They Don't Know About Us
Author's Note: Hey everyone and welcome back to They Don't Know About Us! So, in my last author's note I asked if you guys would like to see pregnant Ace or not, mostly everyone said yes with the exception of a few. You guys have spoken so I am here to deliver! Guys, thank you so much for taking the time to read this chaotic af fic. I never expected so many people to actually like it. So, thank you all so much for all your comments/kudos/etc! I hope you enjoy!
Additional Notes: With your guys' help, I think I know what I'm doing with the rest of this fic now. I seriously had no idea what I was going to do after Marineford except from angst/Hurt and Comfort from Ace's side for a hot minute than just a blank xD
This is random but I'm planning out a version of this where Shanks was a Whitebeard Pirate for awhile before going to the Roger Pirates. I dunno, I'm making up AUs for my AU xD I've also thought of doing a dark version of this premise to. SO MANY AU ideas for my AU xD basically… expect a bunch of AU-AUs from me in the foreseeable future xD
Just so you know, I'm getting back into my groove with my other fic "Bring Me To Life" so updates on this might be skippy by a few days compared to the almost day to day updates. I can only write so fast xD plus adding in the side fic! Especially cause my writing goal is 10k minimum a chapter… I set to high of standards for myself.
Chapter Warnings: Canon Violence, Character Death, Male Pregnancy, Discrimination (Fuck you Akainu) etc.
Chapter Eighteen: Angel with a Shotgun (by The Cab)
Chapter Summary: Following the fall of Blackbeard, Mihawk, Shanks and Whitebeard have rejoined the pirates. Akainu accuses Shanks of being Roger's son and accidentally reveals a secret. Shanks snaps. Law goes head to head with Doflamingo. Rayleigh and Rouge drop a bombshell. Shanks and Sengoku decide to end the war.
Ace slowly blinked, cracking his eyes open as he forced himself to focus on the world around him. He picked up quickly that he was on someone's back, being carried. He sighed, taking in a deep breath as snuggling his face closer into the fabric. Letting out a content sound as he realized the lingering scent of wine and forest.
Mihawk.
They found him.
With his eyes open, he could see Shanks and Whitebeard. Their faces cold as they walked. "Just rest, Ace. We've got this." Mihawk stated. "It was foolish what you did."
Ace shrugged. "I couldn't run away."
"You've been the same ever since you were just a pup." Mihawk replied.
The Omega let out a small sigh as he just placed his head back down, enjoying the rocking motion that came from Mihawk walking. His scent working to keep him relaxed. He tensed as he caught a glimpse of Shanks' back. The blood-soaked shirt, splotches on his neck. "Mom… are you hurt?" Ace questioned; his eyes wide as he picked his head back up.
Shanks turned his head to look at him, eyes following Ace's gaze before a slight smile came to his face. "That isn't my blood."
"It's Teach's." Whitebeard finished.
Ace felt his jaw drop open.
Was it finally over?
Teach had been defeated.
"Is he…"
"Dead?" Mihawk stated. "Yes."
Ace choked on the air in his throat, wrapping his arms tighter around his Alpha father's shoulders, fingers curling into his jacket. He couldn't help the tears that had came to his eyes. After all this time of Ace hunting him down, Teach was finally defeated. Even if it wasn't by his hand. Teach was done. Everything that Alpha had ever done. The words he had said to Shanks and himself. The scars on Shanks' face. Threatening Luffy. Trying to murder Thatch. Disgracing Oyaji's good name. It was all avenged now. He could help the sick, bubbling laughter that came from him as he let the tears fall. Mihawk's pheromones filled his nose, forcing his body to calm down, soothing him as the wave of emotions ran through him.
It was over.
He was so exhausted that he didn't even take the moment to care that he wasn't the one who actually dealt the final blow. He was just happy that piece of shit was dead.
As they approached where the rest of the Whitebeard Pirates were, the Marines quickly scattered, shying away from them as they came through. They were quickly surrounded by the Commanders and more of the Whitebeard Pirates. Shouts of Ace's name and worried questions flying his way.
Ace's eyes were slipping open and shut as forced himself off of Mihawk's back. Marco was in front of him in a flash of blue flames, hands on either side of his face and his eyes roaming his body. "Oh God, Ace… don't scare us like that again, yoi." Marco muttered, blue flames igniting and working on the injuries to Ace's face. The Omega let out a sound of pleasure as he no longer felt the throbbing in his face, leaning into the Alpha's touch. Ace leaned forward, pressing his face into Marco's chest. The Alpha wrapping his arms around him, tight like he never wanted to let Ace go again. His flames still dancing across his skin. Working on healing any injuries that they could find that Ace's own flames couldn't prevent. "Don't run off from us anymore, Ace." Marco whispered; nose buried in Ace's dirty hair. He hadn't had a proper bath in weeks. Ever since he had been defeated and handed over to the Marines. The World Government didn't care about their prisoner's hygiene. They didn't even care about if they were feed properly, let alone even a glass of water. Just by some miracle and maybe a little luck, he was even able to fight his way through Marines after Luffy got him off of the scaffold.
"I'm sorry." Ace whispered back; his hands lying flat on Marco's tattooed chest. They were the only words that he could get out. Relishing in finally being back in his Alpha's touch again. They had been separated for practically two months at that point. Ace had been so lost in his anger that he never even thought about the repercussions of his actions.
He could only be thankful he was alive.
"LUFFY! Seriously! C'mon, let's go!" Zoro's voice cut through, screaming out for his Captain.
"NOT WITHOUT ACE!" Luffy retorted.
Ace turned to look over at the commotion and sure enough, Luffy was attempting to march his way back. Multiple sets of hands trying to keep him from moving. His body stretching from where his crew had their holds but Luffy's persistence to keep walking. The Omega's eyes widened as he took in his brother. Luffy looked worse. A fresh bur n mark, almost in the form of an X, across his upper chest now. "Luffy!" He screamed, rushing forward. "Why'd you turn around!?"
Luffy tripped over his own feet and straight into Ace. "Ace…" The Alpha Captain whispered, his nose burying directly into Ace's scent gland. "You're still here." Ace felt the ping of guilt go through him as he felt tears falling onto the curve of his neck and shoulder. Luffy winced any time their skin made contact, though he still tried to hold Ace that much closer to himself.
"Of course, I am, you aren't going to lose me that easily." Ace replied, running his fingers through Luffy's hair.
Luffy's arms wrapped around his waist, pulling him closer. Ace noticed quickly with just how badly his brother was shaking. He wasn't sure if it was emotions, injuries, exhaustion, or a mixture of them all. "I almost did… I could sit there thinking I was about to lose my brother. I would rather die."
"I'm sorry, Luffy..." Ace muttered, wrapping his arms just a little tighter around Luffy.
His heart practically stopped as he felt Luffy start to slump against him. Falling even more into his chest as his knees gave out. Ace gave a shout of his name, looking over his shoulder to Marco. The blonde Alpha rushed over to them, dropping down next to Luffy as Ace gently placed his brother on the ground, his head in his lap. Running his fingers through the black strands as Marco lit up his hands again and placed them over Luffy's chest. The Alpha giving a hiss of pain as Marco went to work.
Joining Marco was Law. The Omega Captain casting a room around them as he went to work. Ace wasn't sure what he was doing, all he could focus on was his brother. "What happened?" Marco questioned.
Sabo had ran over, kneeling next to Ace's side as he reached out to Luffy, moving his bangs out of his eyes. "Hey, Luffy." He muttered. "Why'd you come back? You should have just kept going." His other hand now on Ace's upper back, metal pipe laying on the ground next to them.
"Akainu." Sanji stated.
"Jinbei saved him. It was all happening so quickly." Robin added. "He got hit."
Ace could hear the growl that came from Shanks immediately following Robin's statement. Ace froze, hands freezing as he looked down at his brother with wide eyes. Akainu hit Luffy. Luffy wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him. He would still be somewhere on the Grand Line causing chaos wherever he went.
If he hadn't gone after Teach, none of this would have ever happened.
Luffy was grimacing in pain as Marco worked with his flames. Law's face was contorted in concentration. Mihawk and Shanks were standing next to them, prepared to attack anyone who dared move their way. The only reason Shanks hadn't moved was probably because Mihawk had taken his hand, calming pheromones going through the air despite the anger radiating off of Mihawk himself. "Appears as if Akainu is going to continue until either he's dead or he's killed Ace and Luffy." Mihawk growled.
"That isn't going to happen." Shanks stated, his voice low compared to his normal care-free tone.
"That bastard won't lay a hand on my brothers." Sabo growled as he looked over his shoulder to Shanks and Mihawk.
Ace looked back at Luffy, curling in towards his brother. The guilt continuing to spike as he took in every injury that lingered on his brother's body. The burn. The cuts. The bruises. The fatigue he could see. "You need to get out of here, Luffy." Ace muttered.
"Not without you." Luffy replied almost instantly through his wheezes.
"Why are you this stubborn?!" Ace questioned.
Luffy would never change.
"Why are you?" Luffy asked, pausing as he winced as Marco moved his hand, starting on another part of his body, "You did the same thing for the old man." The Alpha let out a whine of pain as Law had probed at his abdomen, motioning for Marco to move in that direction. Which the First Division Commander complied. Ace winced to himself listening to the sound coming from his brother. Tears coming to his eyes as he quietly shushed his brother, running his thumbs in soothing circles on Luffy's jaw and cheek. "I won't leave this place without you."
"Straw Hat-ya, calm down. You will aggravate life threatening injuries even more." Law hissed, instructing another place for Marco to continue. "Marco can only do so much right now without exhausting himself too. You still need surgical intervention at this point if you want to live to see tomorrow."
"You will not be leaving here. Even with the protection order on your filthy heads." Akainu stated, bringing a chill down Ace's spine as he all but used his body to cover Luffy's, looking over his shoulder to see the Admiral standing there.
"What the hell is wrong with you?!" Sabo snapped, now moving to guard Ace's back, metal pipe back in hand as he growled. Shanks and Mihawk also moved, standing in front of Sabo with their swords ready.
"It wasn't that hard to figure out. Red-Hair and Hibiscus Rouge have admitted they are mother and son." Akainu stated. "So, that must mean Red-Hair is the son of the Pirate King. That would mean those two are his grandsons. We must end the bloodline. I've already gotten orders to go through with it before this war even began."
Ace growled, tightening his grip on Luffy. They were stuck. If they moved, Akainu would no doubt jump in the way.
This man was relentless.
"Leave my pups alone, Akainu." Shanks growled, bringing Gryphon into a defensive position. Ace didn't miss the way that Mihawk stepped forward, placing himself directly between the Admiral and Shanks. Trying to block the man's path.
The magma boiled over Akainu, dripping to the ground, and making hissing sounds as it went. Akainu's gaze was leveled on him, glaring directly at him as Ace moved his body more to shield Luffy.
"Step out of my way Hawkeyes. The bloodline cannot continue." Akainu growled, magma rolling off and splattering more. The anger starting to radiate in the air, making Ace shudder at the sheer amount of pheromones going through the air. "I will end Fire Fist Ace and his demon spawn today."
Ace's head snapped into the direction of Akainu. His eyes wide and mouth dropping open. What did Akainu just say? Ace let his gaze move from Akainu to Sengoku. Seeing the anger on his face directed at Akainu.
Spawn…?
Ace blinked.
His mind drifted back to Impel Down as Akainu's words rang through his mind. He had gone through the blood test and was never actually told his results. They had told him that it wouldn't have mattered anyway. That he was still going to be executed.
"What…?" The Omega muttered. "That's impossible."
Akainu wavered for a second. Eyes widening for a split second before it was masked again. He didn't even mean to say that. "It's already bad enough that this has gone on this long. I will personally expose of you and your bastard myself."
"Fire Fist is… pregnant?!" A Marine shouted in complete disbelief.
"This… this is wrong… this can't be true! We aren't allowed to execute someone who's carrying a pup!" Another Marine exclaimed.
The shock continued as the Marines questioned it. If Ace was truly pregnant or if it was just a slip of the tongue.
No.
Akainu wouldn't just carelessly accuse him of pregnancy without some sort of evidence behind it. Sengoku and the Admirals at least had know. Rather they told the Vice Admirals or any of the soldiers was probably a low chance. Garp sure didn't know or he would have said something.
Mihawk even looked surprised. Which meant the Warlords weren't told either.
It was classified information. Information that shouldn't have been displayed for the World to hear. If he did die on the battlefield, the World Government would have to explain why they even allowed for his execution. All positive pregnancy tests were sent straight to Sengoku if the person was scheduled to be executed.
He still had the bruise on his arm to prove that he had been through the test.
There was absolutely no way he was pregnant. The only person he has ever been with had been Marco and they hadn't seen each other since he left the Moby Dick around two months before. Thatch had been attacked just right around the time he was preparing to go see Luffy off on Dawn Island, and he had left the ship without a second thought.
He never thought of the possibility. He had been dead positive that he wasn't.
He wouldn't have been so damn reckless if he had known.
He hadn't even had symptoms. Absolutely nothing to even make him think that he was.
This had to be some sick bluff. To knock them off their game. Fill them with so much shock that he could slip through and attack. That had to be it.
Ace couldn't bear the thought that he might actually have risked his own unborn pup's life on a vendetta.
"No. No, no, no. That's… I can't be." Ace denied. If he truly was, that would have meant he had left the safety of the Moby Dick and put his own pup's life in danger. Even if it was unintentional. He had fought Marines… Smoker. He lost to Blackbeard and was imprisoned without proper food or water. So many possibilities ran into his head. If he was, how didn't he know? He even got cut right through the stomach by a Marine just getting off of the scaffold.
The Omega jumped as he felt a hand press to his stomach. Looking at the hand to see the tattooed back before he was following it to see Law's face contort in surprise. "He's…" Law's voice trailed. "The Marines really are despicable." The doctor hissed, eyes moving from Ace's stomach to Akainu and Sengoku. "You're so terrified of the Pirate King's bloodline continuing that you're willing to kill an innocent life! One that hasn't even been born yet?!"
Ace's ears were ringing as he looked back down at Law's hand. It hadn't moved but he could feel the other Omega shaking in anger. He didn't know much about Law other than the fact he was his own ship's doctor outside of being the Captain. "That can't be… it can't be true." Luffy was staring just as wide-eyed at him at Law's hand with his jaw dropped. For once, it appeared like Luffy was speechless.
There was absolutely no way this was true.
He begged to the seas that it was just some fucked up dream.
"I would place the fetus at just about over two months. With just a quick glance I can't be positive. However, a steady and strong heartbeat." Law stated. "It's a miracle that his baby has survived."
Everything was absolutely silent around him. A stunned, tense silence. No one uttering a word. No one moved. Ace wasn't even sure if they were breathing.
He was pregnant.
He could have killed more than just himself.
X
Shanks was completely frozen. His eyes almost impossibly wide as he stared at Akainu and Sengoku. Akainu was standing there, seething in anger, and Sengoku looked like he was about ready to go after his own subordinate.
They hadn't meant for that information to get out.
It was no secret that pregnant Omegas or women were not allowed to be executed until after they had given birth.
They had broken their own laws in hopes of making sure that Ace died.
It made his blood boil worse.
His eyes stung as he felt the pinch against his cheek from his teeth. His nails getting longer as he started to shake. "You son of a bitch." Shanks hissed, lunging forward and slashing Gryphon at Akainu, just for the Admiral to dodge.
"SHANKS!" Collectively came from the pirates.
The Marines could only stare wide eyed as the Admiral grabbed Shanks by the front of his shirt and slammed his back into the ground. His hand moved to Shanks' neck, cutting off his airway. Shanks' nails dug into the back of the Alpha's hands as he kicked almost subconsciously. Trying to get the man away from him. Blood pooling underneath his nails and over his fingers as he clawed with haki embedded into his hands.
"Captain!"
"Boss!"
"Mom! No!" Ace's terrified voice filled his ears, only working to fuel the absolute hatred he was feeling in the pit of his stomach.
"Did that upset you, Red-Hair?" Akainu questioned. Shanks hissed as he felt Akainu's hand start to heat up. "They say never piss off a mother. That they turn into an uncontrollable beast." The Alpha chuckled as he stood up, pulling Shanks along with him. Magma rose around them, keeping anyone from getting to them as Mihawk tried to approach. His pathway getting blocked off by the magma. "Omegas will always be on the bottom of the food chain. All they ever desire is pleasure and creating more bastard children in this world. Nothing of value. Omega pirates sum up to exactly that. Nothing. You're nothing but the pretty face of the Red-Hair Pirates." Akainu was smirking at him Say, you probably get passed around your nakama like a piece of meat. That wouldn't surprise me with how carelessly you act. How flirtatious to anyone and everything that walks. It's gotten you out of more than one sticky situation." Shanks growled. "I'm going to put you in the ground. Along with your bastard children and that spawn."
Akainu heated up his hand more, pulling back his free hand in a magma coated fist. The Omega Captain grimaced in pain, coating his right hand in haki as he slapped Akainu across the jaw. The movement stunned Akainu, his head turning to the side from the force as he let Shanks go. The Omega falling to the ground as he coughed and sputtered, bringing air into his lungs.
Akainu had already recomposed himself, looming over Shanks with a smirk. "How does it feel knowing that it all ends here today. For you and the vile bloodline?" Akainu questioned. "What Omega walks around wearing barely anything. No wonder that bitch got himself knocked up with a bastard spawn."
Shanks leveled a glare on Akainu as he pushed himself off of the ground with a shout. Slashing his nails across Akainu's cheek. Relishing in feeling Akainu's blood added to the blood he already had on his hand from Teach.
He was going to make his promise shine. He would have Akainu's blood. Even if it killed him.
His move seemed to catch Akainu off guard for the moment as he stumbled backwards into his own magma. Shanks didn't care as he kept advancing. Continuing his attacks as his blood continued to boil.
His only focus was Akainu.
He was seeing red.
Nothing would stop him.
Akainu swiped at his arm, the Omega screaming out in pain as he felt the magma connect briefly with his skin. The boils already forming. Knocking Gryphon right out of his grasp and away from them. "Oh, I struck a chord." Akainu teased. "Can't deny the truth."
It only worked to make Shanks angrier.
His nails catching Akainu's throat and slashing across the vein that was there. Spewing blood over him as the Admiral frozen. Shanks took his moment to push the Alpha backwards as the magma wall fell, continuing the tear at any skin that he could find.
He was lost within his rage.
Nothing.
Nothing could stop him.
X
Ace could only hold his breath has the magma wall finally collapsed, revealing Shanks and Akainu. His Omega father all but straddling Akainu as he slashed away at the Admiral with sharpened nails. Blood spewing everywhere.
It looked like a scene from a horror show.
It was all over Shanks. The ground. Akainu.
One look at Shanks' eyes and he knew. Shanks was in a frenzy. Just like he had seen that one time at the bar. Mihawk had rushed forward, grabbing his mate by the waist, and hauling him off of the unmoving Akainu. The Alpha had released his scent and pheromones in an attempt to calm Shanks down. "Shanks, you need to calm down."
Only, the red head turned and slashed at Mihawk. The Alpha dropping his mate in complete shock as Shanks practically scrambled to attack Akainu again. "Red-Hair has completely lost his mind…" Izou muttered, hands over his mouth in shock.
Nothing was more dangerous than being in a rage. They could attack blindly. If Mihawk couldn't calm Shanks… who could?
"Sabo… take Luffy." Ace muttered, not giving the Beta a choice before he was already shuffling out from Luffy and switching places with Sabo before he was on his feet and dashing towards Shanks.
"Ace! Don't!" Thatch screamed from behind him. He was sure he heard people scrambling after him. He pushed through anyone who tried to stop him, crossing Shanks' path. Seeing the glow of purple before him.
Ace wrapped his arms around Shanks' shoulders and neck, placing his hand over Shanks' eyes. Forcing his Omega father's nose into his scent gland on his neck. "Mom… calm down. Please, calm down. It's okay. You did what you said you would. We're okay. Me and Luffy… we're okay." Ace continued, whispering reassurances as Shanks' body started to give out before he was falling down to his knees. His hands moved to Ace's back, laying flat against the skin as he held onto his son tighter. Ace moved his other hand that he didn't have covering Shanks' eyes to run his fingers through his Omega father's hair. Twirling strands of red between his fingers.
Ace only looked up as he heard a pair of footsteps and Law was approaching them with his sword over his shoulder. The Omega doctor kneeled next to them, muttering, "Room." And the blue sphere appeared around them. "Keep him calm for me, Fire Fist." He added before he got to work. Ace nodded, continuing to whisper to his Omega father. Starting to feel as Shanks' nails started to retract into the bed of his nails. Ace only looked up long enough to see the burns on Shanks' arms and hands slowly starting to disappear from whatever strange power that Law had.
Before anything else could be done, cackling erupted over the silent battlefield.
X
Law narrowed his eyes as the cackling continued, "Trafalgar Law… you're always sticking your nose into business it doesn't belong in." Doflamingo stated. The large grin he always wore on his face as he approached. Law instinctively held onto his sword tighter. Letting out a small growl as he noticed the Alpha approaching them.
He was really hoping he wouldn't run into Doflamingo. He came for one purpose, and Doflamingo was not on that list. He wanted this man dead for what he had done to Corazón. The man who loved and cared for Law when he had nobody. Strived to save his life and gave his own so Law could live. Free. The man who had bonded with him and even became his adoptive father. Law owed everything to Corazón. He would carry on Cora's will for the rest of his life.
First, he just had to end Doflamingo.
Sadly, that moment wasn't now. He had already exhausted himself helping the Whitebeard Pirates.
"Doflamingo." Law hissed. It didn't seem like Law was going to make it out of this unscathed. "Room."
Doflamingo gave that large grin as he continued to approach. "It's lovely to see you here, Law. I get to kill you now."
The Omega growled, unsheathing his sword. Doflamingo had walked directly into his room, the Warlord was fair game to him. "Come get me." Law challenged. The anger flaring in him at seeing that stupid smirk on Doflamingo's face. "Shambles." He quickly traded places with one of the pieces of broken concrete, coming up behind Doflamingo. Taking his chance, his hands out, managing to get one on Doflamingo, as he hissed, "Counter Shock." The Alpha barely stumbled on his feet as Law felt the anger grow in him. Creating the green flow of energy, he stabbed towards Doflamingo's chest, connecting the attack to him. "Gamma Knife." Doflamingo showing almost little to no signs of the move affecting him. It was Law's strongest attack, and the Alpha was acting as if it was nothing.
It didn't work?!
His eyes widened as he felt the strings wrapping around his wrist before he was being thrown up into the air. "To think my foolish little brother saved you. It had to be that momma side of him. I enjoyed putting those bullets into his chest." Law growled, his eyes stinging, his nails extending as he locked eyes with Doflamingo. "Am I making the little Omega angry? I don't get why he wanted to save a useless piece of trash like yourself. You were a sickly child, and he took pity on you." He jumped into the air, appearing above where Law was. "I will put you in the ground! Just like him! Fulbright!" Law's eyes widened as he felt the punctures to his chest. Blood seeping into his throat and out of his mouth. The Omega paused for a second, seeing the painfilled face of his opponent. "The traitor deserved every bullet. He couldn't pull the trigger on his brother. Seeing his face as he died gives me more pleasure than you will ever know."
"DON'T YOU DARE TALK ABOUT CORAZÓN TO ME!" Law screamed. "DON'T YOU DARE TALK ABOUT THE MAN WHO SAVED MY LIFE!"
Doflamingo smirked, pulling him down before he grabbed him by the throat, slamming him into the ground. Law let out a gasp of pain from the pain that erupted through his back and head. His sword falling from his hand and landing somewhere away from him. Strings were still connected to his wrists. Keeping him pinned to the ground as Law stared up at him with hate filled eyes. Doflamingo landed back on his feet. Still grinning like a mad man as he loomed over Law. Lifting his foot up. Law could feel the haki radiating off of him. The Omega jerked his arms and legs in an attempt to move, barely being able to budge even a few millimeters. "You really think you can kill me?! Someone who has godly blood in their veins?" Law's eyes widened at that statement.
There was only one race that he knew of that had a blood type that could even be referred to as that.
Celestial Dragons.
"Impossible… you are a Celestial Dragon?!" The Omega gasped. It all made sense. Why Corazón had been so afraid of him ever saying his true name. Especially around Doflamingo. D's were natural enemies of the Celestial Dragons. That meant… Cora-san was too.
Doflamingo's smile only contorted more. "How idiotic."
Law smirked. He had nothing to lose. Even if he couldn't defeat Doflamingo. "I'm a D, too." Law stated, watching as the shock came to Doflamingo's face. "My name is… Trafalgar D. Water Law. Cora-san knew."
Doflamingo growled. The vein popping out in his head as the power of the haki only got stronger. "Say goodbye, Law."
Law closed his eyes, waiting for the inevitable to happen. He couldn't move. This was it for him. He fell right into Doflamingo's trap. "Damnit." He whispered.
"CAPTAIN!" His crewmates screamed.
I'm sorry, Cora-san.
Doflamingo brought his foot down, only the blow never hit him.
"How dare you stop me!" Doflamingo barked.
A low growl left whoever was standing over him. They didn't say anything didn't say anything to Doflamingo as the blonde pulled his foot back up with, "You know much I've been wanting this? To smash Law's skull in!" He paused, before bringing his foot down again. The armament haki actually visible on his skin now. "SO, MOVE!"
Law's eyes snapped open as he heard the clash of haki, the physical manifestation of red appearing above him. His eyes widened as a gasp left him, seeing that it was Luffy standing over him. Taking the hit and redirecting it from him. Fists balled and anger radiating off of him to the point that Law couldn't pick up the Alpha's scent. It was almost as if he had masked it.
The two were in a deadlock, either struggling to try and get the other away. The strings around Law's wrists had been snapped and Law found himself flying backwards. Colliding with a chest. He didn't look away as he just stared in shock.
For one, how was Straw Hat even standing? His injuries were severe. He shouldn't even be able to move.
Two, how powerful was his haki exactly?!
Law could feel the mixture of armament and Conqueror's haki. Trying to overpower Doflamingo's. Neither relenting in their stalemate. "DON'T YOU DARE LAY A HAND ON TRAFFY AGAIN!" Luffy screamed. The power of Luffy's haki grew, blowing back Doflamingo away from them all.
Law's eyes only got even wider as Luffy landed back on his feet and Sengoku was staring directly at… Law. "You… it was you this entire time?" The Omega cast him a look, unsure of exactly what Sengoku was getting at.
The Omega pushed himself up, looking over his shoulder to notice it had been Mihawk who had caught him before he was looking back at Sengoku. "What are you talking about?"
"Corazón… was my son." Sengoku stated. Law froze. "He told me about a kid who had Amber Lead Syndrome… who was dying and wouldn't live within a few months if he didn't try something."
Law felt the tears come to his eyes as he placed a hand over his mouth. His knees giving out and he fell forward. His shoulders shaking as he couldn't contain it anymore. He still had the mark on his wrist from Corazón to this day. The mark that man gave him to signify that he had adopted him. Cora-san had one on his too that he said a man had given to him after saving him. That man was Sengoku.
"I don't understand why he did what he did. Why he gave his life for mine. He made me eat the Ope Ope no Mi so I could cure myself… he betrayed so many people so I could live free." Law cried, unable to control the emotions as he spoke about his adoptive father.
Sengoku looked conflicted as he looked down at Law. His eyes just as wide as Law's were. "All he told me was he loved the kid enough to create a bond with him… that's why you were on the island."
"We were going to escape that island together… but we ran into a Marine who was working for Doflamingo… Vergo… Doflamingo came for the fruit… but he didn't know Cora-san already made me eat it. I still don't understand. He hid me away while Doflamingo killed him. He stayed alive long enough for me to be safe. Why?! THAT'S WHY I HAVE TO KILL DOFLAMINGO! HE TOOK CORA-SAN FROM ME!" Law screamed. "Why would he risk everything for me?! Just to die in the end!"
"Because parents will do anything for their pups." Shanks' voice said from behind him.
"One will not fear death if it means saving the ones they love." Mihawk added.
Sengoku got a strangely fond look on his face as he approached Law. Mihawk moved, putting himself between the Fleet Admiral and Law. Sengoku just side-eyed the Warlord, moving forward and grabbing Law by the wrist. Law felt his heart skip a beat before he was being pulled forward, right into Sengoku's chest. "He loved you so much. I never heard him talk that way before." Sengoku whispered. The Omega was completely frozen as the Fleet Admiral hugged him in front of everyone. Tears falling from the Alpha's eyes and landing on his shoulder. "His will lives on. Even if you are a pirate." Sengoku pulled away, not saying another word as he walked back over to where Akainu was standing.
Leaving Law completely stumped at what had just transpired.
X
Ace looked away from Law as he heard the grumble behind him. His eyes widened as he saw Akainu pushing himself off of the ground. The blood covering his suit, neck, and face. The large gashes on his skin still bleeding as he stumbled to his feet with a growl. "I will not give in until I take them down."
"How the hell is he still standing?!" Ace whispered.
Shanks picked his head up off of Ace's shoulder, growling as he quickly changed their positions, placing Ace behind him.
Time seemed to stop as they heard more footsteps across the concrete, Ace's eyes going impossibly wider and his jaw dropping as Garp placed himself in front of Akainu. "It's time to stop, Akainu." Garp growled.
"Gramps…" Ace whispered.
"Vice Admiral Garp?! What is he doing?!" A Marine exclaimed. The confusion chorused through the Marines and Pirates alike.
"He's Fire Fist's grandfather from what I heard. He was instructed not to get involved." Another replied.
"Garp! Do not interfere!" Sengoku snapped, moving to stand behind Akainu.
He knew Garp didn't want to get involved in the war due to his own loyalty and dedication to the Marines. A job he truly loved. Protect innocents from the pirates, mountain bandits, and criminals who weren't like the Whitebeard Pirates or the Red-Haired Pirates or the Strawhats. Only a handful of pirates actually worked to be peacekeepers and protect people even when they were breaking the law. Shanks was the most well-known aside from Whitebeard who did such a thing.
"Move out of the way Vice Admiral. You might be their grandfather but remember who's side you are on." Akainu hissed.
Garp was standing there with his hands in his pockets, almost challenging Akainu to attack him. "Can't do that."
"Garp! They are the bloodline of Gold Roger! They need to be eliminated!" Akainu exclaimed.
Garp didn't relent. "Does it matter that much? What does blood have to do with their crimes? I have no sympathy for criminals. They brought it on themselves. However, they are legally sanctioned. You can't touch them."
"Move out of the way, Garp." Akainu continued.
"Not going to happen." The Vice Admiral shot back instantly. His face hard and eyes glaring at his superior.
Akainu made a noise, his arm turning into magma as he glared right back at Garp. "GRAMPS!" Ace screamed, the terror filling him as instantly everyone around them was protesting. Garp didn't even attempt to move.
"Ace, calm down. Gramps has this. Let him do this." Shanks whispered, standing up but keeping an arm around Ace to keep him from moving. "I can't begin to know what you are feeling through all of this, but you are going to get yourself killed if you keep this up."
Ace slumped, clutching onto Shanks' arm has his Omega father refused to let him go. His eyes glued to Garp. He barely caught Shanks moving just enough to grab his discarded sword and bringing it back to them.
Garp continued to stand strong. Unwavering as he stared down Akainu. Ace could swear the look on his face was almost murderous. "Sengoku, this can't continue. This needs to stop." Garp stated.
"Garp, I told you before—"
"It's not about that. We legally cannot touch them. No matter who their bloodline might be shared with. Even if that might be Roger, though we don't know that for a fact." Garp stated. Ace looked at Garp with slight confusion. Why was Garp saying it like that? It was clear that Roger was Shanks' father and his own grandfather.
Ace felt Shanks' grip loosen. Peering over his shoulder, he could see Shanks was just as confused as he was. What the hell was Garp going on about? Were him and Sengoku drinking together before all this went down? "Garp—"
"Explain to me why you think Rouge and Roger were Ace's parents." Garp stated.
It was almost as if Garp was… stalling. Akainu wasn't making a move, almost unwilling to go through Garp to get any of them, and Sengoku seemed to be taking Garp into account.
Either way, Ace was right back to being confused as he was when this all went down.
"Roger had purchased a home apparently on the island of Baterilla. Over twenty years ago, Rouge was spotted buying baby clothes. It was easy to put the puzzle pieces into place. Rouge was always seen with Roger whenever the Roger Pirates and the Whitebeard Pirates were together." Sengoku explained, almost looking uncertain. He didn't even look like he was believing himself anymore.
Rouge concealed a laugh, placing her hand over her mouth. "Oh God." She whispered, the amused look on her face. "I completely forgot I bought stuff there. Yeah, makes sense. Kind of." She looked confused for a split second as she rambled before she masked it all over again. "That doesn't necessarily prove that Roger sired Ace, of course. Though… I'm sure Mihawk could show you something if you want further proof that Ace is in fact his son. Though, we've been over this enough." Almost giving an expectant look to Mihawk. "You're so desperate to be right because the world is already turning against you."
The Alpha eyed for a second before realization came to his face. The Marines let out a sound of panic as Mihawk reached up, but it settled down as he dug into the inner pocket of his jacket. Stepping forward, he handed something to Sengoku. Ace eyed the object for a moment. It almost looked like a… picture.
"I can clear this right up." Rayleigh suddenly stated, walking up until he was standing next to where Shanks and Ace were. Ace eyed his honorary uncle for a moment, frowning as he looked between Rayleigh and Garp. Rouge was also now standing with him with a small smile on her face. "You believe Shanks is Roger's son?"
Sengoku nodded. "He's the only known man."
Rayleigh laughed. "Rouge did spend a lot of time with Roger, but he wasn't the one who bonded with her or sired her child."
The silence that followed shocked Ace even. His eyes widening as he felt Shanks tense. Ace looked over to Rouge to see that she was indeed smiling and nodding. She looked directly at Shanks, a sad smile coming to her face. "I'm so sorry I never told you…"
"Mom… what are you talking about?" Shanks questioned. Ace could smell the distress coming from him.
Where was this going?
"Shanks might have been raised on the Oro Jackson, but it wasn't because he was Roger's son. It's because…" Rayleigh continued, looking over to Shanks. Ace's jaw dropped as he watched as Rayleigh's eyes glow bright gold. Which signalized family. "He's my son." Ace looked away from Rayleigh and up at Shanks to see that Shanks' own were glowing the same color. Shanks' body involuntarily relaxing, just like Mihawk and Shanks had been doing to Ace the entire battle.
"Mom…" Ace muttered.
Shanks was completely frozen. Eyes wide.
This had to be a lie. Though, it was hard to refute the instinctive eye color change that came with family. They had grown up seeing Rayleigh in Sabaody whenever they passed through from the New World to Paradise. He never said anything. Letting Shanks call him Uncle Rayleigh or Master Rayleigh. It wouldn't make sense that they would lead him to believe Roger was his father unless he was. Especially with Roger being the Pirate King and the Marines proving they would do anything to kill his bloodline. If it was true, why not say anything to Shanks as a child.
Unless Roger didn't know? But that was impossible too. Shanks had told Ace that he had recognized Roger as his father the second they met. They hadn't even spoken to each other.
What was this? How were they doing it?! Even Garp was agreeing, telling Sengoku that it was the truth. "Roger never sired a child. Not once." Garp stated. "He never even took a mate."
Ace was just as confused as he was sure Shanks was. None of this made sense to him. Even Shanks' scent matched Roger's. The Marines who knew and encountered Roger would know. Roger's main scent factor was strawberries, which was Shanks' secondary that mixed in with the floral of cherry blossom. He paused, eyeing Rayleigh. Rayleigh's was citrus and vanilla with a more strawberry-ish fragrance mixed in.
Could it actually be possible?
No. Rouge wouldn't lie like that.
"Rayleigh is Shanks' father. Not Roger." Rouge confirmed.
Sengoku stared down at them for a moment before he was nodding. Mumbling under his breath. Whatever he had said, worked to anger Akainu next to him. The man's magma burning hotter. Akainu's glare turning from Garp to him.
X
Shanks had dread pooling in his stomach as he saw the glare coming from Akainu. This man wasn't taking anything from anyone. Even after that confusing revelation of Rayleigh. None of it could be true. There was absolutely no way, but he also knew his parents and Rayleigh would never lie to him. Not unless they absolutely had too, and he was sure even then they wouldn't lie to him.
He didn't understand a thing. He would get his answers later. For now, Ace was his main priority. Luffy was at least in a safe zone away from Akainu's eyes.
Akainu was moving back in on them. Taking the moment that Sengoku had been distracted to move. "Fire Fist is not making it out of Marineford." Akainu hissed again.
Shanks kind of wished to slap this guy again. Though, actually killing him sounded like a better option.
"AKAINU!" Sengoku shouted, but the Alpha Admiral ignored him. Choosing to still go after Ace.
Shanks growled, forcing Ace behind him completely as he tightened his grip on Gryphon, swirling the haki into the blade. "STAY AWAY FROM MY SON!" Shanks screamed.
Even after everything, from Mihawk and Shanks to Rayleigh and Rouge. Even though that one was still up in the air beyond confusing. Garp. Akainu was still bound determined to make sure Ace didn't make it out of Marineford alive. Did this man completely forget that this was being broadcast to the entire world? Dragon and Sabo even stating that they had control of the den den mushis and had been transmitting everything.
He jumped forward, haki coursing through his legs to give him the speed boost, Mihawk coming with him as they stood back to back. Yoru in Mihawk's right hand as the blades were side by side. The green power radiating off of Mihawk's Yoru and the red off of Gryphon. The two powers swirling together as Akainu continued to try and attack him.
Both men let out a shout as they moved forward.
It seemed like time stopped as the blades connected with Akainu, going through his body and forcing it to return to a solid state. The Admiral's eyes widening as he was stopped in his tracks. "I told you I was out for your blood, Akainu." Shanks hissed, twisting his wrist to turn Gryphon's blade. A grunt leaving the Alpha Admiral as blood started to come from his mouth. "You were willing to kill him while he was pregnant?! What kind of monster are you?!"
Shanks moved his arm back, sheathing Gryphon back into place as Mihawk also moved back and did the same. Their hit had been right where Akainu's heart was. The Admiral could only look down for the split second before he was dropping to the ground. Hitting the concrete face first. There was no way Akainu was getting up from that.
Shanks could only look on in disgust. He knew the World Government was full of corrupt individuals. He didn't realize just how much they were. They were willing to kill an unborn pup just because they believed Ace was Roger's son. Even if they weren't far off.
This moment felt all to quick to Shanks. He wanted to make it hurt. Though, right now, that's not where he needed to be. He was already turning on his heel. Rushing back over to Ace, who was practically hyperventilating on the ground as he clutched onto Shanks' cloak. Eyes wide as his body shook. "M…Mom… I can't… breathe."
Shanks quietly shushed him, bringing Ace into his chest, and stroking his fingers through his hair. He peered over his shoulder to see Mihawk checking in on Luffy. Forcing their son to sit on the ground once more as he saw his youngest swaying on his feet. It was a miracle either of his pups were able to stand. He instructed Ace to breathe, having his son breathe along with him as he rocked back and forth.
"I'm so sorry…" Ace muttered. He kept repeating the words as Shanks continued to shush him. Whispering to him that it would all be okay. Every part of Shanks was screaming to shield Ace from everything. Hide him away so he had no more fears.
He had to get Ace out of here.
Shanks turned his glance over to Sengoku. Who was just staring blankly at Akainu. "Let's end this war once and for all." Shanks stated, pulling the Fleet Admiral's attention to him. "There's no use in fighting anymore. All of this is senseless bloodshed. You have your proof. Let him go." Sengoku's gaze turned back to Law for just a split second before he was looking back over to Shanks. Sengoku was looking down at Ace now, walking forward until he was standing directly in front of them. Shanks growled, tightening his grip on Ace, hiding Ace's face in his chest. Where he could now feel the tears that were falling from his son's eyes. "The world is rioting. Sengoku, it's best to save face now. Lick your wounds of this battle and try to rebuild. No one will ever trust a Marine again if this continues. Just let the Whitebeard Pirates go. The Strawhats. The Heart Pirates. All of them. Sengoku, you don't have very many options here. Listen to that young Marine. This war needs to end."
Sengoku nodded, an unknown glint in his eyes. He looked absolutely defeated. Shanks didn't want to continue on with this war. He had done exactly what he came for. For his son, and in the end going after Akainu. "Just because it's you, Shanks." He stated, before he was turning to face his subordinates. Shanks let himself look back to the Marines. Kizaru and Aokiji weren't far from Sengoku now. Coby was back to his feet, now at Garp's side being held up by the Alpha man to keep him from falling. The Marines still looked weary about what was going on. "Cease fire. Men, spread out and help any of those alive." The Marines gave their agreements before they were scattering.
Shanks let out a breath of relief as he turned his head to bury his nose in Ace's hair. He could still hear his son's panic, but it was finally over.
The war of Marineford had finally come to an end.
"Let's go, Ace. Let's get you out of here."
"You heard the cease fire, sons! Go check on anyone you can find and start getting on the ship! We are going home!" Whitebeard called out. The cheering erupted immediately as the Whitebeard Pirates spread out.
Shanks managed to pull Ace up, who still wasn't looking up, and started to guide him away from the pirates and Marines. Looking over his shoulder, Mihawk had Luffy on his back already and was starting off towards the ships.
Before they could go any further, Ace paused. Shanks looked down at his son, looking over to where Ace was staring at.
Little Oars Jr.
The Giant still laying prone on the ground and unmoving. "Oars…" Ace muttered.
"Ace," Shanks said. Ace finally looked up to him. His eyes completely red and puffy and tear tracks covering his face. The Omega Captain sighed softly as he reached forward, wiping his thumbs across Ace's cheeks. "We can stop to see him."
Ace nodded, the two changing course to walk over to Oars. They actually weren't that far away from him. Ace having never made it far enough to actually pass by Oars before. Shanks stood back as they made it to Oars, his son starting forward until he was stopping in his tracks.
X
Luffy stumbled on his feet, falling straight into the chest of Mihawk as the fatigue completely caught up to him. Breathing heavily as his eye lids fluttered. He grinned as he allowed himself to slump against Mihawk. "C'mon, on the ground." Mihawk muttered, guiding him down into a sitting position.
"We did it." Luffy whispered.
"Yeah, we did." Mihawk confirmed.
Law had walked over, kneeling in front of Luffy and casting another room as he checked him over. "Like I thought, the idiot aggravated his injuries again." The Omega stated.
"Alright, Luffy. Let's get your stubborn ass to the ship." Mihawk added, getting up and pulling Luffy onto his back. His son stretching his arms and legs, so he was looking more like a sloth than an actual human. His head leaning against the sheath of Yoru.
"I think I'm going to go to sleep for four days." Luffy mumbled. He paused as his stomach growled. "After I eat… a lot. I'm hungry. Can we have food now?"
"Once we get out of here." Mihawk replied.
"Surgery first, Straw Hat-ya." Law scorned.
Luffy frowned. "But, I'm so hungry." The Alpha groaned.
"You can eat your fill after. I was serious before. If you don't get surgery, you will die." The Omega stated.
Luffy nodded. He couldn't eat if he was dead. As Mihawk was walking, Law was right next to them. Law had stated – confirmed – that Ace was… pregnant. Was he actually telling the truth? Or was it a lie to throw off the Marines? "Hey, Traffy?" Law hummed as his response. "Is my brother really pregnant?"
Law cracked a small smile and nodded. "Yeah, he is. It's a literal miracle his pup is still alive. D's. I swear."
"I have a turkey to go cut up." Mihawk grumbled.
Luffy snorted, letting his eyes drift close. The war was finally over. He could rest. Ace was alive and safe. They were going home.
X
Ace sniffled, his gaze on Oars. Seeing the blood across his body. Oars was only here because of him. The Omega walked forward on shaky legs, getting closer to his friend. So much had happened within the last few hours. He had been chained to a scaffold for execution. His parents were revealed to the world. He is pregnant.
It was all too much.
Overwhelming.
Oars had been here to save him. Give him a future on the sea with their crew. Oars would never get to know that Ace had made it out alive. All thanks to Shanks being able to tell Sengoku to end the war.
The war was over, but Oars wouldn't be going home with them.
Ace choked down the cry in his throat as he got closer, crawling over Oars' arm to get by his face. Oars had managed to actually touch him before. Just a soft touch to the forehead. Trying to reassure him that they were here for him. That he was there for him.
He had begged Oars to leave, but the Giant had refused.
Oars meant a lot to him. Having met each other, and Ace deciding to make him a straw hat so he could face the elements and actually enjoy the outdoors. Oars meant a lot to Ace. He was his friend. His nakama. His brother.
Oars was someone who was willing to give his life for him.
A debt that Ace would never be able to repay.
"Oars…" Ace whispered as he got up by the Giant's face. Reaching out and placing his hand on the giant cheek. Wincing slightly as he felt the liquid on his hand. "I'm so sorry… you did it, Oars. You saved them all. You helped save me." He muttered. The Omega felt the tears going down his face again as he leaned his forehead against Oars. "You didn't just… just save me… you saved my pup too." Ace whispered; he took in a shaky breath as he moved some of Oars' hair from his face. "I'm so sorry, Oars… this would have happened to you if it wasn't for me." Ace leaned into Oars, letting the tears free fall. Mourning the loss of his friend.
The Omega gasped as he felt movement right underneath his hand before it was followed by a low groan. His eyes widened as he pulled back, seeing Oars' eye open and staring right at him. "Ace…" Oars murmured, a smile coming to his face. "You're alive. We won."
"OARS!" Ace screamed, a smile cracking on his face as he leaned in again. How was Oars alive?! They had watched him take so much cannon fire and bullets. Watched him fall right over and completely unmoving. Was he just unconscious this entire time?! Either way, Ace was beyond grateful to whatever sea god answered his call. "I'm so glad you're alive, buddy!"
Oars let out a pained laugh, a smile coming to his giant face. "I can say the same for you, Ace. You're my friend. I had to be here."
Ace sniffled. "I know, Oars." The Omega pulled away, turning his head to see the entirety of the Whitebeard Pirates in tears with smiles on their faces. Oars' crew was rushing forward, crying tears of joy at their Captain.
"My hat…" Oars whispered.
A few of his nakama walked over and started to pull the hat forward, which Oars moved a shaky hand to it to pull it onto his head. "Right where it belongs, big guy." Ace muttered, wiping away the tear tracks on his face with the back of his hand. "I'll leave you to your nakama. I'll see you soon, okay?" Oars gave a tired nod as Ace slid off of his arm and walked back over to Shanks.
Shanks placed a protective arm over his shoulder as they continued through the plaza of Marineford. No Marine tried to come their way. No one trying to attack him. It really was a cease fire. His nakama were spread out through the plaza, pulling up anyone they could find that were still alive. Sending another ping of guilt coursing through him.
As he walked, he spotted Marco commanding the First Division through rescue operations for their wounded brothers. The Alpha looked to him for a split second, an unreadable expression on his face before Ace was looking away.
He didn't have a clue how to feel. What to even say. Revelation after revelation had been revealed that day. All because of him. He should have been on the Moby Dick this entire time. Heeding Whitebeard's warning and staying home instead of going after Teach. Though, in the end Teach had met his end.
He looked out to the bay where the Moby was still within the water. Still being guarded by Jules, the man using his powers to pull Ace's nakama onto their ship. The Red Force was at the start of the plaza. He tensed for a split second before he managed to push the feeling down. The Moby technically wasn't his home anymore. He had resigned from his position within the ranks of the Whitebeard Pirates. Even if it was completely out of spite and desire to assist his Captain. To give him a reason to defy orders.
Now he wasn't so sure.
He had defected publicly from the Whitebeard Pirates.
He wasn't sure what to feel anymore.
He wanted to go home. Yet, he was terrified to the point he didn't want to return back. Face seeing all of his nakama, and not having the words to say as some sort of apology to them for what happened. For what he had done. For the lives that were lost just because he had been reckless.
There was nothing he could do to even attempt to make up for this. Even after Shanks and Sengoku came to an agreement.
He didn't feel like he could return, let alone take his position back as the Second Division Commander. He didn't deserve it anymore. He didn't deserve to be a part of a crew with so many amazing, fierce nakama.
He was at a loss.
He didn't know what to do.
What to feel.
His heart started to race as Marco came to the forefront of his mind. He was pregnant with Marco's pup and he had left the ship. Marco could have lost them both. Just because of Ace's decision to leave. He could have cost Marco everything.
How the hell was he supposed to face him now?
The entire world knew that Ace was pregnant.
Shanks seemed to pick up on his distress almost immediately because he was being pulled closer to Shanks, a hand on the back of his head. "Why don't you sail on the Red Force just until we get out of Marineford? Think things through, firefly." Shanks muttered.
Ace nodded, letting Shanks continue to guide him. He was sure if Shanks hadn't been guiding him that he wouldn't even be able to move. Let alone exactly finish the walk towards the bay. He spotted Luffy and his nakama at the beginning of the plaza. A submarine type ship next to the Red Force that Mihawk was handing Luffy off to the large guy he had seen with Law.
Thank the seas that Luffy was finally getting out of here too. The Marines were keeping their end of the cease fire still, leaving them alone as they merely just started to walk out. Mihawk was looking over his shoulder now, right at Ace. Ace nodded to him. Unsure of what to exactly say to him. Even if they couldn't hear each other. Ace had been at a loss for words with Mihawk's actions. He still had so much resentment, but at the same time he knew exactly how much Mihawk cared for him.
Ace sighed, looking down to his feet instead. He was still in the shoes from the executioners. He really missed his boots. They were practical and comfortable. He didn't have any of his belongings. Not his bag which was on Barano Island last he knew. His knife and sword had been stolen by Teach. His hat was gone. Probably still laying within the debris of Barano. Striker was gone.
Everything was gone.
So many important items. Just gone.
Ace felt empty. He wanted to be happy to be alive. He wanted to be happy that he was having a pup with Marco. Someone he loved and cherished deeply.
Yet, all he felt was guilt. Anger and hatred for himself.
He didn't even realize they had gotten to the Red Force until they were already going up the gangplank and he was being guided towards Shanks' Captain's quarters where he sat on the edge of Shanks' bed as his Omega father disappeared from sight into the adjoined bathroom. Hearing the running water following close behind.
He felt numb.
He was no longer in the plaza. He wasn't chained to a scaffold.
He was back home. At least the one that had belonged to him originally. Where he had been raised all of his life. With Shanks. He didn't even register Shanks walking around, coming back into the room from the attached door that went to the room that used to belong to Ace and Luffy, bringing some of Ace's old clothes with him.
His body just moved on its own as he was guided into the bathroom and Shanks left him alone with a soft smile and a kiss to the top of his head.
Ace eyed the water. Stripping himself out of his soiled clothes before stepping into the warm water. The warmth felt soothing to his sore body as he let himself sink into it, only keeping his nose above water level. The Omega placed his hand flat on his stomach, staring blankly at the flat surface. How did he not know? Sure, he never had been in this situation before but he felt like he would have known at least.
He dunked his head under the water, scrubbing at his hair. Thankfully the water supplied on the ship didn't affect devil fruit users so he could move as freely as he wanted too. The Omega came back out of the water, grabbing the nearest shampoo before adding it to his hair. Washing it out and repeating with a conditioner that Shanks liked. He scrubbed his skin practically raw with some of the body soaps, getting off all the blood and grim. His stomach grumbled, begging for food but he ignored it in favor of cleaning every centimeter of his body.
Once he deemed himself clean, he got out and grabbed the towel that Shanks left out for him. His clothes sitting next to it. Ace dried himself as fast as he could, rubbing the towel over his hair. He looked up, letting his gaze settle on himself in the mirror. He looked absolutely terrible. His skin was completely pale. The underneath of his eyes bruised. His freckles sticking out that much more. He had clearly lost muscle mass from his arms and stomach. His body less defined than it had been before. Bruises and small unhealed cuts littered his visible skin. His eyes fell to his stomach, the air catching in his throat as he forced himself to look away.
Ace turned and grabbed his clothes, slipping on his boxers first then the long-sleeved shirt. The pants were similar to what Shanks usually wore. Ace used to love wearing them to bed. They were beyond comfortable to sleep in. It was no wonder Shanks wore them all the time. He slipped into his pants. Stretching his arms up and letting his back and shoulders pop.
He felt refreshed.
He left the bathroom, walking straight back into Shanks' room. Not thinking twice before he was falling face first onto the mattress. He would eat later. He was exhausted. Shanks' scent reached his nose, lingering on the bedding and pillows. The Omega reached for the covers, pulling them up to his nose before he was curling up on the side of the bed that he knew Shanks always slept on and let his eyes slip shut.
He would worry about everything later. Right now, all he wanted to do was just for a moment forget about what was going on. He had almost died today. More than once. He had almost taken another life with him. Ace whimpered as he placed his hand over his stomach again. Tears coming to his eyes.
He was terrified. He didn't know what to do.
"I'm so sorry."
Author's Note: I literally rewrote this chapter four times before I was finally halfway satisfied with it. THEN my daughter deleted the ENTIRE thing when I was asleep… so I had to rewrite the entire damn thing over again. Oof. The whole Rayleigh thing will be explained in the next chapter (I had a plot bunny and my friend told me to roll with it so I did) I hope you guys enjoyed!