Hello everyone, here is chapter 29
And we'll have some bonding in this chapter, more in the next.
Big thanks to OhMy56 for betaing
Hope you enjoy
Read and relax
Marco knocked at Thatch door for the hundredth time. ¨Thatch, please open up, yoi.¨ Nothing happened, making Marco give a sigh. He knew Thatch was in his room, the door was locked from the inside. Marco tried knocking again, ¨Please let me in, yoi. So I can explain. I promise we didn't keep it a secret on purpose.¨ Marco leaned his head against the door. He had already been here for over an hour with no luck. He wished the chef would tell him something, anything. Even if it was for him to leave, he hated that the chef was ignoring him like this. ¨Marco?¨ The first commander turned his head towards the door, seeing Izou there, looking at him with a frown, wondering what he was doing in front of Thatchs room.
Marco didn't know what to tell the sixteenth commander. He couldn't tell him about what Thatch had seen, it wasn't his right to tell.
Marco gave a sigh, looking at Izou. ¨Thatch saw something and I can't get him to open up or speak to me, yoi.¨ Izou looked worried at that, coming closer to him. ¨Why? What did he see?¨ Marco massaged his face, ¨I can't tell, yoi. I promised Ace.¨ Izou gave a nod. ¨I'll try to talk to him. If I get him to go out, I'll send him to Pops.¨ Marco gave a thankful breath, ¨Thank you, Izou.¨ The sixteenth commander gave a nod and Marco turned to leave, hoping Izou could get through to the chef. As he turned around, Izou got his attention again. ¨Luffy and Sabo just arrived, I came to tell you.¨ Marco nodded, ¨I'll go see them, yoi. Tell Thatch I'm sorry if you get in.¨ Izou nodded and turned to the door, knocking on it as Marco left.
When Marco got out on the deck, he started to head towards the infirmary, sure the two brats were there. When he was almost there, he met his father, who seemed to be coming from the infirmary. Marco gave a sigh as he saw him, ¨I couldn't get him to speak to me, yoi. Izou's trying now.¨ Whitebeard nodded, ¨Izou will try his best, son. Let's give him some space for now.¨ Marco nodded. ¨I told him to see if he could get Thatch to come to you, yoi.¨ Whitebeard nodded, giving smile. ¨He'll come out, he needs time. Luffy and Sabo is with Ace, who's awake.¨ Marco nodded, he know Thatch will come out, he'd just wished he didn't ignore him. He knew the chef felt guilty and shocked that Ace had the brand, and hurt they knew and didn't tell him.
Marco felt a sigh leave him. Before he could start walking towards the infirmary, he felt a finger stroking his head for a second. ¨Everything will be fine eventually, son. It might take some time, but we'll get through it.¨ Marco nodded, he hoped it wouldn't take too long. He gave a thankful look to his father, before leaving to see the three brothers.
When he got to the infirmary, he saw Ace was awake as Pops had said. Luffy was lying next to Ace on the bed, telling what they had been doing the last weeks. What concerned Marco, was that Ace wasn't wearing his mask, it lying on the bed next to him. Ace was smiling and asking Luffy about his training. Ace was speaking low, almost whispering. Ace's lungs still wasn't fine, using his voice might be painful. When he got closer to the bed, Ace noticed him and gave a smile, making Luffy also turn around. ¨Birdy Blue Breast!¨
Marco gave a small chuckle, he liked the little brat, even though he called him that. Ace gave a small sigh, but didn't say anything to correct the kid. Marco smiled as he sat down next to Sabo on a chair, ¨Hi, Luffy. How are you doing?¨ Luffy gave a gigantic smile, starting to tell how much fun he had had. Ace smiled as Luffy did, looking to enjoy hearing Luffy being happy and being around his brothers again. Sabo was also smiling, reading a book.
At some parts, he had to laugh, hearing how much weird stuff the kid did. One time Ace had laughed, he had given a few coughs into his hand. It sounded like he was trying not to cough, keeping them down. Marco had given a concerned look to Ace, but when he stopped coughing, he seemed to be doing fine, so Marco looked back to the kid, who hadn't stopped talking. Sabo had also given a look to Ace, which he kept doing every now and then after.
After an hour had gone by, they could hear Luffys stomach growling. Ace gave a small chuckle, ¨Why don't you and Sabo go eat?¨ Luffy gave a smile as he nodded, sitting up and jumping down from the bed, dragging Sabo after him. As the door closed behind the two brothers, Ace instantly started coughing. Marco gave a sigh, moving to stroke Ace's back. He had guessed Ace wouldn't want to show his brothers he was injured or in bad shape, probably also the reason he had taken the mask off. Marco frowned when Ace didn't stop when he used to. This was worse than it had been before. When Ace finally stopped coughing, blood was dripping from his hand and chin, breathing shallow and harshly. This was much worse than before. Marco sent a look to Bay, who was making her way over.
When she was next to the bed, she cleaned the blood away quickly, giving Ace something to drink, before placing the mask back on. When she had, Ace fell asleep. He had been awake for over an hour, much longer he had before. Bay did an examination on Ace, listening to his lungs and throat. She turned the oxygen up, before turning to him. ¨He is fine. The coughing will hopefully not get any worse, but we'll have to see. He is healing and the smoke and dust is getting less, but it's causing strain.¨ Marco nodded, giving a worried look to Ace, who looked tired as he slept. Bay left after giving him a nod.
Marco placed himself on his chair, dragging it closer to the bed so he could stroke Ace's back. He wished Ace would get better so he could stop coughing, it looked to be really painful.
It went an hour before Bay came up to him again. ¨I need to change his bandages. I do not care what you are together, but you are leaving.¨ Marco nodded, he would let Bay do it in peace. As he left, he decided to head to his father's room, hoping Izou had managed to get through to Thatch, and they had spoken together.
When he got to the room, Izou was there, but no Thatch. Marco closed the door behind him, looking at the ones in the room. ¨Did you get through to Thatch, yoi?¨ Izou gave a sigh, ¨He said he was fine and wanted to be alone.¨ Marco sighed, sitting down in an empty chair. Pops shook his head. ¨We need to give him time, he'll come when he's ready.¨ Both Izou and Marco nodded. They didn't like it, Thatch was obviously not fine, but they couldn't force him to talk.
The captain asked about Ace. Marco told that the cough was worse, but it was normal according to Bay. Whitebeard managed to calm him down by keeping them in conversation.
-x-
Thatch sat in his chair, face in his hands that was placed on his desk. He didn't understand why or how. Why no one told him about it and how Ace managed to still be around him. Ace shouldn't want to be around him, it was his fault he had the brand, it was his family brand. And not only that, Marco and Pops knew about it. They probably thought he was at fault to, the reason they hadn't told him. How Ace even managed to be around him was a mystery, how he could look at him and not be remembered on who he were. He had heard more than one time he looked like his father. Thatch's hands tightened on stands of hair, almost tugging it out. He liked Ace. Ace was his friend and brother.
His family had hurt Ace, and badly. He knew what they did to their prisoners, especially the ones they branded. He could never fix or apologize for what they had done to Ace.
He had heard Marco trying to get him to open for over an hour, telling him to let him explain. But explain what? That he was evil and a horrible person? There was nothing to explain.
When Marco had suddenly stopped, Thatch both hoped he had left and stayed. When he heard a knock and Izou's voice a second later, he felt his heart stop. What if Izou knew? He had told Izou more than normal about his family, that he hated them and wanted to be different Izou constantly saying he was. But what would he think when he found out Ace was branded by them, by him? He could never live knowing Izou would hate him. He needed to think how to handle this, how to deal with this, deal with the fact he was going to be hated by everyone for being who he was.
When Izou continued to knock and ask what was wrong, he was relieved to know Izou didn't know. Thatch took a deep breath as he stood up, somewhat fixing his hair that he had pulled on, so it didn't look like he had been pulling it, at least he hoped. He had stood with his hand on the door for seconds, trying to get the guts to do it, to say he was fine and wanted some time alone. He took a deep breath as he unlocked the door, trying to put a happy mask up. When he faced Izou, he seemed relieved to see him. Before the sixteenth commander could speak, he did instead. ¨I'm fine, promise. I just need some time alone, to think.¨ Izou had looked at him worriedly, but nodded nonetheless.
Thatch gave a smile and was about to close the door, when Izou stopped him, looking directly at him. ¨No matter what it is, I love you, Thatch.¨ Thatch gave a nod, feeling his heart clenching. ¨I love you too, Iz.¨ Izou had nodded, and let him close the door. When the door was closed, Thatch leaned against it. He wished he could have been from a different family, a family that wasn't evil. Thatch went over to his desk again and sat down, putting his head in his hands again. He had no idea what to do next.
Thatch had no idea how long he sat there in silence, trying to figure out what to do next, when the door suddenly burst open.
¨Pompom!¨ Yelled Luffy, almost vibrating in excitement as he ran into the room. Thatch stared for a second, before he remembered he had forgotten to lock the door again. Luffy had a big smile as he started talking, looking more excited. ¨Could you help me make something for Ace?! And come to the infirmary with us?! Sabo's gonna be so glad to see you!¨ Thatch couldn't speak. What should he say? If Luffy found out, he wouldn't like him anymore. Even Sabo, who he had used his family connections to bond with, probably wouldn't like him anymore.
Thatch opened and closed his mouth for a second, making Luffy stop moving, tilting his head as he looked at him. ¨Pompom? Are you okay?¨ Thatch took a breath, ¨Yeah, I just don't think I can help you. Maybe you should ask someone else.¨ Said Thatch, trying to smile. Luffy instantly shook his head, ¨No! I want it to be you! I like you, Sabo and Ace too! And you are the best chef!¨ Thatch tried to keep his face up. ¨I don't think that would be the best. Why can't Sabo help?¨ Luffy shook his head again, ¨Because Sabo isn't you. He can't cook like that. Don't you want to help?¨
Thatch wanted to close his eyes, he wanted to help, but he couldn't. ¨I don't think Ace will like it.¨ Luffy frowned, ¨Why not? He always like what you make.¨ Luffy frowned more, ¨Did Ace do something?¨ Thatch shook his head. ¨N-no, He didn't do anything.¨ Thatch wanted to kick himself from stuttering. Luffy tilted his head, frown staying. ¨Then why? Don't you like us anymore?¨ Thatch bit the inside of his lip, it was so far from it. ¨I like you. It's just… My family aren't nice people.¨ Luffy tilted his head the other way. ¨So what?¨ Thatch stared shocked. Did he just say 'so what?' Thatch couldn't make sense of that, his family was evil, they hurt Ace, they hurt Luffy's older brother. ¨I hurt Ace!¨ Thatch said, accidentally blurting it out.
Luffy frowned. ¨You didn't hurt Ace. They did.¨ Luffy seemed like he didn't understand it. Thatch shook his head. ¨But they're my family!¨ Luffy's head tilted again. ¨So what if they're your family? You have a new one.¨ Thatch, who couldn't understand how Luffy could say that, continued talking, even though he should have stopped. ¨That means it's my fault too! I'm their son! You shouldn't be around people who have hurt you!¨ Luffy looked at him weirdly. ¨Since it was your family, it's your fault? That's why you don't want to help, since you think that?¨ Thatch now realized he said too much. But he couldn't just throw Luffy out now. The chef gave a slow nod, that was why. Luffy tilted his head,
¨So you don't like Sabo?¨
Thatchs brain stopped for a second. ¨W-What?¨ Luffy shook his head, looking hurt at him. ¨Cuz his family hurt Ace. They even hurt Sabo and me too. And many other. That's Sabos fault?¨ Thatch shook his head. ¨No, of course not! Sabo is a good kid. He's not them.¨ Luffy shook his head, looking hurt. ¨NO! Because you said you're evil because of your parents. That means you think the same of Sabo! I don't like that you call Sabo evil!¨ Thatch tried to reach for Luffy, to explain, it wasn't like that. Before he could reach him, Luffy shook his head again, sending a last look of hurt at him. ¨If you don't like Sabo, I don't like you!¨ Then Luffy turned and ran out, closing the door harshly behind him.
Thatch sat down in his chair again, looking at the closed door. Sabo wasn't evil because of his parents. They hadn't done anything like his family had to Ace… Right?
There was a difference between him and Sabo. Sabo was a good kid, he did good things and didn't want to hurt other innocent people, his friends or family. But… He wouldn't do that either… Thatch remembers his father telling him time and time again, that he was different. That his family was bad, but he weren't. He couldn't be right… Could he?
Thatch sat and stared at the door for minutes, trying to see if he could understand it. How Luffy could believe it wasn't his fault. When he had no answer an hour later, Thatch slowly stood up and headed out of his room. There was only one way to find out if it was his fault.
-x-
Thatch slowly walked into the infirmary, glad he hadn't met anyone on his way here. When he got inside, he didn't even see Bay. She was probably in her office, she wouldn't be far away. Thatch headed towards the half drawn curtain, hearing soft talking. When he got to the edge, he paused for a second, taking a deep breath, before taking the last step into view. When he did, he saw Ace laying on the bed, as he had the last days, looking at Luffy, who was lying next to him and speaking to each other softly. Ace had his mask off, making the chef believe Ace was better.
Thatch cleared his throat, getting the attention of the two in bed. Both looked at him, Ace giving a small smile, as Luffy gave frown.
Thatch looked at Ace, not sure what to say. ¨Could… Could I speak to you for a second?¨ Ace gave a nod, looking at Luffy, ¨Why don't you go and find Sabo? I think he's in the library.¨ Luffy looked at him, then at Ace. When Ace gave a nod, Luffy slowly sat up and jumped down from the bed, heading out of the infirmary. When the door closed, Thatch looked at Ace. Before he could speak, Ace pointed to his left. ¨Could you give me the blue pillow?¨ Thatch looked over to the other bed, and saw a big blue pillow. The chef gave a nod as he fetched it.
When he was back to Ace's bed and about to ask where to place it. The kid slowly lifted himself in one arm and took the pillow dragging it to lay on the other, making Ace lay higher up when he laid down. When it was placed, Ace laid down, seeming tired and weak and let out a few coughs. Ace grabbed the oxygen mask on placed it on his face for a few seconds, breathing the air in.
Thatch frowned. Maybe this was a bad time. Ace seemed to still be in bad shape.
¨Should I come back later? If you'd like to rest.¨ Ace looked at him, shaking his head as he took the mask off again, placing it next to himself. ¨No, it's fine. Lungs and smoke don't mix. It's nothing.¨ Thatch gave a nod. Ace did at least seem better than what he had last time he saw him. He was at least awake and didn't have the mask on. Thatch tried to think how to phrase himself, how to bring it up. ¨I… I came in earlier, when you were asleep.¨ Thatch halted for a second, not feeling like he shouldn't say it. When Ace gave a normal look, Thatch managed to continue. ¨The curtains was open and your… Your back was exposed.¨ Thatch could see Ace looking a bit shocked for a second, before giving a small smile. ¨I see. That wasn't how I wanted you to find out.¨
Thatch felt himself gape. Ace was worried on how he found out? Not that it was his family and he was one of them?! Thatch stuttered. ¨B-but, it's m-my crest! How can you look at me so… so… calmly?!¨
Ace seemed to want to tilt his head, but didn't have the energy. ¨So? It wasn't you who did it. Neither were you a part of that family when it happened. It happened long after you left.¨
Thatch let out a confused sound. Yes, he wasn't the one to do it. And he had already abandoned them when it happened. But he still felt guilty. Ace gave a small sigh. ¨You aren't them. I don't blame you for what they did. I never did and never will.¨ Thatch couldn't do anything else than nod. When Ace let out a few coughs, grabbing the mask for a second again, Thatch was worried for the kid. ¨Shouldn't you have the mask on?¨ Ace took a few deep breath of the oxygen, before taking the mask away. ¨It's a nuisance to talk with the mask on. I can do without it for a bit.¨
Thatch gave a nod. Ace did seem to be able to do without the mask. But when he moved or talked, he seemed to be having more issues breathing and sometimes started coughing. Ace gave him a calm look. ¨I can't change your feelings. But don't blame yourself, blame them instead. You are much better than them.¨ Thatch couldn't speak. He didn't know what to say or if he should say anything. Ace did seem like he meant it. But Thatch couldn't understand how he didn't blame him. Thatch looked everywhere but Ace for a minute, trying to think. Ace wouldn't lie about this, right? Thatch had no idea what to do with the fact Ace didn't blame him. He was sure he would have.
Thatch was brought out of his pondering when a voice behind him spoke up. ¨Commander Thatch.¨ Thatch turned around to see Bay, who had a soft look. ¨Commander Ace fell asleep.¨ Thatch looked at the bed, and the doctor was right, Ace was asleep. He looked to be having issues breathing, as it sounded shallow, which worried him. Maybe speaking to him was too much? Before he could move or say anything, the doctor moved past him and walked to Ace. When she were, she put the mask over his face. Placing a hand on his back, feeling how he breathed. Ace seemed to breath better as the mask was on. Bay turned to him a second later, having a soft smile. ¨He's doing fine. He just needs rest.¨
The chef nodded. ¨I'll leave you to it.¨ He said as he turned to leave heading out of the infirmary. He needed to speak to Pops.
-x-
Marco sat and talked with his father, enjoying the small distraction from everything happening. He knew Bay was watching Ace, which was a relief. The other thing was Thatch, but right now, he couldn't do anything for the chef, something he didn't like. He wanted to help. He blamed himself for being asleep and not hearing the chef coming inside, the curtains should have been closed and he should have been awake to keep it from happening. Marco was thinking of heading back to the infirmary, he had been here for almost 2 hours now. Bay was most likely finished with changing the bandages, that usually didn't take more than an hour or so. But he could be with his father a bit more, Luffy and Sabo probably also wanted to be around Ace too.
As he was listening to his father speaking, a knock could be heard. When Pops gave the come in, the door opened to reveal Thatch.
Marco felt himself give a relieved breath inside himself. Thatch was out off his room, which was good, really good. Thatch fidgeted as he looked at them, before looking at Whitebeard. ¨Could I speak to you, Pops?¨ The captain gave nod, ¨Of course, son.¨ The captain looked at him and Izou, ¨Could you leave us while we speak?¨ Marco and Izou nodded. They had planned to leave anyway. Thatch needed to speak to Pops in peace, to hear the reason why they hadn't told him. As Marco walked past Thatch, he gave an apologetic look. ¨I'm sorry I didn't tell you, yoi.¨ Thatch gave a nod, but didn't say anything. Marco left with Izou, closing the door behind them.
When the door was closed, Izou turned to him. ¨Think he will be fine?¨ Marco gave a nod. ¨Pops always fixes everything, yoi. It will take time, but he'll be fine.¨ Izou nodded slowly. ¨Will I get to know what this is about?¨ Marco gave a sigh. ¨Thatch might tell, yoi. But I will not. It's not my place. You can ask Ace, but I don't promise anything.¨ Izou nodded, giving a sigh. Marco knew Izou was worried about what it was. He knew it had something to do with Ace, something that really got to Thatch. But neither him or Pops had told the sixteenth commander anything. It wasn't something they felt they could. Marco knew Thatch might tell him, they were close after all.
Izou gave a goodbye as he headed towards his room. Marco gave his own as he headed towards the infirmary, wanting to see how Ace was.
When he got to the infirmary, Aces curtain was half drawn, so Marco walked up to the bed, where Ace was asleep. Aces back was covered by the blanket, laying up to his neck. Marco gave a sigh as he sat down in the chair, stroking Aces hand that was laying by his face. Aces hand moved as eyes half opened. Marco offered a smile, making Ace give on back as he moved his hand to hold Marcos softly, before closing his eyes again. Marco smiled as he made himself comfortable in the chair, closing his eyes as he held Aces hand, using his thumb to stroke it. It was good to see Ace was fine with this small touch. It wasn't long until Marco also fell asleep.
Marco felt himself waking up when Aces hand moved.
When Marco opened his eyes, he expected to see Ace awake and moving, but Ace was still asleep. The reason his hand was moving, was because Luffy was currently crawling under Aces arm to lay down. Marco smiled as he saw Luffy making himself comfortable and closing his eyes. Marco let go of Aces arm when he felt it twitch. When he had, Ace moved his hand to Luffys back, holding him. Marco wasn't sure if Ace was awake, or if it was more off an automatic reaction. He was sure this wasn't the first time he had done this. Marco gave a small yawn as he stretched, before looking towards the watch, to see how much the clock were. When he turned his head, he saw an amused Sabo, looking at him with a raised eyebrow and smile.
Sabo kept the smile as he stroked Luffys back. ¨It's good to see Ace being okay with others touch.¨ Marco gave a nod. He knew Ace didn't like touch from others. ¨He seems fine with you and Luffy, yoi.¨ Sabo nodded. ¨Yeah. But he's been around us since we were small. I met him at 5, Luffy met him when he was 3.¨ Marco nodded, he didn't know they had known each other for that long. ¨You grew up together then.¨ A nod from Sabo again.
Marco looked at Sabo, ¨How's training going, yoi?¨ Sabo gave a smile as he started to tell how it was going, telling about what he had learned from Rayleigh. When Marco asked where the man was, Sabo said he had sailed off to a nearby island to stock up on some things while they were here. Marco nodded, that did at least explain why he hadn't seen the other man. Marco listened as Sabo told of what they had done and how Rayleigh taught them how to fight and be captains.
After almost half an hour, Ace moved his hand on Luffys back as he woke up. Slowly opening his eyes and smiling when he saw Luffy in his arms.
Ace moved his hand from Luffy's back and took off his mask, before placing his hand back on Luffy, stroking his head. Marco gave a small frown, he didn't like that Ace took the mask off, but he had been able to have it off now and then and Bay never said anything against it. Unless she did, Marco thought it might be fine. But if Ace seemed to have issues, Marco would ask him to put it back on. As Ace stroked Luffys head, the kid also woke up, giving a smile when he saw Ace awake. Ace gave a soft ¨Hi.¨ As Luffy looked at him, making the kid smile more. Luffy soon started to tell a story or something, speaking off an island he had visited a few weeks ago, saying how fun it had been.
After almost 15 minutes, Ace let out a cough. It was normal for him to cough now and then, but Marco could hear it was more than just a normal cough. He could hear Ace's lungs trying to cough up more dust and smoke, also meaning blood would come.
He looked at Luffy, who also had a frown, hearing the cough sounded weird. Before Marco could open his mouth, a female voice spoke up. ¨Luffy, Sabo, why don't you go and get some food.¨ Marco turned to see Bay, who was quickly walking up to them, looking at them sternly. Marco could see Luffy looking at Ace when he let out another cough, hand coming to his mouth as Marco was sure to keep Luffy from seeing. When he didn't stop, Sabo grabbed Luffy's arm, knowing she wanted them to leave, and dragged him after him. As soon as they were past the curtain and out of sight, blood came seeping through Ace's fingers.
Marco moved forward and started to stroke Ace's back. He hoped this wouldn't be as bad as last time, or any worse for that matter. As Ace didn't stop coughing, even getting worse, Marco frowned as he looked at Bay, who was also frowning. It was worse than last time. This coughing attack lasted almost twice as long as last, when Ace was finally done, he was almost gasping for air, his breathing sounding really harsh. It was Ace who reached for the mask first, placing it over his mouth and breathing the oxygen in. As Ace breathed the fresh air in, he leaned up on his right arm and held his left out to Bay. Bay seemed to understand as she took it and helped Ace sit up.
As soon as Ace was in a sitting position, he took the mask away and coughed harshly into his hand again. This one lasted shorter than the last, but it still sounded painful and made Marco worry. As soon as he was finished, Ace grabbed a cloth Bay had and wiped his mouth, cleaning the blood away, before putting the mask on. When it was on, Ace cleaned his hand too. When he handed the bloodied cloth back to Bay, Ace somewhat hunched on his hands. When Marco was on his way to tell him to lay down, Bay shook her head. ¨He should be upright now. That was the worst up until now, laying down is not a good choice.¨ Marco had nodded and watched as Ace held the mask with one hand, keeping it secured.
When Ace looked up and at him, he saw two half lidded eyes looking at him. Marco offered a smile, he wanted to ask if he was fine, but knew Ace would nod or say yes. Marco moved a hand to lay over Aces hand that was resting on the bed, giving some comfort. Ace closed his eyes again, breathing the much wanted oxygen in. Bay stayed for a few minutes, checking his lungs over, before leaving, but never going far.
It wasn't long before the two brothers came back again, carrying a bit off food. When they came inside, Ace gave a smile, motioning for Luffy to come up in the bed, making Marco remove his hand. When Luffy did, he sat down in Aces lap, back to his chest as he ate a sandwich. Ace leaned his head down, resting it against Luffys head, closing his eyes for a few seconds, before opening them again. ¨Tell me more about what you've done.¨ Marco heard the small whisper, which even sounded harsh and raspy. Aces lungs probably hurt a lot. Luffy gave a small nod, continuing from where he ended.
Ace did try to look strong to Luffy and Sabo, but Marco could see Ace leaning a lot on Luffy, seeming to have issues keeping himself upright. He guessed Ace was tired, but he should be upright, at least for now. Sabo also seemed to notice this, even frowning at Aces voice and tired look, but quickly smiled as he looked back on Luffy, not wanting to worry his younger brother. Ace would be fine, he just needed more rest. Ace did sometimes close his eyes, listening to his brother speak. He seemed to be really tired, sometimes even making Marco believe he fell asleep sitting, but he always opened his eyes after some seconds, keeping them up for a minute, before doing it again. Ace really was exhausted.
-x-
Whitebeard walked out of his room, Thatch walking next to him. He had talked with Thatch for over 4 hours, almost 5. Thatch didn't know what to do with the fact Ace had his old family brand, even more confused and unsure by the fact Ace didn't blame him. Thatch had told him about the conversation he had had with both Ace and Luffy, not understanding how none of them could not blame him. Saying he wasn't the evil one, that he was a good person, especially compared to his old family. He had tried to tell Thatch he wasn't evil, that his family was wrong, not him. Saying he shouldn't be blaming himself for their doings, Thatch had absolutely nothing to do with them, just as Ace had said.
The captain had said it a multitude of times before, but he never got through to him. He didn't get completely through now, but he managed to get Thatch to understand Ace didn't blame him, therefore he shouldn't blame himself. Also explaining why they hadn't told him. Thatch still seemed unsure off it, the reason they were now heading out of the room, going to see if Ace was awake. The captain could help and do a lot, but Ace was the main person in this, he was the one that had the brand. He believed Thatch needed to hear it from Ace many times, that he wasn't the one to be blame. Also getting to talk to Luffy, seeing he had been upset by their talk before.
As they were closing in on the infirmary, they met Tifa, who stopped when she saw them. ¨Are you planning to talk to Commander Ace?¨ Whitebeard nodded, that was what he and Thatch was hoping to do. ¨Yes, daughter. If he's awake.¨ Tifa gave a nod and a small sigh. ¨He's awake. But he just had another coughing attack. He's not in shape to speak right now, but you can visit.¨ The captain gave a nod, ¨Thank you for telling us. We will visit, but we won't make him speak more than he can.¨ Tifa gave a nod and walked along. The captain felt Thatch looking at him. ¨Ace is having coughing attacks?¨ Whitebeard gave a nod, ¨He breathed in a lot of smoke.¨ Thatch gave a nod, looking worried. ¨He is going to be fine... Right?¨ Whitebeard smiled, ¨He will. He just needs a lot of rest. Why don't we go and visit him and see how he is.¨ The chef nodded and they walked the rest of the way.
When they got to the infirmary and saw Ace, the captain could see Thatch looking worried at the tired looking Ace, who was sitting up.
Whitebeard felt himself worried too, Ace looked really tired, almost exhausted. He could see Ace was almost leaning on Luffy, who was sitting in his lap, looking his usual happy self. He could see Ace slowly opening his eyes and looking at them tiredly, before closing them again, breathing slowly in his mask. The captain guessed there was a reason Ace sitting up, seeing Bay was close by and didn't do anything with the exhausted, upright kid. When Luffy saw them, he gave a gigantic smile. ¨Giant Banana Mustache, Pompom!¨ The captain couldn't help the chuckle, Luffy always was a kid that could make him smile. He could also see Thatch smiling, glad the kid seemed so glad to see him.
The captain and chef sat down in a pair of chairs, looking the duo on bed, Ace relaxing the best he could in his sitting position. The kid instantly started to speak about something silly as usual, grinning the entire time. When he was done an hour later, Ace moved his head. ¨Lu,¨ He said, getting the attention of the kid. When he looked at Ace, Ace gave a smile. ¨Lay down.¨ The voice sounded really raspy, shoving how bad the last coughing attack had been. The kid nodded and laid down on the bed. When he was lying, Ace also slowly laid down carefully, an arm lying over Luffy. When Ace was lying too, he gave a breath, eyes closing. Luffy looked up at him again, tilting his head. ¨Can you tell a story?¨ The captain gave a nod and started a story.
It wasn't long until Ace fell asleep. His breath evening out as his body relaxed. It was good to see Ace relaxing and sleeping as he should and the captain had a feeling it was easier for him to do it with his brothers around, as Daisuke had said.
As Ace was fully asleep, Luffy moved his body, slowly sitting up, Aces hand draped over his lap, still holding around him. When the kid was upright, he looked at him, smiling. Whitebeard wrapped up the story, giving a calm look to everyone in the room. He could see Marco had also fallen asleep, actually looking comfortable in the chair. Luffy suddenly let out a sound, getting all the attention. ¨Pompom! Can you make apple cider crullers?¨ Asked the kid, tilting his head. The chef nodded. ¨I think we have everything we need.¨ Luffy nodded, looking extremely glad. ¨Can you make it? Ace really likes it.¨ Thatch seemed shocked, before he gave nod, giving a smile. ¨I can do that. Would you like to join?¨ The kid gave a small shake of his head, smile staying. ¨I wanna stay with Ace.¨
Thatch gave a soft look, nodding. The captain had a feeling Luffy wanted to be with his brother because he needed to relax now. It did seem like Ace relaxed more with his two brothers around and Luffy did seem to know this and wanted to stay around Ace, especially now that Ace had just had a coughing attack and seemed in much need of sleep. Thatch nodded and shared a look with him. When the captain nodded, Thatch said he would make it now, making Luffy really happy, before the chef left. Whitebeard knew cooking calmed Thatch down, one of the reasons he had become an amazing chef. He really enjoyed cooking and making food others loved.
The captain started another story after the kid wanted to hear an action filled story, making him tell about a raid they had years ago. The kid seemed to like the story and was looking excited and had big eyes as he looked at him. When the story was coming to an end, Luffy was slowly lying down again and making himself comfortable beside his brother, who was still asleep. When the story was finished, Luffy was also asleep. When he was finished, Sabo gave a small chuckle as he stroked the small kids back, before looking at him. ¨I think I'll go to the library again. They need the sleep anyway.¨ The captain nodded, giving a small chuckle. It was right, at least Ace did. Luffy did seem to like sleeping, especially around Ace. ¨I might join you for a bit, if it's fine by you.¨ Sabo nodded, ¨Of course.¨
As they left, the captain gave a nod to Bay, who gave a smile back as she went and checked Ace over again.
-x-
Ace felt himself waking up, slowly opening his eyes as he felt something lying next to him. He felt himself smile when he saw it was Luffy, who was asleep, sleeping with a smile. Ace leaned his head against Luffys forehead, feeling relaxed around his brother. He carefully looked around and saw Marco asleep in his chair and Bay busying around as usual. He guessed Sabo was somewhere on the ship, being around when they were asleep wasn't the funniest thing to be, especially when he didn't sleep himself. Sabo wasn't like Luffy, who could instantly fall asleep if he wished. He knew Sabo was worried about him, since he had had issues breathing before, his lungs and throat not liking the bad cough he had had before.
Speaking of which. Ace carefully took his mask off and took a breath, which didn't hurt, only tingled. Ace guessed he could breath normally and have no issues for a bit, as long as he don't speak or strain himself to much. Ace carefully took his arm off Luffy and moved to a sitting position. When he was upright, Bay was instantly by his side. She seemed pleased he was better and smiled after she did a quick check on him. When she was finished, Ace looked at the doctor. ¨Think I could take a shower?¨ Bay looked at him sternly. ¨You do need a new set of bandages. If you promise to be careful and ask for help, I may let you do it.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨If I need it, I will ask.¨ Bay gave a nod, still looking at him sternly. ¨I will show you to the shower here.¨
Ace nodded and slowly got out of the bed, being mindful to not wake up Luffy as he moved. As Ace stood up, a hand came to his abdomen, as it throbbed. Ace managed to make the walk to the shower, Bay walking close to him, watching him carefully. When they got to the shower and the door closed, Bay told him to undress, so she could check the wound and back over. Ace managed to get the bandages off mostly by himself, but Bay helped with the pads that was taped in the wound in his abdomen and back. When it was off, she carefully traced it, shaking her head. ¨Your healing is amazing. It's almost completely healed, no longer a hole through your body. Only a flesh wound left.¨ Ace nodded, it often surprised others off how amazingly fast they were. ¨It will be completely healed by tomorrow.¨
Bay nodded, ¨And your lungs and back?¨ Ace gave a small sigh. ¨Lungs depends on how much particles is left, maybe a day or two. Back needs to rid of the burned skin, burn marks heal slow.¨ Bay gave a nod as she lifted the old clothes. ¨I will get new clothes and bandages. You need to push the red button when you're finished. If you haven't in half an hour, I will come in, no matter what. The door is also to be left unlocked. Push the button or yell if you need help.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨I will.¨ The doctor gave him a last stern look, before leaving, closing the door, but not locking it.
Ace shook his head as he started a shower and stepped under it. When the lukewarm water hit his back, he gave a hiss, his burned back not liking the normal temperature water. Ace quickly turned it cold, which his back more agreed to. Ace gave a relieved breath as his body got a shower he really wanted. He felt dirty and greasy, having been sweating from using his powers as he had, also having some blood rests in his hair and here and there, which was washed away. It felt amazingly good to finally be able to shower.
-x-
Marco woke up, sure he heard some sort of sound which woke him. Marco closed his eyes as he got rid of the fog, he completely woke up as he saw only one black haired kid in the bed, and it wasn't the one that was supposed to be there. ¨He's showering.¨ Marco looked to his left, seeing Bay, who seemed to be picking up a bedpan she had lost, the sound waking him up. Marco stared at her for a second, being sure he heard right. ¨Shower, yoi?¨ Bay gave a nod, placing the bedpan back on its bed. ¨He's doing better now. And he wanted a shower, which I understand.¨ Marco nodded. Ace had been bedridden for a few days and wasn't in the best shape, getting to shower was probably good. But he had seemed in a bad shape before, really bad shape. But if Bay had let him, he was most likely better.
Marco moved his body in the chair, before he managed to make himself comfortable. It wasn't long until small sound could be heard and Bay gave a small click with her tongue, before she walked through a door he knew led to the showers. After some time, the door opened and Ace came out, Bay following. Ace seemed to be doing better, being up and walking around. He did seem stiff and had a hand he held over his abdomen, where he knew Ace had more bandages than on the rest of his body, making him think Ace had a wound there. He didn't read the patient journals and therefore didn't know. It was only Pops who read them, the others only allowed if it was relevant to them.
He saw Ace give a smile as he saw him awake, before walking to sit down on his bed, moving so his back was leaning against the headboard and pillows, arm draped over Luffy. When Ace was settled, Marco smiled. ¨You feeling better, yoi.¨ Ace nodded. ¨I do. It's good to not be as tired as I was.¨ Marco nodded, he got that. He continued to talk to Ace, who seemed to be enjoying the company. When Luffy woke up, the kid smiled at seeing Ace up. The kid stayed with them for a bit, before looking at the clock and suddenly running out, saying something about finding Thatch.
As Luffy ran out, Ace shook his head, giving a chuckle. It was normal for the kid to run around. He had been surprisingly still the last day, which was most likely because of Ace being in a worse shape. Now seeing Ace up, made him run around again. As soon as the door closed, Bay walked up, holding a cup of some sort. As soon as Ace saw the cup, he gave a really relieved breath. ¨I owe Daisuke for this.¨ Marco looked at the cup in curiosity, even more so when Ace instantly took it and started drinking it. ¨What is it, yoi?¨ Ace looked at him, shaking his head. ¨I don't know. Daisuke refuses to share, but it tastes amazing and helps healing.¨ Marco nodded. It did seem like Ace really liked it.
It wasn't long before Luffy came back inside, carrying a plate of what he believed were apple cider crullers. When Ace saw it, he lifted an eyebrow at Luffy. ¨Did you annoy him into making it?¨ Luffy shook his head, ¨No, he said he wanted to. Promise!¨ Ace still looked doubtful at Luffy. When Luffy gave a pout to Thatch, Thatch said he had done it off his own free will, making Ace shook his head as he tasted one, seeming like he really liked them. When Marco also tasted one, he had to say they tasted amazing.
As they sat and ate the apple cider crullers, Marco could see Thatch giving unsure looks to Ace now and then. Marco gave a small sigh inside himself, it would be a long time before everything went back to normal, but the chef would quickly realize Ace didn't blame him. They would need to start from scratch, to make Thatch not feel guilty.
The rest of the day went by in a calm fashion. Ace had a couple of small coughing attacks, but nothing severe. It seemed the day before was the worst, it being the one day that really cleaned out a lot of the particles in his lungs, which was good. As soon as Ace was able to take the bandages off, he quickly got out off the infirmary and was out on deck with the others, who were really glad to see Ace was fine. Luffy and Sabo stayed for an entire extra day, saying they were going to visit someone tomorrow and Ace would get them there with Dust. Marco was glad to see Ace wouldn't go straight back to work after being released from the infirmary, using the day his brothers were present to relax and fully get back to normal.
Marco was amazed to see how well Ace where, seeing he had been unconscious when he arrived and his back seemed terrible. He had just spent 5 days in the infirmary. Which was surprisingly short, he thought Ace was really injured. But it might seem he weren't as bad as he first thought, no one could heal that fast anyway.
-x-
When the next day came, Dust appeared during breakfast. When the raven did, Ace looked really happy as the bird landed in front of him. Ace petted Dust for a while, looking extremely glad when Dust settled in his lap, liking the touch from Ace. Dust hadn't been around for days and the bird and Ace seemed to be really close. Which was no surprise seeing Ace had had the bird as a familiar for 8 years. They worked well together and Ace did rely on Dust a lot to help him in his work. When Sabo asked when they would leave, Ace said in a few hours, that there were no rush.
Marco could see Ace continuing to stroke Dust as the bird seemed to maybe be asleep in Aces lap. Maybe the last days had been hard for the bird and it needed to rest, Dust had been helping Ace keep his work up by being at the Red Cloud, which could mean longer distances for the bird to fly seeing as Ace had been asleep, Marco believed the bird couldn't teleport when Ace was asleep.
When the time came for Luffy and Sabo to leave, Luffy was running around and saying his usual goodbye to everyone, while Sabo stayed with Ace by the railing, speaking with each other. Ace did seem to be in good shape, but there were still times he let out a small cough, but nothing more. When Marco had asked Ace when he would start working again, he had said he would wait out the day, which was good. The first commander did believe Ace would instantly start working when his brothers left.
The first commander also hoped Ace and Thatch would get to talk, something they hadn't done yet, at least to his knowledge.
Marco knew one thing, and that was the talk Thatch had had with his father had helped. He could still see Thatch giving unsure looks to the assassin, having an underlying look of guilt most times, but he was at least around and did speak to Ace, although it was nowhere as casual as it had been before he saw the brand on Ace. It would take time, a long time, before everything would be back to normal, which Marco hoped it would. He knew the scars and emotions from Thatchs old family run deep in him. But they would help him through it, but he needed to do much himself, Thatch needed to face this himself.
When Luffy was satisfied and had done his usual goodbye ritual, he stood in front of Ace, almost vibrating in excitement. ¨Luffy,¨ Started the captain, getting the kid's attention. ¨Where are you two going now?¨ Luffy gave a gigantic smile. ¨We're going to visit Dadan!¨ Marco thought for a second, that name sounded awfully familiar, but he couldn't place the name anywhere. It was probably someone they had mentioned one time, they knew a lot of people and Luffy spoke about many. The first commander looked at them. ¨Are only you and Sabo leaving, yoi?¨ If it was someone the kid knew, it was also someone Ace knew, but he hadn't said anything about leaving himself. Luffy nodded, ¨Yeah. We were supposed to visit her 5 days ago, but couldn't.¨ Marco nodded, he understood why they couldn't have visited then, Ace hadn't been able to take them. But he wanted to know why Ace wasn't going to.
But before he could voice it, Sabo gave him a look and shook his head. Having an expression that clearly said 'Don't ask'.
Marco frowned inside himself, but didn't ask. It was clear there was something there and it was about Ace not visiting. It was most likely a while before the two brothers would come visit again, which was something that made many somewhat sad. They liked the two kids, they were good company and everyone enjoyed being with them. Before they fully left, Luffy gave a hug to Ace, which he did return. When they parted, Ace gave a quicker one to Sabo, also telling him to be careful, making Sabo chuckle as he nodded. When they had said goodbye to each other, Luffy turned to the small crowd that was there to see them off, waving his hands as he yelled a goodbye, which many returned.
Ace gave a chuckle at that, before he gave a look to Dust, who landed on Sabos shoulder. After the bird gave a caw, Luffy grabbed around Sabo, smiling. A second later, Dust gave a shrug and the two brothers disappeared.
The rest of the day went calmly. Ace used most of it to be out on deck and around the others, many being glad Ace was fine.
-x-
Marco walked out on deck, it was midnight and he couldn't sleep. He hoped Ace might be out as he used to be. He might have left on an assignment, since he would go back to his usual work around now, but he hadn't heard anything. But that didn't mean he hadn't got an assignment, he could have told someone else.
As he walked out on deck and headed to the front of the ship, he didn't see the assassin, which made him give a sigh. He had hoped to see the boy, but he wasn't here now. Marco did decide to stay out on deck, thinking Ace might come back and the fact he couldn't sleep and wanted to be out for a bit.
As he stood by the railing, it wasn't long until Dust suddenly landed beside him and looked at him. Marco gave a smile as he petted the bird. ¨Is Ace here, yoi?¨ The bird gave a nod and looked down to the water, making the first commander frown, not understanding why the bird was looking down. Before Marco could ask, the bird flew off the railing and down, disappearing at the whale's head. Marco gave a small frown again, before he remembered something. He had flown around the ship many times and knew how the ship were. He knew the whale's teeth were somewhat made inside the whale head, making a small ledge. He wouldn't lose anything to just check. Marco changed to his phoenix form and flew down towards the ledge he knew were there.
When he he could see the ledge, he saw a form sitting comfortably against the whale's teeth.
Marco landed on the ledge, not far away from the assassin. When he transformed back, he heard Ace give a chuckle as he petted Dust. ¨My little traitor, always outing me.¨ Dust gave a caw, ruffling his feathers. As Marco was back to his human form, Ace looked at him with a smile. ¨Couldn't sleep?¨ Marco gave a nod, sitting down, feeling Ace didn't mind. ¨No, yoi. What about you?¨ Ace nodded, ¨The same. And I've missed being out like this.¨ Marco nodded. Ace had been inside the infirmary for days, not able to be out on deck.
Marco turned to look at the view, which was amazing as usual and their position gave a better view of the ocean and the waves. ¨Have you gotten any assignments, yoi?¨ Ace shook his head. ¨No. But it will hopefully and most likely be calmer for a while.¨ Marco looked at Ace, who was looking at the view still. ¨Why, yoi?¨ Ace turned to him, ¨Did you read the news earlier this week?¨ Marco began thinking. He read the new everyday, but had there been anything special happening? Then he remembered it. ¨You mean the leader of sorts, yoi? The one put on display?¨
Ace gave a nod, turning to the view. ¨He had stirred up a lot, making all the other Blue blooded patricians be overly active. They will hopefully tone down do to the fact they know he is dead and that we are not afraid to go to war against them.¨ Marco gave a nod, having a small frown. He remembers the newspaper mentioning it could be interpreted as a warning. ¨It was a warning, yoi?¨ Ace looked at him, assessing him. Marco understood he was contemplating if he should tell or not, seeing as it was about his work, something he didn't always share. Ace gave a nod. ¨It was. If they try anything now, we will go to war against them.¨ Marco nodded, deciding to not ask anything more about it for now. Ace had already let out a lot of information.
But to know there actually might be a war, was worrisome. From what he had heard from Ace and read himself, the Blue blooded patricians were really terrible people. To take all of them out would be good for the world, but it would be a hardship to see all the horrors of what they did. Marco never understood how Ace could handle his work like he did. It must be really hard.
Marco looked at Ace, he wouldn't ask more about it, but he would tell one thing. ¨If you go to war, yoi. We will help.¨ Ace turned to look at him, giving a smile as he nodded.
It might not be their war, but if Ace needed it, if the assassins needed it, they would help.
Ace turned to the view again. ¨If we go to war and you help. Everyone will know you did, many won't like that.¨ Marco looked at Ace, placing his hand over his, making him turn back to Marco. ¨We will always stand by your side, yoi. If you go to war, we go to war.¨ Ace gave a nod, and a small smile. Marco understood Ace might not want to drag them into his work, but a war would be different than his usual work and they would need all the power they could get. Marco also didn't even need to ask Pops to know he would agree with him. Marco will probably tell him it in private, telling that he promised Ace to help if it became a war, but he knew the captain would agree.
Marco felt Ace slowly moving his hand, carefully entwining their fingers. Marco smiled giving a small squeeze of reassurance. Even if, for some reason, Pops didn't want to help, Marco would. He would stand by Aces side, no matter what.
-x-OUTTAKE-x-
Luffy ran into the bandit's hideout, ¨We're here!¨ He yelled as soon as he was inside, making Sabo shake his head. Luffy always just barged inside here, not that the bandits seemed to mind. It took a second, but Dadan soon come through a door, looking sternly at them. ¨Why are you late? You should have came 5 days ago!¨ Luffy shook his head, still smiling. ¨We couldn't come before now. But we are here now!¨ Dadan frowned, ¨Why couldn't you come before now?¨ Sabo saw Luffy tinting his head. ¨Ace couldn't bring us.¨ Dadan frowned more. ¨Why? You've never been late without telling.¨ Luffys smile turned somewhat somber. ¨Ace was injured and couldn't.¨
Sabo put a hand on his shoulder, he knew Luffy understood Ace was in really bad shape. Also one of the reasons they were called by Daisuke, since Ace never rested or relaxed as he should. Luffy tried to pretend he didn't know Ace were in as bad shape as he were, but after he had coughed and Bay told them to leave, Luffy had been really worried about Ace. Sabo was also worried, but he needed to be there for Luffy too. Ace was fine now, which was good. Sabo could see Dadan frowning, pushing her lips together, looking a bit worried. Sabo gave her a look, a pointed look. He hoped Dadan regretted throwing him out. He knew Ace had helped bandits too, even some people Dadan knew. Every time she asked about Ace, Sabo refused to answer.
Unless she apologized, he wouldn't let her in on how he was doing. (1)
And that's chapter 29, hoped you enjoyed
1. And for those who are confused by the Dadan thing. It is explained more in the Ace of Spades One shots, in chapter 17, Dadan.
Next chapter will focus more on Marco/Ace.
Also, yes, Marco is a bit oblivious when it comes to the fact Ace healed as fast. But he didn't know how injured Ace were, only that he had burn marks and a lot of bandages and the cough, he didn't know about the hole through his body. But who knows, he might connect the dots soon.
Also! I would like to wish everyone a merry Christmas! I hope everyone will be having a wonderful weekend, even if you might not celebrate it. I love everyone of you who reads this story.
And if you like this story, please check out Ace of Spades One Shots, which contains one shots and different events from this story.
If you have any requests, questions or if you're wondering about something in the story, feel free to ask. And if you liked the chapter, feel free to leave a review/comment