Amnesia

by himmelblu

It's been 3 months, and no one has seen Ace, who had done the unthinkable. He abandoned and betrayed them. Their family, in the midst of battle, was left open to ambush. But, things are not always as they seem (mental health fic, sort of).

3. Amnesia chapter 3

Hello everyone, after way too long, here is finally the next chapter

I really apologize the delay, things have been hectic and a small writer's block, as well as a wedding, but it's all better. There will also be one last chapter after this, which will be the final wrap up, I promise

I really hope everyone enjoys

Read and relax

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Bay watched as Azuruko carefully reopened the bleeding scar on Ace's head, which made blood ooze out. Bay was Azuruko's second hand in this and cleaned it away, as Azuruko used a small saw to cut though the cranium, following the lines of the previous opening. Azuruko gave a small sound as he cleaned the blood away on the brain tissue, using a small instrument to carefully look around. "No damage to the temporal lobe, but there is swelling throughout the temporal and frontal lobe, as well as slight swelling in the sensory strip and parietal lobe, most likely from the swelling of the medial temporal lobe. No hemorrhaging visible on the temporal lobe, neither between the parietal and frontal lobe, and the occipital lobe, suggesting there is no hemorrhaging from the medial temporal lobe." Bay wanted to learn as much as she could and wouldn't let this opportunity go.

Azuruko then looked at her. "Doctor Bay, what would you do now?" Bay tried to think. "No hemorrhaging suggests that there isn't any damage to the tissue or vessels. The swelling will go down with time, hopefully in 3 hours with rest. I would patch it up and keep an eye on it, back to how it was." Azuruko gave a small hum. "Right at the start, but this is dealing with brain tissue and parts. Swelling often lasts longer, and keeping his head elevated is crucial to get the swelling down. I will also patch it up, but," Azuruko placed the cranium piece back, using some strips she hadn't seen before to fasten it, "I will not fasten the opening as it was before, leaving space in case of swelling and hemorrhaging, which will be more visible and easier to detect as long as the scalp isn't compact, letting the blood out; the skull will mend the wound naturally with time. The skin around the scalp will be sown together, and any hemorrhaging will be visible if it starts bleeding excessively." Bay nodded, doing mental notes on everything, going through everything she knew. "What about a drain?" Azuruko nodded, starting to sow carefully. "A good suggestion, but as long as no hemorrhaging is visible, it will be unnecessary to place a drain. If Ace shows signs of hemorrhaging, we will reevaluate it." Bay gave a breath as this was a lot to take in, but she was thankful for all of this.

When Azuruko had tightened the last string and cut the thread, he looked at her. "I can go over this with you when we're done, and answer questions." Bay nodded, "Yes, I would be thankful if you could." Azuruko nodded, cleaning around the scar, before putting a patch on, a see-through one so they could see any issues. "Now, how high do you think we should elevate the bed for Ace's head?" Bay tried to think. "His head can't be too high up, as that will make his blood pressure go up. But he can't lie down. I would suggest between 40 and 60 degrees." Azuruko nodded, cleaning up a bit and moving Ace to his side, injecting some pain relief and other things she had to say she wasn't sure of. "The amount of swelling was above 10%, as you could see a bit pressing on the cranium, so 40 degrees would be too little. 60 is what would be best, and if Ace is uncomfortable with that, we can lower it to 50 for short periods, this is only for the first day. This still puts him on bed rest for 2 days, and he can sit up and move a bit around, not more than 40 minutes to be sure." Bay nodded, understanding that.

Azuruko lifted the bed to the right height, making Ace almost be in a sitting position, and made sure the oxygen mask sat correct and slightly heightened the oxygen amount, before administering the drugs to awaken Ace. "He will not wake for a while, 5 hours, as I don't want him up and awake; I will keep him asleep with my powers, it's better than drug induced sleep. I will awaken him with my powers when I am happy that the swelling has gone down, to evaluate his mental state. This might cause some setback, which can cause panic and Ace being distraught, and can create more swelling and potential hemorrhaging. After I have evaluated that, I will make a plan on how long he will be on bedrest and when he can get up and potentially out of the infirmary." Bay nodded, agreeing on it as she was learning new things. "How will you evaluate his mental state if he had a setback? Being able to remember is a crucial part in evaluating one's mental state." Azuruko gave a nod to her. "That is a really good question, it's clear you know some mental functions. If Ace can wake up and be awake without being scared or too nervous- not close to panic- that is a good to go. Being able to listen to reason is the main thing in cases like this." Bay nodded, also feeling a bit proud at the praise at the start. This was all new and intriguing, and a great learning situation for her.

Azuruko did one last check to be sure everything was fine, that the oxygen mask was on right, Ace's head resting safely on its side with the help of the pillow, and going over his vitals, before he looked at her. "Okay. Let's take a seat over here and I can answer any questions. I will update the rest in a couple hours, when I can say for sure Ace is stable." Bay nodded, and moved to sit on chair close to a counter with Azuruko, Ace still in view if something happened. She had a lot of questions and was delighted for this opportunity to learn.

-x-

Marco felt a breath leave him when he saw the door to the surgery room finally opened and Azuruko had a smile as he came out. "The surgery went fine. The blood came from the skin around the skull, and no damage to the brain itself, only some swelling, which will go down. Overall, nothing terrible bad, and I have a feeling Ace will be fine." Marco breathed out relieved, as most of the others did too, all of them having waited in a nervous tension for any update. Azuruko gave a motion to them. "Ace is fine, so I would appreciate if most would leave. Less people mean less stress. Whitebeard and Commander Marco can stay for now." All of them nodded, and everyone beside himself and Pops left, them then being invited into the surgery room, where Ace would be until he was awake and sure to be fine. When they got inside, he saw Bay was sitting at a chair and looking over papers with notes and drawings, obviously of the brain and the doctor had probably used this opportunity to learn as much as she could. The female doctor put the notes in a pile, before placing them in a drawer, seeming done with them for now.

Azuruko looked at the first commander. "I would like you there when I wake him up, to see if he remembers anything from the days here. There is a chance he does, but at the same time, there is a chance he doesn't even remember me." Marco nodded, hoping the latter wouldn't happen. If it did, it would mean Marco made Ace have a terrible setback. Azuruko then looked at Whitebeard. "I would have asked you to be there, as you have been one he has remembered often, and you are the captain. But, seeing as you're your size, if he doesn't remember you, that might be a bit terrifying." Marco got that, and Pops nodded. "I understand it. Many are shocked by my size, and he was shocked when he first saw me, and every time he didn't remember." That was true, Ace was always shocked and amazed by Pops size, so seeing someone so large suddenly when waking up might cause a bad reaction. "When will you wake him, yoi?" The man hummed. "I'm thinking in not too long, I want to do it before the sun goes down." Marco nodded, and would stay close to the infirmary for a bit, as it wasn't that long until the sun set.

As Azuruko moved to do something, seeming to be looking over notes or some papers, the first commander looked at Bay. "How did the surgery go, yoi?" Marco always liked to hear what Bay said. He trusted Azuruko, but Bay was their doctor. He didn't know if Azuruko was the one to hide small things, as many doctors did, and Marco knew Bay never did that. The doctor gave a nod. "Fine. I was the second hand in this, and learned many new things. The damage was not significant and no trauma was visible on the brain tissue, only swelling. I believe Ace will be fine, but might have a setback, as Azuruko said; he knows this best." Marco nodded, glad there wasn't any damage to the brain, or more than it was. Swelling was bad, but had faith in the two doctors and hoped things would be fine, that it was just a minor setback. Marco sat down in the chair next to Ace's bed, watching the sleeping kid, hoping when he woke, that Ace would at least know who he was, or who Azuruko was. Hoping that all that had happened the last weeks had made a positive impact on Ace's mind and he was better. And he could only hope for now.

It was about half an hour later Azuruko moved to sit on a chair beside him, giving him a look as if asking if he was ready, which he nodded to, giving a prayer to a god he didn't believe in that Ace was fine. Marco then watched as Azuruko brought a hand to Ace's head, it glowing white, holding it there for a second, before grey eyes fluttered open. As Azuruko moved his hand, Ace gave a groan, hand moving to his head. "How do you feel?" Started Azuruko, looking at Ace and speaking in a calm voice. Ace made a small pained voice. "-ead hurts." Azuruko gave a nod at that. "I can imagine. You hit your head and needed a minor surgery because of it." Ace opened his eyes a bit, looking at Azuruko as a hand was still on his head. "I… hit it..? Again? How?" Marco felt a relieved breath leave him, glad Ace remembered he had hurt it before, and seemed to know Azuruko. "You got overwhelmed and fell. What's the last thing you remember?" Ace gave a small sound, eyes closing as his hand massaged his head. "We… we ate at Lindsay's and stayed over since the weather got bad. Is this her bedroom?"

Azuruko gave a small breath, moving a hand to Ace's head, not the side he was holding, making Ace look at him. "This is going to sound hard, but that was a month ago. We left home almost 2 weeks ago and are on a pirate boat. You got overwhelmed and fell, but you are fine. But first, do you know this person?" Ace looked scared after the first sentence and Azuruko's hand made a faint glow, making Ace look calmer, before he looked at him, shaking his head as he looked back at Azuruko. The pink-haired man gave a nod. "That's fine. Do you remember anything about a boat? Or pirates?" Ace shook his head somewhat, before looking scared. "...burning…" Azuruko frowned at that. "What do you mean, Ace?" Ace shook his head a bit, Azuruko's hand glowing more. "...it smelled… burning… pain… wind..." Ace looked more confused at it, face sometimes getting a scared look, before it became confused. Azuruko nodded. "I see. Now, I need you to relax. You are safe and okay. I will be here." Ace looked confused at that, and Azuruko's hand lighted up. Ace's eyes shut close, Azuruko slowly laying him down again, before looking at Pops, Bay, and him, giving a sigh. "This is not too bad, he remembers things from a month ago. With rest, his memories might come back."

Marco gave a nod. "What about the boat, yoi? The burning he mentioned." Azuruko sighed. "I don't know. He has mentioned it a few times, but he was never able to recall more or remember he said it." Marco nodded, not sure what to make of it himself. "I will assess the damage more later on. For now, as I know Ace has some of his memories, I want him to rest." That made sense, and Marco would be sure to be as available to help as he could. He had messed things up, he had pushed Ace. He wanted to make it up to him.

-x-

Whitebeard felt a bit anxious as he walked into the infirmary, hoping this would go fine. Ace had woken up yesterday and had mostly spent the day relaxing and sleeping, and was better today, making so he was able to visit Ace today, knowing it would be the first meeting for Ace. He hoped it would go as well as the first meeting on the island had went. Azuruko had said Ace was fine and had recovered well, faster than the last time. He managed to remember he was not home, and in a sort of hospital, and had half remembered Bay, but not Marco. He was still on bed rest for another couple days, to be sure the swelling was down and the skull had a bit of time to remodel itself, so when Ace started moving and blood pressure went up, it wouldn't cause bleeding or swelling. Azuruko was very thorough with his explanations, which didn't always make sense for him as it was a lot of words and phrases he has never heard. But it still made him trust Azuruko's judgement and words, obviously knowing what he was doing. It gave a sort of security and trusting feeling in the captain's opinion.

When he opened the door to the surgery room Ace was in, it being used as a sort of private room for Ace right now, he saw the curtain half drawn, so he couldn't see Ace, but could see the occupants there, which was just Marco, Bay, and Azuruko. Azuruko gave a smile to him as he walked in, before moving a hand forward, probably to Ace's. "Okay, Ace. Remember how we are on a pirate boat?" The captain didn't hear a response, but had a feeling he just nodded, so the pink-haired man continued. "As I also mentioned, that means a captain, who cares a lot for his crew. He is, however, a bit larger than the average person you know, but it doesn't make him any more dangerous than a normal person. But can be intimidating." "...okay." He heard Ace answer, sounding a bit unsure, which was understandable.

Bay then moved from a counter she was standing at and doing things, moving to drag the curtain away, making the captain walk over, moving to sit on a stool there, seeing Ace blinking amazed and shocked at him. Azuruko moved a hand out to him. "Ace, this is the captain of this ship and crew, Edward Newgate, or as he's commonly referred as; Whitebeard." Ace blinked, looking a bit apprehensive, before looking at Azuruko. "W-what do I call him?" Azuruko gave a smile. "Whitebeard fits well. If you must, Newgate goes too. Many on the crew here do call him Pops, though." Ace blinked, before he frowned. "Pops? Why?" Marco gave a hum, him speaking up this time. "Because while he is our captain, he is also like a father to us, yoi." Ace gave a nod. "That makes sense." Ace then looked back at him, seeming unsure as he half moved his hand. "I- I don't really know how to say hello; I usually shake hands. You're so… large. No offence, it's just… I don't know." Whitebeard gave a chuckle. "It's fine, child. Many are shocked by my size. Usually if people want to shake hands, I settle with a finger." Whitebeard then held his hand out and moved his index finger out, making Ace give a hesitant smile, before he took it and gave a small shake. "Hi, I'm Ace." The captain gave a smile back. "Hello, Ace, I'm Edward Newgate, but call me Whitebeard." Ace then looked over at Azuruko. "Can I get out of bed today?" Azuruko hummed. "Maybe during dinner; we can eat in the infirmary main room, but we'll see how you feel." Ace nodded. "Okay. ...I would like to see the boat, though." Azuruko chuckled. "Tomorrow maybe, not today." Ace looked a bit crestfallen by that, but still had a small smile. "Okay."

They then sat and chatted for a bit, Ace looking unsure at him at times, and after about an hour, Ace had drifted off to sleep, Azuruko not looking worried as he moved the covers more over him. "How is he doing, Azuruko?" The pink-haired man hummed. "He's doing fine; much better than I would have expected. He woke today remembering we wasn't at home, and that he had hurt his head, the reason we are in what he called hospital, which I would say is a good sign. He also somewhat remembered the doctor, Bay, but that was it. I am satisfied with that, and if he can keep this up, remembering, it will make the best outcome happen and he will remember more." The captain nodded. "That's good to hear. Does this mean he will remember more?" Azuruko gave a breath. "Maybe. Basically, what this shows, is that the actual brain trauma is healing, making his brain communicate a bit easier than before. He might wake up tomorrow and remember today, or just remember yesterday, or nothing. But, I think some things will be easier for him to remember, like where he is and faces, names might come a bit later." Whitebeard felt that was good, and hoped Ace would get better and remember more, maybe even get his memories from before the capture back.

As Ace slept, Whitebeard and Marco headed out of the room, Azuruko telling he would send someone if Ace could eat out in the infirmary, and a couple more could join, starting carefully to introduce the others these first days. Ace wouldn't be let out of the infirmary for at least 2 days, maybe 3, just to be sure he was fine, which the captain got. When Whitebeard told his children Ace was better and recovering good, they were all happy, as well as hoping they would see Ace soon. It was a couple hours later a nurse came and said a few could join Ace in the infirmary when they had dinner, Azuruko thinking it would go fine. It was decided that it would be just himself, Marco, Thatch, and Izou that would join, and maybe more could tomorrow. Thatch was chosen since he stood for the food, and Izou since he just fit as a calm person. And when the time came for them to go to the infirmary, Izou needed to do something first, making so they went first, and Ace seemed excited to meet new people, not really remembering him from before, most likely since he had slept earlier and had forgotten. The introduction went close to how it had been earlier, seeming a bit unsure. Ace had been calmer when he introduced himself to Thatch and Marco, but overall, it seemed like Ace was doing fine and things were going the right direction. As Thatch, with a few helpers from the galley, had placed the food down, Ace was excited and surprised to be served, as he had been the first time those weeks ago, telling he usually helped, and enjoyed it, but not saying much more. Azuruko had then asked him to tell a bit how it was being a pirate, Ace seeming excited about it and enjoying it, and was really looking forward to seeing the boat when he could. It was about half an hour later the door opened and Izou came, giving a smile to Ace as he moved to sit down, holding his hand out.

"Hi, I'm Izou." Ace smiled as he shook Izou's hand. "Hi, I'm Ace. You're pretty." Izou waved his hand. "Oh hush, I like to look nice." Ace gave a small chuckle. "What do I call you?" Izou looked a bit confused. "Izou goes." Ace blinked. "Oh, no. Not that. I mean, he or she?" Izou blinked, looking a bit shocked. "No one really asks that, that's nice of you. And I don't really mind either one, but usually goes by he. Thank you for asking." Ace smiled. "It's nothing, I like to ask." Izou chuckled. "I really appreciate it, not many do." Whitebeard found it a bit interesting, never having thought about this, and no one had really asked Izou that, not that he had heard at least. He also didn't know the crossdresser was fine with both he and she.

Azuruko gave a chuckle. "I think Ace likes to ask because of my neighbor Annya. She was born a boy, as Arkan, and her parents was very strict on the gender terms, wanting a boy, so she could only play with blue toys, play with boats and tools, not what they deemed as girl toys or had any girlish color. But she always admired the other side, the side she was never allowed to touch or act like. So, when she left her home and moved next to me, she changed everything. I also knew her since she was a child, and when she changed at 17, was the first time she looked happy, and have ever since. She really doesn't like to be called he. She's only 28 now, and she and Ace became friends." Ace smiled. "Yeah. I really like her; she's really kind and caring. And since it really bothered her when someone said he, I like to ask if I'm unsure." Izou smiled. "I appreciate that. Not many think much about it." Ace smiled. "Are you joining us for dinner?" Izou nodded. "I am, Marco said I could." Ace blinked. "But, isn't Whitebeard the captain? Why would Marco decide that?" Izou snorted. "Yes, Pops is the captain, but Marco is the first commander, and have a say, sometimes even over Pops." Ace gave a sow nod. "Okay, that make sort of sense." Azuruko chuckled. "Don't worry, Ace. You will get used to things." Ace nodded and looked at the table. "I still feel weird being served food. I would like to help." Marco hummed. "We're a large crew, yoi. We have people on duty and their job is to prepare food, as well as clean up." Ace looked at Marco. "How- how large is the crew?" Marco hummed. "I think we're close to 5-600, yoi." Ace blinked. "Fiv- R-really? So many?" Marco nodded. "Yes, yoi. Pops wanted a large family, and he got it." Ace seemed a bit stunned by that, but still nodded with a slight smile. "That sounds nice. I've always liked the sound of having a family." That was something that made Whitebeard happy. Ace had longed for a family before he met them. Family was probably something stuck on Ace's mind, even subconsciously.

The rest of the meal was uneventful, and after an hour, it was clear Ace was tired, eyes heavy and seeming half confused at times, making Azuruko ask them to leave so Ace could relax, which he didn't dispute, Ace seeming glad for it. For the rest of the say, they didn't see Ace more, Azuruko saying the dinner really had tired him out, but would most likely be better tomorrow. Everyone did seem glad to know Ace was better and hoped to see him soon, Whitebeard not sure if Ace would be let out a small trip tomorrow, or if it would be the day after that. For now, he was glad Ace was fine, and that Azuruko said he remembered more faster, the damage itself healing. The captain hoped Ace would remember them and who he was and become himself again. But he could only hope.

When the next day came, Ace was allowed a small trip out of the infirmary, just to see the boat, them going out during the dinner hour, when the least were out, and Ace looked and sounded really excited about the boat, as he had every time he had forgotten about it. It had the captain smile to see the childish attitude Ace had, which he always had had. After being out, they had stayed in the infirmary for the meal, before leaving so Ace could relax again, seeming better today as he didn't look tired, at least not as tired as he had. Ace was still really excited to actually be out the next day, and Azuruko had asked Whitebeard that not everyone was out at the same time. He got everyone wanted to say hi to Ace, but they had the entire day. It did seem to be the best as throughout the day, Ace met new people and went around on the boat, making many smile from his good and happy mood. Whitebeard was also glad to see Ace half remembering small things, like how he was on a boat, remembering Marco to some extent, same with Izou. It was an improvement and it had Whitebeard's hope about Ace recovering grow. Things would go fine.

-x-

The first week went close to the same fashion as it had before after Ace had first been on the boat for a couple weeks, when he started remembering things. Azuruko had taken a small step back and let Ace be more around them alone, and Ace seemed fine with it, as long as it was someone he had been around a lot and remembered. If it was many new ones, or many he didn't know as well, Ace always got unsure and sort of uncomfortable, which was understandable. Ace was still charming to be around and courteous, which they had gotten used to now and enjoyed, sort of making this whole situation better. Kent had also been a bit around Ace, it was clear he was still a bit uncomfortable, but it was getting better, and it was clear Kent didn't blame Ace, but had some unsure feelings himself, which was understandable. It was getting better and everyone was getting used to things, which was good.

They had up until now had good weather, but yesterday it had started to somewhat rain during the evening, but when they next day came, it was raining heavily, making so they stayed inside. Whitebeard saw Ace looking out the window at the heavy rain that splashed against it, dark clouds outside. They had gone inside the meeting room as the bad weather started, not too many with him, mostly commanders and a few from here and there. Ace was still not retaining much memory and felt unsure around many, the reason they were in the meeting room and not galley where most were. Ace was at least remembering who they were, their names and such, which was better than nothing. Ace usually enjoyed it around small groups and seemed to adjust around them, Azuruko trying to be more away and was doing some work in the room he had gotten, but Ace didn't seem to be in high spirits, looking worried out the window. "Ace," Started the captain, making Ace look at him. "Is there anything wrong?" Ace gave a small frown. "I'm not… really fond of bad weather… We didn't really have much of it at the island, thankfully." The captain could see his children finding that a bit weird, all of them looking at Ace as he turned to look out of the window again.

Ace hadn't minded rain before, he always enjoyed how the rain sizzled on him because of his warm skin, his devil fruit always making him warm. When it got colder and snow and ice piled up, Ace always was great help as he could just melt it away and then make the excessive water evaporate. The most fun to watch was when it thundered outside, Ace always went out and tried to deafen the rumbling thunder with his voice, a funny and interesting characteristic Ace had. But as Ace said, they didn't really have bad weather at the island Ace and Azuruko had been at, so it might just be because it was new and Ace couldn't control his devil fruit power for now, not knowing he had one and therefore not able to use it. The captain still felt like Ace looked nervous about something, but it might just be because this was new and they were on a boat and Ace didn't really remember anyone.

Marco had seemed to find a small solution, and that was to start a card game, an easy one so Ace could follow with it. Ace didn't really know any card games, which wasn't new, but they didn't want to teach him a game that took a lot of thinking, not wanting to exhaust his mind for a simple card game. Whitebeard would much rather have Ace try and retain memory and just get used to them and remember them; not some card game. The distraction seemed to work as Ace looked to enjoy himself. Ace still needed some help now and then with the card game, and Marco had no issues giving away tips, all of them being easier on the rules to look at the cards that had been played as Ace seemed to have somewhat issues remembering, but it was fine and Ace was smiling and looking to have fun, also making small talk now and then.

As they were closing in on finished on their second game, going a bit slow to help Ace keep up, he felt the ship rumble somewhat, making him sigh. He hoped they wouldn't meet any thunder and lighting, but it seemed thunder was heading towards them. It was still far away as the rumble was barely noticeable, so that was something. As the third card game started, they just got a few rounds before a louder rumble went through the ship, the captain also hearing the thunder clap. And as it did, Ace flinched, looking nervous as he looked towards the window. "...what was that..?" Marco gave a comforting look to Ace. "Thunder, yoi. It hopefully will pass fast." Ace gave a nod, before looking back at his cards. As they continued the game, it wasn't long before another thunderclap was heard, this time a bit closer, but still some distance away, but Ace still flinched again and looked nervous to the window, before looking back at them. "W-where's Azuruko? I don't… I don't really like thunder..." Whitebeard was on his way to answer, that Azuruko was in his room doing some work, but another clap of thunder rumbled through the ship, this time being much closer. The storm must be moving fast. But, as the ship rumbled, Ace let go of his cards as he moved his hands to his ears, covering them as he gave a whimper, eyes closed tightly.

Marco moved to put his cards down too, looking worried. "Maybe we should head to the galley or kitchen, yoi. The thunder isn't as noticeable there." That was true and sounded to be a good idea, Ace really seeming to not like thunder. Ace gave a small nod and when they stood up, Ace did too and seemed unsure to head out, but it thankfully wasn't far from the door to the galley. But as they had taken a few steps, the entire ship rumbled, the chairs and table shaking as a loud clap of thunder made the entire ship shake. The storm had to be basically over them for it to be this loud and rumbling. But as it did, Ace yelped as he moved down to his knees, eyes closed tightly as his hands moved over his head and over his ears, his entire from shaking. "Make it stop!" It wasn't even a second later that another thunder shook the ship, Ace giving out a whimper with a sob, body shaking as tears started to make their way down his cheeks. "I don't like this! Make it stop! I want to go home!" Whitebeard felt his heart ache, not only since Ace was obviously distressed, but that Ace wanted to go home; he wanted to get off the boat and go home. The Moby Dick wasn't home for Ace, and that hurt.

Whitebeard felt shocked and saddened by Ace's state and words, and wasn't able to move for a few seconds, but Izou thankfully was. The crossdresser moved down to his knees himself, moving his kimono sleeves to be over his hands, and moving to cover Ace's ears too, having a calm look. Izou just managed before another rumble of thunder rumbled outside. When it stopped, Izou being crouched in front of Ace, sent a look out the window first, before looking back at Ace, moving his hands from Ace's ears, but keeping his hands on Ace's head, having a calm look as he started speaking. "It's okay. It's just thunder. It can't hurt you. Just relax, and look at me. It's loud and rumbling, but it can't hurt you or anyone." Ace opened his eyes and looked at the sixteenth commander, body still shaking and tears going down his face, looking terrified. When a flash of lightning was visible through the window, Izou moved his hands over Ace's ears again, having them there until the loud thundering thunder was done, before removing his hands again. "It's fine. I know it's loud and scary, but it's just loud, it's just sound. It will pass, and tomorrow, the sun will shine."

When another lightning flashed through them room, Izou moved his hand back to Ace's ears, covering them as the rumbling thunder went through the ship. Ace still closed his eyes and gave a whimper, but opened his eyes again as Izou moved his hands away, looking at the crossdresser who had a calm look. "It's okay, it's just sound, and it will pass. It's just a storm, and it can't hurt you. I know it's loud, and we can head to the kitchen, where there's less people and we can't hear the thunder. Do you want that?" Ace gave a nod, still looking scared as he had tears going down his cheeks, eyes full of fear, body trembling, and his breath somewhat panting with small whimpers and sobs. Izou gave a nod to Ace. "That's good. We will be with you the entire walk, when I move my hands to your ears, just relax, let the thunder pass. It can't hurt you, no matter how loud; thunder can't hurt you. Another thunder is going to come soon, when it passes, we will start to walk. If you need to stop, just stop. But it will go fine. We will become wet, but we will be fine." Ace gave a nod, and not long after, a flash of lightning was seen, before Izou moved his hands back to cover Ace's ears as the thunder was heard and felt. When it had passed, Izou gave a few more reassuring words, before he managed to get Ace to carefully stand up, Izou walking beside Ace with one arm over his shoulders, ready to cover his ear, the other on Ace's arm, leading him to where they would go. They all walked carefully, Ace still trembling and shaking, scared and trying to keep his eyes forward and not look around. Izou kept giving words of reassurance and comfort, seeming to help.

As they had gotten a few feet out, Whitebeard using his left hand as a sort of umbrella for Ace and Izou, the sky lit up as a lightning cracked the sky, illumination the deck and dark clouds for a brief second. As it did, Ace instantly moved down to his knees again, eyes closed as he gave a whimper, the sudden lightning obviously scaring him. Izou was prepared and moved his hands over Ace's ears again, covering them as the thunder rumbled not long after. When it passed and Izou moved his hands away from Ace's ears. "It's fine, it passed. Let's head on, just a few feet more." Ace nodded and slowly stood up again, carefully walking on with the reassurance from Izou. When they were about halfway, Izou sent a look at Marco and motion with his head towards the galley, Marco seeming to get it and heading to the galley and walking inside as the door closed behind him. Izou probably wanted as little attention as he could get, hoping that there wasn't much noise or chatter about them as they walked inside, as well as not wanting people to crowd them, therefore sending Marco to ask everyone to not mind them, not be loud, and just let them go to the kitchen as Ace was scared of the thunder.

There was only one more lightning and thunder that happened before they got to the door, Thatch opening it and letting them inside. Ace seemed relieved to be inside again, and they headed towards the next door, walking in a pace Ace set, which was a calm one. The captain could hear and somewhat feel a thunder moving through the ship, but because of the full galley with chatter, it was barely audible, Ace just giving a whimper. When they got to the kitchen, it was empty, aside from Marco and a couple chefs, Marco probably chasing the rest out. When they got inside the room, Izou walked Ace over to a chair and sat him down. "There, here it won't be as easy to hear and there's less rumbling. So, try and relax." Ace gave a nod as he sat down, hands still on his ears, eyes closed as he sat down, still trembling and a few tears still making their way down Ace's cheeks.

Ace was still scared, and it might take a few seconds for him to calm down. The captain was glad they had a few sets of table and chairs in the kitchen, as the chefs and other kitchen staff sometimes ate meals in the kitchen, even being some comfortable chairs and a couple couches. Ace was in a comfy chair, Whitebeard knowing Ace often liked to sit in a chair with armrests when unsure; it made him feel safe. It wasn't long before Ace moved his feet up to be in the chair too, having slipped out of his boots, a thing Ace also used to do to feel safer and comfortable when he was unsure. There was about a minute of silence before Ace slowly moved his hands down from his ears and opened his eyes, blinking as he sat ready to cover his ears again as he looked around. "...It's silent here…" Thatch gave a nod to that. "It is. When we had it built, I made sure it got as close to soundproof as possible." Ace blinked at the chef. "Why?" Thatch smiled. "Because the galley is often noisy, especially when people party, and the chefs shouldn't be distracted. That, and always nice with a place to relax in silence, have a meal in peace, have a drink, or just cook." Ace nodded. "...It's nice…" Thatch smiled. "I'm glad you think so. How do you feel?" Ace nodded, giving a breath. "Fine, I think… Tired…" It was no wonder Ace was tired, this had been an ordeal for him. Whitebeard wouldn't have been in the meeting room at all tonight if he knew Ace was scared of thunder; he had had a thought that thunder would come. Marco gave a comforting look to Ace. "Maybe you should relax a bit, yoi? This was probably tiring for you." Ace gave a nod and moved himself to be more comfortable in the chair, legs still up and sitting somewhat sideways with his head resting against the back of the chair, eyes closing, and as usual when Ace was tired, he seemed to fall asleep quickly.

As they were sure Ace was asleep, Marco looked at Izou. "That was good and quick thinking, yoi." Izou waved at the first commander. "Oh hush. I remember a woman doing the same to a child at my island. And it worked then. Poor child was so afraid of the thunder." All of them gave a nod, Thatch speaking with a frown. "But still. Ace has never been afraid of thunderstorms; he loves them." Whitebeard sighed. "I know, son. But remember what Ace said; they rarely had bad weather at the island, thunder probably even less. Loud noise he might have barely heard would be scary. Ace doesn't remember he likes them, or probably what it is. Azuruko said some personal changes are normal." Thatch nodded with a sigh, looking at Ace's sleeping form. "I wonder if he's going to remember us, or anything at all. What if he stays like this?" Whitebeard had had that thought now and then, but tried to think Ace will be fine. "Then we take it as it goes. Azuruko has said Ace has a high chance of remembering us." Thatch gave a breath. "But, shouldn't he have remembered something by now? I mean, it's been 5 weeks." Whitebeard knew that very well too, and knew it was only 4-5 more weeks until they were at Sabaody Archipelago, where Azuruko would part with them, and Whitebeard knew it was a chance, a high one right now, that Ace went with Azuruko rather than them. "I don't know, son. We just have to wait. He is making good progress as Azuruko have said. We just need to keep our hopes up." Whitebeard would do his best to keep his own hopes up, even though he felt this wouldn't be easy. But he needed to hope for the best.

They sat and had some small chatter for a while, Whitebeard still feeling the ship tremble from a clap of thunder outside, but the kitchen was basically soundproof. Of course, one can just to open the bar window to the galley and sounds would be heard just as loud. But for now, they would let Ace relax. It was after about 40 minutes that the door opened and Azuruko came in, giving a sigh as he saw Ace asleep in a chair. "I must say; the inner part of the boat doesn't let much sound be heard; I didn't hear anything from the storm before I was out in the hallway." That was true, they had given Ace and Azuruko rooms more in the middle of the boat, where there were the least rocking and little noise from the outside, thinking it to be good for Ace. "It is. The rooms have thick isolation; we are close to winter island now and then." Azuruko nodded, walking over to Ace and placing a hand on his head. "How did Ace take it? I know he's scared of thunder." Okay, so the man knew that. "We found that out, yoi." Started Marco, having a somber look, "And that's not like Ace, the reason we didn't think much of it. He used to love bad weather, especially thunder. He would roar with it." Azuruko gave a smile. "That sounds like a special and lively characteristic. But, when I found him, I was at Charlotte's reef, and the few days I was there, I noticed that thunder and lightning was an often, almost constant, phenomenon there. He might not know it, but thunder, or bad weather in general, might bring forth a fear from when he either was taken, or the time with his captors, or escape. Fear is an emotion that often stick with a visual aspect, feeling, or audible perception, even if you can't recall the reason of why the fear is there. A human being is actually born with only two fears; falling and loud noises. Everything else is a fear we have acquired throughout our lives, fears we know why we fear, and others we can't remember why, but the fear rules. While yes, thunder is a loud sound, it is a predicted sound that comes with bad weather, the reason most learn to not fear thunder when they understand it." That did make sense, and was a lot of information, even new to him. Whitebeard didn't know a human was born with only those two fears, but it made sense. And he believed what Azuruko said; brain functions were the thing he knew the most about.

They sat and chatted for a while, Kent dropping in after an hour and telling the bad weather was over and it was just some light clouds out. Ace was still asleep and seemed relaxed, so they decided to wait until he woke by himself. A couple of them did head out, but most stayed until Ace woke an hour later, and the dark-haired kid didn't remember much of the bad weather ordeal, just mentioning he felt a bit weird, but it passed as the day continued. Ace was still remembering them when he woke, which was something the captain enjoyed, to see Ace getting better, and Ace was getting better, remembering small things from the day now and then, or the previous day. Whitebeard just hoped Ace would remember something from before, from before he was taken, remember the good times he had had with them.

-x-

Ace ran, he wasn't sure from what, but he was running. He felt panicked, something was after him. Ace tried to scream, but couldn't. He could just run. As he looked behind himself, he saw shapes running after him, and Ace needed to get away. As he turned to see where he was running, a sick grin had him fall to the ground, a hand reaching for him, his mouth opening to scream— Ace sat up, breathing hard as he looked around the room he had been given. Just a dream, tried Ace to tell himself. But he felt it wasn't. Ace felt his head hurt, his room was too small, and he felt scared. Ace took a deep breath, and stood up, putting some clothes on before he tried to think what to do. He felt scared, his room was dark and small. To be honest, he wanted Azuruko, but he was sleeping in the room next to him, and Ace didn't want to wake him. He needed sleep too.

Ace took a deep breath as he figured the best place for now to go.

-x-

Marco felt a sigh leave him, hearing someone knocking at his door. It was his night off, he didn't want to be called out for anything, he had paperwork to do. But, when he got to the door and opened it, he was shocked to see it was Ace. "Ace? Is everything okay, yoi?" Ace looked on edge. The black-haired kid swallowed, looking at him. "I- I know it's late, but you said… if I needed anything to come here… I'm sorry if I woke you..." Marco shook his head, moving to let Ace into his room. "No need to apologize, I meant what I said. Come in, yoi." When Ace was inside his room, Marco closed the door and turned to the young man. "What do you need? Is anything bothering you?" Ace gave a breath, sitting down on the bed, hand on his head as he looked unsure. "I- I don't know. I just… the room I was in felt... wrong… I don't know, I had this dream..."

Marco gave a hum, sitting down on his chair again. Azuruko had said memories often could come back in dreams. "What was it about? If you want to tell. Either way, you can stay here. If you need to speak, or anything, even if you just don't want to be alone, you are welcome to. I just have some paperwork, nothing too important." When Ace just nodded and didn't say anything more, Marco turned to his paperwork again, starting where he had left off, not minding Ace being here. His door was always open, and this wasn't the first time Ace came to him when he couldn't sleep or felt distressed. When he did before, he liked it when Marco just continued what he was doing. Ace often liked the company.

After a few minutes, Ace gave a breath before he spoke. "I was running, in my dream. I was running away from something, people running after… I was scared, and then this man was there, and I… felt panicked, then I woke. I'm sorry, it's just a dream, I just-." Ace gave a sigh, not continuing. Marco had a feeling he remembered when he had run away, or maybe an escape attempt. Or, it could just be a dream. "Don't apologize. This is not the first time you've done this, come in the middle of the night for reassurance, company, or just to speak. My door is always open, and I'm always here, yoi. And, even if it was just a dream, you're allowed to be bothered or worked up by it. Sometimes one just needs someone there, not to speak or anything, just be around someone, and I don't mind being that person." That always helped before, when Ace felt stupid for waking him. He heard Ace take a breath. "I felt as if I could come here… that might be why… and you're right, I don't need anything, I just feel… I don't know…" Marco turned to Ace, offering a small smile. "It's fine, yoi. Never think you're bothering me. I would much rather you come here, than to be alone and unsure." That had Ace smile at him. "Thank you, Marco." Marco shook his head a bit, turning back to his paperwork. "Don't mention it. I will always be here." He heard some shuffling, Ace probably making himself a bit more comfortable. "Thank you, Marco. For being so kind, I mean, I barely know you, but still you're so kind."

Marco smiled, turning his head to Ace, the kid having moved his legs up on the bed too, shoes off. "It's nothing, yoi. For us, you're family, and we care for each other." Ace nodded, a somewhat sheepish smile. "I still appreciate it. ...Can I… I mean, would it be fine if I stayed here? Just for tonight? I don't want to wake up Azuruko, and I don't want to be alone." Marco hummed. "Of course you can. I just assumed you would, yoi. My bed is more than large enough, and you are always welcome to stay." It had Ace give a grateful look, before moving to sit further in on the bed, back against the wall, seeming to be relaxing. The black-haired kid then started up some light conversation, Marco continuing his paperwork as they spoke. Ace was awake for a while, but did fall asleep after some time, when the clock was about 1am, and Marco place a blanket over Ace before he continued with his paperwork. Marco did lay down in bed too, after half an hour, just relaxing for a while. he had slept before, seeing as he had had the late afternoon shift and had slept before it, and had the night shift when night came, so he didn't want to sleep too much now. Ace slept calmly and silently and Marco still hoped Ace would just wake up and remember them, remember him and how their bond had been. Ace had always been so innocent and young, at times he was naive, but it was how Ace was. Ace was so different now and Marco hoped Ace would get better fast.

When the sun rose, Marco headed out of his room, letting Ace sleep as he probably needed it. Marco still remembers how at times when he had had a nightmare, how Ace had been shook up for long periods and needed the sleep. Ace would most likely head out of the room when he woke and continue the day as he had the last weeks. Ace still at times needed a couple minutes to remember some of them, so waking up next to Marco might not be a good idea. And, whenever Ace looked at him confused, Marco got a clenching feeling in his stomach, and he didn't know why. He just hoped Ace would be fine and come back to them.

-x-

Whitebeard sat and ate breakfast with most of the ones who were up early, as well as those who had had the night shift and wanted some food before they went to bed, a normal morning. It wasn't much chatter this early as most was tired still. Marco had also turned up around 6 in the morning, some of the other commanders following soon after. Marco was usually the first one awake and had small conversation with the rest until they woke up completely themselves, many being half awake when they came to the galley for breakfast and coffee. But, it was when the clock neared 8am that Azuruko came into the galley alone, which was a bit unusual, Ace was usually close. The pink-haired man took a look around the galley, before he sat down on their table, looking at them. "Have any of you seen Ace this morning? I can't find him." Whitebeard felt worried by that, as Ace hadn't ventured much on his own, especially in the morning.

Whitebeard heard Marco sigh, looking at Azuruko. "I'm sorry, yoi. Ace was with me for the night. He came to my door around midnight, a bit worked up; he had a nightmare or something along those lines. I think he's still asleep in my room, he was when I left." Azuruko looked at Marco, having a thoughtful look. "He had a nightmare? As in, he dreamed?" Marco nodded. "Yeah. He said something about running and being scared, a man suddenly being there, yoi. He wasn't really sure what was happening himself I think." Azuruko got a smile at that, making Marco frown, as all of them. Why would a nightmare make the man smile? "Is it a good sign, yoi? I mean, a nightmare about being chased and scared doesn't sound good." It didn't. Azuruko hummed. "No, not the nightmare, but that he dreamed. You can't dream without memories; the brain can't make up things like that. To dream you need emotional memories, creating theta waves that generate the theta rhythm, a neural oscillatory pattern, which happen when the hippocampus, neocortex, temporal lobe, work together. The hippocampus has the actual memory, neocortex and temporal lobe also hold the memory, but the visual, emotional, sensational, and sounds part of it, and it can only be felt and seen in a dream when all of those three work together. Ace has never dreamed; this is the first time. This is a great sign, and a magnificent improvement."

Whitebeard felt himself smile, feeling overjoyed that Ace was improving, that he had showed a sign of getting better and remembering something. Not a good memory apparently, but it was something. Before they could react to that, Azuruko looked at them. "Now, if I could get a few moments with Commander Marco alone, I would appreciate it. You can stay, Newgate. But the rest, I would appreciate if you left." The captain frowned, not sure why, and could see his children also thinking the same, even Marco. Everyone but Marco and himself did leave, knowing Azuruko had a sort of authority here, and they knew Whitebeard would have said something against it if he didn't like it. But he was curious on what this was.

As they were alone, Azuruko hummed. "Don't look so shocked or nervous, nothing is wrong. But, Commander Marco, something seems to be bothering you, something about Ace. I wonder what that is. I'm not sure if Newgate has noticed, but I think he's inclined to know too." Whitebeard had noticed Marco acting and looking a bit off at times, but had brushed it off as this was a tough situation. Marco gave a sigh, moving his hands to his face, looking like something really was bothering him. How hadn't he noticed before Azuruko pointed it out? "I don't know, yoi. I just, whenever Ace doesn't remember me, I feel a need of him remembering me. Not us, but me. And I don't know why." That was a thing Whitebeard didn't know, that Marco thought that, and wished he did know, that Marco had told or he had noticed.

Azuruko gave a hum. "The answer is a simple one. I've asked a bit around about Ace, about who he was. And every one has said the same thing in different ways; Commander Marco was the first to bond with Ace; Commander Marco was the first to approach and keep approaching Ace; Commander Marco was the first Ace accepted; Commander Marco was the closest to Ace; Commander Marco was the first Ace trusted. Not only did you make an impression on Ace, but more importantly; Ace made an impression on you. And I can see why. Ace is only 18; he's a child, and not just any child; he's your younger, and youngest, brother. A younger brother who has just been through hell and has every mark from it, and yet, he doesn't remember you. He doesn't remember the impression you made, all the hard work you made to get to know him, make him open up, and the connection you two had as both family members and friends is something Ace has forgotten. But you remember every bit of it. What you're feeling is affection, strong affection, and to not have it returned, as you clearly have since day one, brings forth that longing for it, as well as guilt, for having lost it, for having thought the wrong thing. You feel a sort of responsibility for Ace's state, since you had a connection, and you are the oldest and probably the closest to Ace. You are a caring brother, and you can see clearly that Ace is suffering, but since he doesn't remember you, you can't fix it, and that makes you suffer just as much. You fear the affection is gone, that the fondness he had to you is gone; that your brother is gone. And every time you see Ace, every time you speak with Ace, you get your hopes up, and there is those small moments you see the Ace you know, and when Ace looks at you, you long for the fondness, for the trust, for the friendship you had to be mirrored in those eyes, but they aren't. All Ace sees is a stranger, making all your hopes come crashing down. All you feel is the fondness of a brother who really cares for his family, and you have no idea what to do. You want the Ace you have a bond with back, the one you worked and strived to get to know better than any of the other here, the youngest in your family. You are a caring brother, the reason you feel like this when you can't help. It's been clear from what everyone has said that Ace looked up to you, Ace listened to you, and you meant a lot to him. But you never realized you did the same for him, not before it was all gone and you see what you have lost. You're scared it will never come back, that Ace is gone forever."

Whitebeard saw Marco moving his hands to his face, giving a nod. "Yeah, that makes sense, yoi. I've tried not to think of it." Marco was an amazing big brother for everyone, and he knew Marco meant a lot to Ace, and have never thought about it the other way, that Ace meant this much to Marco, but it made sense; they were close. Marco was the first Ace bonded with and was open with, Ace always counted on Marco for support and guidance, so it was no wonder Ace had made an impression on the first commander, especially as Ace was so young. Whitebeard felt as if he should have realized this himself, that he would have seen Marco was having a tough time with this, to see Ace had amnesia and all that came with that. He had no idea Marco felt guilty and responsible for this, and Marco was someone who took burdens on, but Whitebeard hadn't thought much about this, most likely since this was a rough situation, even for him.

Marco sighed, moving one hand down and the other on his face, looking at Azuruko. "How do I fix it, yoi?" Azuruko hummed. "Easy; you can't. You can't fix this. You can't sit and hope and wait for Ace to come back; he might never will." Whitebeard could see those word putting a weight on Marco's shoulder, and before either Marco or he could react, Azuruko continued. "But, you should change your train of thought. Instead of hoping the Ace you know will return, hoping the Ace that looks up to you and trust you will come back; he won't come back. Instead, work on getting that trust back. Ace is still Ace; he just doesn't remember you, but is still himself. You've all said you can see the likeness in him, aside from the calmness and courtesy, most likely a trait he got from me as that's what he knows. The Ace you know, he might be gone forever. I know many stories and fairy tales that have amnesia as a topic, that the person goes completely back to normal, but that's rare and almost never happens. He might get his memories back, most of them, but how he acts now might be how he will be; this is what he knows, this is what feels normal for him. Think of it like a child learning new things; they will just be memories, not personality. His current personality was molded the weeks he was with me, for that to change would be rare, that might only happen if he once again gets amnesia and have the exact same life as he had, which is impossible. The current personality Ace has, is Ace. He might remember your relationship of you as an amazing and caring brother, but his personality won't change based on that. So, I want and need you to let that hope go; Ace will never return, even if he gets his memories back. So, focus on making this Ace comfortable. Make his new personality make the bond you two had; even I can see Ace likes you now, you just need to open your eyes and accept the Ace you knew is gone. But that doesn't mean this Ace will be much different; it just the personal traits and characteristics are different, the rest is Ace. If he gets his memories back, he will just remember you, not change his personality back."

Marco nodded, giving a sheepish smile at Azuruko. "Thank you, for being so blunt, yoi. I've hoped Ace will become Ace again." Azuruko nodded. "I've learned through the years that saying it as it is, is often the best, to not make false hope. Just remember Ace will hopefully remember you, and look up to you the exact same way, but he will always keep this personality he made with me, just with the old memories if they return. Ace still has his main personality left, the one you recognize every now and then, and that won't change. You need to stop waiting for the Ace you have a good relationship with, and make a new one with this Ace, it will come out in your favor, even if he never remembers his old self, this will make you have a good relationship. Give Ace the opportunity to get to know you, and you get to know him." Marco nodded, and Whitebeard did the same. He hadn't thought about it himself, that Ace wouldn't become back to his old self. It was still a lot to take in, but this also made sense. This courteous Ace was still new and a bit weird at times, but they were getting used to it, and Whitebeard needed to inform everyone about this, that Ace wouldn't get his old personality back. The captain was sure others were also hoping and waiting for the Ace they know to come back, the brash and rash kid. But he wouldn't come back, Ace would most likely stay courteous. Everyone did seem to get along with Ace, which was good, but many still found it weird. The captain would be sure to tell his children during dinner or breakfast tomorrow, and was sure everyone would understand it.

Things would go fine and Whitebeard was sure his children would do their best to help Ace feel welcomed and comfortable. He just hoped Ace would decide to stay with them. The captain knew it was just a matter of time before Ace needed to decide who to stay with. He was sure Azuruko wouldn't join them in the New World. They would just try and do their best in making Ace feel welcomed and comfortable.

-x-

Marco gave a hum as a few of them stayed in the galley, most having left not too long ago. Ace had also just gotten here half an hour ago and seemed to be in a good mood. Ace also seemed to notice a few were sending him looks, most likely since Pops had told everyone during dinner what Azuruko had said before, about Ace not going to get his old personality back. It did seem like most understood it as it did make sense, but no one had really thought about it. It had calmed down in the galley and Marco could see Ace seeming half bored as he spoke with a few, making so Marco put up the offer for a card game, which some of them instantly wanted to join on, including Ace.

As Marco had gotten the cards and asked who wanted to deal, Rakuyo had said they should maybe let one of those who hadn't dealt a lot, making Marco hum as he looked at Ace. "How about it, Ace? Would you like to try and deal, yoi?" It had Ace smile as he perked up. "Oh! I can try and deal?" Marco nodded. "Sure, yoi." It had Ace smile and looking excited. "How do I do it?" Marco gave a small hum. "Well, we're 5 people here, so you need to deal out 45 cards." Ace blinked. "But… doesn't a deck only have 42 cards?" Marco nodded. "Yes, that's true. But since we're so many, it's two decks, so 84 cards, yoi." Ace nodded. "Makes sense. So, 45 cards?" Marco nodded. "Yes. Start with someone, and just go around counting. When you get to 45, you stop dealing, and the game starts, yoi. The same we've played." Ace nodded, before Ace started to deal out the cards, starting with him as Marco was next to Ace. The cards were dealt slower than usual, which normally would have caused some words being thrown out by everyone, but they were still lenient with Ace, letting him use the time he needed. Ace always enjoyed playing cards with them. And Azuruko had said card games did work as a small memory exercise, and it was good for Ace to play card games now and then. Marco could hear Ace counting as he dealt out the cards, seeming to concentrate.

Marco still remembers before, when Ace dealt the cards, he would just quickly deal them out before starting. Ace had always been quick in counting and dealing cards, so it was a bit unusual, but it went fine. "Twenty-seven, twenty-eight, twenty-nine, ...twenty-nine… twen- twenty-nine," Marco looked at Ace, who had a deep frown as he looked to be concentrating and looking half scared, still holding the card as he said the number over and over, Marco not sure why. "Twenty-nine, si- fou- ei- twenty-nine." It was clear Ace was troubled and disturbed, and it was then Marco got why. Ace didn't know which number came next, Ace didn't know what came after 29. The first commander could see the others also understanding why Ace had issues, and Marco didn't know if he should help or not. Marco felt relieved when Azuruko spoke up, looking calm as he still read his book. "Thirty." Ace blinked, before he nodded, placing the card down. "Thirty. Thirty-one, thirty-two," Ace continued the counting, Marco still feeling unsure. Ace had looked so troubled and almost scared as he didn't know the next number. When Ace reached 39, there was a small pause, before Ace continued with 40 and up to 45, when he stopped the dealing and placed the remaining cards in the middle for the game to start. Marco decided to not bring it up and the card game went as usual, Ace seeming to enjoy himself.

When the card game was over, Ace said he felt a bit tired and wanted to go and relax, which Azuruko said was fine and Ace left. When the door closed, Azuruko gave a small sigh. "That was a good example on how declarative memory tasks can be hard for him. I have heard about many that struggle when passing into the next ten in counting." Marco nodded. "Okay, so it's normal, yoi?" Azuruko nodded. "Yes. This is a thing that often stays, but at times he might be able to count without trouble, and sometimes he can't. Just give him a couple seconds, then help him out. I have heard it's scary for them, to not know what comes after the 9. They know how to count, but that leap from a number ending with nine and to the next is hard and they know the number, but can't remember which it is. So don't use it against Ace, the fact he can't remember is hard for him, too." Marco nodded, and he understood that. Ace had looked bothered and troubled, even scared as he tried to remember the next number. It was still hard to see Ace have issues with things like that, and how Ace looked so confused himself. Azuruko hummed. "And I know it can look a bit scary, as Ace looks disturbed and panicked, but it is a good memory exercise." Marco nodded as he thought it over, and it made sense. "So we should try and let him deal at times, yoi?" Azuruko nodded. "Yes. Counting uses many of the brain functions, and half needs parts of the brain to communicate and also have the memory of what he has said and what to say next. When you have a sort of brain trauma, automatic tasks can be hard to do for some people, especially when you need to concentrate. Not many think of how much our brains work when counting, especially when you put motion to it, like dealing cards. It uses almost all of the major lobes, which Ace has difficulty with. Mind you the ones he has the most difficult with is the hippocampus and neocortex, but the frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobes is the place to start when healing the memory and hippocampus."

Marco nodded, going to try and ask Ace to deal now and then, and maybe see if he can find other things. "How about other memory exercises, yoi?" Azuruko chuckled. "I am sure you mean exercises you can use without making Ace notice it and seem like normal actions." Marco nodded, making Azuruko hum. "It can be as easy as asking 'what have you been doing today?', or even what Ace want to do later. Food can also be a good help here, as different tastes can make the hippocampus work with the neocortex. Basically, just ask general questions, and if he can't answer, let it go. Do not push if he doesn't remember, and do not push if he remembers. Let Ace take everything in his pace, this whole ordeal is terrifying to him." Marco nodded and would do his best to help Ace with small exercises, especially as he knew more about it now. Marco would do his best to help Ace feel welcomed and also help him along the day with small things. Marco still enjoyed being around Ace, and he felt Ace did too. Things would work out somehow, Marco would try his best.

-x-

Ace was gone for a couple hours, before he returned a bit before dinner time and Ace ate in the kitchen with a few of them, seeming to not want to be around too many. A few did join Ace in the kitchen, Thatch also asking the chefs to take a break so they could sit in the kitchen without too much noise around them. Whitebeard was glad to see Ace enjoying being around them, even without Azuruko. The captain had noticed Ace hadn't wanted to be much around him, or approach him much, but Ace did approach and go to others, which was good. Ace had seemed unsure at times when he looked at him and when the captain spoke, and Whitebeard didn't really know what to think of that, but he didn't feel it was anything bad and Ace was around him and the others. There were still times Ace had issues with remembering who everyone were and if he had met them that day, but some days that went fine. But overall Ace was better than he had been before and Whitebeard hoped it would stay like this, Ace getting better. He still hadn't remembered anything from before he disappeared, but Azuruko had said to not lose hope, it could take time. When they had finished eating, Ace had said he would like to look around on the boat, and Haruta had said she could walk around with him. Ace mentioned he wanted to look around at times, and every time he seemed to forget every now and then and wanted another tour.

As Haruta was showing Ace around, they stayed in the kitchen and spoke a bit about everything. Azuruko had asked a bit himself on how it was like to be a pirate, the aspects of it, telling he had heard many different reasons and wanted to know their view on it. The pink-haired man found their family aspect of being a pirate something he had heard before, but never seen in such large quantity and how so many got along with each other. Which was true in a way, and had Whitebeard chuckle. "It's true, not everyone are such fans of each other, but everyone here has a mutual ground; wanting a family and place to belong. Everyone doesn't need to be best friend with everyone, but able to work together, and make their own groups of good friends within the family." It had Azuruko nod and say he agreed with the captain. The man said he had seen pirate groups where they needed to get along, or have captains that were overbearing with needing everyone to act like a perfect family. And that a perfect family didn't exist, they all had their flaws. Which was true.

As they were on the family topic, the captain had asked Azuruko if he had any, which the man chuckled too. "No, I don't. Both my parents died young, and I was an only child. And I've never wanted to find a life partner. I guess when you can just touch someone and then know all their memories and experiences, it just doesn't seem like anything special anymore. I enjoy helping people and then let them move on if they want. Many of my previous patients live at my island or other places with other of my patients. I have many places I can go and feel at home." Whitebeard nodded. "I have heard about your reputation, and it's a large one, spreading across both pirates, and none pirates, from small islands to large ones, even across marine ranks." The pink-haired man gave a small chuckle. "What I say, is that home is where your heart is. And I can be that home for them for a bit, if they walk with me. And most find their own place to call home, and I move on to the next one needing help or guidance. I find it giving and I enjoy my days and life, making new friends and allies throughout the entire word. Everyone has their own story and I don't judge them on it." Whitebeard could see his children nodding and it was clear Azuruko was a calm man many looked up to. The captain was glad Azuruko had been the one to find Ace, and no one else.

They continued to speak about things, and it wasn't long before Haruta came back to the kitchen alone, and said Ace wanted a break and had left for his room. They headed of the kitchen then and continued the day as they normally would, Ace coming out and being around them from after a couple hours until the evening. And the next day started calm and Ace had been up early during breakfast, Marco telling the captain Ace had said he had a tough night again, and had went back to relax a bit after eating. Ace did show up close to lunch times, and stayed out with them, seeming to be in good mood as usual. When Ace were out on deck like he was now, there were many that wanted to speak with Ace and just chat, all of them feeling bad for thinking Ace had betrayed them and the fate Ace himself had met, even if he didn't remember it himself. There were still many Ace didn't remember, and everyone was sort of getting used to it, but still a few looked hurt, but went with it as Ace was still in a good mood as he enjoyed meeting new people.

But, it was when they had finished dinner, Ace having ventured a trip out while most of them stayed in the galley, they had gone into the kitchen as the weather outside had gone bad and Whitebeard knew Ace wouldn't like to be around too many at once, and someone would tell the kid they were in the kitchen. But as they were speaking and playing some games in the kitchen, Izou had showed a bit off his gun to Curiel, telling he felt the gun felt sort of jammed at times, and Curiel had some experience with making guns and given some tips for it. But as Izou had checked his gun, he had hold it out and half aimed with it, just to see if it looked straight, not going to shoot it as Izou didn't have his finger on the trigger. But as the gun was pointed towards the door out to the galley, it opened and Ace came through it, holding a glass of some drink. But as Ace's gaze lifted as the door was opened and landed on Izou and his gun, the smile Ace had had fell as he got a scared look, seeming frozen as he lost the grip on the glass and it shattered on the ground, Ace hands shaking as his gaze was stuck on the gun, his breath seeming to be stuck in his chest. And when Izou moved the gun away, obviously seeing it caused some sort of reaction, it had Ace get out of the stuck gaze as he fell down to the ground, hands holding him up as he breathed heavily, body shaking in fear as he even had a few beads of sweat on his forehead.

It was Azuruko who moved first them, moving a hand to Ace's head and making Ace fall asleep, not seeming too worried. When Izou asked what had happened, obviously scared he triggered something, Azuruko said he didn't know what it was himself as he moved Ace to a couch, telling he would do a check, as it could be many different things and reasons. Many people feared guns. Ace hadn't had a reaction to any gun yet, but no gun had been pointed at him though, so that could be the reason why. And no matter what, it wasn't Izou's fault, he hadn't done anything wrong and not be afraid he did. And if Azuruko was calm, Whitebeard would try the same.

Whitebeard watched as Azuruko moved his hands on Ace's head, a look on concentration on his face, his hands having a white hue. He hoped Ace was fine and whatever that reaction Ace had had to seeing Izou's gun pointed at him, was nothing bad. He just hoped it wasn't a setback. After a few seconds, Azuruko hummed. "He's remembering something, the gun triggered a reaction of fear to a memory." Whitebeard wasn't sure if that was a good thing or not. Marco was the first one to speak. "What did he remember, yoi?" That was a good question, it might have been a memory from years ago or from his capture. Azuruko hummed as he moved his hands a bit over Ace head, before moving a hand out with his palm up. "It's been a while since I've done this, so I hope it works." Whitebeard wondered what the man would do, but before anyone could ask, a white orb appeared over Azuruko's palm. He heard the pink-haired man take a breath as his brow furrowed while he concentrated, and as he did, a picture appeared inside the orb, starting with a dark picture, just dark grey. Azuruko took another breath and the image inside the orb started moving.

A flash of lightning was visible from dark clouds, before a loud rumble sounded, and the image turned to rain falling on mountain ground, them hearing panting as it seemed like someone was running. The image then turned to look backwards, towards shapes of people running after someone and a building hidden in a mountain with lights shining out, seeming to be trying to locate something or someone. Then, a grunt was heard as it seemed like a person fell, it looking to be a hard fall, as hands tried to soften the fall, but the rain made the stone slippery and only caused wounds and scratches from the rocky ground. But, as the person fall, a way too familiar hat was thrown a bit forward, and only a second later, the person stood up and put the hat back on. This was Ace's memory, and Ace was trying to run away. They could see Ace turning to look behind again, still running, and seeing that the people that were chasing him had closed in as he had fallen. He heard a gunshot, but it seemed like they missed thankfully. They watched as Ace sounded panicked as he ran as fast as he could, tripping every now and then, sobs along with the panting. Ace tripped again, just a small one though, as he was able to keep on running, but he still needed to have his hands down to help keep himself upright. They could see his leg, his feet bare and bleeding from the hard surface, but they also got a view of his left foot, which had a huge portion missing, seeming to be the reason Ace had such issues running, and Ace must be in a lot of pain, but he ignored it as he tried to get away; Ace was desperate to get away.

They watched as Ace ran and seemed to be getting a bit further away from his chasers, Ace sounding scared and desperate, which he understood. They could hear the thunder rumbling around Ace and lightning illuminating the ground now and then, it seeming to be the only way Ace knew where he could run. Ace continued to run and fell now and then, each fall making more and more wounds visible on Ace's arms and legs. After almost a minute of running when the lightning flashed, Ace halted, the cliff's edge showing a huge plunge to rocky waters below, no real way of running without turning around. Whitebeard felt his heart ache as this must be another escape attempt; Ace didn't have anywhere to run. They could see Ace looking down the plunge of the cliff, before looking back at the people chasing him, as if contemplating if he should jump. It was hard to see Ace so desperate he was thinking of jumping off a cliff that had to be at least a 300-foot dive to rocks by the start of the rocky island and waves hitting at it. Ace wouldn't survive that fall, but he was still thinking of jumping; a fall to his death would probably be better than being captured in Ace's mind. They watched as Ace turned to look behind himself again, taking a step backwards towards the cliff's edge as the chasers were closing in. They could see Ace sending looks at the plunge down to the rocks. But, as Ace looked back towards the people chasing him and what could best be described as a base about 200 feet behind him, they felt their breaths stop with Ace's as they saw a huge barrel of a sort of gun directed towards him, like a sniper. Not a second after noticing it, it fired, the sound deafening the thunder. Ace had nowhere to turn, both in the sense of actually turning and the time to react, before the bullet hit Ace's left side of the head, the impact causing Ace to stumble and be thrown backwards, off the cliff and plunging down to the rocks, before everything turned black.

The black image turned somewhat grey, blurry flashes of light being seen with thunder, no one able to make anything out distinctively. "-chance he survived?" A snort was heard. "He got hit, and a 350 feet plunge down? Nah, kid's dead, body probably washed away. Let's go update boss. Damn that we lost him; we could have good use of him, intel on those damn Whitebeards, if he'd just cracked." Whitebeard felt a breath leave him. They had taken Ace since he had the most information about them in that group, and Ace hadn't said anything, he had kept his information to himself. Even after going through hell, or probably even worse, Ace, the young kid, had kept his mouth shut. And they had thought Ace had betrayed them? Whitebeard wondered how they could turn their backs on Ace so fast when he had been so faithful and strong to keep their secrets, to keep the family safe. With everything in his power, he will try and make Ace feel comfortable and loved, even if he didn't remember them. Whitebeard needed to right this mistake to his best abilities. Ace was a perfect family member, a perfect son, one who didn't tell anything when someone had taken his mark off his back, burned and slashed it away and placed a brand; who hadn't told anything after having his foot cut off. Ace, who has gone through things he was sure they couldn't even imagine. Ace was faithful, and the captain needed to make it up to Ace, make him feel loved and cherished, as he should be. It was the least he could do after what Ace had gone through and never said a word. Ace had a strong will and mind, it was clear as day. Ace would have rather jumped to his death than to be kept there more and tortured to tell the secret of his family. Ace was a young kid, but had the will and strength of thousands of men, probably more than he himself had. He could never make up to the mistake he had made, that he had thought Ace had abandoned them and betrayed them. But he would try his best.

When he looked back at the orb, which was still grey and blurry, they heard footsteps, before things went black again. When an image was visible again, they saw that Ace was lying at some sort of stone shore, not looking to be where he had been as it seemed to be somewhat even terrain, not a huge cliff in front of him. As Ace seemed to get his bearings, he managed to slowly stand up, but he had some issues, seeming to feel weak, which would be an understatement. As Ace was up, he looked around and they could see what had to be the island he had been at with a huge cliff some miles away, Ace not seeming to make sense of everything as he shook his head, moving a hand to it, before slowly walking on the rocky ground, away from where he had been, slowly moving away from the water he had been in. "Hello, are you okay?" Ace turned his head, them seeing Azuruko some feet away, looking as calm as he did, but also having concern in his eyes. When Ace didn't react, Azuruko motioned to his head. "Your head; it's bleeding." Ace moved a hand to his head, blinking confusedly when it came back bloody. Ace then looked back at Azuruko, seeming to try and speak, but he wasn't able to as everything went black again. Ace had just remembered how he had escaped, and it wasn't a clean runaway, as the captain had hoped. He had hoped Ace had managed to run away, not that he had been chased and shot in the head, making him fall off a cliff, the only reason he was alive being that they hadn't found his body. It was a miracle Ace had survived at all.

When a memory started up again, it was different bits of Ace's time with Azuruko, showing how close they had gotten and how Azuruko had cared for Ace, how the pink-haired man had helped Ace during the last months. It was clear Ace was fond of Azuruko and trusted the man, and it was clear to see why. The orb then disappeared from Azuruko's hand, and the man moved his hand back to Ace's head, seeming to be concentrating again, the white hue changing to a yellow one. "What are you doing?" Asked Izou, looking worried. Azuruko shook his head a bit. "I'm taking the emotions: fear, desperation, and pain away from the memory. Changing it with lesser and easier to handle emotions. I don't want to erase the memory, but I don't want him to have the fear and desperation, the pain he felt, so I'm erasing that part." Whitebeard felt amazed by that, the Azuruko could do that, to erase just the emotions to the memory and not the memory itself. "Will Ace remember it?" Azuruko gave a sigh. "I hope so. He has been making great progress in remembering things, so I hope he will. This was one of the reasons I wanted to join; I can take away the fear, pain, desperation, loneliness, every negative emotion to a memory and place easier ones. There's a reason he's not remembering; it's painful, and his mind knows that, it's trying to protect Ace, protect him from all those emotions and memories, keeping him from going insane, the emotions are painful and horrible, and no normal person would be able to handle it."

It made sense, and Whitebeard was glad they had Azuruko, that it was him that had found Ace. He couldn't imagine what Ace had gone through; he had been captured for almost a month, and how he had contemplated to jump off the cliff himself was a sign it must have been hell; it was no wonder Ace had forgotten it, that that bullet, and probably the fall, had made his mind just forget everything. The captain watched as Azuruko's hands turned to a blue hue, the man speaking before they could ask. "Now I'm just making him sleep for a couple hours, to just relax. it's a tough memory, even without the emotions." Azuruko then moved his hand away from Ace's head, who was asleep and would be for a while. "He will be fine. It is good his memoires are coming back, even if it needed a trigger." Marco spoke first. "Why did the trigger make it happen, yoi? Why wouldn't he remember on his own?" That was a thing the captain wondered himself. Azuruko gave a nod. "We have 2 types of emotions that cause the most activity in the brain. These are happiness and love, positive emotions; and fear and desperation, negative emotions. Being faced with the end of a gun again caused a fear, and the brain searched for a reason for the fear, causing the neocortex to communicate with the temporal lobe, where the memory is kept. This is a good sign; the different parts of his brain are slowly trying to communicate, but needed a trigger, a reason to communicate. He might have more of this, both good and bad, maybe he will one day remember happy times with you, or negative memories. The ones who are causing this block are the negative emotions and trauma from his capture. If he can process those, there is a high chance his memory will return. Some might not need a trigger as him being here can make him remember good times with you too. And, just so I am sure I have informed all of you. Ace will never become the Ace you knew, even if he gets his memories back. His personality won't change. The personality he has now, will stay. He might get all his memories back, but not his old personality. I know, and am glad, his personality is close to what he was before, but it will never go back to that." All of them nodded, having heard this and understood it.

And that sounded perfect, that there was a high chance Ace would recover and get his memories back, but before they could react, Azuruko continued. "But, I have met, seen, and heard of others who have memory loss because of trauma, and some never remember everything, some do. Ace's amnesia isn't just because of the emotions, but because of actual trauma to the brain; the gun shot and fall. It caused bad hemorrhaging and swelling, so his brain might be damaged, meaning he won't get all his memories back, and will stay like this; forgetting things and having issues making new memories and remembering recent things. This is not certain, but a possibility. Just so you don't think Ace will be himself again; he might never be." Whitebeard nodded. "What do you think?" Azuruko took a breath. "I think he will get more of his memories back, but I am unsure about all of it, but I think he will get most back, maybe half. With the actual brain trauma, it might be a lasting effect, that he will have issues remembering and retaining memories. Many have normal lives based on this, but need a bit of reminding at times when they forget. We just need to wait and see. And yes, I think Ace will become mostly himself, but have small issues with declarative memory task. As in; yes, he can remember how to play a game of cards, but ask him to deal out cards might not be easy for him and he forgets what he's doing or where he was in the counting. Or he's able to help with cleaning and reordering things, but not able to bake something or move many specific things. When a simple task gets tough, he has issues. As you witnessed, Commander Marco, back on the island. He could put the supplies away, but not remember where afterwards, and then his mind forgets the entire event. He might stay like that; his mind was badly damaged. He can do easy tasks, but if it becomes a harder task, something a normal person would be able to do with some memory process, he might have issues. But, none of this is for sure. Keep your spirits high and hope he will recover fully, but keep in mind he might never recover fully." That made sense, and he had seen that in Ace, that slightly tougher tasks, but normal tasks, were tough for him. But they could live with that, he just wanted Ace to remember them, remember him and all the happy memories he has from being with them.

Azuruko did say this could be a good sign, the jolt of getting a memory like this could help aid Ace getting more memories back. Azuruko saying since he hadn't remembered much or had any memories so far, aside from the occasional nightmare and small words or actions, it was the first time his brain could get a full memory, which was the first time different parts of his brain worked and communicated together. This might have seemed frightful, but was the first step in hopefully making more memories come back to Ace, some which he might remember, and some he might forget again. Azuruko did say he hoped Ace would remember more as he was around to help with it. Remembering things could be hard and harsh for Ace, while some other might be good and calm. It was all a process of its own. And for today, Ace would most likely relax, mostly since Azuruko would keep him asleep for a bit, and when Ace was awake again, to not push on anything. Not ask much about anything in the memory, maybe just if he remembered if anything special had happened. Whitebeard got it, same with the rest of them. Azuruko also said to not be afraid to have their weapons out, just not act different than usual because of this. That wouldn't be good for Ace as he would most likely notice something was off. For them to just act normal as they had and continue as they had.

They didn't see Ace until evening came and he seemed fine. Azuruko had said Ace half remembered the memory, which was good enough for him. It was better than nothing and as it had been, Ace often used a couple days for things to stick. It also happened every now and then that Ace half paused his movements as he moved around or spoke with someone, and other times his eyes looked around in a half-confused manner. Ace did always say he was fine, sometimes more hesitant than other times. They had also had a few more card games, and when Ace dealt the cards, Ace still had issues counting past certain numbers after 9, sometimes just being one time, others more than one in a count, and sometimes he had no issues. It was still had to see Ace having issues and not able to continue counting, especially as Ace always got a panicked and scared look, obviously being bothered by it, which the captain got. It must be terrifying for Ace to not be able to do a simple task. And there were still times Ace couldn't answer a simple question about things he had just done or heard as he had forgotten about it, but it seemed to be easier for Ace as he didn't know he had forgotten. Ace also hadn't remembered he had a devil fruit, or had any accidents with his hand catching fire or anything close to it. The only things was one chilly evening Ace had said he didn't feel cold, Ace saying it was probably since he was warm bodied and Whitebeard didn't want to say anything to alert Ace. Ace had always thought the fire he had was scary the few times he had remembered, and Azuruko hadn't said anything either. They wouldn't say anything unless they were sure it was fine or they had the approval of Azuruko.

So, when they were out today, being a windy day, Ace had done his best to keep a hand on his hat, so it didn't blow away. Ace had said he didn't like to not have the hat on, as he didn't like the fact half his head had little to no hair, making the scar for the surgery stand out, especially as it hadn't been that long ago since Ace had had the setback and Azuruko needed to reopen the wound. But it was healing nicely. But since it was windy, it wasn't that surprising when Ace was engrossed in a conversation that the hat got caught in the wind and flew a bit away, Izou thankfully managing to catch it. Ace did look relieved as he headed towards the sixteenth commander to grab his hat again. But as Ace was in front of Izou, the black-haired kid stopped a second as he seemed to look half confused, hand starting to reach out to grab the hat.

Ace blinked as his hand stopped for a second, a look of shock on his face, before grabbing the hat with a smile to Izou. "I know you." Izou blinked, same with them. He had spoken with Izou today, and had remembered the sixteenth commander for some time now, so why suddenly mention it. Maybe Ace had forgotten about it and suddenly felt he knew Izou? Izou did his best to smile. "You do. We spoke earlier today." Ace shook his head. "No, not that. I know you from before; you fixed my hat, it had gotten torn somehow. Thank you." That had all of them blink. Izou had fixed Ace's hat, and that was almost 9 months ago, the hat being damaged in a battle. Izou smiled at Ace. "Yeah, a sword damaged it. I couldn't let your hat be damaged, so I fixed it. You thanked me then too." Ace smiled as he put his hat on. "Thank you again then; I really like this hat." Izou smiled as he gave a small wave with his hand. "Oh hush. I would fix anything I could for you; that's what family does." Ace blinked as his smile faltered for a second, before it came back again with a half-sheepish look. "Thank you, Izou." Ace then left, heading towards the main deck, where he knew Azuruko was.

As Ace was walking away, he could see Izou standing still, and as soon as he was out the door, Izou turned around as he did a small jump, looking overjoyed, almost euphoric actually. "He remembered me! Ace remember me! I was remembered!" Thatch and Haruta was just as quick to start jumping up and down with Izou, looking overjoyed. "Oh my God! Ace remembered something! He remembered something from the boat!" said Haruta excitedly as all three of them looked to be overjoyed and having their own little celebration. Whitebeard felt delighted and thrilled himself, glad Ace remembered a happy memory from his time with them. He could also see the others being glad too, but not showing it like Haruta, Izou, and Thatch. This meant there was a strong possibility he would get more memories back and hopefully get more back to himself.

The next few days went by in the same fashion as it had, nothing significant happening. Ace hadn't remembered anything new, at least to what the captain had heard. It had been times Ace had looked at them for long periods, as if sort of remembering something, but hadn't said anything, so it might just be faint things, or just a feeling Ace had. But Ace was improving and slowly remembering things, and that was amazing and the captain hoped Ace would continue to improve and feel better. Whitebeard still had a feeling Ace felt unsure around him, as Ace still never spoke much with him or was too much around him especially when there weren't many others around. What mattered the most to him, was that Ace felt comfortable on the boat. It also wasn't long before they got to Sabaody Archipelago, and the captain knew when they got there, if it was right away or when they moved on, they would part ways with Azuruko, and Whitebeard didn't know where Ace would go, the captain wasn't sure what the kid thought of that, and hoped Ace would give them the chance to get to know him, and for Ace to get to know them more. Whitebeard didn't want to ask about it, not sure if Ace knew about this himself and would wait until he felt more confident in it or when Ace or Azuruko mentioned it. Whitebeard would just keep his hopes up.

-x-

Ace sighed as he moved after Azuruko, the man asking to speak with him for some reason. Ace was still not too sure about all of this, about the pirates. Ace knew he had been a part of them before, but it felt so weird. He felt more comfortable around Azuruko and on land, not on a boat. But at the same time… it felt natural. It was confusing, and he wasn't too sure who he could speak with. His head still hurt at times, and he felt he was missing something almost all the time. But the fact Azuruko was there to help made it easier, as well as the first commander, as he seemed nice. Everyone on the boat seemed nice, but Ace was still unsure. When they got to Ace's room, Ace sat down on his bed, Azuruko sitting down next to him, Ace not sure what to think. It was rare the man wanted to speak with him alone and had a feeling it would be about something bad.

Azuruko moved to look him in the eyes, giving a breath. "Now, Ace. This is going to sound tough; we'll soon dock at Sabaody Archipelago, and when the pirates move on to the New World; I will not join." Ace blinked. What? "B-but what about me? Shouldn't I stay here?" Azuruko gave a sigh. "This is your choice. This is your family, and you are welcome to keep staying here with them, get to know them more, hopefully remember more. But, you are also welcome to go home with me; you are, in a way, my charge. But this is something only you can choose. And you don't need to choose now. We will dock in 2 days, and then be at the island for 3 days before the pirates and I part ways, and you can go with whoever you want." No, Ace didn't want this, he had hoped Azuruko would stay. Azuruko moved a hand to Ace's cheek, moving his thumb to wipe a tear away. "I know this is hard, but it is a decision you need to make. I know you don't feel like it, but you have known them for almost two years before I found you. You've only known me for 3, almost 4, months. I know you don't feel like that, I know the memories seem far away, but they all care for you, and think of you as family. You are still getting memories back, memories from before you met the pirates, and after you did, how you got to know them and all the good times with them. I hope you will get more back, but you can only do that if you stay, and see how true the memories are." Ace nodded, feeling he had tears in his eyes. "Okay. I- I don't know what I want to, where I want to stay." Azuruko nodded. "The reason I am informing you now, to give you time to decide. But remember, even if you stay on this boat, stay with the pirates, I am always just a call away." That helped, to know he could speak with the man whenever he could. Ace nodded, and Azuruko gave a smile. "Good. I know this is a lot, and you're still healing, so try and go to sleep." Ace nodded, staying seated in his bed. He didn't know what to do. He had hoped someone would tell him what to do, not that he needed to choose himself. He didn't know if he could trust these pirates, or how it would be after Azuruko left. Ace didn't know anyone here, and Ace didn't want to be alone. He wanted to be around Azuruko and those he knew, Ace still wanted to go back home at times, to what he knew and felt comfortable with, but also wanted to see more of the world.

Ace didn't know what to do or think, and he needed to figure it out somehow.

-x-

Ace knocked on the door in front of him, but he got no answer, so he knocked again, a bit harder. When there was still no answer, he carefully moved a hand to handle and found the door open, carefully opening it. "Marco?" When he saw the inside of the room, it was empty, but a candle by the desk was lit. He knew Marco didn't leave long when it was lit, so he might be back soon. He went inside the room and closed the door behind him, hoping Marco would be back soon, really needing to speak with him, just with someone, and Marco felt the easiest. He moved to sit down on Marco's bed, seeing he had a few things open on the desk, a lot of paperwork and stuff, but also a book. It wasn't a big book, so he took a peek, moving to hold it as he read the page. It was about a whale hunter, who hunted a huge whale. ...Where had he heard that before? Hadn't he? Whale… Huge whale? Come on, Ace! You know this! He knows he does! Maybe reading a bit more would help? It was worth a shot; he needed something to do until Marco came. As he read on, he found it interesting. The hunter had lost his leg, using a piece of wood as his leg, having a grudge and reason to take the whale's life, a whale he had called 'Moby Dick'. Wait, Moby Dick..? Ace blinked, before he smiled. He was on a whale! The boat was called The Moby Dick, and it had a whale as figure head! So, this was the story apparently. He didn't know that, that there was a story about a whale called that. Is that the reason the boat was called and looked like this? Was the captain a fan of the story? It was interesting to read, and would be sure to ask the captain when he saw him.

He got a few pages into the book, before a hand was on his shoulder, startling him as he looked up to see Marco beside him, having a smile. "Hello, Ace. You didn't react when I said your name, yoi." Ace blinked. "Oh… I'm sorry, I didn't hear it." He didn't mean to ignore the man. Marco shook his head. "No, it's fine, yoi. Is the book interesting?" Ace blinked, before he frowned. Book? "What book?" Marco frowned a bit, before he pointed to his hands, making Ace look down, feeling startled when he held a book. When had he taken that? He moved to read the cover. "...Moby Dick..? Where have I heard that?" Marco gave him a smile. "Our boat, yoi. It's called The Moby Dick, that's the reason it's shaped like a whale." Ace blinked. Oh, yeah, that was right, the boat was called that. He looked down at the cover of the book, seeing a picture of a boat and whale. Was the whale called Moby Dick? Is that the reason this boat is called that? Because of this book? He needed to ask the captain about that later. He lost his trail of thoughts as Marco moved and took the book, placing it on the desk. "It's fine, yoi. Don't think about that. But what brings you here?" Ace blinked, before he looked around, seeing he was in Marco's room. Oh, right. "I just… I spoke with Azuruko yesterday… He said when we reach Sabaody Archipelago, or more like when we leave it… He'll part ways with you… And I don't know what to do; where to stay." He really didn't know what to do.

Marco hummed as he sat down on his chair, facing him. "I can't tell you what to do, yoi. You need to choose this, but you are welcome to stay with us; we would love it if you do. But we will understand if you leave with Azuruko, you know him well, probably more than us at the moment." Ace gave a small smile as he nodded. "Sorta yeah… I mean, I know I have been with you for much longer, over a year… And I remember some of it… It just… seems weird that I have. The memories feel so distant." Marco nodded. "I understand. But whatever you choose, we will support that decision, yoi. You are still getting your memories back, and you are still recovering. I understand you don't feel as you know us yet; because you don't. But we really want to get to know you again. You're our brother, yoi. We love you, and even if you leave with Azuruko, you will always be our brother, our family member." Ace felt his heart warm with that. "Thank you, that means a lot. I would really like to get to know you more, I feel as if I was happy here, and are still. But it's…" Marco gave an understanding smile. "It's intimidating without Azuruko, yoi. And I get that. I understand you're conflicted, and you have every right to be. You need to decide on where you feel comfortable."

Ace smiled at Marco. "I wished you would tell me what to do, and I get you can't. I just… I don't know…" Marco moved a hand to his leg, giving a comforting look. "I can only do so much, yoi. But you know, Pops is someone who usually has good advice. Even I often ask him for advice, and I know you have many times before." Ace blinked. Pops? "...Pops… That's… Oh! Right, that's the captain, Whitebeard." Marco nodded, making him feel proud he remembered, before he felt his smile fall to a sheepish one. "He seems nice… But, to be honest, his size… he's so large." Marco chuckled. "And his heart is even bigger, yoi. He wouldn't harm a fly. Especially not someone he views as family. His bad side though, that's a side I wouldn't want to be on; we all support his decisions usually, and he can fight for himself, the reason he's known as the world's strongest man." Ace blinked. He didn't know that, that the captain was the world's strongest man; he really must be strong then. The man had seemed really nice the times they had spoken, and he could faintly remember sitting on his leg and feeling safe, so he must be nice… But still.

Marco clapped his leg, making him look at Marco. "I have an idea, yoi. I know from before I came here, that Pops' in his room, it's cold outside and I don't want him to be sick. But, how about I follow you there? Show that while he is huge, and a booming voice, he is still one of the kindest people I know." Ace smiled at Marco. "I would like that… And isn't that normal..? You forcing him to his room?" Marco chuckled. "It is, yoi. He never puts his jacket on, the reason I do it. Did you remember I have done that?" Ace frowned. "Not exactly; it just seemed like a sentence I have heard." Marco nodded. "Sounds right, yoi. I do say it often. Shall we go?" Ace nodded as he stood up. Marco seemed like a man with a lot of authority and respect, as he could even order the captain around with things. He just hoped this would go fine.

-x-

Whitebeard sat in his room and read a book, a bit annoyed as Marco had, once again, forced him to be in his room as it was apparently cold outside. The cold was nothing, Marco was just overreacting as usual. But he knew what a mad Marco could do, especially if Bay managed to hear he was out; those two combined was even scarier. As he was about to turn the page in the book, there was a knock on his door. He looked over to it and felt a sigh leave him as he felt it was Marco, but then felt curious when he wasn't alone. He couldn't decipher who it was, but it was someone. "Come in." The door opened and he saw Marco taking a step inside, the second person staying out of view. "Hello, son. What brings you back so soon?" Marco chuckled. "Well, for one, I see you still haven't put on your jacket, yoi." Whitebeard gave a laugh. "I am in my room, Marco! I don't need my jacket inside!" Marco shook his head with a sigh, but still an amused smile. "And, I didn't come alone." The captain nodded, already knowing that and curious on who the second person was. "And who are you with?" Marco moved to look out of the door, an amused smile on his face. "I am still standing with my head on my shoulders, yoi. Come in, better than to be out." Whitebeard felt amused by that comment, and it was a couple seconds before he saw Ace walking from outside, looking unsure as he gave a small wave to him. "H-hi…"

Well, this was something he hadn't expected. Ace hadn't approached him when he was in his room, or when he was out in his chair alone. Actually, Ace generally hadn't approached him. "Hello, Ace. How are you feeling? I hope Marco hasn't told a fabricated lie that I bite people's heads off, because I certainly do not do that." Marco gave a sarcastic laugh. "Har har. You know it's a saying, yoi. I just accompanied Ace here; he could use some advice if you feel up for a chat." Whitebeard would always have time to speak with Ace, that was a priority. He hadn't wanted to approach Ace as Ace never have approached him. "Of course I am. You are allowed to stay if you want, Marco." Marco shook his head. "I have paperwork, yoi. But thanks." Marco then left with a clap on Ace's back, offering a smile that Ace returned with a small thank you.

When the door closed, Ace seemed unsure of what to do, so Whitebeard gave a comforting look. "Feel free to sit down wherever you feel comfortable, Ace. You can choose if you want to sit on a chair, on the bed, a pillow on the floor, or any other place." Ace gave a small nod, and seemed a bit hesitant, before he moved to sit on a padded chair that had armrests like a couch, bringing his legs up with him. It was clear Ace was unsure. Whitebeard offered a smile. "So, how are you? You didn't get to answer my question. And I hope my children haven't spread any rumors or inaccuracies that have made a misrepresentation of me." Ace blinked at him, before he quickly shook his head. "Oh no no, they haven't; promise. They've been nice. It's just… you're so large… I don't mean to be rude. ...and I'm fine..." Whitebeard shook his head with a comforting smile. "You have no reason to be afraid or apologize for being rude; many are intimidated by someone my size. I could clearly see that on the island Azuruko is from, no one was even close to me in size. It would be natural to be intimidated." Whitebeard knew Ace had charged at him and waited for him when they first met almost 2 years ago, but he was sure he couldn't be the only one this large he had met then. Ace didn't know people his size even existed before they had shown up on the island. But he still hoped Ace would feel comfortable around him again.

Ace nodded at him. "Y-yeah. I think Azuruko was one of the taller ones. It's… new… sort of." The captain nodded. "I understand that. Now, Marco mentioned you could need some advice? I promise I don't bite." Ace gave a small smile. "I have never heard that saying, and you do seem nice. It's just…" Ace sighed, looking down at his hands that was on his knees. "Azuruko… I guess I've always known, but he mentioned it. That when we reach that island… Um… Sabaody Archipelago, and you move on, Azuruko won't join; he will head home… I… I don't know what to think or do… I mean… You've known me for long, so it should be easy to just say I will stay here… but it isn't… I don't know who to stay with…" Whitebeard saw Ace fiddling with his hands, face filled with trouble, looking unsure, both because of the dilemma, but also his reaction. The captain gave a comforting look. "I see. That does sound like a dilemma. I know you probably feel as if it should be an easy choice; to stay with us. But you barely remember us, and the memories you have are just memories. For you, Azuruko is the one you know here. But I would love it if you gave us a chance to show we care and love you; you are family. And if it goes south, if you regret it, it's only a few months travel until we're back at Azuruko's island."

Ace blinked at him, looking shocked. "You… You would let me go back to him? I mean- I- Wouldn't that make you sad?" Whitebeard nodded. "Of course it would. But, if you decide to join us, but find out later that was a decision you regret, I will take you back to Azuruko. I want the best for my children; I want them to be happy. If you would be happier around Azuruko than us, I am okay with that. Your happiness is my priority, nothing is more important for me than that, even if that means you won't be with us, that is fine." Ace blinked, looking shocked, before getting a sheepish smile. "I- thank you. That means a lot. I just feel unsure. I feel as if I should remember you, all of you… but I don't… I even still find myself confused… that I still forget about things… I don't know what to do…" Whitebeard smiled, moving a hand touch Ace's leg. "The answer is simple; follow your heart, follow what that says. No one is asking for anything more, and whatever your heart tells you, we will support you; you are family; you're my son, and I will always think of you as one." Ace nodded as he gave a smile. "Thank you. I think... I think it might help me choose…"

Whitebeard smiled back. "I hope it does. How do you like it here so far?" Ace shook his head a bit. "It's nice. You are all really nice, and I remember things now and then. But the memories still feel so far away, but also makes me think I was happy here. Even when I forget things, you are still kind." Whitebeard chuckled. "Of course we are. We want you to feel comfortable here. I don't mean to sound bold, but have you remembered anything about me?" Ace looked at him, before he opened his mouth, but seemed to be at a loss for words as it closed, before he opened it again, but once again no sound came out, Ace swallowing. He was about to take the question back when Ace sighed, having a guilty look as he moved his hands to his chest. "S-sort of yes. What I remember most is… feeling safe… I can see faint images of me sitting on your leg, standing by your leg, standing on your shoulder, hearing your voice… and I get this warm feeling, as well as feeling safe… And I feel torn and divided… I know you were someone I trusted and felt safe with. But at the same time, I feel intimidated and unsure... I feel hesitant, and I don't know why… I don't know what to believe..."

It was clear Ace felt torn, and he could understand it. He was just glad Ace remembered something about him, and that it was him feeling safe, remembering short moments of things Ace used to do; he loved physical contact; he craved it since he had had so little of it. Ace doesn't remember that and has been around Azuruko and his friends, and that's what he remembers now. The captain shook his head a bit, smiling at Ace. "It's okay. If it helps. When we first met, we fought. You had one thing clear in your mind; to take my head. Like now, just as it was back then, you were unsure. You first tried to deny our hospitality, before you started to doubt yourself, doubt if you really wanted to leave or not. Marco was the first you bonded with, and when you started to open up, to accept us, you felt happy, and you looked happy. It took time back then too, but after almost 2 months, you joined us and took my mark on as my son."

Ace blinked at him. "Why did I want to take your head? And… I mean… your mark? I don't have one..? I only have this tattoo…" Ace moved a hand to the tattoo on his arm, Whitebeard now realizing he needed to explain, and needed to find the best way to do that. "You thought your father and I was enemies, and thought you were finishing a thing he started by taking my head; but you were wrong. Your dad and I were friends and had been for years. You were led by misinformation we cleared up. And," Whitebeard sighed, knowing this would be hard, "My mark. You had it on your back. The few spots of purple you have, are the remains of what once was a sign you were in my family, and you wore it proudly, and showed it off just as proud." Ace blinked, moving a hand to his back. "I had… Where… Why… why is it gone? Why are there only spots left? I thought I was happy…" Ace looked more distressed as each word left him, making him wish he had kept his mouth shut. "Relax, Ace. You're working yourself up. You were happy; I promise you were happy. But an enemy took you captive, wanting to get information about us from you. They did horrendous things to you; the reason you are missing a part of your foot, as well as why your mark is gone; they took it. They took away your mark, which is the worst thing you can do to a pirate. And they made it worse by branding you, placing their mark on you against your will. You went through hell and worse; the scars show as much. And when you managed to get loose, you ran and tried to get away, but they were hellbent on getting information from you, so they hunted you."

Ace had big eyes as his breath was coming out in short puffs. "They shot me. I ran and they shot me… I was so scared… I wanted away, I tried to get away, and they followed. I was scared... I was desperate… I just wanted away… That smile- that sick smile- he-!" Ace moved his hands down into his hands, hiding it back his knees, shaking it. "I don't want to remember it! I don't want to remember him! I don't want to!" Whitebeard heard Ace's breath hitching, hands clutching at his head, body trembling. He feared Ace would react, and he needed to do something. The captain moved forward and kneeled down on the floor with a leg and brought his hand to Ace's side, doing his best to hopefully make Ace feel safer as he let his thumb rest on Ace's knees, the hand behind Ace's curved back, resting in what was hopefully in a comforting way. "Ace, son, just breathe. It's over, you're safe. I promise you're safe. It's just you and me here, no one else is here. You are safe on the boat, surrounded by people that love and care for you." He really hoped this would help, and felt himself give a breath as Ace's breath sounded less panicked as the pitch it had went down, but kept himself in the half-curled position, hands on his head, body still trembling. Ace did his best to take a breath, a half sob sounding with it as Ace shook his head, hands still covering it. "Please don't make me remember. I don't want to remember him." Whitebeard gave a comforting look, wanting Ace to feel safe. "It's okay, Ace. You don't need to think of it, I didn't mean for you to remember anything bad, I just wanted to answer your question. Try and relax, son. You're safe here." The captain saw Ace nodding, trying to take deep breaths and calm down, eyes still closed shut.

Whitebeard moved a hand to his desk, taking the candle from it and placing it close to them, bringing more light around Ace. "It's fine, Ace. Open your eyes, it's just the two of us here, son. No one is going to hurt you." Ace kept his eyes closed as he tried to get his breathing back under control, before he carefully opened his eyes a little, seeming more confident as he didn't see anyone but him, the captain offering a smile. Ace blinked as he looked around, his hands moving off his head, but still being up and looking to be ready to cover his head again, Ace looking sort of dazed and unsure. "No one is here…" The captain nodded when Ace looked at him. "There isn't. It's just us. I didn't mean for you to remember something you didn't want to. I just wanted to answer your question the best way. Had I known it would scare you, I would have articulated myself differently." Ace gave a breath as he nodded, still looking unsure. "N-no, it's fine. You only wanted to help. I just… I feel afraid sometimes when I try and remember…" Whitebeard shook his head. "It's fine. I don't want you to force yourself to remember something that obviously makes you distressed. If you don't remember everything, that's fine. You are still you, and that's the reason we love you. If you don't remember us, that's fine; because we can make new memories." Ace blinked, before he smiled. "That sounds nice. I'm not really sure if I'm a good pirate, though." The captain laughed. "No, child. No one is a good pirate! Especially when they first become one. Everyone is different. And I know you will be an amazing one. Being a pirate is not about being a good fighter or ruthless person; it's about following your own dreams, being around those you care about, and just enjoying life, making the most of it. Of course, there is the occasional battle, but remember; you're not alone. All of us have each other's backs; because that's what family does."

Ace smiled. "I must admit I'm getting more used to the idea; the family thing. It sounds nice. But… Azuruko won't join… And I know I will either miss him or you, I must part with someone. I don't like that." Whitebeard nodded. "I understand that, and it is a hard choice. But know we will support your decision, even if that is to stay with Azuruko. If you do join us, we will of course stop at his home island every now and then when we're close; he's your family." Ace smiled at him as he nodded, looking glad for that mention. Whitebeard gave a breath, trying to think of that top speak about now. "By the way. Why did Marco follow you here? Did you meet him outside?" He knew Marco had paperwork, the reason he had left after making him go to his room. Ace blinked. "Oh. I asked him for some advice first… He also had this book I was going to ask about, but I can't remember the question..." Whitebeard hummed. "What was it about? The book?" Ace looked to be thinking, eyebrows furrowed as he looked at his hands. "I don't know… I suddenly just held it… there was a picture of a whale… and a boat…" Ah, it might the story about Moby Dick, he knew Marco knew the story, but probably wanted to reread the original book. "Have you seen anything that reminds you of a whale?" He didn't want to tell it if Ace maybe could figure out it himself; it was a good memory exercise as Azuruko had said.

Ace blinked, before his face turned passive, before looking at him confused. "Whale? Why would anything remind me of a whale?" Whitebeard gave a comforting look. "You mentioned you saw a book with a whale when you were with Marco." Ace blinked, before he frowned. "What? Marco… I just spoke with him about what Azuruko said… did I see a book? I don't think I did, I just sat down and spoke with Marco in his room." Whitebeard gave a sigh internally. It was still hard to see Ace having issues and looking confused. The captain gave a comforting look. "It's fine, Ace. It's not important." Ace gave a slow nod, still looking confused and unsure. He moved a hand to Ace's shoulder, making the kid look at him. "It's been a long conversation and a lot of speaking. Why don't you head in for the evening, son? Just go and relax and sleep. And we'll see each other at breakfast tomorrow." Ace blinked, before he nodded with a sheepish look. "Yeah, maybe I should… My head hurts a bit… It was good talking to you, Whitebeard. I think it helped." He gave a smile and a goodbye and goodnight to Ace, before Ace headed out the door, most likely heading for his room.

When the door closed and he was left alone in his room, he let out a breath. He was glad Ace had come, and that Marco had accompanied him. He understood Ace might be a bit intimidated by him, seeing his size, but also glad Ace remembered something about him; that Ace felt safe around him. It was everything he could ask for, and that feeling and memory was contradictory to what he felt now, which must be confusing for Ace. But Whitebeard had a feeling things would be fine.

He had just moved to sit down in his chair and about to reach for his book when the door opened and Marco came in, making the captain chuckle. "I had a feeling you didn't leave for paperwork, son." Marco let out a breath as he sat down on his bed, moving to fall down on his back. "I know. But I thought Ace could have use of being around you alone, yoi. I didn't want to interfere, or leave." Whitebeard chuckled. "You are a caring brother, Marco. Ace is lucky to have you, just as I am lucky to have you as my son and first commander." Marco nodded, giving a sigh. "It's still so hard. To see him forgetting things and being confused, yoi. When he can't answer an easy question since he forgot about what he was saying or doing." Whitebeard gave a comforting look to his oldest son. "Did he forget something when you spoke with him?" Marco nodded, closing his eyes. "He did, yoi. He got to my room when I was away, and started to read a book I had. When I came and asked about it, he was just confused. When I then pointed out the book he still held, he was shocked, as if the book just appeared in his hands, no memory of it, or why the name 'Moby Dick' sounded familiar, same with a whale. And then I mentioned you, or I mentioned Pops. Ace didn't know who that was at first, yoi. It was as if I just said a completely new name he had never heard." Marco opened his eyes and looked at the ceiling, looking troubled. "What if he forgets us again, yoi? What if he can't remember the connection he had to us? What if he leaves with Azuruko and we'll never see him again?"

Whitebeard gave a breath, moving to sit on the bed beside Marco. "I know this is hard, Marco. Ace is still remembering things, and some things are conflicting him too. He remembers feeling safe around me, but he's still intimidated and doesn't know what to believe the most. Ace's memories are a mess in his head, and they are just memories. Our actions speak more than the memories, his current feelings are mixing with the feeling from his memories. Ace's head is still injured and healing, and he might stay like this forever; we don't know. And I know it's hard, but if Ace doesn't feel safe and comfortable enough to leave with us, we need to let him go." Marco sighed, moving a hand to his face. "I know, yoi. But we just got him back, I don't want to let go. I want him to stay, to get to know us again." Whitebeard gave a breath. "And Ace might give us a chance. I said that if he chose to give us a chance and leave with us, but find out later he regrets it, I said I will take him back to Azuruko. All we can do now is hope." Marco nodded, moving his hands to be folded on his stomach. "You're right. I just hope he will stay, yoi. That he will get better." Whitebeard hoped for the exact same thing, but they couldn't do more than hope.

Marco let out a breath, sending a look to him. "How did your talk go, yoi? He was here for some time." Whitebeard chuckled. "He was. After giving him some advice, I told him how he was unsure with us at the start before too, before he accepted us, after trying to take my head. How he took my mark on his back. I should have thought it through as I then needed to explain why he tried to take my head at the start, as well as why the mark is gone. I think he might somewhat remember losing the mark. He got a small panic attack, as he said he didn't want to remember him, a man with a sick smile. He thankfully calmed down." Marco sighed. "That's probably the man he's dreamed about, yoi. He's always so worked up and scared after he has. But I get it. It must have been horrible, I can't even imagine what it must have felt like. They had him for over a month. Over a month in hell, or somewhere worse than hell. No one would be fine after that, yoi." It was true, and Whitebeard had a feeling the memory loss had helped Ace keep him sane, as Azuruko thought.

Whitebeard sent a look at his son. "But he's back now, and even if he never fully recovers, he will always be a part of our family." Marco nodded to that, now getting a smile. This situation was horrible, but they needed to make the best of it, make this Ace enjoy being around them as he had, give him new happy memories. Whitebeard sent a look at his son. "By the way, the book. He mentioned it, that he had a question about it to me. When I then asked what the question was as he trailed off, he didn't know what I was speaking about. He said you just talked, that he met you in your room. I think maybe recalling books, or maybe things he's read, is a tough thing, so we should remember that. I also don't think he remembers coming to the room before you." Marco sighed. "It must be horrible for him too. To have us say things he has no idea why we mention, and suddenly have things appear in his hands, yoi. I know Azuruko said recalling things can be hard, and I've seen it since we first met him on the island; he couldn't recall where he placed the supplies and then forgot everything about them. But still, it doesn't get easier." Azuruko had said that, that recalling things could be hard, or other tasks that might be a bit hard for Ace. "And we will find a way to get used to it, to figure out what he has issues with, and help him as best as we can; support and comfort him so he doesn't get scared, and maybe try the memory exercise at times." Marco nodded. "You're right, yoi. We need to make the best of it, do what's best for Ace." The captain nodded. "We do, and we will. Now, I have a feeling you want to stay here tonight." Marco chuckled. "I'll leave if you put your jacket on, yoi." Whitebeard let out a laugh. "Now Marco! You just gave me more of a reason not to put it on!" Marco chuckled. "I know. But it also gives me a reason to stay, yoi."

Whitebeard chuckled. "You are always allowed to stay, Marco."

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And there is it the 3 chapter to amnesia

I am still so sorry about this being so late, but the last weeks and months have been hectic, but as most things are calmed down and finished, I now have a lot of free time on my hands. The wedding took the most time and planning, and I hope I will never plan another wedding, it was hell. I hope to get the next chapter, and last chapter, to this story up as soon as possible. The only thing I have planned ahead for now is a small honeymoon trip thing, so a lot of free time to write and plan things, both to write this story and every other story I have. I have been so lazy with writing and I hope to get back into a routine with it again

If you have any ideas, don't be afraid to tell them, I love hearing others ideas

And I love feedback too; it is what keeps me going

If you want to, come follow me on Twitter, where pictures and such will be posted, as well as updates, and if I'm late. My twitter is Azuruko You can leave comments, requests, ideas, or just say hi (Link also on my profile)

Or, you can join my Discord server, Azuruko's fiction, for the same reasons as my twitter. Instant invite: discord . gg / 6hzMhbR