Ace of Spades

by himmelblu

Ace of Spades, the most feared name across the ocean, he was the most feared and notorious assassin and informant there ever was. No one knew who or what he was, some say he is the spawn of the devil. And now, the Whitebeards needed his help. And maybe they even get a new son in the process. (Up to chap 52 'The Plight' is main story, the rest are just loose ends and ideas)

46. Ace of Spades Chapter 45 The Bout

Hello everyone, here is the next chapter

As I said in the last chapter, we have a lot of Marco/Ace in this

We also have a visit from Raiden and I hope the dueling scene is good as I am still learning how to do those

Warning. This have smut. When it starts, there will be a small star (*) And therewill be one at the end of the smut. Search for this to skip it. I want to try and see how this works as it tells where exactly it starts and ends

Hope you enjoy

Read and relax

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Ace had spoken to Trevor to find out why he had decided to tell Marco and Whitebeard the fact his drinking kept him going was a good idea. Trevor knew that his drinking was something he didn't speak of, especially since he was in the same boat. It was a bit helpful he had outed himself too, but he still wished he hadn't. Trevor's defense had been that he was now a part of the crew and that they did deserve to know. That and the fact he saw they were thinking of taking his alcohol and intervening and he wanted to make sure they didn't do that.

Ace had understood it, but still lectured Trevor, saying he wasn't supposed to say things like that, especially since this was a thing he knew Ace didn't want to speak about. Trevor had apologized, but also said he wouldn't hesitate to do it again. Not to out him, but to make sure the pirates didn't step over a line with him or did something they thought to be good and ended up making things worse. Ace had said it was okay for now, but didn't like that he had done it. He understood why, and if he had to admit it, it was better he had done this than the pirates taking away his alcohol, that would have been much worse.

Ace knew it was bad of him to drink, especially how much he did at times and how strong it was, but he wasn't going to stop in the near future, or at all in fact. This was his way to cope.

After having the conversation with Trevor, which he did in the morning, things had been calm. He had had Haruta ask if he could maybe ask Raiden to come by, Trevor having mentioned him. Ace decided that that could be an idea and had sent a note, asking if he could come by. He wouldn't answer right away and might not have the time, which he told Haruta, so she wouldn't get her hopes too high up. Raiden was a busy person too. But Haruta seemed glad he had asked.

It did take some time, but he got answer that Raiden could stop by, but not before tomorrow, and something might come up, so he made no promises. Haruta still seemed glad by that. Ace did hope Raiden did have the time, and if he did, Ace would get the other and help him get to and from the boat.

-x-

After a day, Ace went and got Raiden, keeping to what he had said yesterday. It was good to see Raiden had the time to stop by, and the captain had guessed Raiden had been busy yesterday, since Ace knew it wouldn't be of use to get him then, maybe being busy with an assignment or something else connected to his work. They hadn't known Raiden was an assassin his first trip, just thinking it was someone Ace knew. But it was more logical for him to be an assassin, he was fast, knew Ace well, they dueled and he had this aura and stance that looked like Ace's.

Raiden had used a few hours or so to go through some things with Haruta, the twelfth commander really appreciating it. They were taking a break, Haruta looking spent as she was sitting on the deck and panting. After getting her breath back, she looked at Raiden, having a bit of a hopeful look. ¨Could you and Ace maybe have a duel?¨ Raiden gave a hum. ¨If Ace agrees, we can. But we would also need to be on land, to have bigger space, both to duel and to not damage the ship.¨ Curiel, who was not far away, gave a frown. ¨Damage the ship? This is Adams wood.¨ Instead of Raiden answering, Trevor did. ¨While yes, Adams wood is the best and most durable material for a boat, it is breakable. I still remember when they broke a mast made of Adams wood by Raiden smashing Bunny into it. It was fun to watch, but I think you don't want a broken ship.¨

The captain looked at Trevor in shock for a second, before seeing both Raiden and Ace shrugging, making everyone shocked. Adams wood was the best ship wood there was, and a mast was really strong and durable, so having enough force to break one was hard. The captain was now a bit worried about the duel, if they were that strong and fought as serious as that. It would be interesting to see the two having a duel, especially since Raiden and Ace seemed to be close to equal. But not if they could get seriously injured.

Ace gave a hum, getting the attention. ¨If Raiden and I had a duel, we might be a bit more 'not as serious' as normal, as it can get bad at times.¨ Raiden gave a nod. ¨I agree to that. It is always fun to duel Ace, but I don't want to destroy too many things or get injured for that manner.¨ The captain nodded, that sounded like a plan. He guessed they duel seriously, more than they usually did, and accidents could happen. And with the speed and strength he was sure they had, accidents and injuries could happen. Trevor clapped his hands, ¨There is an island not far away. It's not too big, but it would be big enough and no one lives there.¨ The captain nodded. That sounded like a good plan.

After making changing their course a bit, heading the way Trevor said, everyone was getting excited to see Ace in action. Everyone was, even those who didn't know Ace was an assassin. Everyone knew he was strong, and he had never been in a one-on-one battle before. Only the duel between himself and Ace, but he thought this would be more astonishing than that.

After some hours, they got to the island.

They couldn't sail up to it or dock at it since it had no docks, but they managed with some smaller boats and such. The island wasn't big, maybe four times the boat size, and it had some forest and big rocks, but that was it. There wasn't space to really make anything, most likely the reason it wasn't inhabited or known. It was just a small land with some trees and rocks protruding the ground. When everyone was there, or everyone who wanted to see the battle, which was most of the crew and all the commanders, Trevor gave some small orders on where to stand and not to go any closer to the two.

They did get a lot of space, having a space closing in on the size of the boat, being in the middle of the island where there was a small clearing, but still had some trees and big stones. While Trevor was making sure they weren't too close, Raiden and Ace were speaking together in the middle, Ace taking his cape and most weapons off, keeping his dagger at his waist. Raiden also took some weapons away, which were a sword and gun.

When they were ready, the items being placed a bit away, Trevor clapped his hands again, looking at the two. ¨Okay, remember to not get too carried away.¨ Both Ace and Raiden gave a nod, getting into stances, hands held out and feet parted. When Trevor gave a ready, both started moving a bit in place, making Haruta look closely at how they moved. As the 'countdown' got to set, both got a determined look and when the go was said, both moved at once.

They were in front of each other in less than a second, Raiden going for a kick that Ace countered with a hand, throwing a punch that Raiden blocked with a hand, moving for a kick that Ace jumped away from, before going at it again and doing a jump kick as Raiden went for a kick. When Ace was in the air, he gave two kicks at Raiden fast, but the othercountered both, before trying to hit Ace. Ace blocked with his arms, but still got pushed a bit away. Both looked at each other for a second, before going at it again.

Each attack was started as soon as the last was ended, Whitebeard having issues keeping up at times. He knew they were fast, but this was much more so than he had thought. Some attacks he couldn't even see before it was over.

As they had some space between them again a bit later, Raiden readied a punch and went for it, Ace stopping it with his hand, and throwing one himself that Raiden stopped. And with each of those, they could feel the power being used, the sound it made and the fact it even managed to cause a small tremor. They were instantly strong, even more so to be able to manage to stop a punch with so much force like that. He could only imagine what would happen if it wasn't stopped, it would be real damaging. It wasn't long before they were at it again, using more force in every attack as they caused a small tremor at times, even causing and leaves to move from the shock.

Haruta gave an amazed sound as the two dueled. ¨They are really strong and fast.¨ The others could only nod. They had no idea the twowere this fast or strong. Trevor gave a hum, ¨They are, I only hope they don't get carried away and try to bash each other's faces in.¨ The captain looked at Trevor. ¨What do you mean? Isn't this a normal duel until one touches the ground?¨ He had been sure this would be the same as when he had dueled Ace. Trevor shook his head, giving a small chuckle as he looked at him.

¨Never seen Bunny have a real duel I see. Normally, they fight until one is down, as in not able to fight anymore, like a real fight. It can get messy.¨

Whitebeard looked at Trevor shocked for a second, before looking at the two dueling. They had started to use more force in every attack, both seeming to enjoy this and have fun. But he was a bit worried now. ¨Wait,¨ Started Thatch. ¨They will actually hurt each other?!¨ Trevor gave a hum, ¨Remember when Bunny had the bashed in face a few days ago?¨ Everyone nodded, the captain not liking where this was headed. Trevor gave a smirk, looking at the two battling.

¨That was from a duel, and Bunny won.¨

Whitebeard and everyone who heard that looked at the man in shock, before looking at the two dueling. If that time had been a duel and Ace had won, the person who lost had to be way worse. This was like a real battle, they aimed to injure or kill. As the captain was about to speak up, telling that they maybe should stop before they got too far or carried away,

Ace did a running jump and Raiden, getting a hit in as he was kicked to the ground, Ace jumping off him.

This was when it would end, Raiden was down. But instead of ending it, Raiden managed to grab onto Ace's ankle, quickly standing up and smashed Ace into a tree, breaking the tree clean off. As the tree fell, Raiden tossed Ace another round, before smashing into the tree again, breaking it onto half, before doing another spin before throwing Ace at full force at a rock. Ace managed to move so he landed on his feet on the side of the rock, the few flowers at the ground blowing away from the force. They barely managed to see Ace move his head to look at Raiden, before he kicked off, going full speed at Raiden. Raiden prepared a counter attack, but Ace got past it, grabbing onto Raiden and pushing him into the ground, before throwing him in the air. Ace used the time to stop and do a jump from the ground, grabbing onto Raiden again and throwing him at the ground, hard, making a small crater and trees fall down, before moving and aiming a kick to the hole, which Raiden somehow managed to avoid. They stood still a second, before going at each other again.

The pirates could only stare in shock. This wasn't just a duel, this was more of a real fight, they aimed to injure or kill. ¨This is insane!¨ Said Thatch, looking at the two fighting in shock. ¨We need to stop them!¨ Trevor gave a snort. ¨Feel free to try. I, on the other hand, don't want to die from interfering.¨ Thatch was shocked, and could only stare horrified at the two, as the rest soon did. They could actually injure or kill each other, they didn't seem to hold back. Trevor gave a small hum, ¨They are holding back, keeping to the word to not duel as seriously as normal.¨ Everyone looked at the man in shock. ¨This is not too serious!¨ Said Thatch shocked. Trevor gave a nod, ¨Believe me, this is calm, they are even holding a small bit back, but not much.¨

Everyone gave the man a shocked and small horrified look, before looking back the two dueling. None of them dared to stop them. If Trevor was afraid to do so, they would not interfere and hope it didn't get too bad. Whitebeard only hoped they wouldn't get too injured, this was intense, each hit they did was using so much force and they were moving fast, he was amazed they still managed to keep it up. He hoped it would end soon, hoping none would be injured.

As they watched the two continuing to fight, they felt their hearts speed up as Raiden suddenly had a dagger out, going at Ace. Ace managing to get a dagger out of his own and countering it, making Raiden lose his grip on it and send it in the air, giving Ace an opening to land a kick and sending Raiden back a few feet. Raiden then did a small jump, the dagger still in the air, and kicked it, sending it flying to Ace. Ace tried to avoid, but it still hit, making a cut on his cheek. As soon as Raiden landed, Ace moved, getting extra force from his entire body as he punched Raiden. Raiden did block, but it still sent him flying, even creating a tremor and gust of wind from the force of the punch. ¨And that's Bunny not holding back.¨ Said Trevor as a small information and sounding a bit exasperated by the fact Ace went full at it. This did cause many of them to swallow, Whitebeard now worried they might get carried away.

When Raiden came to a stop, he cracked his neck as he got ready, grabbing two daggers and holding them ready. Ace got his dagger ready and another out and got ready before they ran at each other again.

This time it was a mix of kicks, jumps and slashes with the daggers at each other. Each time the daggers hit, it created sparks. When they went in for a kick, it did at times hit, making the other falter, but not enough for a damaging hit to be placed. As Raiden went in for an attack with one dagger, Ace dropped one he held, grabbing onto Raiden's arm and using it to jump over Raiden, still holding onto his arm, making him drop the dagger as he held back on Ace's arm, moving with him and trying to land a hit with the dagger in the other hand. Ace managed to get away, before he went at it with a kick, hitting and making Raiden falter for a second, making so Ace could land another kick, sending him to the ground. Before he could do it again, Raiden barely managed to jump up and avoid it, kicking Ace back and pushing him a few feet back.

They gave each other a look, before going at each other again. When Raiden tried to hit Ace with the dagger, Ace jumped over him and got his dagger ready and plunged it towards Raiden's back. all of the pirates held their breaths, not sure if Ace would stop or not. Before he could hit, Raiden managed to turn around, also plunging his dagger towards Ace, both going straight towards each other's throats, both looking determined.

As each dagger was barely an inch away, both stopped, making a small gust of wind blow.

Raiden shook his head as he lowered his hand. ¨You didn't need to punch that hard earlier.¨ Ace gave a small snort, putting his dagger away and sending a look at Raiden. ¨And you didn't need to smash me into a tree, twice.¨ Raiden just gave a shrug, putting his dagger away and picking up the one he lost. They didn't even seem out of breath, maybe having a bit of a sweat, but that was it. They also didn't seem to be injured, other than a small bruise here and there and the cut on Ace's cheek. It was amazing there weren't more injuries. Trevor shook his head, looking at the two. ¨I still wait for the day when Raiden wins a battle like that with you.¨ Ace looked at Trevor, ¨He can, he just needs to work on his skills more.¨ Raiden shook his head, looking half amused. He didn't have a lot of emotions, being stoic. He looked like a stoic man and he had a strength of a dangerous man, so it fit.

Thatch looked at Ace and Raiden, looking shocked. ¨How was that going easy?!¨ Ace looked at the chef, ¨I said to be not as serious, I never said easy.¨ Thatch sputtered for a second, ¨B-but you could have injured each other!¨ Raiden sent him a look, ¨How does one get better without dueling to their fullest?¨ Whitebeard remembered Ace saying something along those lines after having the duel with Mihawk. This was most likely how they dueled. Thatch looked shocked at them, ¨But what if you get really injured?!¨ Raiden gave him a look, ¨A duel like this, is based off on skills and the trust that the other will stop. If you do not have that, you don't duel like this.¨ Thatch closed his mouth. He still looked shocked and small horrified, but nodded.

Whitebeard got what they meant, and they had done this many times, and they was most likely holding back a bit, aside from that one punch from Ace. Maybe more, but the captain didn't know. He wanted to see a real duel between them, but was also a bit nervous on how that would look. Ace had looked bad when he returned those days ago from the duel, and he had won. He was sure this could get really messy, but he was still curious. The captain did also think they wouldn't go for the actual kill. He might ask about it later, but not now. That was way enough for a first-time duel for them to see.

Raiden looked at Haruta, ¨Did you get something out from that? It is different to see how it works than me telling and showing at a different pace.¨ Haruta gave a nod, ¨I think I did. You moved too fast at times, but it was cool to see.¨ Raiden nodded, ¨I don't really need to leave for a small while, so I can explain some of it.¨ Haruta's eyes shined at that as she nodded, really wanting that.

They did seem fine, not injured badly and seemed to have had their fun. Ace probably enjoyed to have a duel like that now and then, and after seeing how strong he was like that, having a feeling he might have not been using his entire strength at all times, felt as if Ace was stronger than that if he went for only strength. He hoped Ace could help them train more, and Whitebeard was sure many would ask Ace to help them or train with them now.

Some did ask a bit about the duel, on how they knew which attack the other would do, since they were moving so fast. Ace answered it by saying when one get used to fast movement, one is used to it and can see it. But there is still some that might get past, but not much and one needed to be prepared to be hit. It was amazing to see the duel and everyone was still amazed, some also a bit horrified by the small brutality, but everyone had to agree it was an amazing sight.

When they got back to the boat, Ace had to leave after a small bit for an assignment, telling he would be gone for around 6 hours. When he asked if he should take Raiden back now, since he would be gone for a small while, Raiden said no, much to Haruta's relief, saying he could stay those hours there. Ace nodded before he left. When he was gone, Raiden continued to show Haruta some things, explaining if she had something she wondered from the duel. It did seem to be a great help and it made Haruta glad.

After a few hours, Thatch had asked if he could show them some things. Raiden had said yes, he did know many techniques and was willing to teach. Thatch did ask if he could show some, but not have the speed in the picture. At that, Raiden had given him a small frown, ¨If you want to be good at fighting, be it hand to hand or sword, have Ace train with you. Once you get accustomed to his speed, you don't need to be able to counter it, just used to it, everything else will seem to be in slow motion. You should use Ace to train like that.¨

That was a good idea actually, which none of them had thought of. They would ask Ace about it, hoping he would do it. Ace was way faster than those they usually met in battle, so if they got used to his speed, other people would seem slow if they weren't fast.

Thatch nodded, looking like he would ask Ace to do that. Whitebeard could also see many of the others, especially the commanders, seeming to want that too.

Raiden then went back to showing Haruta things, some other people also joining in. Raiden also gave some tips and things she could do, also mentioning she should train to be lighter on her feet. When Haruta mentioned the thing Ace had showed her, with the container, he said that that was good practice. When he also asked how it went with Ace and his somersault, hearing he made it, he seemed impressed. ¨I need to see that myself.¨ Trevor gave a laugh, ¨You should, it was cool. Although he did fail at the start and probably will again, but it is cool to see.¨ Raiden nodded before going back to showing Haruta some things.

As they continued to train a bit, Trevor and Mika speaking to some of the others, the captain wondered when he got so used to assassins being around. Had someone told him a couple of years ago he would have 4 assassins on his ship, one even in his family, he would have told they were insane. But now it seemed normal, and he wouldn't have it any different.

-x-

Marco walked to Ace's room, going to see if he was back from the assignment he had left for earlier and if he wanted to maybe head out on the island they were close to later together. He still hadn't asked Pops, but had a feeling he would get a yes.

When he got to Ace's room and gave a small knock, not sure if Ace was back, and if he was, if he was asleep. When he got no answer, he was on his way to leave, when he heard something that sounded like a muffled painful sound and some speaking, making him carefully open the door when he saw it wasn't locked. One had to be loud to be heard in the hallway, the doors and walls were somewhat thick and padded.

When he saw the inside of the room, still half standing in the door, he saw Ace standing in front of his desk, holding on it with his hands, eyes closed. Trevor was behind him, having his hands on his upper back, seeming to be maybe massaging Ace. Marco was a bit stunned and just stood there for a second and looked at the scene.

¨Lower.¨ Ace said suddenly. Marco saw Trevor moving a bit lower, more down to the shoulder blades. When Ace repeated it again, Trevor moved a bit more down. Marco, now on his way to leave, seeing this was something, was a bit startled when Ace suddenly growled. ¨What in the word 'lower' is it you do not understand?¨ Marco looked back, seeing Trevor shaking his head a bit, ¨The 'lower' part.¨ He moved to stand on one knee. ¨What do you want me to do? Massage your ass?¨ Ace shook his head, ¨No. Around an inch or two above the hip.¨ Trevor gave a nod and did that, moving his hands to the side a bit over the hip, starting to knead slowly with his hands. ¨Here?¨ Marco saw Ace clutching at the desk he held at, giving a small groan, sounding to be in pain. ¨Yeah.¨ Trevor gave a nod, continuing, making Ace give some groans at times, looking to be in half pain at times, eyes closed and clutching at the desk.

Marco left carefully, being too shocked for a second before. He was now wondering what that was and what kind of relationship the two had.

It was obvious it was more than just work-related things there, and Marco had been half wondering about it for a while. He was thinking more and more of bringing it up, to just ask and see what Ace would say. They didn't seem to be a thing, but there was something there. Ace acted way relaxed around the man, letting him in closer than most of them, sometimes even more than him. Marco would admit he was a bit jealous, and now he was unsure if he should be concerned about Trevor and Ace. Marco gave a small sigh, going out on deck and trying to relax for a bit.

They were closing in on an island soon, a winter island for once. The weather had already taken a turn for the cold, even starting to snow yesterday and the island was visible. They would be there in a few hours. It wasn't one of their controlled territories, but it was a more neutral one, but they should still be on alert. There were marines, bounty hunters and other pirates there at times. It was known for its nice place and hot springs, which many were excited for.

After half an hour, he noticed Trevor coming out on deck alone, and went to stand to the railing a bit away. Marco made a decision to ask where Ace was, and if he wasn't here, he would just ask the man what he and Ace were. Marco was sure he would tell truthfully.

When Marco was next to him, he also leaned against the railing, sending him a normal and bored look. ¨Where is Ace, yoi?¨ Trevor shook his head, ¨Bunny is asleep.¨ Marco nodded. He sent a bit more careful look at Trevor. ¨What are you and Ace?¨ Trevor looked at him, lifting an eyebrow. ¨What makes you suddenly ask that?¨ Marco gave a small breath. ¨You act so calm and used to each other. And you are a lot around him, like the time he was drunk… and the time right now.¨ Trevor gave a small hum. ¨I knew you were there, but I don't think Bunny knew.¨ Marco was a bit shocked, but before he could speak, Trevor continued. ¨I am sure Bunny would say we are acquaintances, but I would say more like friends. But Bunny isn't the one to use that word a lot. We have just been around each other for a long while and know each other and is there if one needs it. Although that is hard when it comes to Bunny, he isn't the friendliest one or most open one. But you get used to it as he gets used to you.¨

Marco gave a nod. That answered some of it. Trevor gave a sigh, sending him a look. ¨We are only friends in my wordings, or acquaintances in Ace's, but we have gone to each other to 'vent'some steam at times, but we haven't for a long time now.¨ Marco gave a small frown, ¨When you say 'vent some steam', do you mean in a sexual way.¨ Trevor nodded, ¨Yes. But there was nothing more to it. No emotions or anything, and it has been a while since we've done it, and I think that might be because of you.¨ Trevor sent him a look. ¨I know you're a thing.¨

Marco nodded. He was glad Trevor was as truthful about it. But now he was a bit worried Ace didn't mean it fully, only having sex with him to vent steam. Trevor gave a sigh. ¨And now you are questioning if he does the same to you.¨ Marco blinked. Was he that easy to read? Trevor looked at him. ¨You aren't easy to read, no worries, but I know how to read people. And I don't want to know details or anything, but I can answer if Bunny only are with you to vent steam with one question: Does he let you touch him?¨ Marco gave a slow nod, not wanting to say too much, but also wanting an answer. ¨Yes, yoi. He wants me too.¨ He had noticed that Ace often wanted him to touch him, and if he didn't, Ace would make him.

Trevor gave a small chuckle. ¨Then I have no idea what you're worried about. If he lets you touch him during sex, even more if he wants you too, he really likes you.¨ Trevor sent him a look. ¨Bunny rarely lets anyone touch him, much less during sex because of reasons, which I'm sure you've found out.¨

Marco gave a nod, now feeling glad he had asked. It was comforting to know Ace wanted it and enjoyed himself, now more so than he thought before. He knew Ace wasn't fond of touch, but he had never thought about it before. He would still ask Ace about him and Trevor later, also mention this conversation, just to speak to him too. No use in going behind his back about this. And he was not surprised Trevor knew about Ace having issues with certain things when it came to sex and touch because of his past and work. He was also sure Trevor wouldn't answer questions about that, not that Marco would ask either. That was something he should take with Ace himself when he felt comfortable with it.

Marco sent a look at Trevor. ¨Earlier, when you were massaging him it seemed like, yoi. Why did he look and sound to be in pain?¨ Trevor shook his head, looking up at the sky. ¨Because of the weather. The coldness makes his scars ache bad. He isn't willing to admit it, but I know it. I just tried to help so he might get some sleep.¨

Marco nodded. He had heard about this before, the cold making old injuries ache. He had forgotten about that, and the fact Ace had a lot of scars. He was used to them now in a way. ¨Does massaging help?¨ Trevor gave a half nod. ¨It helps some, especially with the tension he gets from his body aching. But not too much. He usually stays away from winter island or cold places because of this.¨ Marco nodded. He would remember this. He looked at Trevor. ¨Thank you for telling, yoi.¨ Trevor gave a smile, still looking up at the sky. ¨It was nothing. I know for a fact you've been making Bunny happy, he's calm around you, he enjoys it.¨ Marco gave a nod, feeling himself smiling a bit, glad by that. He enjoyed being around Ace, so he was really glad to know Ace liked to be with him.

He spoke a bit more with Trevor about some other small things, before the man left to do some things. When he left, Marco stood in his own thoughts, thinking if he should maybe try to help Ace with the aching, and how he should do it.

A few minutes later he got an idea. There were hot springs on the island, he had heard rumors of that helping with aching scars, but he wasn't sure. He never had any issues like that because of his phoenix. And he was sure Ace wouldn't tell if it would help, not wanting to admit it. After making a decision, he went to the infirmary.

When he walked inside, Bay was her usual annoying self, especially in seeing him there, knowing he couldn't be hurt. ¨Commander Marco, to what do I owe this visit? Hopefully you have a reason.¨ Marco gave a small chuckle, used to her annoyed stern tone. ¨I wondered if there were anything that would help against cold making scars ache, yoi. Maybe like the hot springs here. Bay gave him a look. ¨I have a feeling you're speaking about Commander Ace.¨ Bay gave a sigh. ¨It is not uncommon to have aching in the cold, and he have a lot that can ache. He could come here and I can give him something, but I have a feeling he won't.¨ She looked at him. ¨Hot springs are known to help, just getting the hot steam would help, as you can't bathe in it because of him having a devil fruit. But sitting to the waist and having the steam can help. I would also recommend a massage, but Commander Ace might not be fond of that.¨

Marco nodded. He would ask Pops to go the hot spring with Ace, not telling Ace and hopefully surprise him. He also hoped he might be able to massage him too, knowing that helped. Not only that Bay said it, but Trevor had said it worked. He looked at Bay. ¨Thank you, Bay.¨ Bay gave a nod, giving him a glare. ¨If you only have questions like that, something anyone should know, try to think before coming here.¨ Marco gave a small chuckle. Bay was stern and said things like that, but she would always answer, unless it was too stupid or in a bad time.

He gave a small 'thank you' again and left, heading to speak to Pops.

-x-

Ace gave a breath when he was back at the ship. He had just been at a short assignment and was glad to be back, but at the same time had hoped to be a bit more away. They were close to a winter island and that made his old injuries flare up, especially his brands and his lower back as his hip sometimes didn't like the cold, courtesy of an old injury, making his back ache bad. The fact it had been a while since he had been at a winter island didn't help either. He had forgotten how much it actually ached. The massage from Trevor before had helped a bit, but it didn't last long. After he had changed out of his clothing, Ace was thinking of going and taking a shower, maybe a warm shower, and hoping that that might help the aching.

As he was on his way to get some comfortable clothes to change into, there was a knock at his door.

Ace gave a small sigh before he turned to the door, giving a come in. The door opened a second later to reveal Marco. The first commander gave a smile as he closed the door. Dust was out, so I thought you were back, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod and a small smile, Dust really liked it out on the deck in his small nest there. ¨Did you want anything?¨ If Marco just wanted to see if he was back and fine, Ace could still go for the shower. Marco gave a nod, ¨I wanted to take you somewhere here on the island, yoi. if you don't have anything else you need to do of course.¨ Ace gave a nod. He didn't have anything planned, and if he was going out, he should wait with the shower until he was back. ¨I can come, I don't have anything special to do.¨ Marco gave a nod. ¨That's good. We got to leave from Pops for a few hours.¨

Ace nodded and followed the other out of the room and out on deck heading off the ship.

When they were walking on the island, Ace looked around, not having been here before. He rarely visited any kind of winter island and didn't know a lot about them and he didn't know much about this one. The island did look nice. It had a decent amount of shops and buildings and people walking around. Everyone did have on thick clothes because of the cold. Marco didn't, but he didn't freeze because of his devil fruit. Ace didn't freeze himself, at least not as easily as normal people did. His devil fruit made his body chill from before and he could regulate it with his powers. But he still had a jacket to help a bit with the aching, although it didn't do much.

As they walked, Ace was wondering where they were headed. They had already walked past a lot of stores and seemed to be heading towards some mountain side. After walking some more and closer to the mountain, Ace saw there was a house there and was thinking they were headed there. He was right as they walked inside and Marco said something to a woman there. Ace used the time to look around, seeing the room he was in looked nice, having some chairs and some tables where one could sit. Also seeing some pots and such, making him believe this was a place where people could sit and enjoy themselves.

¨Ace, yoi.¨ Ace turned to Marco, who made a small motion for him to follow, and they headed through some door to a room. Ace was now curious on what they were doing here and where they were going now. After coming to a room that looked like a small bedroom and changing room, Marco opened a door that lead outside and Ace followed. When he got a look outside, he saw they were next to the mountain side, walls on each side of the space outside. But in the middle, there was water, a hot spring.

Ace looked to Marco, who gave a smile. ¨I thought we could relax a bit here since we were here, yoi.¨ Ace gave a small smile as he nodded. A small soak in a hot spring did sound nice, and that might even help his aching. ¨That seems like a good idea.¨ Marco nodded to that and they soon undressed, wrapping a towel around their waist before going out to the hot spring. The small walk was cold, Ace feeling a small chill, but it was quickly gone as they got to the hot water and felt the steam. Ace hadn't been in a hot spring for many years, not since he was about 14, so this would be nice.

Ace and Marco slowly eased down into the hot water, taking the towel off before they got into the water, sitting on a small ledge in the water, making it reach an inch under the line where they could be in water and not have their powers drained. Ace could handle some water, even if he was deeper than this. He would sink, but he could move himself a bit and keep himself awake, even moving and swimming if he had the energy. Having a Legendarie had it's perks. As this wasn't deep, he could go deeper, but it was nice to just sit were they sat too.

The water reached a bit above their waist, making Ace give a breath as it felt good. The warm water helping his aching hip and lower back, the steam also helping his entire upper body. He should have thought of this before, it felt good. He heard Marco give a pleased hum, ¨This feels good, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod, looking at the first commander who seemed to enjoy this too. ¨Yeah. I haven't been at a hot spring for many years, it feels nice.¨ Marco gave a small hum, ¨Really?¨ Ace nodded, ¨I'm not too fond of winter islands, so I've never been around on them much.¨ He saw Marco giving a nod, ¨Why not, yoi?¨

Ace gave a small hum to himself, ¨Just not too fond of them.¨ Ace didn't want to tell it was because almost his entire body ached, especially his lower back. Marco gave a nod, not pushing on the matter more. Marco made some movement, moving a bit closer to him and making himself comfortable, a hand moving to his, just laying on top of it. Ace gave a small hum, enjoying this all and closed his eyes, trying to relax. They had privacy, which was good. He had a feeling Marco might have made sure they got a place in privacy like this. He had heard about hot spring that was open for many, but this was small and cut off, being perfect in Ace's opinion.

After a small while, Ace carefully moved his head to lay on Marco's shoulder, trying to relax. Marco moved the hand off his and moved it around his shoulders to his head, carefully treading through his hair. Ace gave a breath at that, it felt relaxing and good. Ace felt the warm water easing his tension away, helping him relax, the same with the hand threading through his hair. It was perfect right now.

After a few minutes of just relaxing in silence, which was good, Marco gave a small hum. ¨Does it help your back, with the aching, yoi?¨ Ace moved and leaned a bit back, so he could look at Marco. How did he know his back was aching? He knew he hid it well. ¨Why do you think my back is aching?¨ Marco gave him a look, ¨I spoke to Trevor before, yoi. I also saw him massaging your back.¨ Ace gave a small sigh. Of course it was Trevor, Ace should have known it was him. Ace gave a small nod, ¨It feels good.¨ It wasn't outright saying it helped, but him saying it helped would also mean he admitted that his back was aching. Marco gave a nod to that.

Marco gave him a look, ¨What are you and Trevor, yoi? You seem close.¨ Ace gave a hum. What were they? They weren't anything special, but Ace was unsure if they were more than acquaintances. He was half sure they were, but he didn't like to say people were his friends, it was something he wasn't used to saying. ¨We're something between acquaintances and friends. We have just been around each other for years.¨ Marco gave a nod, giving a hum. ¨I kind of asked him the same, and he said you were friends, yoi.¨ Ace gave a small laugh. ¨Maybe we are friends, I haven't given it much thought.¨ Marco gave a chuckle, ¨You act like friends, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod. They were probably friends.

A thought entered Ace's mind. He knew Trevor was blunt at times, telling how it were without hesitating. He looked at Marco, ¨Did he say anything else?¨ Marco gave a nod. ¨He mentioned you going to each other to 'vent some steam' before, yoi. But he said it wasn't relevant anymore.¨ Ace nodded. ¨He's right, we did, but not anymore. And it didn't mean anything.¨ Ace had told Trevor a bit after getting with Marco that he was no longer going to be there to help him to vent frustration and steam, them having gone to each other for years. Trevor had accepted it, not that he wouldn't. It never did mean anything in the first place anyway.

Marco gave a nod, ¨He said the same. I just wanted you to know I talked to him since it was about you.¨ Ace gave a nod. It was good to know what Trevor had said, Ace knowing he could tell a lot. He would never tell anything dangerous, but he often told things Ace didn't want him to tell. Ace made himself comfortable again, leaning back and relaxing, Marco's hand moving to lay behind him. They had some small conversation, enjoying the warm water. It was good to be in a hot spring, it felt amazing on his body as I eased his muscles and helped with the tension and aching.

After being in the hot spring for some time, the heat starting to get to him a tiny bit, Ace thought it had been enough for now. He opened his eyes and looked at Marco, he looked a bit flustered himself. ¨How about heading back soon?¨ Marco opened his eyes and looked at him, giving a nod. ¨We can do that, yoi. It is starting to get a bit too hot.¨ Ace nodded, giving a small stretch, ¨Should we tell we're leaving?¨ Marco shook his head. ¨I told the owner we would leave after some hours, so we can just head straight to the boat, not needing to walk back.¨ Ace gave a nod, that was a good idea. He didn't really want to walk back now in the cold as they were wet and his body still felt warm.

They soon got out of the hot spring and into the house, grabbing their clothes and putting them on. Ace had told Dust to go to his room, so they could just appear inside the boat. When they were ready, Ace held his hand out to Marco, who grabbed it. A second later, they disappeared. When they reappeared, they were in Ace's room. Marco managed to keep his balance, and Ace was surprised he had grasped it as fast as he did. One usually used some time to get used to it. Ace gave a stretch as he thought of maybe relaxing a bit more, keeping the relaxed feeling in his body for as long as he could.

Before he could think more off it, Marco spoke up. ¨Would you like a small massage, yoi? Trevor said it helped a bit.¨ Ace thought it over. A massage did help, but it also did mean he would need to have his back to Marco while he was doing it, and Ace wasn't too comfortable with that. He trusted Trevor more in some ways like that, since they had been around each other for so long. But he should try to put more trust into Marco, that he wouldn't do anything he didn't like. Ace gave a nod, ¨If you could, it would be nice.¨ Marco gave a nod, ¨I can, yoi. How would you like to do it?¨ Ace gave a smile. He was glad Marco asked how he would like it, knowing he weren't the best one with touch, especially now that he would be behind him, meaning Ace couldn't see him.

Ace walked to his desk, placing his hands on it. ¨I think just like this will be fine.¨ He knew it was easier and better if he laid down, but Ace wouldn't feel comfortable with that, not yet at least. He saw Marco giving a nod in his side vision, before he moved behind him, placing his hands-on Ace's lower back, a bit over his hip, making him tensing for a short second before forcing himself to relax. Ace heard some movement, thinking Marco maybe moving down to a knee. ¨Tell me if I should stop, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod. He would do that if it got too much. But he knew Marco was understood he wasn't fond of touch, most likely understanding that it was harder now that he couldn't see him.

It wasn't long before Marco started to carefully move his hands in a kneading way, his hands being in the right place. Ace tightened his hands on the desk, suppressing a groan. It did always hurt to some extent, being a mixture of pain and relief, but it would feel good afterwards. When Marco hit a sore spot, Ace would keep the groan down, tightening his hands on the desk, closing his eyes. Marco had good hand and must have done this before, he did it perfectly. Marco kept to one spot, which was nice and made it easier, but he would still like to have the hands a bit lower. ¨Could you move a bit down?¨ The hands stopped for a second, moving an inch or so lower. ¨Of course, yoi.¨

When Marco started up again, he immediately hit a sore spot, making Ace tense a bit as he clutched the desk, unable to keep the entire groan inside. He felt Marco stopping, most likely thinking he did it too hard or something wrong. Ace shook his head, ¨Don't stop.¨ It took a second, but Marco started up again carefully, ¨Okay, yoi.¨ Ace tried to keep the groans inside, but couldn't help but let some out as Marco hit some sore spots. Marco did sometimes slow down, but he kept going when he didn't say anything. ¨Does it feel good, yoi?¨ Ace gave a nod, thinking Marco was a bit concerned by the noises he made or the fact he tensed at times. ¨It does. It's just some sore spots here and there.¨ Ace kept another groan inside as Marco hit another sore spot. ¨You don't need to keep the sound inside, yoi. It makes you more tense.¨

Ace gave a nod, he knew that, but he didn't want to let it all out. As it moved along, Ace found himself giving out some more groans, sometimes half moans as it felt good, the massaging helping with both the soreness and aching. After around half an hour, he felt Marco slowing down, making him believe Marco was slowly stopping. And that was fine, it felt a lot better. A couple of minutes later, before Marco had completely stopped, Dust came and landed in front of him, having an envelope. Ace kept a small sigh inside, hoping he didn't need to leave right away.

With some small movement, Marco stopped completely and stood up, getting an understanding look as he saw the envelope when Ace took it from Dust and opened it. Ace gave a small sigh as he needed to leave at once, needing to help out with some things with Daisuke. ¨Do you need to leave, yoi?¨ Ace gave a nod, giving an apologetic look. ¨I do. It will take around 8 hours or so.¨ Marco gave a nod and smile. ¨It's fine, yoi.¨ Ace nodded, glad he didn't seem annoyed by it.

Ace leaned up and gave a kiss to the side of Marco's mouth. ¨The massage felt amazing, thank you.¨ Marco gave a nod, ¨It was nothing, yoi.¨ Ace gave a last smile before he disappeared. He didn't need his assassin outfit, not yet at least. It was going to be only him and Daisuke, maybe one of the others, but they all knew who he was. And if he needed to have his outfit on, he still had a spare at the Red Cloud.

Ace hoped it wouldn't take too long, hoping he would get back before it got too late in the evening.

-x-

Marco gave a small sigh as he moved to the showers, dinner now ended. He felt that the trip to the hot spring had been good and Ace had seemed to enjoy it, both the hot spring and the massage after. Ace had seemed content with everything.

When Marco was in the shower, he did the usual and washed himself. His mind couldn't help but think back to the hot spring and massage, making his body, especially his lower half, awaken. It had been a while, years, since just a memory or thought had made that happen. He was alone in the shower and didn't see any harm in taking care of it.

When he was finished with the shower, Marco headed back to his room to finish some paperwork, so it would pile up. It wasn't much, but he could take care of it now since he had the time. Nothing much was happening right now anyway. When he was finished with it an hour later, he placed it to the side, making a mental note to give it to Pops later. After that, he fixed around his room and desk a bit, liking to have order in his things. When he was satisfied with it, he thought he should maybe try and sleep. He was feeling a bit tired, and nothing was going to happen for a while either. Before he had decided, there was a knock at the door and Marco gave a small frown, wondering who it might be.

After giving a come in, he was a bit shocked to see Ace walking in the door and closing it. Marco sent a quick look at the clock, seeing he was back hours before he had said he would be back. He looked back at Ace, he seemed to be in a normal mood. ¨How did it go, yoi?¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨It went fine, surprisingly so, the reason it ended early.¨ Marco nodded, that was good. Ace gave him a smile. ¨I'm sorry for leaving as abruptly before, the hot spring and massage was perfect.¨ Marco gave a small chuckle. ¨It's fine, yoi. You do have your job and things will come up at times.¨ Ace gave a nod, glad he was as understanding.

They talked for a bit, Ace leaning on the desk. After some minutes, Marco stood up from his chair, walking over to Ace and connecting their lips in a quick kiss. Ace responded to it, and when Marco leaned back, it only took a second before Ace leaned up to connect their lips in a deeper kiss, hands moving to Marco's neck, Marco's hands moving to Ace's side, also bringing Ace closer to him.

(*)

Marco moved his hands down Aces back, getting a low moan out of him as they moved up his shirt. Ace's shirt was soon taken off, and Marco moved his hands along Ace body, getting more sounds from him. Ace wasn't vocal, but he did let out some sounds that made Marco believe he enjoy it.

Marco, having relieved himself in the shower before, his body still being worked up after the massage he gave to Ace before and the fact Ace weren't supposed to be back for hours. Even though he could go again, he didn't have the full need to, he still felt satisfied, and decided this would be a good opportunity to really focus on Ace this time. He usually did, but this time he would only focus on that.

They were still close to the desk, which was behind Ace. Marco moved his hands down to Ace's butt, giving a small pull as a small warning and chance for Ace to protest, having learned that doing that would be a tell enough on what he wanted to do. When he didn't protest, even moving a bit on his toes so Marco could get a better grip, Marco lifted him up to sit at the desk. The desk didn't have things on it, giving Ace space to sit and able to move. When Ace was seated, Marco kissed him deeply as he started taking Ace's pants off, bowers soon following. When it was off, Marco gave a last kiss to Ace on his lips, before starting to kiss down his body, hands caressing his sides as he moved down. Ace moving to lean a bit back on his hands to keep balanced. Ace sometimes made a small shiver at the feeling, moans sometimes making it out.

When Marco reached Ace's abdomen, he moved to sit on a knee, a hand carefully moving Ace's leg to give him better access. Marco gave some flutter kisses to the hard member, before moving lower. When he got to Ace's backside, Marco moved a hand to part the cheeks a bit, giving a view of Ace's pucker. Marco moved a thumb over the pucker, before leaning in and giving a lick. Ace's entire body gave a small lurch, not expecting it. ¨Marco, wha- aah.¨ Ace cut off with a moan as Marco gave another lick, using more pressure this time. Ace's entire body moved as Marco used his tongue, breath hitching and giving moans, sometimes sounding restrained.

Marco had a feeling Ace hadn't had this done before, he knew it could be a new and strong feeling to get rimmed, but Ace seemed to enjoy it. Ace had moved a hand to his shoulder, just holding it there, sometimes clutching a bit when Marco gave another lick, which was followed by the entire form moving, back arching and moans spilling from Ace. This was the most vocal he had been.

When he heard Ace's moans getting louder, his body arching and reacting more to the feeling, Marco moved a hand to Ace's member, stroking it with his tongues movement. Ace's body reacted to that and arched, a loud moan leaving him. When Marco felt Ace's body arching more and breath speeding up and more moans leaving him, Marco lapped at Ace's hole more, moving his hand faster and having a small twist at the top of him member. It didn't take long for Ace's body to arch and tense, a breathless moan leaving him as he orgasmed.

(*)

Ace's body soon relaxed, sounding out of breath. Marco kissed Ace's thigh and moved himself upwards, grabbing a cloth and quickly cleaning up the mess on Ace's stomach as he kissed his way up again. Ace was breathing hard, trying to regain his breath. Ace was almost lying on the desk, looking like his strength was used up, looking to be breathless. When Marco was standing again, he gave a kiss on Ace's lips, before moving his hands, one under Ace's legs and the other to Ace's back, carefully lifting him up in his arms. Marco knew getting rimmed could be intense and make one feel like their body was shaky and tired, the reason Marco decided to just lift Ace and carry him to the bed.

Ace had seemed startled, hands moving to his neck to hold on carefully. Ace sent him a look as he moved to the bed. ¨What was that and why are you carrying me?¨ Marco gave a hum, ¨I wanted to make you feel good, yoi. And I'm carrying you so you don't need to walk. I can put you down.¨ He had a feeling Ace didn't like to be carried, but it wasn't far, it was only a couple of steps left. Ace gave a nod, ¨I'm not too fond of being carried. And what about you?¨ Marco placed Ace down in the bed, giving a small chuckle. ¨Don't worry about that, yoi.¨ Ace blinked, before giving a nod, not seeming to sure about it. Marco now got a thought no one had only focused on Ace before. Marco shook his head as he kissed Ace, ¨It's okay, I wanted it to be about you, we can do more later.¨ Ace gave a nod, going with it.

¨Could you hand me my boxers?¨ Marco gave a chuckle as he did, before he moved to the bed himself, laying down as Ace took his underwear on and making himself comfortable. When both was laying down and made themselves comfortable, Marco sent a look at Ace, ¨How did it feel, yoi?¨ Ace thought for a second, before giving a breath. ¨I don't know. It was new.¨ Marco gave a nod, moving a hand to Ace's back, stroking it lightly. ¨It's okay. We don't need to do it again.¨ Ace gave a nod at that, ¨I need to think about it. It was good, just new.¨ Marco gave a nod, he understood that. He was glad Ace had enjoyed it.

Marco continued to move the hand lightly on Ace's back, having small conversation before Ace fell asleep, Marco following after some minutes, having a smile. The day had been good.

-x-

Whitebeard sat in his chair out on deck, watching his children moving around and doing their things. It was a calm day today, which was good. The sun was shining and it was not too much wind, just enough to keep them at a steady pace.

As he was enjoying the morning, a loud voice to his left had his attention. ¨And who are you to decide that?!¨ The captain looked over to see Nathan and Jensen looking at each other in anger, Henry and Justin behind Nathan, and Jason with Jensen. Nathan got a sneer, ¨And who are they to decide that?! Who gave them the right to decide who dies or lives?!¨ Jensen seemed exasperated, shaking his head and looking angry and mad. ¨They at least have better judgment than you! It is because of them we have all of our family alive! They helped us get Paul and everyone back two years ago!¨

Whitebeard now understood what they were arguing about. They were arguing about the assassins, most likely seeing them being mentioned in the newspaper again, which he could see lying not too far away from them. Whitebeard knew Jensen and Jason also knew who Ace were and didn't have any issues with it, but the other three was another thing.

Justin gave Jensen and Jason a sneer. ¨Even if they did, they are not the ones to decide who are supposed to live or die! They can't just go and do as they like!¨ Jensen shook his head, ¨They have more rights to decide than you!¨ The captain was thinking of intervening, to calm it down before it got too bad. Before he could, Nathan gave a sneer. ¨Then maybe you should join them!¨ Jensen gave a sneer back. ¨Maybe I will! They are at least better than you!¨ With that, Jensen turned around and left, Jason following. Nathan gave a sneer after him, before shaking his head and muttering something, which the captain couldn't hear and that might be the best, before he also turned around and walked away, the other two following.

The captain thought for a second. This wasn't good. The fact Nathan didn't like assassins, him even knowing who Ace were. But to see them outright arguing like this wasn't good, he didn't know they were this divided about it. This could turn bad. But Whitebeard wasn't sure how to go forward with this, if he should speak about it with Ace, or the ones in the argument. Another possibility was to speak to Rakuyo, who was in charge of the seventh division, where Nathan, Justin and Henry were, but he didn't know if that was the right approach either.

Whitebeard was at a loss on how to proceed in this, he would need to think about how to do this. Not just because it was bad they didn't like assassins, which Ace was, but because they were arguing about it. The one they had looked as if it could get physical, and that would be even worse.

The captain decided to maybe take it with everyone, to mention he had seen some who were less than pleased about Ace and his work, and that some was also arguing about assassins and what they did and see what they said. He hoped he could manage that in the next meeting, as long as things didn't escalate. If it did, he needed to handle it then.

It was thankfully calm for a while after that, which was good. He was thinking of maybe speaking or at least mentioning it to Ace when he got back from his assignment, which was going to be soon.

As he was trying to think if he should speak with Ace about it now, he noticed Ace and Trevor walking out on deck, coming from the commander's quarters, making him believe Trevor had been in Ace's room, he was that from time to time, he was just glad Ace didn't seem to mind it. Ace seemed to be holding some folder or something, speaking to Trevor about it. He didn't think it was related to his work, since it was out in the open. It might be his paperwork related to his commander position, it was due soon.

Before he could think of saying he wanted to speak with Ace, Ace suddenly stopped, getting a shocked look, almost horrified. Not even a second later, he dropped the folder, before he was gone in black smoke.

Trevor managed to catch the folder before it hit the ground, shaking his head as he gave a small sigh. When the assassin noticed him looking at him, Trevor shook his head again, ¨That look means something is up with Luffy and Sabo. And based on the fact he left like that, nothing good.¨ The captain gave a nod, before he could speak, Trevor handed him the folder Ace had held. ¨Here, Bunny said this was for you. Some commander work thing.¨ Whitebeard nodded, taking the folder and placing it on his armrest before looking back at Trevor. ¨Do you know what it might be with Luffy and Sabo?¨ He hadn't seen the kids for some time, and it wasn't good to know something was up now. Trevor gave a hum. ¨I don't know. But based on the look Bunny had, someone will most likely die a horrible death.¨

The captain nodded. If anyone had done anything to the two kids, he was sure Ace wouldn't let them live. He was really protective over them. He hoped everyone of them were fine. Not only Luffy and Sabo, but the crew they had gotten.

-x-OUTTAKE-x-

Law stood and watched as Luffy burned their boat, as it was no longer able to sail since it was damaged. Not only was the kid crying, but everyone was. Law did get a boat was something special, and this was the kid's first boat he had, so it was something that the kid would be sad over. The boat, what did the brat call it, Merry? Seemed to have been a good boat, even following after him when they went with the sea train, even while it was damaged. He had heard about boats being mysterious like that, especially if its owner was good.

Law didn't like to see the kid crying, the damn feelings still being there. He should keep his distance, and he had managed that the last days, but the brat was good at finding him and being annoying, not at all helping. What was even worse was the fact the entire crew, especially Sabo and the cook was giving him dark looks. That didn't help at all. The damn cook had even dragged Luffy away from him one time. Not that that would be a bad thing, but who was he to drag his captain away like that? Even worse when he kept giving dark glances to him, trying to keep the brat away from him. He might not want to be around the brat, but he didn't like the chef keeping the brat away from him.

As he watched the kid crying over the boat, Law wanted to make the brat stop, he shouldn't be crying. He didn't like that. He should be smiling like he always did, like a fool. Law gave a sigh as he looked back to the ship. The kid would need a new boat now, and he idly wondered where he would find that. The boat was soon going up in flames, going to burn before it sank, a perfect goodbye for a loved boat.

But what Law didn't know, was that as the boat burned, the mark Ace had put there to know if his brother was fine and to teleport to the boat also burned, which he felt.

---

And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed

This was a bit of everything again and I tried to have more of Marco/Ace in it and hope you liked that, as well as everything else. I would also like some feedback on the fighting scene as I'm still learning to write that

And how did you like the new thing to skip the smut scene, did that work okay? I got the idea from another fic and now out know where it starts and ends, which I hope makes it easier to know where it is. And for those who read it, was it good? I know I'm not good at writing it and would love some feedback on that too

Again, I hope you enjoyed. And if you have the time, I would greatly appreciate feedback on the chapter or story

If you have any questions or wondering about anything, don't be afraid to leave a review or send a Pm

And if you liked this story, feel free to check out Ace of Spades One Shots, which contains missing scenes and different events from this story