Title: Of Dreams and Desires
Pairings: Smoker x Ace, Sanji x Zoro, and other pairings
Ratings: T - NC-17
Chapter: 59 of ?
Summary: The road to One Piece is a dangerous one and each individual begins at different times and places. Some paths cross for a fleeting moment but the encounter could be so great that it can alter the initial direction. Every meeting is important and is planned by the souls long before the bodies see each other. Follow everyone's story and see what path they take.
Disclaimer: I do not make any profit from this story; all props go to Eiichiro Oda.
Author Note: Ohai everyone! I hope things are going well for you guys. July and August are always busy months for me. Enjoy this chapter guys, things are really heating up!
Shout Outs: Thank you to Gigicomics for adding ODD to your alert list!
Beta Reader: descriptionsalive21, thank you so much!

Marco

Icicles were melting off the Moby Dick as it traveled at top speed, escaping the blizzard that threatened to consume it. The unpredictable weather had even the most veteran of crew members scrambling across the deck, trying to navigate their way over the ocean safely. Despite the turmoil of the sea, there was only one man who stared calmly with calculating eyes at the dark clouds that settled over the waters as other ships emerged from the storm. Hooked up to hissing life support machines, Edward Newgate sat on the stern deck with a troubled look on his face, humming every so often. He'd been racing through the New World so he and his crew could join their allies on the rendezvous island before continuing on to their objective in Marineford. Whitebeard sighed; customarily, captains would gaze upon their convoy in pride—the greater it was in size, the more protected his men were—but this time, the magnitude of the number of ships that currently sailed around him was problematic.

Whitebeard popped the cork on a barrel of rum nearby, gulping down half of its contents before settling back into his seat. A ray of sunlight shone through the gray clouds and he stood kicking a block of ice out of his path as he approached the railing, fishing around in his pocket before pulling out the picture frame that encased his second commander's vivre card. The captain observed the searing paper with sad eyes. I shouldn't have let Ace go… I should've listened to my instinct.

Gura brushed against her partner, What's done is done. Let's just focus on getting him back. Pocketing the frame, Edward scowled when she asked, What's wrong with our fleet?

Right, the fleet... We're noticeable, Edward replied.

So? He felt her shrug, Why's that a problem?

Whitebeard gazed at the boats nearest to him, watching each man briefly as they relaxed on their ship's deck. We won't have the element of surprise on our side. Sengoku will have already organized his defenses around the island. It'll be impossible to get anywhere near inland before they execute Ace. If we're going take on the Marines, we'll need some sort of an advantage. A sizzling blue feather drifted into Whitebeard's line of sight, interrupting his thoughts as he looked towards the sky to see his first commander flittering about from ship to ship.

Before he could take a breath to call for his first mate, Gura gently nudged him and her smooth voice spoke quietly.

Wait.

Whitebeard reached over to the barrel he'd previously set down, swirling the liquid around whilst he scratched absently at his chest. He greedily drank the alcohol while waiting patiently, and it wasn't until Marco picked one particular boat to land on did Gura speak.

Now.

Edward snorted, It's the little things that entertain you, isn't it? When Gura responded with a chuckle, he yelled, "Marco!"

On the sixth division boat, Blamenco breathed a spirited laugh, "Can't catch a break, huh?"

Marco sucked his teeth, standing from where he'd just sat before nodding his head at Blamenco, "I'll catch you 'round." Stepping into a less crowded area, the blond called upon his devil and specks of blue flame sprouted on his arms before engulfing his toned limbs. Widening his stance, the commander flapped his wings a few times then launched himself off the vessel. Shouts of anger came from the men below as water overtook them and Marco flipped in the air yelling "Sorry" over his shoulder. With haste, he flew to the flagship, landing on the Moby near his captain, "Sir?"

Whitebeard chuckled when he felt Gura's mirth flow through him, "Gather the commanders and meet me in the West Chamber." He waited until Marco took flight again before he pivoted on his heels, ripping the IVs from his arm and marching towards the inner quarters of the ship. Before hitting the blizzard, the men had thrown open the corridor doors and begun cleaning—anything to stay busy. However, when the arctic weather had happened upon them, it froze any water that'd splashed up onto the ship and turned the halls into a skating track that the men were taking full advantage of. Edward stepped through the door and his eyes widened when his foot slid across the ice, a string of curses leaving his lips as he flailed around. It wasn't until a strong hand grasped his wrist and righted him, did he breathe a sigh of relief.

"Old Man, can't have you hurting yourself before battle."

Whitebeard sneered, spewing threats at the floor under his breath, "I'm not an invalid, Blenheim."

Stroking his gray beard, the ninth division commander smiled, "Never said you were, Captain."

Snatching away from the other man, Whitebeard muttered, "Over thirty years at sea and I still hate the weather it brings."

Blenheim snickered in response as they tentatively continued down the hall, taking various turns and traversing deeper into the ship, "The ships ahead have reported scorching heat. Hopefully it'll melt any leftover ice."

Curiel suddenly rounded the corner and bumped into Blenheim, knocking off his watermelon hat. He situated it back on his head, saying, "I was just coming to find you. Pops wants us in–"

"The West Chamber," Whitebeard finished, "Yes, that's where we're heading."

Finally noticing the man next to Blenheim, the gunner quickly straightened his form, "Pops, I didn't see you there."

"You've been distracted as of late, Curiel. Is everything alright?"

Shrugging, said man followed after Whitebeard's retreating form, "I dunno, I guess. I've just got a lot on my mind lately."

Reaching the heart of Moby, Whitebeard pushed open the bronze doors at the end of the hall, "I heard you have a baby boy on the way."

Curiel's face lit up, "He is actually a she."

Blenheim shoved the tenth commander through the doors and he stumbled into the rounded hall, "I can't believe that sweet lady settled down with you."

"You and me both." Curiel chuckled lightly, "Hell, the first nine times I asked her to marry me her answer was no. I dunno what changed her mind, but she finally said 'yes' when I asked her the tenth time."

Whitebeard ushered the men inside the room labeled "West", which was written in gold above the doorframe, "Well, congratulations nonetheless, Curiel!" He walked into the room after them laughing, "I love your persistence! Marriage and a child! I'm starting to think the rumors are true."

A snort was heard from the shadows, "He can't leave until he pays back every beli he owes me." Izo pushed off the support beam he was resting against and fell in-step with the trio, handing Whitebeard a piece of paper.

While the men bickered, Edward stopped walking and held the tiny parchment up close to his eyes, squinting to read the horribly written message. He muttered each word he could make out under his breath and when done, he crumpled the note, "This is it?"

Izo chuckled behind his fan before snapping it closed, "From what the old hag says, the Marines evacuated the islanders before they began organizing their defenses."

"Oi, Pops, get this!" Vista shouted, "Curiel said he's going to bring the baby along! In three months, we'll have our first baby pirate!"

Laughter rang throughout the room and the soon-to-be father sat on the zabuton assigned to him, "First, we get Ace, then we can talk about having a baby on board."

At the reminder of the fiery teen, the laughter abruptly ended and all heads bowed. Haruta's angry gaze passed over the group; the shift in the mood brought a growl from the man and he smacked his hand on the table, "You all act as if he's already dead."

A high-pitched whistle resonated through the air and Whitebeard made his way over to the tea station, "He's not." Silencing the screeching pot, the captain made his drink, "And because he's not, we need to focus on his rescue." He made himself comfortable on his cushion before asking, "How much longer until we reach Sanctuary?"

"It'll be another four hours at most," Marco replied, "A messenger from Doma's crew said they and many of our allies have already arrived on the island. The captains who are there have checked in to Loíza's. Ramba and a few others are several hours behind us."

Whitebeard sipped his tea thoughtfully, "With all of our allies, we have over a hundred ships sailing towards Marineford. We received confirmation that the Marines have placed numerous warships around the island, and they'll be ready to attack upon first encounter. With how large we are, they'll see us coming from miles away, and if we can't make it through their first line of defense, then we shouldn't even attempt this rescue mission."

Each commander mulled over their captain's words before Atoms spoke up, "We could send a diversion unit."

"Or divide our ranks and use the mortar cannons," Jozu suggested.

Rakuyo made a noise of disagreement, "If we engage with any of their ships, they'll kill him."

Blamenco lifted one of the pockets on his chest and pulled out a scroll, unrolling it onto the table. It was one of the many items he'd gotten when they'd divided Thatch's items amongst the commanders, "Shiki left behind this map of Marineford last time he was here. Even though they weren't expecting him, his notes state there were at least ten warships circling the island at all hours of the day. The Marines know we're coming, they'll have more than just a handful ready."

"If we can't go through them, then we go around them." Fossa lit a cigar as he read the scribbled writing, "According to this, there's an old entrance behind their headquarters that isn't used anymore."

Edward rolled the end of his mustache between his fingers, "That information will only help us if we can get close to the island."

While the others discussed possible plans to maneuver through the warships without being detected, Jiru poured some honey into his tea and dropped a lemon slice in as an added touch, watching it sink to the bottom. Just as he posed his spoon to stir the sweet drink, the lemon floated to the top and the fourteenth commander hummed quietly, pushing the fruit down again, "Why don't we go under them?"

Whitebeard raised an eyebrow, "Under?"

"Yeah," Jiru climbed to his knees, pulling the map closer to him, "we know that they already have the patrol on high alert. We can't sail through them without tripping off alarms and we damn sure can't fly over them. The only other logical thing to do is to pass through under them."

The room was silent as the men contemplated the idea until Namur voiced his thoughts, "To coat the ships, we would need materials from the yarukiman mangrove trees."

"Not only that," Kingdew said, "but we only have a team of six coating mechanics in our crew. It takes them two days to finish Moby; we don't have time to coat all the ships."

Whitebeard smiled into his cup—he could hear the commanders' gears turning as they hatched up a plan. Honestly, he thought it was the smartest idea they'd given him. If they could figure out a way to coat the ships, his forces could hopefully bypass the Gates of Justice that blocked their path into the island; effectively knocking out two birds with one stone. "Namur, you're one of the six who knows anything about coating. If we can get the materials and the manpower, can you guarantee that we can make it into Marineford?"

The fishman gave a half-hearted shrug, "Speaking under the hypothetical pretenses that we can somehow find the yarukiman mangroves, and that I'd have at least ten men assigned to each ship, I don't see why we wouldn't be able to. The only issue I have regards the safety of the crew. If we rush this process, the coating could fail and we could all drown."

"Even if we manage to get all the ships coated, we'd still have to get through the Gates of Justice," Vista reminded everyone, "Not only get through the gates, but also take on that bitch of a whirlpool. If we get swept into that, the bubble won't be able to handle it."

"What do we know about the Tarai current?" Whitebeard asked.

"Well," Haruta licked the honey off his spoon, "the Government has kept information about it under lock and key, but I know all about ocean activities. From what it looks like, it's a manmade surface current that's controlled by the Gates of Justice. When one of the three doors opens, the water stills enough to allow passage. Say we manage to coat the entire fleet, we can ride the submarine rivers to 'go under' the current."

Jozu whispered, "The coatings for the ships are sensitive. Any sudden motion and the bubble pops, we all die at the bottom of the ocean."

A grim expression crossed Marco's face, "That's a risk I think we're all willing to take."

Whitebeard set his cup down, "I like the plan. Send word to the allies to gather any whose profession is coating. Once we determine how many mechanics we have, we can divide them to work on the ships. Now that we have a plan for how to get inland, we need one for how we'll break Ace free." He extended his hand for the map and Jiru slid it down to him, "The Marines have three admirals that we can expect to be present… who else?"

Atmos took off his helmet and placed it on the table before running his fingers through his sweat-ridden hair, "Aside from them, I'm almost positive they'll call on the Shichibukai."

Grumbling filled the room and Izo slapped his fan into the palm of his hand as he listed them off, "Doflamingo, Mihawk, Kuma, Boa, Moriah, and Jinbe are all I know."

"Jinbe wouldn't side with the Marines!" A booming voice protested, the snarl rattling the dust off the lanterns above.

"We don't know that, Namur," Marco said as he brushed the fine particles off the table, "He hasn't been returning any of our calls."

Fossa frowned, "If he doesn't arrive at Sanctuary before we leave, then we'll know he's turned on us."

"Have a little more faith in our fishy friend," Blenheim responded, "He's been loyal to Pops for decades."

Jozu stood to pour himself more tea, "There will be admirals, vice admirals, and Shichibukai present; all of them will be formidable adversaries. The battle will be chaotic, but I don't think any nakama who isn't in a ranking position should engage with any of those mentioned. We commanders and captains of the allied crews will do what we can to ensure their distraction as we push the front line towards Ace."

Whitebeard hummed, "We can discuss plans that involve the others once we've reached Sanctuary. For now, our sole focus should be on coating the ships. The second and fourth divisions are still without leadership for the moment; therefore I've decided to combine them under me."

"The first division will also be joining the flagship," Marco started, "but–"

Purupurupuru

The ringing of the old mushi hanging on the wall pierced through the room and Marco grunted as he rose from his zabuton to answer the call, "What's going on?"

"Uh... sir," The snail's eyes widened to twice their original size, "we've spotted Kaido. He's requesting–"

The snail's eyes narrowed and it growled out, "Where's Whitebeard?!"

Marco could feel the fear coming from the sentry as the trembling snail gulped, "He's demanding to see the Old Man."

"Tell the rest of the fleet to continue at full sail and bring us down to half sail," Whitebeard released a heavy sigh as he stood, "Fucking, Kaido."

M

Bloodshot eyes glared at the passing ships as they went by and the owner growled before chunking his now-empty sake bottle at one nearest to him, tsking when he missed, "Whitebeard!"

Kaido had been resting against a protruding rock formation in the middle of the ocean, drinking away his sorrow when he saw Whitebeard's jolly roger in the distance. The Revolutionary Army had advanced on Centaurea a few days ago and liberated the island from under the arms trafficker he was using and now, because of them, he had to find another location to smuggle his armory through. The Yonko wiped a tear from the corner of his eye, swallowing the thump in his throat before opening the sack next to him and grabbing one of the massive jars inside. Depression settled over the criminal's heart at the thought of how many weapons the revolutionaries had confiscated. Overtaking Centaurea brought the disruption the trade agreements he had with multiple business partners, which set back years' worth of operations.

Damn that Dragon! How dare he challenge me!

The top of the container shattered under the pressure of Kaido's grip and he grunted as he picked pieces of ceramic out of the palm of his hand. He looked at the blood beading from the cuts for a moment before lapping it up, satisfaction filling him with every draw of his tongue. No worries, he thought to himself as he downed the remainder of sake inside the broken jar. Joker and that clown will have more SMILEs for me soon. He'd take a SMILE over a gun any day. Rubbing the underside of his hooked nose, Kaido sniffed up any dripping snot as he leaned back against the face of the rock, waiting for Whitebeard, "Old Man! What's taking you so long?!"

Back on the deck of the Moby, Edward and his fourteen commanders kept an eye on the bipolar Goliath. Marco shook his head when Kaido hiccupped and farted at the same time, killing the sea life around him, "We don't have time for this, Captain."

A container flying over them and almost hitting a vessel nearby pulled a growl from Whitebeard, "Kaido! What the hell are you doing?!"

Sitting up at hearing the man's voice, the Yonko grinned, "Took you long enough! Where are you going?"

"None of your damn business!" Whitebeard shouted, "What do you want?!"

Kaido's thin eyebrows furrowed, "I heard about that boy the Marines captured–"

"Why," Whitebeard quickly interrupted, "are you throwing things at my convoy?!"

Scratching the large cross-shaped scar on his abdomen, Kaido grinned and shrugged, "Entertainment."

The older man huffed, "If there's nothing you want, I have to get going. We can catch up over drinks when I return."

Kaido stood and the dark blue coat he'd draped himself in slipped off his shoulders, "When you return from fighting the Marines?! You're old, Whitebeard! You're gonna die!"

The sound of crackling filled the air and the white clouds above them darkened when Whitebeard puffed out his chest, "Watch your mouth, you fucking brat!"

Feeling Whitebeard's aura pulsing through the air, Kaido waded deeper into the water to get closer, "You'd throw away your life for one man?! It makes you look weak! Maybe it's time for you to step off your throne! Let me take care of your territories for you, they'll thrive under me!"

Gura snarled and the once placid waters began to erratically shift around them. Waves bashed against Kaido's thighs and he stumbled around when the ocean floor tremored. On Moby, Vista handed Whitebeard his Bisento and the older Yonko stepped up on the taffrail, twirling the polearm effortlessly before slashing the air. Surges of energy tore open the sea, gouging the ocean floor as the attacks barreled towards the King of the Beasts.

Kaido swayed past the first strike, but his next step was hindered by a coral reef, and the second clipped his arm. The wound gushed blood and he laughed at the sudden pain, "Is that all you got, Old Man?!" Slick fingers grasped the kanabō on his hip tightly, pulling it free from his sash, "You can do better than that!" Just as he lifted his arm to swing the massive mace, a cannon ball whizzed through the air, exploding close to Kaido's face and interrupting the commencing duel between the men.

The captain's roar shook the clouds and Kaido stomped in the direction the cannonball fire came from. Seeing him distracted, Whitebeard whispered to the commanders surrounding him, "Full sail, we've fallen behind." The men dispersed as the intruder sailed into view; Whitebeard could faintly hear his men reporting Red Hair's ship coming from their eight o'clock.

With a smile on his face, Shanks waved at his fellow Yonko, "Greetings! Was there a party I wasn't invited to?"

"Red Hair!" Kaido swung his mace and a wall of water sped towards the newcomer, "Why are you here?!"

Shanks leaped up, unsheathing his saber and with one stroke of his blade, the water was sliced in half and the wave parted around Red Force as he landed on its dragon figurehead, "I felt a disturbance coming from this way and decided to see what it was," he glanced at Whitebeard, "You've made your move."

The eldest of the trio grunted, "I have." Whitebeard glanced towards Kaido, who'd waded back to the islet and grabbed another bottle, drinking feverishly from it.

Shanks followed his line of sight, nodding his head before whispering to Benn. The first mate gave a hand signal and the Red Force crept over to Kaido. When they were close enough, Shanks yelled, "Kaido! I heard about your mishap with the revolutionaries!"

Brushing his long mane out of his face, Kaido plopped back down in the shallow waters of his resting place, "It's nothing." He kicked a shark away from him, "Word got out fast, I see."

"Quicker than you know." Out of the corner of his eye, Shanks caught the tail end of Moby disappearing into the distance and he grinned, "I just came across one of Big Momma's patrol ships. They said they were headed to Serendipity."

Kaido howled as anger consumed him, "That fat old hag wouldn't dare go after my casinos!"

Shanks shrugged, "Dunno." He looked over his shoulder at Roo, "What was it that teacup guy said?"

Roo took a bite of his sauce-covered pork leg, talking around the food in his mouth, "Something 'bout, 'while the beast is debilitated, the perfect opportunity to capture its weaker domains arises,' or some fancy shit like that."

Shanks shrugged his shoulders, "Guess since you can't even defend your artillery from the revolutionaries, she thinks it's time to take you on."

"That BITCH!"

While Kaido yelled obscenities to the sky, Red Head signaled for his men to unfurl the sails, "I'd love to stay and chat, but it sounds like you've got some business to take care of."

Crazed yellow eyes darted around, "Where's Whitebeard?!"

Shanks walked the length of his ship as it turned around, keeping an eye on the drunkard, "Shouldn't you focus your attention on your own forces?"

Rising to his feet, Kaido took long strides as he advanced on Shanks's ship, "You're too young to be questioning me!" he growled. "I've heard of you, Red Hair Shanks, former nakama of the late Roger. Show me why they gave the title of Yonko to a lackey like you!"

Laughter bubbled from Shanks's lips before he could stop it, "Lackey? I haven't been called that since I was a boy." He shook his head at the quickly approaching giant, "I have no beef with you, Kaido. My men and I are out to cruise the sea on this beautiful day. I'd like to leave without any altercations."

"'No beef?'" he barked out a laugh, "That's where you're wrong, little man! You let Whitebeard escape!"

Yasopp aimed the swivel cannon next to him at the advancing Kaido, whispering, "Okashira, want me to blast him?"

Water sprayed the men on deck as the waves from Kaido's steps beat against the ship, but Shanks shook his head, "I don't want to engage in any unnecessary conflict. Tell the men to continue on the original route." A pulse of aura shook the Red Hair Pirates to their bones, forcing some of the weaker nakama to their knees, dragging a growl from Shanks after a few collapsed. He withdrew his saber, pointing it at the other Yonko, "I'm warning you, Kaido!"

"Warning me?!" a sadistic grin crossed Kaido's face, "That sounds like a challenge!" With his mace raised in the air, the strongest creature in the world let out a chilling war cry before attacking the enemy's vessel.

M

Prayers for the weather to stay clear went unanswered as Whitebeard's fleet closed in on their destination. The island of Sanctuary was shaped like a bull's skull and each entry point was surrounded by thick clouds of fog, heavy sheets of rain, and other approach-this-island-and-die hazards that impeded those looking to dock. Marco blinked water from his eyes, shifting his weight from foot to foot as he peered into the dense clouds. A yell from one of the men hanging off the spars grabbed the crew's attention, "Land ho! Neʻe Pōhaku!"

The men shuffled around on deck as Marco gave orders for the sails to be tightened and for all ships to reduce their speed. The Neʻe Pōhaku are the cliffs that move, one of the many natural defenses of the island. It was a phenomenon that only those native to the island could explain and that sailors wish they could understand. Not moments after the commander yelled, "Lower the starboard anchor!" did the Moby bucked and groaned as it diverted to the right. Marco shoved his way through a group of men until he reached the bow of the ship and, using the forestay, he leaned out as far as he dared, brown eyes widening when his fingers skimmed across the cliff's face. Holy Shit! It's so close! "Hard to starboard!"

Moby lurched forward, loosening Marco's grip on the soaked ropes and he let out a yelp as he collided with the rock wall in front of him. Thick fingers gripped the Phoenix's shirt, pulling him back aboard the ship as Jozu encased himself in diamonds and punched the rocks, forcing the ship some distance away from the scar in the ocean.

Slivers of wood flew off Moby as its bulky frame scraped against the mass of land, jolting the men on deck. The floorboards shook as Whitebeard stormed to the helmsman and yanked the handles from him, quickly turning the wooden wheel until it locked. A loud bang sounded as the door burst open and an out of breath Vista ran into the control room, tugging the felloes in the other direction. "We gotta turn port! We're heading straight into the other ships!"

With enough speed to cause smoke to come from the spindle, the three men spun the wheel and the boat creaked at the second sudden change in course. They let out a heavy sigh just as Izo slid into the room, "Namur went overboard and changed our course, straighten–"

Moby staggered to a halt, throwing the pirates off their feet and into the opposite wall. Regaining his footing, Whitebeard put a hand out to steady himself, "Why aren't we moving?"

Panting, the commanders followed their captain to the deck, sighing in relief when they saw palm trees surrounding them. Whitebeard glanced overboard, shouting, "Is this Sanctuary?!"

"Yeah; we've made it sir!" the navigator responded.

Whitebeard jumped off the ship, landing on the sandy beach below, "Marco! I'm going to round up the captains and locate the mangrove trees. Fix any damage done to Moby then have Namur start coating the ships. Get Izo to check ammo and Kingdew to oversee ration check!"

Faintly hearing his son's response, Edward waved Marco off as he stepped into the jungle. Gura bristled just as something bumped into his leg and Whitebeard smiled down at the Ice Witch sprawled out on the jungle floor. He lifted the fallen woman to her feet, "Whitey, good to see you."

Flipping thick blue hair out of her face, the captain smiled, "Oi, Pops, looking good. Where're you headed?"

"I'm off to do some reconnaissance of the island." Whitebeard stepped around her and yelled over his shoulder, "Go find Marco on deck and he'll give you further instruction."

Whitey looked on until the thick vegetation engulfed Whitebeard completely before weaving through the plethora of men disembarking from Moby. She found herself on the deck watching the blond haired commander give orders, a smile gracing her blue painted lips as she approached him, looping her arm through his and whispering, "Hey there, handsome."

Marco leaned over to kiss the top of her head, "Whitey."

"Pops looked lively today," she said as she stepped closer to him, ducking to avoid getting hit by the coating brush a seaman was carrying.

"He's had more energy in these last few days then I've seen him have in a long time." Marco escorted her down the plank, asking, "How many coating mechanics are under your command?"

Tapping her chin, the witch shrugged, "We had sixteen, but one died on the way here."

Brown eyes glanced around at the tiki torches set up haphazardly along the beach, "How?"

"He was eaten by a Sea King." A nakama of Marco's approached the pair and she stepped back to give them a moment. When the man departed, she punched Marco's arm, "Why'd you ask about coaters?"

"Where's the Icebreaker?" Marco questioned, rubbing his twitching muscle.

Whitey's lips curled at his evasiveness, "Why?" He gave her a deadpan look and she growled, "On the other side of the island with the rest of the allies."

Marco looked up at the grandiose ship he called home, then out to the horizon, nodding his head slowly, "Bring it to this side of the island and link it with Moby." He began to walk away and it wasn't until he noticed she wasn't beside him did he glanced over his shoulder at the now fuming bluenette.

"I'm not moving my ship, Marco. The men are out gathering supplies and we've already chained with the other allies." Whitey placed her hands on her hips, "Also, I'm not doing anything until you tell me why."

"Everything'll be explained when the captains meet."

"Well then," the Ice Witch waltzed past Marco, "only after will Icebreaker move."

Before she stepped out of his reach, the Phoenix grabbed ahold of Whitey's hand, pulling her towards him. He wrapped his arm around her waist, moving the piece of jewelry she wore on the scarf around her head out of her face, whispering, "It's been so long since I've felt you against me." She gasped when he slapped her ass, "I want you tonight." Cracked pink lips kissed the bridge of her nose, "But you're getting on my nerves and I'm considering getting a whore instead." He felt Whitey tense and when she went to speak, he squeezed her cheeks together, squashing any response. He lifted her chin and pecked her puckered lips, "Make sure Icebreaker is here before the gathering."

Whitey fought against his hold until Marco released her and she brushed by him, storming back the way she came. He hummed in approval as his witch walked away, "Spread the word to the others!" he yelled out, chuckling when she flipped him off.

Marco trekked through the sand as he proceeded to Sanctum, the only city on the island. Despite the gloomy weather that cloaked Sanctuary, the asphalt jungle was bustling with excitement. Chatter filled the air and townsfolk greeted the commander as he passed by their shops.

"Oi, Mark."

His stride never broke as Marco glared at the caller, sending those standing nearby scurrying away, but ol' peg-leg Bill stood there smiling, showing off his black rotting gums, "The amount of ammo that freaky cross-dressing boy requested is gonna cost ya!"

Stepping up to Loíza's stoop, Marco waved a dismissive hand, "Make sure the order is filled and we'll spare your life for another year." Not waiting to hear Bill's snarky response, the Phoenix pushed open the ivory embroidered saloon style doors and was instantly met with a chorus of his name as he approached the service desk.

As if on cue, the thick velvet curtains behind the counter parted and an elegantly lofty woman appeared. Her caramel skin shimmered in the light through her loosely hanging clothes and her hips swayed with every step she took. Tucking a dreadlock hair behind her ear, the beauteous woman leaned against the counter, making her ample bosom spill over onto the surface, "Marco."

He shivered at the way she rolled the "r" in his name, "I might have said this to you before, Loíza, but that sexy accent gets me hard every time."

The older woman laughed, tugging at a seashell in her hair, "One of my girls will gladly take care of you for a discounted price. Although..." Loíza's voice dropped to a whisper, "Connla said you left her very unsatisfied."

Marco's face flushed, "Yeah..." he rubbed his neck, "that was the red headed Irish chick, right?"

The madam of the house nodded, "One of my best."

"Something came up–"

Loíza snorted, "Not you."

Various cheers of "Whitey!" sounded and the Phoenix followed the witch's movements until she sat at a table amongst some of the regulars. Loíza raised a neatly arched eyebrow as she watched Marco ogle the bluenette, "Maybe you couldn't get it up because the right woman wasn't between your legs."

A bark of laughter came from behind Marco and before he could respond to the whore's words, a slap on his back knocked the wind from his lungs, "Come now, Loíza, every man has his moments. Don't beat the boy up."

Green eyes brightened at the deep voice, "Edward, my love."

Whitebeard leaned over the counter and picked the woman off her feet, engaging in a passionate kiss, "Loíza."

Marco rolled his eyes at the couple, "Pops, everything's in order. The captains should be able to meet within the next couple of hours."

"A couple of hours is more than enough time." Wicked eyes glanced at the curvaceous woman tending to customers at the end of the bar, "Go enjoy yourself, Marco. Three hours and we meet at the ship."

M

Whitebeard grunted as he put some of his weight on the small of Loíza's back, leaning over her and burying himself deeper inside her body. Freshly manicured nails clawed at the polished wood beneath her as she felt his thick cock stretch her open. Newgate rolled his hips, pulling out of her soaked entrance before thrusting back in, the force sliding her a little ways across the hardwood. Edward gripped her thighs, lifting her rear off the floor and bringing her shaking body back to him, holding her steady while he pounded into her. Loíza's legs convulsed and she moaned as she came, coating his penis with cum. Her slick walls constricted around him and Whitebeard shortly followed, pumping his seed into her before collapsing onto the cool ground. The pair lay panting, and Loíza shifted around, removing the rest of his now-flaccid penis from her, "Edward, you fucked with such passion tonight," the matron moaned as she rolled over, draping her body over his, "You came in me… twice."

Edward pulled her close to him, "I did."

"Why?" Her fingers dusted over his pink nipples, "We had an agreement."

Silence settled between them and it stretched so long that Loíza's eyelids began struggling to stay open. Long black lashes fluttered when Whitebeard grunted and she rested her chin on his chest to look up at him when he spoke, "I want to have a baby."

"What's going on with you?" Loíza propped herself up on one elbow, her swollen lips curled upward, "I run the most profitable brothels this side of the Grand Line. Just this week alone I've opened thirty-seven new establishments, and I'll have thirteen more in the next two weeks. We both have better things to do than to start a family."

Whitebeard's golden eyes softened as they followed various dancing shadows around on the ceiling that the flames from the candles created, "I can't think of anyone else to have a child with." His large hand covered her mouth, silencing any rebuttal, "I've never been known to ask for anything, but I want you…" Gura brushed against him, pulling a sigh from the captain as he uttered the exact words his devil had said to him earlier that day, "What's done is done."

"You could've asked, bastard." The madam sighed, kissing her pirate's shoulder, "Answer my question."

"The Marines have one of my sons..."

Edward trailed off and Loíza curled against him, "Freckle Fire?"

He chuckled at the nickname, "Yeah, Ace. I'm confident we'll get him back, and afterward I'm going to step-aside. Let Marco lead the crew and see how he handles everything."

"And what does that have to do with having a baby?"

"I'm old. I think it's time for me to procreate," Whitebeard jested, kissing the top of her head, "I know how much you love your money, so I'll pay double the wages you would lose while pregnant. Deal?"

Loíza buried her fingers in Edward's bushy silver pubic hairs, grazing the base of his dick, "Triple."

He chuckled, "Fine, triple."

Just as Loíza straddled his broad hips again, a knock came at their door, followed by a meek, "Pops?"

The captain sighed, "Has it already been three hours?"

"Uh, no sir; but I have something you need to see," the voice said.

Loíza nibbled on Newgate's ear, trailing hot kisses down his neck, "Pirate," she called out, "is it something you can slide under the door?"

There was a shuffle before a piece of paper was slipped through the crack and Whitebeard waited until the footsteps disappeared down the hall; when he was sure they were alone, he patted Loíza's ass, "Get me that, hon."

She gracefully stood and strutted towards the door, bending her hand-print-reddened ass over to pluck up the parchment. Her breasts swayed as she walked back to Whitebeard, handing him the document before making her way to the wash bowl. Using the rag draped over the edge, she wiped herself down while asking, "What does it say?"

As if a fire had been lit under him, Edward scrambled to his pants, fumbling around in his pocket before yanking out a mushi. He quickly punched in a number and it picked up within the first ring, "Yes?"

"Marco," Whitebeard stated as he threw on his clothes, "everyone needs to be on Moby ready for the meeting when I arrive."

"Sir."

As Whitebeard disconnected the call, Loíza came up behind him and traced the jolly roger tattooed on his back. She stood on her toes, draping the heavy captain's coat over his broad shoulders, "When you're done with your business, come and see me." She circled around to his front and tightened the knot in his sash, "We'll talk about babies and compensations."

Newgate chuckled out "Yes ma'am" and with one last kiss, the captain left the room, jogging out of the brothel and through the marketplace, back down to the beach where his crew was waiting. Slowing to a walk, Whitebeard could hear the men chattering amongst themselves as he traveled up the plank. Making it to the deck, all forty-three captains and Marco sat in a circle jibing and passing around papers to each other. Edward cleared his throat to gain their attention, "Thank you to everyone who survived the journey here. I see we all have the evening news," he unfolded his copy and read it, "By order of the World Government, Portgas D. Ace, Second Commander of the Whitebeard Pirates, will be executed in a live broadcasting from Marineford on the fifteen-hundredth hour of the Day of Fire."

"Propaganda!" Brocca exclaimed, "They're trying to make an example of him!"

"Of us…" Agsilly corrected. "The Marines want to make an example of us to the world and we won't stand for it!"

Whitebeard walked to his massive chair and plopped down in it, "That's right. The Marines know we're coming but they don't know when, and that will be our advantage. If they want a show, let's give them one! We've already thought up a plan to retrieve Ace from their confines. Marco, bring everyone up to speed."

The blond leaned against the main mast so he could see the faces of those around him, winking when he peeped Whitey out of the bunch, "We're gonna coat the ships–"

"All of the ships?" Zodia interrupted.

Marco glared at the man, shaking his head, "Not all the ships. The Moby and the division ships will be coated, as well as the allies' flagships."

Cands pulled the giraffe hood off his head, his gloved hands rubbing his long neck, "You want us to cramp the men onto one boat? I don't think that'll work."

Islewan scoffed, "Yeah, not all of us have massive ships like the Moby. Only half of my crew will be able to fit on one boat."

Other captains voiced their complaints, dragging a sigh from the Phoenix; his brown eyes shifted over to Whitebeard for guidance, but the man only smiled. Marco pushed himself off the pillar of wood, holding up his hands in a gesture to silence the men, "As it is now, there are only twenty-three coaters that we have available, and we're on a tight schedule. We only have time to properly coat a handful of ships."

Arthur used his sword to help him stand, "My men know the coating process. We will assist in any way we can."

"How many mechanics do you have?" Whitebeard questioned.

"There are one-hundred of us, sir."

Squard spoke up, "Since we have more men working on the boats, we should be able to coat the flagships and additional ships."

Marco shook his head, "No, we only coat the flagships. We'll move the men around between the vessels so it's not too crowded. Once the coating is completed, we'll use the underwater currents to go through the Calm Belt and bypass the Gates of Justice."

"Then," Amadob started, "we'll be deep in enemy territory—but before that, how will we deal with Sea Kings lurking in the waters?"

"Right; and the bubble won't hold forever. We'll have to come up eventually. So, how do you expect us to move through the Marines' defenses?" Wallem asked, "You think they'll just let us sail through the rest of the way?"

"Father will handle any creatures we encounter along the way. While under the Marines, we'll advance on the island with Moby in the lead. Once Pops is in position and has made his move, the rest of fleet will resurface. Those ships will deliver a unison attack on the warships, and after that, we'll push the front line until we reach Ace. Keep in mind that the protection of the ships is also a top priority, seeing as they'll be our only means of escape." Marco let out a deep sigh as his tired eyes began to ache and he looked at each captain for a moment before asking, "Any questions?"

Whitey raised her hand and Marco rubbed the bridge of his nose, "Yes?"

"Who takes the admirals?"

"My men and I will ensure the admirals and Shichibukai are distracted," Whitebeard answered, "The only job the allies will have is to get to Ace. Once he's in our possession, we'll begin our retreat." On the boat nearby, the captain caught sight of his commander swinging from spar to spar, "Namur! How goes the coating process?"

The fishman landed on the crow's nest and gestured to the ships linked together, "We've finished repairs on your ship and about three-fourths of the allies' flagships are coated. If I heard correctly, you'll be lending me more hands. With the additional manpower, it shouldn't take us long to get everything done. Moby will be the last vessel we do."

Whitebeard nodded, "Good. Arthur, your crew will assist Namur; and once Moby is complete, we set sail for Marineford." He held up the news article, "This tells us that we have only thirty-three hours to get to Ace before his death. Captains, make sure your ship is fully stocked with ammo! No more time to dilly-dally, let's move!"

Understanding the dismissal, the captains dispersed to relay the orders to their crews and Marco jogged after Whitey, taking her by the hand when he caught up to her and dragging her into the nearby jungle. She allowed herself to be led until they were surrounded by foliage before jerking away from his grasp, "What, Marco? I'm still not talking to you."

Marco paced aimlessly around the open area for a while before whispering, "What if we don't make it in time?"

"What makes you think that we won't?" Whitey leaned against a tree and picked some hua waina off a dangling branch, popping them into her mouth, "What happened to being optimistic?"

The Phoenix pulled at his hair as he sat on a boulder and looked up at the canopy, "We're outnumbered even with the help of our allies."

"What's the ratio?" Whitey mumbled out around her mouthful of food.

Marco glanced at the witch, "Every one of us needs to kill fifteen Marines to even the odds."

"We have strong men and devil users on our side, plus the Old Man," she countered.

"And they have admirals and Shichibukai, most of which have devil's abilities and can demolish twenty of our guys with a single flick of their wrist. Besides, everyone knows Pops is sick… the men are scared that they won't get to see their families again." The commander shooed away a firefly, "Hell, for all we know, this could be a trap."

"You think the Marines captured Ace just to use him as bait? What reason would they have to do that?"

"Pops." Marco ran a hand down his face, "He's the strongest man in the world and no one can rival his crew. Roger gave the world One Piece and Whitebeard is the only individual close to achieving it. If the Marines can take him—a Yonko—out, it'll show they can control the pirates of the sea."

Whitey contemplated his words as she approached him from behind and when she was within reach, she placed her hands on his broad shoulders, "When we return, Whitebeard's influence will have grown stronger and everything will be normal again."

"No, you're forgetting about the New Age. There's trouble brewing, can't you feel it in the air?" He shrugged out of her hold, "Best case scenario, we lose Ace and half our men. Worse case… we lose Pops, Ace, the crew—everything."

"Marco, you need to snap out of this." Whitey shoved his shoulder as she brushed past to stand in front of him, "You have men to lead and they can't afford to have you being all…" she gave a wild hand gesture, "you. Give them hope; and even when it doesn't feel like everything is going to be alright, show that it is." The bluenette touched Marco's knee when she squatted down to his eye level, "We're going to Marineford, we will take back Ace, and we will return home to celebrate." Plump lips caressed his sweaty cheek, "Believe in your abilities as second commander of the world's strongest pirate crew and trust that your captain knows what he's doing."

Brown clashed with blue and Marco pulled the witch close to his chest, kissing her forehead, "You always know the right words to say."

Muscular hands roamed down to Whitey's ass and she smacked him hard, disturbing the birds around them, "I'm still mad at you."

A sheepish laughing came from Marco as he stood, rubbing the side of his face, "Come on, let's get back to the beach."

With her nose raised, Whitey retraced their steps and Marco ran to catch up to her before intertwining their fingers as they traversed through the jungle. The commander helped the captain over a tree root and she smiled, "You're such a gentleman when you want to be." A wink was his response, making her laugh. The festive sounds of the camps filled their ears and Whitey pulled her hand from his, "Wait, I need to give you something," she dug in between her breast, "I think you should hold on to this."

Marco took the fleshy parchment from her, "Where'd you get this from?"

"Ace left it on Drum Island." She watched as Marco examined the paper, "I thought it was his, but I guess not."

"You didn't do no witch stuff to it, did ya?" Marco asked as he stuffed the vivre card in his pocket.

An evil grin settled on Whitey's face, "You'll have to find out." She disappeared through the shrubbery and a chuckling Marco followed behind her. The men had set up multiple barbecues along the beach and brought out barrels of liquor, making a party of the night before the big battle. Laughter and gaiety greeted Marco as he passed through the camps and wandered along in the sand until he came across Vista a short distance away from the others, sipping from a bottle.

"Yo," Marco greeted as he sprawled out next to the fifth commander, "seen Pops around?"

Vista watched Marco make a sand angel, taking a swig of his drink, "He's being the boss, making sure everything is running smoothly."

Marco had started to speak when thunderous cheers got his attention and he sat up on his elbows to see Ninth spinning in a circle, clapping, "Nakama! My family! Gather–" he burped loudly and the men applauded as he patted his chest, "Gather 'round, for I have important news. Just now, I was informed we'll be moving out in the next few hours!"

"Just enough time to sober up!" a man yelled.

Whitey raised her mug, "To get shit-faced you mean!"

Elmy and the bluenette clanked their cups together and Ninth laughed, "Whatever it is you decide to do in these last few hours before we sail out, a prayer is in order!" The tall man took the rosary from around his neck and held it in the air, displaying the tarnished robe-wearing silver skeleton amulet for all to see, "Present your offerings to our Lady of Holy Death!" The men threw cigars, liquor, candy, cola, and beli at Ninth's feet and he bent over, picking up a cigar then flipping it so the still-lit end disappeared into his mouth. He let out a huge breath and a fog of smoke covered the rosary, purifying it. He spat out the cigar and kissed the amulet.

"Santa Muerte, Holy Death, your sinners offer their prayers to you. From the altars in our hearts, to your ears, may you find the words sweet and their meanings true. Santa Muerte, Holy Death, I offer these prayers for you." Ninth fingered the small beads attached to the amulet, "Our Santa Muerte who will come for us all, kind and gentle be your kiss. When you come to take my life, may I be free of any regrets. Thank you for this day, one more beautiful day, so I may have it to live, love, and laugh my own way. Amen!" Shouts of "amen" echoed throughout the camp and the brown skinned captain raised his hands in the air, "Glory be Holy Death, blessed death, peaceful death. As you have been with us from the beginning, so are you with me now, and so will you be with me always. Amen!"

Whitebeard let out a few grunts as he sat down between his first and fifth commanders, passing them drinks. The trio raised their cups up high as Ninth continued his prayer, "Hail the Santisima, full of love and grace. Blessed by you are the forsaken and forgotten. Blessed by you are the abused and downtrodden. Hail the Santisima, who holds power over all us pirates and murders, bless us with your love now and at the moment of our deaths!"

All pirates gathered tilted their glasses, gracing the beach with brown liquid. A moment of silence filled the air before Ninth continued, "The Santa Muerte receives her scythe, which she uses to cut the thread of life. The Santa Muerte receives her cloak, which she uses to protect the world and her devotees. The Santa Muerte receives the scales of justice, which she uses to restore balance and tranquility to the world. The Santa Muerte places her feet on the Earth, so she may serve those who love her. Hail Holy Empress, Santisima Muerte, have mercy on us! It is to you that we turn to in our times of need. Turn then, most gracious advocate, your eyes of mercy toward us pirates as we travel on these dangerous seas to rescue our nakama! O, Santa Muerte use your powers on our behalf. Never forsake us, O blessed mother of all! Amen!"

Marco, Vista, and Whitebeard slurped down the rest of their drinks before letting out massive belches. Edward wiped the trickle of leftover rum off his chin and sighed, "We move out at sunrise."

The swordsman buried the tips of his boots in the sand, "Sooner than I expected."

"It'll give us a head start," Whitebeard muttered then yelled, "Guess what?!"

"You know I hate guessing games."

"Well," Newgate grinned at the blond, "our friend Little Oars is on the next island over."

Vista grinned, "The more the merrier."

Whitebeard stood, "I'm going to see if I can help out on the ships. Get some rest, gentlemen."

Marco closed his eyes and the muffled squishing of the man's steps through the sand filled his ears as the Old Man walked away. The commanders enjoyed the others' presences until the fires died out and the crews surrounding them drifted into slumber land. Just a few of them stayed awake to watch what could be their last sunrise, embracing the depth of the situation they were in.

I enjoy Loíza and I hope you guys did too. Updating the parings list again:

Tensa Smoker x Portgas D. Ace

Roronoa Zoro x Noir Sanji

Shanks x Dracule "Hawkeyes" Mihawk

Crocodile x Don Quixote Doflamingo

Cutty "Franky" Flam x Iceberg

Coby x Helmeppo

Whitebeard x Loíza

Marco x Whitey Bay

Stay tune for the next chapter: Trafalgar D. Water Law - Huredhiel