Hello everyone, here is another one shot, or more like an outtake
This was what I had in mind about Ace's detox and that if he hadn't tried to accidentally killed himself, and wanted to post it here. I only had parts of this done and added the spaces, which might make it a bit rushed in some places. It would have probably been a bit more descriptive at places if I had gone for this idea
Anyhow, I hope you enjoy this
Read and relax
Whitebeard sat in the galley, breakfast being over a bit ago, but many still being there. Ace had gotten inside the galley a bit late, being away for a couple hours for something, but he seemed fine as they were eating. Ace had been away for short periods more often he had felt like, as well as how he acted a bit out of character. Ace had seemed somewhat confused at times and seemed to use time to gather things that was told to him. But, it also might be something he imagined. Ace had been out more lately and he might just be noticing details more. At the same time, Trevor had acted a bit off the last days too, so it might be because of something in their work, and if it was important or relevant, they would tell him.
As they were sitting and just talking while a few ate, the doro suddenly opened and Trevor came inside, clapping his hands as he looked at Ace. "Ace! We got a meeting with Daisuke! He just called." Whitebeard saw Ace blink. "Okay. Why?" Trevor just waved his hand for Ace to follow as Trevor left. "Just come on! He wants us now!" Ace gave a breath as he stood up, heading after Trevor. Ace had been acting a bit off the last few weeks, but nothing big. Maybe something was happening in the world they didn't know about and that was what the meeting was about. They would just wait and see. Ace did say it would probably just take a couple hours, and Whitebeard knew Ace would send a note with Dust if it took longer. He could see Mika out on deck and ready to go with them, before Ace moved a hand to both of them and they disappeared in smoke.
When they were gone, he looked to Izou when the sixteenth commander spoke. "Did Trevor seem a bit too excited? He usually doesn't like meetings." Whitebeard nodded. That was true, but maybe this meeting was an important one or one they had waited for. "Maybe, son. But, he might be excited about something. He does like work at times." That had Izou nod, seeming fine with that. But still, Whitebeard had this feeling in his stomach he couldn't get rid off, that something was wrong. He had had it for a while, but not sure why. It was hopefully nothing.
-x-
Trevor saw Ace blinking as they walked into the room, Daisuke, Moira, and Hanzo already waiting for them. "This is rare. Must be some VIP target for all of us to be together." When they got inside and closed the door, Daisuke sighed. "It is, Ace." Ace nodded, looking at Daisuke. "So, who's the target?" Daisuke gave a sigh. "You are, Ace." Trevor saw Ace's face falling as he blinked. "W-what?" Daisuke gave a look to Ace. "Trevor reported you got an addiction to sedative hypnotics and other kinds. You almost caused fatalities when you did the mission four days ago. We can't have you working like that." Ace gave a sarcastic snort, shaking his head. "So what? If I leave, you just will send me less things?" Daisuke shook his head. "No. If you leave, you're not welcomed here anymore; you can never return." Trevor saw Ace blinking as he looked shocked and stunned. And Trevor knew it was harsh, but they couldn't let Ace go down this path. He had been down it before and it was always bad, but Ace always admitted it, but not now. He denied it and tried to hide it. He almost got himself and so many others killed, included Trevor. They needed Ace to get well.
Ace opened his mouth, before giving a breath, looking defeated. "What do I need to do?" That was good, that Ace was agreeing. He knew Daisuke was serious in making Ace unwelcomed; that was what they had done with Eldritch when he didn't want to quit his drug use. Daisuke nodded. "Mike is ready to get you at Kalmido. You're staying with him until you're better. Same routine as usual." Ace nodded, giving a sigh with a hand on his face. "Fine. I'll do it." That was good, this was just perfect. Daisuke nodded. "Mike is updated and already at the cafe you will meet at. If you leave without telling or it being fine, you're still not allowed back." Daisuke still had the same speech as he usually did, and it was harsh, but needed to get them to actually listen. They had seen what would happen if ignored. And, Ace had been so out of it the last weeks, so Trevor was sure Ace must feel out of it and just muddly. And Gods know what drugs he was on, but it was strong and he really wished he had caught on before Ace had gotten the strong things from those damn drug dealers. Trevor hated them.
Daisuke then went a bit over how they would fill in for Ace, as well as asking to have Dust with them if possible, which Ace thankfully agreed to. Daisuke then gave a clap to Ace's shoulder before they were off, Trevor and MIka following him to meet Mike, who was waiting at the cafe. Ace took it calmly and to be honest, looked like himself. But, Trevor knew Ace would be horrible in a few days, when he got no more drugs to keep the fleeting feeling up. Ace was good at keeping appearances, too good at times if you asked him. Trevor wished Ace would lower his shoulders now and then. Trevor and Mika gave a goodbye to Ace, Trevor giving a hug, before they left, sure he was fine with Mike. The two usually liked each other so Trevor knew it would be fine.
All Trevor needed to do now was wait for Ace's return when he was better, as well as inform the pirates, which wouldn't be fun. But, with time, things would be fine.
-x-
After the assassins had left, they had left to be out on deck, and it wasn't more than an hour later when Trevor and Mika showed up again, no Ace with them as they appeared with Dust. Why wasn't Ace with them? When they left together for a meeting, it was rare when they didn't come back together without a reason.
"Where's Ace, Trevor?" Whitebeard watched as Trevor sighed, looking worn. "Ace won't be around for a while. From a few weeks to maybe over a month." The captain frowned. "Why? Did anything happen at the meeting?" Trevor shook his head. "It wasn't a meeting. More like an intervention. Ace is off on a sort of rehabilitation and detox; he's addicted to drugs, been for a while. He just reached a point where he's a danger to himself and others; he can't work." Whitebeard blinked before he frowned, same with the rest of his children. "Is that why he's been acting weird the last weeks?" Asked Izou, looking at the assassin, who nodded. "Yeah. Been on drugs for almost 6 months, but reached a bad and dangerous point a couple weeks ago; he got something stronger. He will be back and fine in a bit. That's why I hurried away this morning, so Ace wouldn't catch on that we know." That made sense, as no one would like to be sent on detox, but still. "He will be fine?" Trevor nodded. "Yeah. He just needs to get clean. He's not alone, but can't be here either. I'm sorry I didn't say, but I couldn't have the chance of anyone slipping up or giving it away. Ace really needs this." Whitebeard nodded. He understood that.
He could see Marco looking a bit bleak, most likely since he didn't know Ace, his boyfriend, was on drugs. But as long as Ace would get the help he needed and get back fine, Whitebeard would just wait and hope for that. Drugs weren't good, the reason he didn't approve of it, it could ruin lives. "How long do you think it will take?" Trevor shrugged. "I don't know. I mean, it's Ace, so it will go faster than normal, but might still be everything from 3 weeks to 10. Just know that Ace will be back completely fine, probably better than he has been the last weeks and months." Whitebeard nodded; that was true. Ace would be fine. The captain just wished he had noticed drugs was the reason Ace was off. But, it would be fine, with time. As Trevor said, Ace would be back to himself with time.
He could see his children feeling bad they hadn't noticed but glad Ace would get help now. Marco looked guilty and the captain would be sure to speak with Marco later, to just calm the man down. Whitebeard trusted Trevor's judgement, and he knew the man cared for Ace. They seemed to be close.
-x-
Nothing had happened the last 3 weeks, since Ace had been gone. It was if something was missing, and it was clear Ace had made an impression with them; even though it seemed like Ace didn't make much noise, it was clear he caused a difference and it was noticed when he was gone. The second division had said they really liked Ace as a commander and had noticed something was off too, but didn't really know it was anything bad as Ace still seemed to have control. Both Whitebeard and Trevor had said it was none of their faults no one had noticed; Ace was good at keeping his appearance up, to give the impression things were fine. When they could see something a bit off, it meant something was really wrong. It would be something they would take with them, to know Ace was always the calm himself, and if that changed, something was wrong and to first approach Trevor with any concerns; he knew Ace the best. At least until they got to know Ace better. He was sure Ace would open more up with time. Seeing what Ace's work was, it was no wonder Ace was a bit closed off.
What was special about today, was how Shanks was approaching them and he hadn't seen that man for a while and didn't see a reason not to let him board, especially as he didn't seem battle ready. When they did board, Shanks was his happy self, which annoyed many, even Shanks' first mate at times. It was when things had calmed down and the red-haired man had asked him something when he felt himself a bit shocked. "So, how's it's going here without Ace?" How did Shanks know Ace wasn't here? And hadn't been here for a while? Trevor hummed and started to answer before he could. "It's like something is missing. Ace makes a difference and just have a huge impression. How do you know he isn't here?" Shanks sighed. "We saw him on Kalmido 5 days ago, with Mike. We know what that means. He also looked horrible and awful, giving it away." Trevor gave a nod. "Did you speak to him?" Shanks shook his head. "Nope. Tried to, but wasn't able. I think it was good, as he didn't look to be able to keep a conversation up."
Whitebeard felt himself frown, not sure what to think. Ace sounded to be in a bad place, but none of them seemed concerned, even Trevor. This might be something Trevor had seen before, and hoped Ace would be back soon and fine. He would still see if they could get to this Kalmido island if possible, if Ace was still there though. He had a feeling this Mike was someone special, maybe an associate with the assassins. Shanks didn't say anything more on Ace, not even when Marco had tried to ask, Shanks telling he didn't know more, just what he had seen.
When the red-haired captain left a couple hours later, Whitebeard had asked the navigators if they knew were Kalmido was, which they did and said it was just a couple days from where they were. They did mention the place could be bad news, as it had some bad and strong groups on it, but it was usually bad for those who lived on the island, not visitors, so it would probably go well, and they headed that way, Whitebeard going to be sure to tell his children to be a bit careful in case they ran into one of the bad groups.
The sail to the island was uneventful and when they docked, they were told to keep away from certain places, as apparently some high up people would be bad news.
-x-
Marco gave a sigh, walking around on this new island. He wasn't sure if Ace was here anymore as this island seemed calm, at least to him. They had still been warned when they got here, by a couple on the docks, but that was it. It might just be the remains of an internal battle with some groups, which had calmed down. But, they were still careful, not sure if someone might react to them being here. They had a huge reputation, and not the best one. As they were walking around and checking some places out, Thatch had suddenly stopped as he blinked, before moving to swat him on the arm.
"M-Marco! L-look!" Marco gave a frown to Thatch, before looking where he was pointing and looking, blinking when he saw through the window and seeing Ace at a table, looking somewhat miserable as he had a hand on his face, elbow resting on the table which was in the back of the coffee shop. Marco didn't get a chance to react before a man, who had to be at least 60, maybe in his 70's, handed a cup to Ace, which he took with two somewhat shaky hands. Ace looked horrible as he did the best to keep the cup steady while he took a sip. Marco felt saddened to see Ace looking as horrible as Shanks had said, hoping he was just exaggerating.
He was about to head inside the cafe, but as soon as he turned, the old man was standing in front of him as he turned, a hand up. "No, I don't think so. It wouldn't do Ace any good to have you approach him now." Marco blinked, not expecting him to be here. Who was this? He had a stern and calm look, not seeming at all bothered by stopping a group of Whitebeard pirates, that also had 5 commanders and the captain together. Most feared approaching them. Before he could gather a response, Mika was suddenly next to him, moving to hug the man. "Hello, Mike. How's it going?" The man, Mike, hugged back before they parted, the man keeping his calm and collected mannerism. "Fine. He's in the midst of a bad period. Give it a couple days and things will calm down for him." Mika gave a breath. "Ah. He's in the bad stage?" Mike nodded. "Yeah, but it's going better. He's managing to keep up with the work now." Marco blinked at that. Ace wasn't able to keep up with work? He guessed this man was an assassin or something. That sounded horrible.
Mika moved a bit back, motioning to the older man as she looked at him. "Marco, this is Ehrmantraut Mike. He's one of our oldest and most experienced in the field. He also helps us with those needing to get clean from substance use. He's the one we have who is able to keep working as well as having someone with him. Perfect way to get sobered up as well as not stopping working so we keep our stride." Mike shook his head a bit and held a hand up. "No, Ace is so easy to deal with. I've had so many bad ones who do the most stupid things. Ace actually listens. He's one of the few who haven't gotten me shot." The last part was said with a lifted eyebrow to Mika, who gave a chuckle. "I'm still sorry for that." Mika had gotten this man shot? Mike shook his head. "Don't think about it. As I said, most do. Almost everyone rushes into things and create messes. Ace is a charm compared to them, and he's doing much better, but I don't want them to approach him." Mika gave a smile to the man. "Oh no, they understand it." Marco did, and would listen to what this man, Mike, said. It was clear he was experienced with this and knew what was happening.
Mika lifted an eyebrow to Mike. "Are you also trying to ignore the fact that Trevor snuck inside?" Marco blinked and turned to look inside the cafe, seeing Trevor sitting at the table Ace was at, speaking to him. Mike gave a breath "I am. And hope your company understand why I keep them away, but ignore Trevor." Marco saw Mika on her way to speak, but decided he could respond to that. "We do, yoi. Trevor and Ace have their own relationship." Mike nodded. "I'm glad you do. Most family or fiancès would feel resentful or jealous." Marco shook his head. "I feel glad Trevor can speak to Ace. It's better than none of us, yoi. They have a much better understanding." Mike gave a nod to him. "I'm glad you actually see and understand that. Many don't. I understand why Ace chose you." Marco gave a smile, feeling pleased someone thought that, especially as this man was most likely someone who must be well respected.
Mike then looked at Mika. "Give it a week or two, and I think Ace will be fine to leave." The woman nodded. "That's good. You're staying here?" Mike nodded. "Yes. The drug lords here are in a sort of conflict with each other, which causes ripples downwards and many need help. Mostly meetings and just supervisions, perfect actually. And, I love to spend time with my family." Mika smiled, and before any of them could say anything more, Mike let out a breath. "But, I think I'll need to go back. Trevor will be out soon too. Hope we run into each other another time under better circumstances." Mika gave a nod and a goodbye to the man as he left.
When the door closed behind the man, Marco looked at Mika. "Who was that, yoi?" Mika shrugged. "Mike is one of our best men. Despite his age, he can take on all of us. He keeps the peace and when he is called in, you know things are bad. He usually helps out everywhere and knows everything, and as we said, he has more than once, and this will not be the last, helped us when we need a break from our work, but not a complete break, help find ourselves again, or a calm period while we sober up. It's perfect as we get watched and cared for in a good manner, the manner we need. Not coddled, but watched, talked with, still working, so we know how bad we actually are in our minds, and just all we need." That made sense. Mike seemed like a calm and good man, and one with a lot of authority and respect.
Mika then gave a small wave and goodbye to them, before she left, mentioning about finding some new clothes and such. Marco had a feeling things would be fine, Ace would be fine and back on the boat soon and well again.
-x-
Trevor sent a comforting look at Ace as he sat down next to him, having his own cup of coffee. "How are you doing, Bunny?" Ace gave a small snort, moving a hand to his face as he looked wretched. "Guess. Absolutely horrible." Trevor sighed. "Can I get a bit more?" Ace closed his eyes as he shook his head. "My hands shake, my body trembles, I'm sweating and nauseous, and my head feels like it's going to explode and things are blurry, even words." Trevor nodded as he looked at Ace. "But?" Ace breathed out. "But, I still somehow feel better than I have in the last- i don't know- 5 months. Why is that?" Trevor hummed. "You know what drugs do, especially when you mix them. You feel like shite." Ace gave a small smile with a chuckle. "I still like it when you say shite." Trevor smiled. "I know; that's the reason I do it. I like it when you smile." Ace nodded as he had a small smile. "I'm glad you make me smile and try to make me smile. And I feel better, really… I'm glad you found out about the drugs." Trevor gave a nood. "And that's good; that you're glad you're off them."
Trevor was really glad about that, and hoped Ace would be back on the boat soon. Ace carefully moved his hands and lifted his cup, still somewhat shaking even with both hands on it, eyes glassy as he looked at him. "I'm also trying to ignore the people outside the window. Shanks told?" Trevor nodded. "Yeah, he did. And Mike will keep them away. You shouldn't be seen by them like this." Ace nodded, taking a sip of the cup. "Thank you, Trevor." Trevor shook his head. "No, don't thank me. That's Mike's doing. But, I need to leave, I can imagine Mike will make me leave. I'll have the best food ready when you return." Ace gave a smile to him. "I'd like that. See you in a week or so? Save the seat on the whale's teeth?" Trevor smiled. "I'll even bring pillows and a blanket so we can watch the moon or sun, whichever is up, down, or moving." Ace smiled as he nodded. "I would really like that. And Trevor?" Trevor halted as he was standing, on his way to leave, looking at Ace who had a smile and blank eyes as he looked at him. "I'm really glad you're on the boat." Trevor smiled at Ace. "I'm much gladder you're on it, and I can be there with you." Trevor moved a bit down and hugged Ace. "We will all be waiting for you. See you soon, Bunny." Ace gave a goodbye himself, before turning back to concentrate on his coffee cup, Trevor heading towards the door, passing Mike with a nod.
When he got outside, the pirates sent a waiting look at him, Thatch speaking first. "So? How is he?" Trevor chuckled. "Absolutely shitty, but feeling better. He'll be back in a week or so." Thatch blinked. "How can he feel shitty and better? That's contradictory." Trevor lifted an eyebrow at the chef. "Oh. You learned a new word? Kudos. Now you just need to learn how to use it." He could see the chef sputtering, and Trevor turned around, heading to a bookstore he had seen earlier, giving a wave to the pirates. "Now bye. I have a few books to look at." He heard some stutters from those behind him, but didn't pay it any mind as he walked to the ship, giving an hello the cute store worker, before looking over some books.
"Looking for anything specific, yoi?" Trevor gave a hum to the first commander, reading a few lines in the book he held, before going for a new one. "As a matter of fact, yes. I need something for the sunrise, sundown, day, or night, in a week's time. Seems like Bunny and I will enjoy some time on the teeth of the whale. Wanna join?" He heard Marco hum, seeing a hand taking a book out too. "Sounds lovely, but I think you're entitled to the first hour or two alone, yoi. How about I join with some food?" Trevor chuckled, taking another book. "Already planned and ordered. How about drinks? I think we all could use a glass of whiskey." He heard Marco chuckle. "I will find my best bottle, yoi. By the way, why are we looking for reading material? The view won't be enough?" Trevor chuckled. "It will do for the first bit. But I know, with one hundred percent certainty, Ace will be asleep within a few hours. And who am I to disrupt his sleep? Might actually sleep for once." Marco chuckled next to him. "I understand. A blanket already ordered, too?" Trevor nodded. "That and a few pillows. But, knowing Ace, bring a pillow of your own. After all, he uses all of them, and then fall asleep on you, leaving nothing for you, aside from hard wall and a cute bunny." He heard a hum from Marco. "Sounds just perfect, yoi." Trevor chuckled. It did. "So, give me an hour and half, then you join with whiskey. Sounds good?" Marco gave an affirmative sound. "Yes, yoi. Sounds like a good plan." Trevor chuckled. "Actually no. It sounds like a date. I'll give you two hours, then I leave. You deserve alone time too."
He heard Marco give a noise of agreement, before both of them continued looking at different books, before they decided on a few, Trevor getting 3, and Marco finding 2. All they needed now, was to wait for Ace's return.
-x-
Trevor stood out on deck, the sun having set some hours ago, but he had gotten a call from Daisuke not too long ago, the man telling that Ace would most likely be back tonight or tomorrow morning, depending on how Mike felt like. Daisuke had said Ace had been fine the last 3 days and been a huge help to Mike, the reason he was ready to be let back. Trevor was glad Ace was fine, that he didn't turn into another Eldritch. Not that he really cared for that man, but he and Ace had been together for a long time before he overdosed and died some years ago. So now, he was just waiting for either Ace to show up, or Dust, to tell him Ace just went straight to the whales teeth. He had also put Marco up to speed, so he knew it would either be tonight or tomorrow that Ace was back and they would be having their time on the spot they had decided. He was sure that would be nice.
It was just about an hour later when he felt a weight on his shoulder, seeing Dust had landed there and gave a small caw, moving his head against his, obviously glad to be back too. Dust had been one just as long as Ace had. "Hey, Dust. You glad to be back too?" THe raven gave a nod, before ruffling his feathers a bit. "Is Ace coming here, or already on the teeth's ledge?" Dust gave a caw and moved his head towards the front of the ship. Already on the ledge then. "Will you take me there, or do I need to climb?" He didn't mind either. Dust shrugged and Trevor felt the ravens talons hold a bit tighter on his shoulder, a telling Dust would take him. He gave a nod to the bird, who gave a caw, and a second later, he was on the ledge by the whale's teeth, seeing Ace standing there as he stretched, seeming to have taken his cape off, placing it on the ledge for now.
Trevor moved and hugged Ace, just glad Ace was back and fine, that things were going back to normal now. "Good to have you back, Bunny." He felt Ace give a small chuckle. "I'm glad to be back, Trevor." Trevor moved back, moving to sit down and taking a pillow to sit on. "So, how's Mike?" Ace chuckled moving to sit down next to him. "Good. He's glad I'm better and gone, but was thankful for my help the last days." Trevor chuckled, moving to open the bag he had. "Mike is a good man. So, I got sushi, the best from Moira; kebab, the shitty one; and some garlic bread for good measurements." Ace chuckled, taking a piece of garlic bread. "This is perfect, Trevor. Thank you, for doing this. A calm first day, or night actually, sounds perfect." Trevor chuckled. "I know. And you need it too. Being bombarded by all of the pirates wouldn't help you much. And I've missed you, and want you to myself for a bit." Ace chuckled, taking a bite of the garlic bread, before they started up with some chatter.
Trevor felt this was just perfect.
-x-
Marco sat at his desk, doing some paperwork, being glad Ace would be back soon. He was just waiting for Dust to come and tell him Ace was back, Trevor telling Dust would come after Trevor had been with Ace for a bit. He knew it might not be until the morning that Ace returned, but Marco wouldn't go to sleep in case Ace returned during the night. He was just hoping Ace really would be fine. He had looked horrible when he saw him that week ago. He knew detoxing could be hard and had seen it before and it was awful to watch. But, those had gotten their footing back and been fine. Well, most of them. A few had relapsed and gotten back on drugs even worse. He hoped Ace wouldn't do that and would keep an eye out better.
Marco was brought out of his thoughts by a sort of knocking on his window, making him move and open it. And as he did, Dust flew in, ruffling his feathers as he landed on his desk, giving a caw to him. "Ace back, yoi? And Trevor had his hours?" The bird nodded,moving to jump onto his shoulder, giving a caw towards the door. Marco chuckled. "Yeah yeah, we'll leave, yoi." Marco took the small bag he had prepared and tied it to his belt, before he headed out. When he was next to Ace's door, the raven moved his wings a bit, giving a caw. "Want me to let you in?" The raven nodded, and Marco opened the door to Ace's room, Dust flying in and settling down on Ace's pillow, seeming to be comfortable. Dust was probably glad to be back himself. They hadn't seen the bird for a while, so it was good to see him too. They had made sure the nest the raven had made out on the mast was fine, so it was there when Dust returned.
Marco then headed out on the deck, walking to the front and giving a nod to those he passed. It was a silent and calm night, even though it was a clear night. He did hear voices from different rooms and knew many had their own small party here and there. When he got to the front of the ship, he moved to jump off the railing, turning his arms into how phoenix wings to be able to steer and slow down his decent, so he was able to actually land on the whales' teeth. It was a bit of a way down, but still a safe distance from the water below when it wasn't too windy or bad weather. So this night was just perfect for a calm evening and relaxing on the ledge by the whale's teeth.
When Marco came into the view of the ledge of the whale, Marco felt a smile grace his lips when he saw Ace sitting next to Trevor, both seeming to relax. "Hi, Marco." The first commander changed his arms back to normal, moving to sit down next to Ace. "Hi. Good to see you back, yoi." Ace chuckled. "You have no idea how good it is to be back." Marco hummed. "Mike not fun anymore?" Ace gave a laugh. "Mike fun? He's business through and through. Even when he's with his granddaughter or daughter. And none of them know what he does. Mike is the father of hiding what he is and able to not have a fake name or suit." Marco nodded. "He seemed like a special kind of man. One in control." Both Ace and Trevor chuckled, the latter speaking. "No one has as much authority and respect as Mike. He is one of the few that can order Daisuke and Moira around." Ace nodded to it, making Marco a bit impressed. This Mike seemed like an amazing kind of guy. One you wouldn't want to meet while on the wrong end.
Marco moved a hand to the bag he had tied on his waist, taking a bottle and a few glass out. "Here. Found my best bottle; heard you didn't have any drinks, yoi." Ace gave a smile as he took a glass, Marco filling all the three up, them giving a small cheer to be back and just relaxing. After a few seconds of silence, Ace looked at him. "By the way. Why are we heading north? I thought you were heading towards Fishman Island? That's East." Marco frowned. "I don't know, yoi. How do you know we're heading north?" Ace chuckled, holding his hand up to the clear night sky, fingers close and thumb out. "Hold like this, and see how that path of stars is following your hand? That's north, meaning we're heading north." Marco moved his hand up, finding himself impressed. "That's amazing, yoi. And I don't know. I'll speak to Pops tomorrow. We're not heading towards anything dangerous I hope." Ace got a sheepish smile, moving his hand down. "I don't know. I'm not completely sure where we are; I'm a bit lost to be honest. It's a miracle I know what day it is I think." Marco saw trevor nudging Ace. "You've been gone for almost 3 weeks. Normal to be a bit off. And we're between Laido and Mircel, about 3 days from Tyrcel." Ace nodded. "Makes sense. So we're in no dangerous waters. Might meet some rain and thunder, but that's it."
Ace gave a breath, turning to enjoy the view as he ate some bread or something. "How's things been here, Marco?" Marco hummed. "As usual, mostly. We all missed you. Aside from apparently heading the wrong direction, nothing have happened, yoi. How has things been with you and Mike?" Ace chuckled. "Don't even remember the first days, then things just moved… fast. Then felt like I was dying for a while, before things got better." Trevor chuckled. "The usual routine when detoxing." Ace nodded. "Yeah. But still, as I felt like my body was just dying and trying to murder me, still felt better than before. I really need to stop taking random things from Virus and Trip. That shit was beyond." Trevor lifted an eyebrow at Ace, Marco not sure what that meant. "You mean you just got something? You didn't ask? Why don't I believe that?" Ace gave a sigh. "I asked for something to fuck me up, I didn't know that meant it would actually fuck me up. Those two take things so seriously." Marco gave a look to the two assassins. "Drug dealers, yoi?" Trevor nodded. "Yeah. Virus and Trip, the biggest ones around. They have everything and make their own stuff. Hard to get anything as strong. I don't like them." Ace just shook his head to it and Marco could understand why Trevor didn't like them. Drugs weren't something they should mess with.
Ace gave a breath, leaning back and a bit on him, head on his shoulder. "I still feel so much better. It's so good to hear my own thoughts." Marco smiled, moving his head against Ace's. "And we're glad you're fine, yoi. I'm glad things will go back to normal, I've really missed you." He felt Ace hum. "I've missed you too, Marco. It will be so good to be back to my own bed, so lonely having a room alone." Marco nodded. He had to agree on that. His room had felt empty since Ace was gone, Ace's room felt even more empty the few times he had been inside it. It would be so good to have Ace back. He heard Trevor giving a hum. "Things aren't the same without you, Bunny. You have your own way of making our days lighter and easier. We all love you so so much." Marco gave a chuckle. "He's right, yoi. But, I think few can rival your and Trevor's relationship. You have your own thing." He heard Ace chuckle, as well as Trevor, who spoke. "We do. So many would have been so jealous of us, especially if it was Ace's fiancè." Marco understood that, and even mike had said that. "I know, yoi. But, I'm glad you two have each other, and the rest. Everyone needs someone special that's not a significant other." He could see Trevor nodding, having a smile.
He heard Ace chuckle, the young assassin moving his head to look at Trevor. "Want in on a secret?" Trevor lifted an eyebrow. "Have I ever said no? What secret?" Ace chuckled. "We're married. Before the whole 'hiding' to lure out Cesare. We eloped." Trevor laughed. "Fuck. I owe Mika two hundred. None of the pirates know?" Ace hummed. "I think Whitebeard is the only one. We're not telling the rest, so we can get married again with an actual ceremony and all." Trevor chuckled. "Sounds nice. Who will do the honors?" Ace hummed. "Don't know. Whitebeard can, but I don't know if Marco would want that. We can have Shanks, Daisuke, Moira, Benn, or someone else do it." Marco looked at the two. "Pops can marry us, yoi? I thought you needed a thing to be able to do that." Ace chuckled. "He can. A captain has the power to join two people in marriage. It's a rule." Marco didn't know that, and found that good to know. Trevor nodded. "Yeah. And, should the captain be the one to get married, the first mate can do the ceremony." Marco blinked. "Really, yoi? I could marry Pops to someone?" Ace and Trevor nodded, the black-haired kid speaking. "Yeah. It's rules. Even funnier, also a rule. If the captain and first mate marry each other, the second mate can do the ceremony. It's all covered by the rules of the christian church. It's amazing how well thought out things are." That was amazing. "I don't know, yoi. I think I would like Pops to enjoy the ceremony, not hold it. And I think he agrees, but wouldn't object to it." But, if a captain could wed them, Shanks could do. Or any of the other assassins apparently.
Ace then leaned against him again, head resting on his shoulder. "It will figure itself out I believe, when the time is right, it will be all worked out." Marco nodded, leaning his head against Ace's again. He was sure things would just fall into place. Marco heard Trevor chuckle. "For now, we should just relax and enjoy the days." Both he and Ace agreed, and Marco was glad Ace was back on the boat. They then started up with some small talk, all of them relaxing and enjoying the clear night. As their talk quieted down, he noticed Trevor taking his book out, starting to read. Marco moved his arm to hold around Ace, hand slowly stroking his side a bit, glad Ace was relaxing.
After about half an hour, Trevor put his book a bit down. "Bunny, you asleep?" When no answer came, Marco looked at Ace and saw Ace asleep with a calm look, making him give a nod to Trevor. The man had said Ace would fall asleep. Trevor chuckled. "He'll be out for at least an hour, hopefully 4-5. He should and needs sleep. Maybe he'll even sleep every night for once." Marco agreed with that. "Should we let him sleep here, yoi?" Trevor hummed, moving a bit closer to Ace. "Not up to me. But, stay for a bit more, so I can enjoy his company and atmosphere. You know, I missed him too." Marco hummed as he moved himself a bit into a better position, keeping his arm around Ace and head resting on Ace's. "We'll probably stay here for a while, yoi. The night sky is nice." It really was, and he understood Trevor wanted to be close to Ace again, and would stay out for a while, to enjoy this moment. Marco moved to get his book out in his unoccupied hand, the light from the moon making just enough light to be able to read.
After a while, he noticed Trevor moving and giving a kiss to Ace's head. "Enjoy your night. He will probably be a bit tired for tomorrow and want to stay in for most of the day. Being back home is probably good for him and make him relieved and able to relax." Marco nodded. "That's fine, yoi. We should do this now and then; it has been nice." Trevor chuckled as he stood up. "Maybe. This was nice. Ace and I have done this now and then, I think he likes this place to relax." Marco understood that and got that. He had been with Ace here before too, and would keep an eye out for it in the future and maybe even suggest it when they wanted an hour or two alone. Trevor then gave a goodbye and goodnight, before he moved to climb up to the deck, leaving them alone.
Marco moved back to reading his book, glad Ace was relaxing and hoped he would relax for a while. He was sure tomorrow would be a calm day too. This was still perfect. It was quiet for a while, Marco lowering his book when he felt Ace moving, taking a breath as he woke, moving a hand to his face, before looking to the side then back at him with somewhat still sleepy eyes. "Trevor left?" Marco nodded. "Yeah. It is getting late." Ace gave a hum, looking at the view. "You're right. Maybe we should head to bed?" That did sound like a good idea. "We can if you want to, yoi." Ace chuckled. "I've missed my bed so much, or yours, or just a bed I like." Marco chuckled. "I've missed you in it, yoi. Feels empty alone." Ace gave a smile to him. "I'll send Dust, so we can just get there without climbing up." That sounded like a good idea to him to. It was a couple seconds later Ace held his hand out to him, Marco taking it and a second later, they were in Ace's room.
Before Marco could move, Ace was already down on the bed, arms out. "Ah, my bed. How I've missed you." Marco chuckled. "You sound like a kid who's been away from his bed." Ace hummed. "I am 20. I'm allowed to act like a kid at times." Ace moved a bit so marco could lay down too. "I wish you did it more, yoi. It's cute, and you deserve to act like kid now and then, seeing your profession." Ace hummed. "Maybe you're right. Even Trevor says something like that." Marco laughed. "Trevor acts more like a child than you." Ace chuckled. "Yeah. Trevor's better at being himself, not assassin self." Marco looked at Ace. "I know. Trevor said it was since you were raised in the business, Trevor wasn't." Ace hummed, closing his eyes. "I think there's some truth in that. All I can remember is this life. Trevor says I lost my childhood to assassin work." Marco had a feeling that was exactly what had happened. "It's fine, yoi. I like you nonetheless, and these small moments make it so much better."
Ace chuckled, before giving a breath, looking at him. "I'm glad to be back, Marco. I've missed you." Marco smiled, bringing the covers from the end of the bed and lying down close to Ace, draping one arm over him. "I've missed you too. It's not the same without you here, yoi." He said with a kiss to his boyfriend. Ace chuckled as he closed his eyes, seeming to relax.
Marco had a feeling things would be just fine.
And that's the one shot, hope you enjoyed
I hope it was enjoyable even though it is a bit fast paced some places, but did my best to make it without making it too long. And the character Mike Ehrmantraut is from the series Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, played by Jonathan Banks, and looks just the same. He will also appear in the main story
If you have any ideas, don't be afraid to tell them, I love making things other want
And I love feedback and it is what keeps me going
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