long now."
Jora and Tana reached the bedside, and Jora motioned for Ashina to sit up.
"I can't," Ashina panted.
Jora rolled her eyes. "If you can take on Thatch and Marco in a fight, you can do this. Up, laying like that isn't doing you any favors. Squat girlfriend, I promise. Let gravity work with you. It'll be easier."
Ashina held out her hands and Tana and Jora each grabbed an arm. Ace shifted to his knees to help Ashina rise.
Jora motioned for him to move with a jerk of her head. "Come around to her front. She'll need your strength to hold her up through the contractions." Jora looked back at Ashina as Ace took his place. "Better?"
"No," Ashina panted. She reached for Ace, grasping onto his biceps, clutching him, as she cried out.
"Still don't want any medication?" Marco asked. "Last chance, after now it will be too late."
Ashina shook her head, clinging to Ace as the contractions eased for the moment. She remained quiet, savoring the small moment of relief before the next one hit, and tried to remember to breath.
"One at a time, Ashina," Jora reminded soothingly. "Each one brings you closer to your baby. You can do this. You fight Commanders, you can birth a baby."
Ashina snorted, a soft smirk tugging at the corners of her lips before it morphed into another grimace. Ace held onto her, supporting her weight as she pressed down against him, her nails biting into the bend of his arm. She took a gasped breath, and what Ace hoped was going to be a pause of relief for her vanished as she screamed.
"Oh my god," she cried out. "Fuck! I can't… I can't do this."
Ace bent down slightly, pressing his forehead to hers, catching her eyes as she breathed. "Yes, you can. You're the strongest woman I know, Ashina. You can do this. I'm here."
Ace continued to whisper soft reassurances to her as the next contraction hit. He could tell by her grip on him that they were getting stronger, longer - the longest ones yet. Ace held onto her as she clung to him, using him to support her weight. Ace hated the feeling of helplessness, hated watching her in pain and despite her wishes, he wished she'd have taken Marco up on the offer of pain relief. He held onto her as she shifted, watching her closely. She moved her hold on him, gripping onto his shoulders as she moved into more of a squatting position.
Ace ran his hands down her back. Ashina moved one hand quickly to catch one of his. She pressed hers flat against his, pushing down on his hand on the muscles of her back. "Harder," she whispered. "Press."
Ace complied, splaying his hand flat across her lower back and pressing. She moaned low in her throat, if it was pain or relief he didn't know but she didn't tell him to stop. Her hand moved back to his shoulder just as another contraction came. Ace kept one hand on her back and the other on her side, holding her up, as she groaned.
"Breathe," Ace whispered. "I've got you, you can do this. Breathe, Missus." His lips pressed gently to her forehead which was damp with sweat.
Ashina did start to breathe as Marco stepped closer. "You can push if you feel the need. You're doing good, Ashina. Tana, prepare the towels and water."
Tana nodded, moving around the room and preparing for the arrival of the newborn.
Ashina shifted, widening her stance just before the next wave of contractions hit her. She kept up the steady breathing pattern, but let out a shrill whine. Ace counted the seconds until Ashina's grip on his shoulders lessened. Over a minute. "You're incredible, Ashina. I love you. I've got you."
The break in the contractions was a welcome relief. Ashina leaned forward, her forehead pressing against Ace's chest and knees pressing into the mattress. Ace rubbed his hands down her back, pressing along the muscles that ran beside her spine. She hummed low in her throat, so he repeated the motion. Ace paid no mind to Jora as she moved closer to check Ashina's progress.
"Push on the next contraction," Jora said.
Ashina breathed out a soft okay, shifting again to raise up. Ace held onto her, balancing her, anchoring her. She expected him to freak out, like she imagined most men did when their woman gave birth, but Ace was a steady, calm presence. He reassured her, helped her focus through the pain, his touch warmed her, and he was doing everything he possibly could to help her bring their child into the world.
"Ace," she whimpered between breaths.
His lips pressed to the top of her head in a quick kiss before he met her gaze. "I know. You're amazing, Ashina. You almost done, you can do it. Just look at me."
She did look, holding his gaze, as she let out a loud yell. Ace thought it sounded akin to a war cry.
"Good push, breathe, Ashina," Jora encouraged. "Relax for a second and do it again." There was a momentary pause, it seemed to stretch longer than the last break, before Jora spoke again. "Push, push, push. I can see the top of the head."
Ashina sucked in a deep breath, blowing it out, before inhaling once more. Another warcry left her lips, her head dropped down as her fingernails bit into Ace's shoulders.
It was Marco who encouraged her this time. "Almost there. You're almost done."
Ashina screamed louder and then practically collapsed against him. There was a momentary beat, the shortest of pauses, and then an enraged cry filled the room. Loud. So loud. Upset at the sudden entrance into the world. Tears stung his eyes at the sound of his child's first cry, and Ace ducked his head to press his lips to the top of Ashina's head. "Good job, Ashina. I'm so proud of you."
"It's a boy!" Marco exclaimed, making Ace suck in a breath, pride widening his smile as it swelled in his chest.
Ashina pressed her lips against Ace's chest before raising her head to catch his mouth. He kissed her back before pulling away to help her sit. Tanaharu moved to stack a large pillow behind her, propping her up.
''Come here, Ace. You want to cut the cord?" Marco asked, head turning briefly to look at Ace.
Ace slid off the bed, eyes catching sight of his son for the first time, his focus shifting away from Ashina's wellbeing as Tana tended to her. Ace stared at the newborn boy, who continued to cry while Jora quickly but gently cleaned him off before she turned away with the dirty towel. Marco handed Ace the scissors and instructed him where to cut, and then quickly finished the rest of the task himself. He lifted the baby into his arms, wrapping him in a soft, white blanket before offering him to Ashina.
"Listen to that cry, he's healthy. We can measure him in a minute."
Ashina took her newborn from Marco, adjusting the little bundle in her arms. Ashina smiled down at the infant, who calmed at the sound of his mother's soft coo. Ashina stared in fascination at her son. She brushed her fingertips gently over the soft wisps of dark hair, before smoothing over the splattering of freckles on his chubby cheek.
"He looks like you," Ashina said, lifting her eyes to look at Ace.
Ace grinned softly, enamored by the sight of his son. His son. A boy. A child he created, the sweet innocent life cradled in his mother's embrace belonged to him. Ace decided then there would never be sight more amazing in all his travels than the one of Ashina holding their son, seconds after being born. Ace leaned in to press his lips to her temple, unable to form words due to the knot in his throat. He swallowed hard, eyes squeezing closed as Ashina whispered softly. "I love you. He's perfect."
"He is perfect. You did amazing," Ace whispered as her head turned so that their foreheads pressed together. Her eyes caught his as Ace added. "I love you more."
"Here." Ashina shifted the newborn in her arms, causing him to let out a soft whine of displeasure. "Hold him."
Ace bent down, carefully taking his son in his arms, thankful for Ashina's helping hands as he adjusted him to rest in the crook of one arm. As he stared down at his son it was as if everything shifted into place, all the doubts in his mind disappeared, the worry, the questions. If he was born into this world for nothing else, he knew he was here for this little boy. His son. This was the reason it was good that Ace was born. It all came down to this sweet boy. Ace would give or do anything for the little bundle in his arms.
After a few moments, Marco clapped him gently on the shoulder, grinning in response to Ace's own wide, proud smile. "Congratulations. Let me measure him, height, weight, vitals, and finish cleaning him off. Jora and Tanaharu will help Ashina finish laboring." At Ace's raised brows Marco grinned. "Just the placenta, this is the easy part. Ashina is healthy, her own vitals are good," Marco reassured him. "It won't take very long, she'll be fine. You can go give the big news, Dad."
Ace looked down at his son again, smiling at the calm newborn before gingerly passing him to Marco. Ace bent to press his lips to Ashina's. "You okay?" he whispered.
"Yeah, I'm okay. Go, let Pops and everyone know little Sabo has arrived."
Ace brushed his thumb across her cheek, his proud grin returning as he gazed down at her. "I'll be back in a moment."
He glanced at Marco and his son, who was lying on what looked like a scale. His hand grasped the door handle, but Marco caught his attention before he could open the door.
"Yoi, Dad, your son's 21 inches long and weighs seven pounds, ten ounces. He's got good reflexes too."
Ace nodded, unable to stop the widening of his proud grin as he walked through the door into the living room. Thatch and Izo, along with the original Spades were crammed into the small space. The front door was open, revealing more members of his own division and the others scattered on the lawn outside the house. Pops was seated on the couch beside Izo and looked up expectantly at Ace.
"It's a boy!"
The yard erupted into shouts and woops of excitement. Inside was less boisterous, but the excitement was still palpable as congratulations went up throughout the room.
Pops pulled Ace in for a strong hug. "Congratulations, son." He let him go and added louder, "How's my warrior daughter?"
Proud smile still in place, Ace replied, "She's good, tired."
"How's the little man?" Thatch interjected, standing and coming toward Ace. "Huh, proud papa?"
"Strong, healthy. Loud. He's seven pounds, twenty-one inches long."
"He'll be tall like you," Mihar commented from his place in the kitchen. "Congratulations, Commander."
Thatch clapped Ace on the shoulder and then pulled him into a manly hug. "Congratulations, brother."
It was Izo who hugged him next, giving his congratulations, before Deuce clapped him on the shoulder. "Good job, Ace. Congratulations."
"It's Ashina that did all the work."
Deuce nodded. "No doubt. Tell Missus we're eager to see her and the little one."
"Go, Son," Pops said with a smile. "We know you want to be with them."
When Ace disappeared into his bedroom to spend those first precious moments with his woman and newborn son, Pops smiled. He was proud of his daughter, proud of his son. They were going to make excellent parents, even if his son was still uncertain of that fact himself.
"Izo," Pops drawled, taking a sip of sake. "Make the call to Vista. Tell him to reach out to Red-Hair. Let him know his grandson has arrived. Tell him to come to Sphinx. Meeting later on the seas will be too dangerous."
"Pops? Are you sure? Red-Hair is a rival, is it safe for him to come here? To this island?"
"Yes, I'm sure. A man has a right to see his family. Red-Hair won't be coming for a fight. He'll be coming to check on his daughter and meet his grandson."
"I understand. I'll relay the message to Vista," Izo answered, exiting the house to execute Pops' orders.