Hello everyone, here is the next chapter
We have a bit of everything in this, even some more comic relief and fun times
And with everything, we have a part that is gruesome and bloody, Ace doing his work. This is the last part of the chapter and it does mention and half describe noncon and have a lot of gruesome things as torture
Hope you enjoy
Read and relax
Corazon was trying to figure out what they should do now. The one they were supposed to meet, that was supposed to have whatever they needed to get, had not yet showed up. They couldn't stay here forever and wait either. The other weird thing was that Law had been gone from time to time, disappearing before coming back, looking to be mad often. Corazon had no idea where the kid went, Law refused to tell and had even almost cut him in half once. Law had been mad for some days because they needed to come here, but it had taken a turn two days ago. Now he was always almost pissed off, more so than usual.
As Corazon was about to tell Penguin and Shachi to keep Law company, those two often being able to cheer him up, either by doing something to make him in a better mood, or Law taking his frustration out on them by yelling and throwing them overboard, if it was really bad, he would cut them to pieces. But it would be a sacrifice for the better. As he saw the two and was about to speak to them, he heard a voice behind him. ¨Um… Corazon?¨ Corazon kept a sigh inside, wondering what Bepo might want. Maybe he should send Bepo to cheer Law up, Law liked Bepo. But before he could turn around, another voice had his body freeze in shock and terror.
¨Ah, Black Flamingo!¨ Corazon swallowed, turning around, hoping he was wrong, that someone else used that name for him.
But when he had turned around, he saw Bepo, who looked confused, and on his back, or more like on his head, was Luffy, smiling at him and waving. ¨Hi!¨
Before Corazon could speak, the brat tilted his head. ¨Is Traffy here? I haven't seen him in hours.¨ Corazon blinked. That's was where Law had been? With the brat? Did he have a death wish?! Before Corazon could react, Penguin spoke up with an amused voice. ¨Captain is sleeping since he is tired. Why don't you go and see how he is?¨ Corazon's entire body froze. What?! He was just about to say that that was a really bad idea, when Luffy tilted his head the other way. ¨Sleeping?¨ This time, Shachi spoke up. ¨Yeah, sleeping, he's tired. He would probably want company. Do you remember where his room is?¨
Corazon blinked. Why would the brat know where Law's room was? Luffy gave a smile, ¨I do!¨ Not even a second later, Luffy had jumped off Bepo and was gone, heading inside the submarine.
Corazon turned to Shachi and Penguin, ¨What is wrong with you two? Do you know who that is?¨ Penguin gave a nod. ¨That was Luffy. You know, the person who really likes Law, and Law is liking back.¨ Corazon blinked. Law liked Luffy? ¨W-What? How do you know that?¨ Corazon knew Law was weird around the kid, but never thought he actually liked him. Penguin got a knowing smile. ¨Captain is looking at him and acting like it.¨ Penguin then got a grin, ¨And he even is around Luffy after having sex with him.¨ Corazon froze. What? Sex? Oh God, what if his brother found out! They would be so dead! Corazon gave the two a look, before heading inside the ship, going to see if he could manage to get the brat before he found Law. Maybe he got lost, he did that at times. Corazon hoped he did.
But when he got to Law's room to check, he gave a small sound as he saw Luffy crawling into bed beside Law, who was still asleep. Lying down next to Law, the warlord not waking up.
Corazon moved his hands to his head, tugging at his hair as this was really bad. If the kid's brother came and saw this, they, or at least Law, would be dead. Just as he was going to get the brat away, someone grabbed him and dragged him away, closing the door. When he was out and about to yell at Shachi and Penguin, the two shook their head. ¨This will be good for captain, he likes the kid. And his brother won't just show up, and even if he did, we won't hurt the kid. He even likes it here.¨ That was true, the kid did like it here, he had stated so before. But still! This was not okay.
Before he could argue, both Penguin and Shachi grinned at him darkly, both grabbing for they weapons. ¨If you try to interfere, you will regret it, Rosinante.¨ Corazon swallowed. He knew the two were strong. He could maybe take in one, but not both. They could be killers and demons if they decided to.
They were dead if his brother showed up.
-x-
Law felt himself waking up, feeling somewhat rested for once. As he was about to stretch, he noticed a weight on his arm and looked to see what it was, thinking it might be asleep or something, like Shachi or Penguin, placing something there to annoy him.
But when he looked at his side, he blinked when he saw it was the brat, sleeping on his arm that was also asleep.
Law decided he was insane, there was no way the brat was here with him, in his bed no less. Law was probably still dreaming. As he was blinking more, trying to wake up, nothing changed. Luffy was still there, laying on his arm. Law frowned, using a hand to massage his face, trying to make sense of this. The movement he made, was enough to make the brat stir.
Law could only stare dumbfounded as Luffy woke up, scratching at his eye as he looked at him. ¨Traffy, you're awake.¨ Law blinked. Either this was a way to realistically dream, or the brat had somehow managed to get here. ¨Why are you here, brat?¨ Luffy made a small sound. ¨You left and didn't return, and the others were busy, and I wanted to be with you.¨ It ended with a smile.
Even though the kid did smile, it didn't reach his eyes, and he even sounded down. ¨Are you still sad about the boat?¨ That was hours ago, he couldn't be sad about that still, could he? The brat got a small depressed look, ¨Merry was a good boat, I'm going to miss her. I don't want a new boat, I want Merry.¨ When the brat started to get tears in his eyes, Law looked at the kid, now regretting mentioning it. He didn't want the kid to cry, he hated that.
¨No, brat, Luffy-ya, don't cry. You'll get a new boat, and that one will be even better.¨ He hoped that would help, but had no idea what to do when the tears started to fall down Luffy's cheeks. ¨But it won't be Merry.¨ Law had no idea what to do, he wasn't good with this kind of thing, he didn't handle people. ¨No-, wait, don't cry. Stop it.¨ When Luffy didn't stop, Law still had no idea what to do. What did one do when someone cried? With small hesitation moved Law a hand to Luffy's head, trying to pet him, hoping that would help. That worked on Bepo when he was down.
Luffy gave a sniff, looking at him with tear-filled eyes, the petting seeming to help. It still felt awkward, he wasn't good at this. ¨Don't cry, Luffy-ya. Stop doing that.¨ Luffy gave another sniff, seeming to lean into his hand. Law was a bit proud he managed to comfort someone. Luffy gave another small sniff, a hand going to dry his tears a bit. ¨Think the new boat will be cool?¨ Law blinked. What kind of question was that? ¨Why would a boat be cool? You want it to be good and durable, not cool.¨ That seemed to be the wrong thing to say as Luffy got more tears in his eyes, looking hurt. ¨But I want a ship that is cool.¨
Law swallowed, that was apparently the wrong thing to say. Okay, new approach. He moved the hand and petted Luffy more. ¨It can be both cool and good.¨ The kid gave a nod, giving a sniff. ¨I want that.¨ That seemed to help, which was good. Law kept petting him, something that seemed to help as he slowly stopped crying.
Just as he was about to speak up again, to try to make him stop crying completely, a crash had him look to the door, were Corazon came tumbling inside.
When he saw Luffy was crying, he seemed to be panicking. ¨Oh God, why is he crying?! Make him stop! His brother is here!¨ Luffy sniffed, ¨Sabo's here?¨ The blond wasn't too bad, he was just giving him glances and probably came to get Luffy.
Corazon shook his head, ¨No no no. Not him, the other brother!¨ Law froze. The assassin was here? Law was dead.
Before any of them could react, Luffy was already out the door, running past Corazon, still crying. They soon heard a small yell of ¨Ace!¨ Meaning that the assassin was here, meaning they were dead. Law took a deep breath, getting out of bed and heading to the door. He would face his death like a man, he wouldn't run away, even though that was what he wanted to. But that would be worse. Corazon did stare after him, not able to speak as Law walked to his doom.
When he got outside, he saw Luffy standing with the back to him, seeing another shape in front of him. It couldn't be any other than the assassin. Law moved a bit more, going to the side to see what the side to see what they were doing, hoping to maybe even hear what they were speaking about, if he was dead or not.
He heard Luffy give a sniff and saw the kid's brother, who was not even dressed in his assassin outfit, drying Luffy's tears away with his thumbs. ¨Why are you crying, Lu?¨ Law had to blink. That sounded… caring? He had never heard the assassin speak like that before, not even the last time he had been here. But then he remembered he wasn't in his assassin outfit, meaning he was more a brother now. That might be good for him.
Luffy gave a small sniff. ¨Because of Merry, she was damaged and we had to let go of her.¨ The assassin, Ace, gave a nod, drying some more tears away. ¨I heard it from Sabo. It was the right thing to do. Why are you here?¨ Okay, now was the time Law hoped Luffy would not say anything bad. Luffy gave a sniff, giving a smile. ¨Sabo was busy, as was everyone, and I knew Traffy was here, so I went here. He helped comfort me, since I was still sad about Merry.¨ Luffy gave a smile, ¨I want a new boat, that is both cool and good!¨
Law saw Ace sending him a look, making him swallow. He didn't seem too mad, maybe only half curious and assessing, something looking like an underlying look of doubt. That was something, maybe he wasn't dead. Ace looked back at Luffy, ¨That's good, Lu.¨ The kid nodded. Before Luffy could speak, the raven to the assassin came and landed on his shoulder, dropping an envelope to him, that the assassin gave a quick look too. Ace gave a sigh, moving a hand to Luffy's head, stroking it. ¨Go back to Sabo, he's worried. I'll come back in a few hours, okay?¨ Luffy gave a nod, ¨Okay.¨ With a last stroke to Luffy's head, the kid gave a small laugh as he ran off.
Ace looked after him, before he turned to him, having a professional look, the caring look gone. ¨I will speak with you later, Trafalgar.¨ Law could only nod, too scared to do anything else.
When the assassin was gone, disappearing in black smoke, he felt a breath leave him. He wasn't dead. Not yet at least. But he might be in a few hours.
-x-
Sabo walked towards the boat, or submarine was probably more right. Luffy was eating and would be busy for some time, giving him time to slip out and ask the warlord some questions. He hadn't thought much of the fact Luffy had been gone before, thinking he was running around and being himself, trying to do something as he was still down about Merry, everyone was. But then Ace had showed up, looking to be relieved to see him in one piece and when he had asked, he felt guilty as he had forgotten that Ace had his mark on the boat and that he would feel it burning.
He did apologize and was sort of glad it took him a small time to figure it out, because if not, they would have had Ann suddenly appear and that would have been bad. Although, he did make a lot of work for Ace since he now needed to find a way to their island and get there and find them. He should have remembered it. When Ace wondered where Luffy was and Sabo said he didn't, Ace had asked if they knew anyone here or had seen anyone. Sabo, having a feeling Ace might now, had told with a guilty face that the warlord was here, even that he had been around them. Ace had not looked too happy when he left to see if Luffy was with the warlord. Sabo both hoped for a yes and no.
When Luffy returned alone in a short hour, he was glad to see Luffy looking fine maybe a bit puffy eyes, but that was it. Luffy had said Ace got some work and would be back in a few hours, most likely to speak to the warlord. And while Sabo knew Ace would fix it, he had not gotten anything out from Luffy as to why he had gotten there, and had decided to go and ask the warlord himself. If he hadn't hurt Luffy, he wouldn't hurt him. that was at least what he hoped for. He did tell Robin where he went, just in case. Ace would also show it in a couple of hours anyway.
When he got to the boat, he saw a… bear? Standing out beside the boat, doing something that looked like cleaning. Hadn't Luffy mentioned something about a talking bear?
Sabo walked up to the bear carefully, not sure if it was a real dangerous bear or not. Luffy spoke about it as it was friendly, but Luffy also thought seamonsters could be friends. When he got closer to the bear, he could hear faint humming, and Sabo cleared his throat, making the bear turn around. It looked both cute and scary in the jumpsuit. When the bear looked at him, Sabo took a breath. ¨Is Trafalgar Law here?¨ When the bear only looked at him, Sabo was thinking of finding an actual human. What kind of bear spoke anyway, animals didn't do that. But they had Chopper, but he was special. The bear blinked before he could move, tilting his head. ¨What do you want with captain?¨
Sabo blinked, shocked the bear could talk. He managed to gather himself. ¨I want to speak to him. Tell him it's Luffy's brother.¨ The bear looked at him for a second, before he left, giving a nod as he headed on the submarine. That was weird. A talking bear, he didn't expect it to talk, even though he did ask it a question and that Luffy had said it could talk.
It took a minute, but the warlord soon came into view, looking relieved to see it was him, most likely thinking it was Ace, not him coming. The warlord jumped down to the ground and stood in front of him. He could see the other, the one Luffy called 'Black Flamingo', Rosinante, if Sabo remembered, standing on the boat and looking at them. Sabo looked at the warlord when he spoke. ¨What are you doing here? Shouldn't you be with Luffy-ya?¨ Sabo looked at the warlord, he was going to do this. ¨What do you want with Luffy? Why are you always around him?¨ The man only gave a sigh, not giving much of a reaction. ¨I tried to stay away. He was the one to come to me and annoy me.¨
Sabo gave a frown. ¨Why did he come here? He had no reason to do that.¨ Sabo didn't understand why Luffy wanted to be around the warlord. The warlord gave him a look, ¨I do not know. He mentioned something about you and the others being busy, the reason he decided to suddenly show up here before.¨ Sabo blinked. They hadn't been busy, they had been in the galley and had a small after ceremony with food for the boat, it had been a really good boat that had followed them, even after being broken. But they, or at least Sabo, would have gone and been with Luffy if he asked.
Sabo looked at the warlord. ¨What are your plans with him? Why are you around him?¨ There had to be a reason, the warlord needed to have a reason as to why letting Luffy be with him. The warlord just gave a calm look, ¨I do not know, He is just… interesting.¨ Sabo didn't like that he called Luffy interesting. The warlord was called Surgeon of Death, that didn't bode well with him. ¨Are you going to injure him?¨ If he didn't answer or Sabo didn't believe him, he would tell Ace at once. The warlord shook his head, ¨I am not going to hurt him. He just… interests me.¨
Sabo gave a nod, he felt as if the warlord was being truthful, but Sabo still wasn't too sure. The warlord was a dangerous man, they shouldn't be around him if they could avoid it. Sabo looked at the warlord. ¨I don't like you. And I have a feeling Ace doesn't like you either. But for some reason, Luffy do.¨ The warlord gave a nod, giving a small nervous look when he mentioned Ace. ¨I have no plans of injuring him. Why he likes me, I do not know.¨ Sabo gave a nod, he would try to speak more to Luffy and have Ace handle this more. He was better at things like this.
Sabo gave a look to the warlord, a half glare. ¨Ace will be here in half an hour. Don't think about leaving.¨ The warlord gave a nod, looking nervous. He should be nervous, he should be terrified. If he messed with Luffy, Law got him and Ace to deal with. Sabo gave the man a last look before leaving, not sparing him a second glance as he left.
When he got back to the others, he got Luffy to a private place so he could talk to him, hoping he might have something to say about this stuff with the warlord. When they were alone, he looked at Luffy. ¨Why are you around the warlord? Why did you leave to him before? He can be dangerous!¨ Luffy shook his head, having a smile. ¨He's not dangerous, he's nice! He has taken care of me! And I left before cuz everyone was busy and I knew he was there.¨ Sabo blinked. ¨Why him? I would have been with you if you asked, Lu.¨ Luffy shook his head, ¨No, cuz you were busy and I didn't want to bother you, and Traffy is like Ace in a way. He cares, just his own way.¨
Sabo shook his head, ¨Listen, Lu. I get you didn't want to bother us, but it's okay if you do. I'll always be there for you.. And how is he like Ace?¨ Luffy smiled, ¨He doesn't show much emotions, and he act's all powerful and calm, but he's kind.¨ Luffy gave him a big smile. ¨I like him!¨ Sabo gave a sigh, it was obvious that Luffy liked him, but Luffy liked everyone. ¨Ace will speak to him later and we'll see what happens then.¨ Luffy puffed his cheeks up, ¨I don't want Ace to hurt Traffy.¨ Sabo gave a small sigh, ¨Ace will speak to him, and we'll see what happens.¨ Luffy gave a nod to that, still not looking too happy about that. He knew that if the warlord said anything wrong, it wouldn't sit well with Ace.
Sabo gave a last pat to Luffy's head, telling that he should stay away from the warlord for now. Luffy, still looking somewhat mad, gave a nod, before going off to do something, looking to be bothering Zoro. Sabo gave a sigh when Luffy left. he would need to tell Ace what he and the warlord spoke about, also mentioning what Luffy just said.
-x-
Ace was not in a particularly good mood. The assignment had thankfully gone by good, but he had met some way too annoying people, and now he needed to deal with the warlord on top of this too.
Sabo had told Ace what he and Trafalgar had spoken about, and it was a bit concerning that he found Luffy interesting. But he would take that with Trafalgar soon as he was headed there. Sabo had also told what Luffy had said, which he was still trying to figure out why Luffy would like Trafalgar. He needed to speak to the warlord, to clear up some things and to know what he should do with the warlord.
It wasn't long before he got to the submarine.
When he got to the submarine boat, he saw that some was still outside, one of which being Rosinante. When the blond saw him, he got a nervous look as he yelled something inside the submarine. After he did, it wasn't long before Trafalgar came out from the submarine, looking nervous. Trafalgar quickly got down on the ground, waiting for Ace to get closer to him so they could speak. Ace noticed Rosinante staying on the boat, but not in eyesight. But Ace could feel him on the boat, but no one else, which was good. They didn't need eavesdroppers.
When he was close to Trafalgar, he stopped a few feet away, giving him a look. ¨Trafalgar.¨ He said with a small nod, still knowing to be respectful, even if he didn't like this man. Trafalgar gave a nod back, ¨Portgas-ya.¨ Ace was satisfied that he went with Portgas and not his assassin name or just Ace.
Ace gave Trafalgar a look, ¨Now, why is it you still are around Luffy, Trafalgar?¨ The warlord gave a nod, ¨I am not sure. He is also seeking me out, which I am not sure about.¨ Ace gave a look to the man. Was he thinking of blaming it on Luffy? Before he could speak, Trafalgar shook his head. ¨But there is also something that I find fascinating, but I do now know what. But I will not hurt him in any way, I promise. I try to stay away.¨ Ace gave a nod, he felt that Trafalgar was being truthful, one of the perks of being adept in using observation Haki. He could also feel Trafalgar was nervous, although he managed to hide it well in his body language.
Ace gave a nod. ¨What is it you find fascinating?¨ Trafalgar swallowed as he gave a small nod, ¨I don't know. But there is something in the way he acts, how he speaks and his personality.¨ Ace gave a nod. He knew Trafalgar was still being truthful. Normally he would have not been glad by this fact and would give a warning or harsh reminder to stay away from Luffy for good. But he knew Luffy liked them, especially Trafalgar for some reason. Luffy had even stood up for them last time.
Ace gave a look to Trafalgar, ¨I am going to let you go with a warning, and this is for one reason only, and that is by the fact Luffy likes you.¨ When Trafalgar gave a curt nod, Ace gave a glare. ¨I want you to try and stay away from Luffy. And if I find out you hurt him in any way, you will be sorry.¨ Trafalgar nodded, looking and feeling a bit relieved by that. He most likely knew the only thing keeping him alive was Luffy right now, and that if he just thought about injuring Luffy, he was dead.
Trafalgar gave him a honest look. ¨I promise to not injure Luffy-ya.¨ Ace gave a nod, giving a hard look. ¨I am letting you off easy now, but I am keeping my eyes on you, Trafalgar.¨ Trafalgar gave a nod as he swallowed, ¨I understand, Portgas-ya. I promise to not injure him.¨ Ace gave a nod, he hoped he wouldn't need to speak to the warlord about this again. The best would be if he could avoid Luffy, making it easier and less likely for anything to happen.
Ace gave a nod to Trafalgar, ¨Hopefully we will not have any issues with this more and that it will hopefully not be on this matter next time we meet.¨ Trafalgar gave a nod, looking relieved. It was a tell that they were still acquaintances, which he knew Trafalgar depended on. Trafalgar gave a nod, giving a bow. ¨Thank you, Portgas-ya, for being as kind.¨ Normally Ace would have bowed back, but he had no reason to, seeing what kind of stuff had happened between Trafalgar and Luffy, something he wasn't happy about. But it hopefully would stop now.
Ace gave a small nod, giving a quick goodbye, before he left, not sparing Trafalgar a second look.
When he was back with Luffy and Sabo, he said things were fine for now, before sending Luffy away. When Luffy was gone, Ace told Sabo what he and Trafalgar had spoken about, saying he was let off easy for now, seeing how Luffy said and showed he liked the man and Ace would try not to kill him. Sabo agreed on it, also making a promise to tell if Trafalgar did anything wrong.
When he was done with that, he left back to the ship, which felt good. He was still annoyed by everything, both by the assignment and Trafalgar, but it would be fine, he just needed to relax now. After being back for only half an hour, he was told they were having a meeting.
Ace gave a sigh as he headed to the meeting room, hoping it would go by fine as he was still somewhat annoyed.
-x-
When everyone was in the meeting room, Ace gave a sigh, looking at Trevor that sat at the other side of the table. ¨Trevor, leave.¨ Trevor looked at him, ¨Why? It's cold outside.¨ They were still close to the winter island, the weather still being cold, even snowing still. Ace gave him a look, not looking amused. ¨This is a meeting and you are not a part of it.¨ Trevor lifted an eyebrow, before he got a small smile. ¨Whice so serious?Ace gave a sigh, ¨Trevor, leave or I'll make you.¨ The grin on Trevor grew, ¨That wouldn't be very nice.¨ Ace seemed to only get mad and annoyed, making the captain anxious, knowing if he could tell Ace was annoyed, he was annoyed.
¨Trevor, leave.¨ The man gave a small laugh, seeming to really enjoy getting on Ace's nerves. ¨Don't be so cold.¨ With that comment, Ace stood up angrily, pointing to the door. ¨Trevor, out!¨ The captain was just about to tell Trevor to leave, knowing the man respected him as the captain. But before he could, Trevor gave a small laugh. ¨Bunny, chill!¨With that, Trevor just broke out laughing, even some of the other present also snickering, while some others looked at the two with small caution, seeing and understanding Ace weren't in the best of mods.
Ace, who was already looking mad, shook his head, holding his hands a bit up and walked to the door. ¨I'm leaving!¨ Ace walked out the door, seeming to be really mad and annoyed. Not even giving them a second glance.
Before the door closed, Trevor tried to speak after him. ¨No, wait, Bunny! Don't go!¨ It was said with laugher, Trevor not able to hold it. When the door closed, with a small bang even, Trevor tried to take a few calming breaths, which helped a bit, but not too much as he was still half laughing as he looked at him. ¨Bunny is not coming back, I'm sorry.¨ The captain blinked. ¨He's not? But what about the meeting?¨ They needed Ace here. It was always the best to have everyone. Trevor shook his head, still chuckling. ¨Bunny is way too mad now. I might have taken it a bit too far.¨ Before Whitebeard could respond, Mika, who sat beside Trevor, spoke, an eyebrow lifted. ¨Might? You knew he was already pissed after the assignment. He is so going to get back at you later. Remember last time you did this?¨
Trevor gave a half laugh and pained sound, ¨Oh lord, the damn knife.¨ The captain blinked, before he remembered Trevor telling Ace had thrown a steak knife at him. He hoped it wouldn't be that bad this time. But if he had done that last time he was like this, it might not be a good idea to make him come to the meeting, deciding to keep it easy this time and maybe have another meeting later if it was needed.
The captain decided to let the two assassins stay, not seeing a reason to throw them out now. And if they spoke about anything they had information about that could be a danger to them, they would tell if they could. Since Ace weren't present, this was the next best thing. But Whitebeard was thinking of telling Trevor to leave Ace be when they were having a meeting, as Ace was a commander and should be present. He would let this slide this time, but if it happened again, he would be more stern about it.
The meeting did go by fine, nothing major thankfully being a topic, helping the fact Ace weren't there. But the captain would ask him later, to see if he had anything to tell.
When the meeting was over, they relaxed out on deck some, Trevor leaving to do some things while Mika stayed out with them. When it was closing in on dinner time, Ace appeared again, looking more calm, which was good. He would ask Ace later if he had anything to say, maybe when they were more private. Ace had gone to his usual spot and sat on the railing, reading his book. The captain did notice some of the commanders staying a bit away from Ace and sending him glances. But he had seemed mad before, which they hadn't seen before. They would go back to normal soon, it was just a shock to see Ace so annoyed. But Mika had said he was already annoyed from his assignment, and Trevor pushed further.
It wasn't long before dinner was ready and they headed there.
During dinner, things were mostly calm, people eating and having fun. It was slowly coming to an end, people starting to leave as they had eaten. There were still some left, sitting here and there. Whitebeard liked to sit and keep everyone company during meals, and there as still some left, which also included some commanders. As they were finishing up, he noticed Trevor coming inside the galley, him having needed to do some things before. When he had taken a few steps inside, halfway to the table they sat at, a voice had him shocked as he looked at Ace.
¨Thatch, think I'll be able to throw this knife to the other side of the room.¨ The captain felt shocked, thinking he would throw the knife at Trevor, like he had done before with the egg. The others at the table seemed to think the same, looking shocked and horrified, especially Thatch. Before any of them could respond, Trevor made a movement to defend himself against the knife. ¨Bunny, wait! I'm so-,¨ He was cut off as an egg just hit him in the head, Trevor stopping and looking unamused, before looking to his left. ¨Really, Mika, really?¨ The woman shrugged, moving to sit beside Ace who placed the knife down. ¨I was bored, and it was the easiest way to target you.¨ She said as she took some food.
Trevor gave a sigh, moving to sit down too. ¨I'm just glad it wasn't the knife.¨ Ace gave an unimpressed look. ¨I can still throw it. But that would create a mess that I am sure you wouldn't clean up.¨ Trevor gave a snort, grabbing some food. ¨Thank you for thinking about the inconvenience my death would be to you.¨ The captain could only blink, seeing how calm the three were together, this seeming to be a normal thing. He had noticed Ace being more calm around Trevor and Mika, but this was new, for him to do something like that. although he had a feeling he would have thrown the knife if they hadn't been on the boat. Everyone still seemed shocked, not sure how to react to this. Ace didn't seem like the person to do that and had a feeling Mika might have pursued him into not doing anything too harmful.
The dinner continued calmly after that, nothing special happening.
-x-
Marco slowly stroked Ace's back, trying to completely catch his breath from his and Ace's previous activities. He enjoyed everything about his and Ace's intimate moments, he doesn't have anything to complain about, but he did wonder about some things. Marco moved his hand higher on Ace's back, moving to his shoulder blades. ¨Ace,¨ Started Marco, making the other give a hum. Ace was lying with his head facing him, eyes closed. ¨I'm not complaining or unsatisfied or anything, yoi. But I wondered, don't you want to top?¨ Marco didn't mind either one. He liked to top best, but he enjoyed both. But Ace had never brought it up or even seemed interested in that for the matter. He knew some just weren't interested, but Ace seemed like a person that wanted to be in control and have the lead, he was a strong person. He felt as if he should at least ask.
Ace didn't make any movement for a second, before he shook his head. Marco gave a nod, the hand still stroking Ace's back for small support in case. ¨Is there a reason, yoi?¨ Marco had a feeling as to why and would tread carefully. Ace was silent for a second again, ¨I don't feel comfortable with it.¨ Marco gave a nod. That might mean Ace had tried and it didn't go to well. Marco stopped moving his hand on Ace's back, keeping it there still and moving his thumb carefully as comfort and support, trying to think how to phrase the next question.
¨Is it because of what you've been through, the rape, yoi?¨
Marco had heard about people that had gone through rape had issues with all kind of intimacy, or having issues with certain types of intimacy. When he felt Ace tense, Marco carefully moved his fingers comfortingly and supportive on Ace's back. He noticed Ace opening his eyes a tiny bit, looking downcast. When Marco thought Ace wasn't going to answer, and he was on his way to say something else, Ace gave a small nod. Marco nodded. He was glad Ace nodded, telling that was the reason. Marco kept moving his hand on Ace's back, ¨We don't need too, I am happy with things now, yoi. But if you want to, I wouldn't mind it.¨ He wanted to make sure there was no pressure, but that he was fine with it.
Ace gave a slow nod, still not looking at him. Marco gave a nod himself. He felt as if he got somewhere, that he could get to know more of this from Ace and hopefully help. It wasn't good to keep things like this inside. Marco was also having a feeling he barely knew what Ace had been through. He knew something had happened, most likely multiple times, but he didn't know much more than that. Marco wished he knew more, to know where he should tread carefully and where not too tread at all. He had a hope he could get Ace to speak about himself. ¨When did it happen, yoi?¨ Marco knew he was asking about something he knew Ace didn't want to speak about, but Marco had to try, hoping he could help Ace speak about it.
Ace didn't move or say anything, but Marco felt he was still tense, maybe breathing a bit more shallow. Marco kept moving his hand on Ace's back slowly and carefully, giving Ace time to think and hoping he might answer. Ace was silent for a minute, Marco waiting patiently, there was no rushing this. After another minute, he felt Ace going to speak, but didn't, before trying again. ¨It was multiple. Not anything happening for a while.¨
It was spoken with absolutely no emotions, plain and short. Marco gave a nod. It was emotionless but he had noticed Ace often turned everything off when he spoke of things he didn't want to speak about. He was glad Ace actually said it, it was better than nothing. ¨What did they do, yoi?¨ Marco felt Ace tensing more up and moved his hand more comfortingly on his back. After a couple of minutes, Ace shook his head, not saying anything.
Marco gave a nod, moving his hand more. ¨It's okay, yoi. You don't need to speak about it now.¨ He didn't want to push Ace, but he needed to ask. He might bring it up again later, when Ace was more comfortable around him. Ace gave a small nod, ¨I just…¨ Ace gave a sigh, ¨Not ready yet.¨ Marco gave a nod, ¨It's okay, I get it, yoi.¨ Marco moved his hand on Ace's back a bit higher. ¨I want to know more about it and how I can help, yoi. What I can and can't do, where the line is.¨
Ace gave a small nod, being silent for a minute before giving a sigh. ¨I just… I'll tell you when you do something I don't like, just don't do anything too fast.¨ Marco gave a nod, he had gathered that much and tried to always give Ace a chance to protest to what he did. ¨I won't do anything too fast, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨But, don't be afraid to do things either.¨ Marco gave a nod, giving a small smile. He had noticed Ace liking some small things he did in a spur, like dragging him into a kiss, taking small chances to do new things when they were alone, like joining Ace in his bed or trying new things out, and generally not being afraid to touch Ace, or at least not avoiding it. He was cautious at times, but that was it. He also knew some things, like how the neck was something he should stay away from.
Marco gave a nod, ¨If you ever want to talk, yoi. Don't be afraid to talk to me about anything, I will listen.¨ Ace gave a nod, giving a half smile. ¨I know. I'm just not ready to speak about some things.¨ Marco gave a nod, he understood that. ¨It's okay. It will take the time it needs to take, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod, closing his eyes again and giving a small breath as he relaxed a bit. Marco gave a smile as he moved to lean a bit closer, pressing a kiss to Ace's forehead. ¨Let's sleep now. Goodnight, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod, having a small smile. ¨Goodnight, Marco.¨
Marco kept his hand on Ace's back, slowly moving his thumb comfortingly, closing his eyes as he relaxed. He felt Ace starting to relax, breathing slowly as he fell asleep. When he thought Ace was asleep, Marco carefully moved his hand lower to lay over his middle back. He was glad how this had gone. It could have gone better, but he was satisfied with the outcome of the conversation. And this was the first time he had told Ace they should sleep, using the word, and was glad it had gone by good. He felt he was getting closer to Ace and that Ace was getting more and more used to him.
It wasn't long before Marco was also asleep, having a small smile.
-x-
Ace walked crouched on a small ledge near the roof, going slowly as to not alert anyone to his presence.
He was going to save some children, Lolitas, from a Noble. Ace was sent by an earlier worker, a chef, saying he had seen children being taken to a 'showroom' in pretty dresses. That was usually how they did it with Lolitas, the only small thing he was finding weird was the fact the children was seen going one by one. That wasn't how it usually went, they usually went in groups, but Ace tried not to think about that too much, going to take this as it came. He hadn't heard about this noble a lot, the noble being female and having no husband or male with her, meaning she was not as known. Female nobles weren't as known since males were more known.
As Ace continued on the ledge, not finding any better ways to get into the mansion at the time, soon came to a stop as there was a wall in the way. There was a door, but that would mean Ace needed to go down on the ground, risking to be seen. Not that it would be too terrible, he could just use his powers to make them unconscious or kill them, but Ace hoped to avoid that. If it was just Lolitas, Ace didn't need to kill everyone, just scare them to never mess with this again.
When Ace got to the wall, still on the ledge, he held his hand out and used his powers to make a hole in the wall, just enough so he could see through. When he got a look through, he was glad to see there was another ledge there, and made the hole bigger so he could slip through and continue. He had gotten the basic layout from the man wanting him to do this, knowing he needed to get the left room now, that room being the 'showroom', and the noble would most likely be in the room, her often being there.
Ace saw there was a ledge heading to the room he was going for and used his powers to teleport to the ledge, continuing on it. When he got to the wall there, he used his powers to make another hole, glad to see another ledge at the other side, heading into the room. He could see some people inside the room, looking at something that was behind a corner for Ace. Maybe this was where the Lolitas did their show for the noble's entertainment. Ace walked carefully so he could see and assess the situation.
When he walked further, so he could see what was behind the corner, he felt himself freeze for a short second, before he automatically moved, moving a hand to his mouth and blowing into it, creating a lot of smoke fast and then blowing it into the room and trapping everyone in an illusion, immediately shooting one man that was on the stage with his gun, killing him.
Around the corner, on a stage, there was a small girl, maybe around 10, being raped by the man he just killed, in front of an audience. The female noble sitting on a chair and watching with a sick smile.
As soon as everyone was under the illusion and the man dead, Ace quickly teleported to the stage and kicked the man away without a second thought, hoping to save the little girl. As soon as the man was gone from her small shape, Ace noticed a pool of blood around her, as well as a lot of dried blood on the stage. This was not the first time this had been done. When Ace took the last step to the girl, he grabbed a coat lying close and placing it over the exposed body, before crouching next to her. Ace used a hand to touch the girl's throat, closing his eyes as he felt no pulse, the girl was already dead, her body even being half cold, lips blue and eyes open and dead.
Ace gave a small sigh as he placed the coat over the body, before looking at everyone in the room. There were many there and everyone had grins or smiles, clearly enjoying this, some even having their pants opened and hands on their junks. It was a sickening sight, especially the noble who was watching everyone with a sick smile, enjoying this.
With an emotionless face, Ace napped his fingers, making everyone, aside from one, pass out.
When only the one man was standing alone, Ace walked up to him, kicking him down to the floor, making him also hit the wall as he was close to it. The touch and movement got him out of his illusion, startling him as he gave a shocked sound. When he noticed Ace, Ace crouched down and looked at the man in an emotionless face. ¨What is going on here?¨ The man just shook his head, ¨What the fuck! Who are you?! Guys!¨ Ace moved a hand to the man's grabbing a finger and breaking it of clean, making the bone protrude out the side. The man gave a yell of pain, and when he quieted down, Ace gave a look again. ¨You are alone. Now, what is going on here?¨
The man shook his head, gritting his teeth. Ace just grabbed another finger and broke it too, making him give another scream of pain. When he went silent, Ace waited for a few seconds before breaking another finger, seeing as he was still not answering, making him give another scream of pain. When he calmed down again and still didn't speak, Ace went for another finger. When he held on it, the man shook his head. ¨W-w-wait!¨ Ace halted, still keeping the hold on the finger, waiting for the man to speak. ¨T-this i-is a show.¨ Ace put pressure on the finger, ¨What kind of show?¨ The man gave a whimper, ¨A-a-a show where we watch someone have fun with one of the prisoners.¨
Ace broke the finger he held, creating another scream, before he went to hold on the next finger. ¨Whose idea was this?¨ The man whimpered when he put pressure on the finger. ¨I-i-it was h-her, the n-noble, A-A-Althea!¨ Ace broke the finger, getting another scream. When he calmed down again, breathing harshly and whimpering, Ace moved his hands to his head, twisting it fast, breaking his neck. The man fell down dead against the wall, eyes open and dead.
When Ace was done with him, he moved to see everyone that were unconscious, lying on the floor in heaps, the noble, Althea, slumped in her chair. Ace paid the woman no mind for now, going to save her for last. Ace walked up to everyone who were passed out and went with breaking their necks, slashing their throats, stabbing those who had their junk out so they would slowly bleed to death, also breaking their legs so they couldn't move.
When Ace was done with them, he turned to the noble, to Althea.
He would have his fun with her.
As Ace walked up to her, he grabbed some things from an equipment table, containing different things used to torture others. When he was in front of Althea, Ace moved her hand to the armrest that was made of stone, and placed a nail in her palm, bringing the hammer over his head and hitting the nail, nailing her hand to the armrest.
Althea, only being unconscious, woke up by the pain, giving a scream. As she woke more up and tried to move her hand, Ace grabbed her other, placing it at the other armrest, and hit a nail through that one too, making the noble give another scream. When he was done, the noble being stuck, Ace took a step back, going to the table and grabbing some more equipment. As he was taking some things from the table, the woman gave him a snarl. ¨Who the hell are you?!¨ Ace gave a hum as he grabbed what he needed, turning to Althea again. ¨I am someone that will make you suffer for what you've done.¨
The noble gave another snarl, ¨This is my fucking home! You can't just fucking watz in! You are not allowed here, Demon!¨ When Ace was close to her, he grabbed her cheek, ¨You have a filthy tongue. Why don't we remove it.¨ She got a scared look for a second, before giving a snarl, ¨Just you try, Demon.¨ Ace gave a hum, moving his hand so he could grab her jaw joints. With one movement, her jaw was dislocated. She gave a scream as it was dislocated. When her jaw was loose, Ace opened her mouth more, using a tong to drag her tongue out. He dragged it as far as he could, stretching it so far it split some small places under the strain.
When he couldn't get it further, Ace shoot his knee upwards and into her jaw, both pushing the jaw into its right place and making her bite of her own tongue.
Althea gave a painful gurgle at that, her mouth filling with blood and the pain from biting her tongue off and her jaw getting into its right place. Ace patiently waited for the woman to stop screaming and gurgling, before he looked at her when she tried to speak, not able to as she had no tongue. Ace gave a hum as he moved a hand to her cheek again, he jaw being lose still, which was good. ¨I do not understand you, Althea. Maybe the teeth are in the way.¨ She gave a horrified and pleading look, knowing he would do it. Ace used a thumb to open her jaw, before moving the tong to her mouth and holding around a tooth. He waited a second, making sure she knew and got the chance to tense as it would make it much worse. After a minute, he slowly pulled the tooth from her jaw, Althea's body tensing and shaking at the excruciating pain.
When the tooth was out, he gave her a moment to gather herself, before he moved to another tooth, repeating it. He did the same with every tooth. When he was done, Althea had almost given up all movement, sitting slumped in the chair. Ace enjoyed every second of this and he knew getting one's teeth pulled was extremely painful.
When he was finished with the teeth, them lying on the floor in a small pile, Ace grabbed more nails, moving them to each joint in her hand, readying a strike, before hitting the nail through the joint. Althea still managed to scream at the pain, which made Ace give a smirk under his mask. He truly enjoyed this.
When every one of her joints in her hand had a nail through them, Ace moved behind Althea. She had long black hair hanging down her back. Ace grabbed it and made a knot, before dragging it down the chairs back, making Althea move her head backwards as Ace pulled her hair. When he reached her limit, he placed a few nails through the hair knot, nailing the hair to the back of the chair, making her keep her head turned backwards, her mouth being filled up with blood from her missing tongue and teeth, making her need to swallow it from not drowning in it.
Ace moved to the front of the chair, moving a hand to the exposed neck and chest, having his hand over her collarbone and making his mark slowly. The only sound Althea made was a gurgle, not able to do more.
Ace took a step back and looked at Althea. Every joint in her hand had a nail through it. She had no teeth left, the tongue also removed. The hair nailed to the chair that made her head turned back, making her mouth fill with blood that she had to swallow. She would now either die from drowning in her own blood, or continue to drink it until she threw up and drown in her own puke. If she managed to survive the first puking, she would continue swallow her own blood until she did it again, she would die a slow death either way.
When he was satisfied with how Althea looked, Ace turned to look through the mansion, both hoping to find someone alive and not find someone alive.
Every person Ace met was instantly killed, Ace not giving anyone a chance to live or explain. They were here in this place, everyone knew there were children here. They might not all know how horrible it was, but they knew something was up.
Ace soon got to the basement, where slaves and prisoners usually were kept. He looked around some, finding nothing, before he walked to a door at the end and opening it. When he saw the inside, Ace gave a sigh.
There were piles and piles of dead bodies, all young.
Ace gave a small sigh as he started the task of moving all the bodies, looking for any survivors. Some had commented on how Ace didn't use his haki for this, but when someone alive hid underneath dead bodies, they were covered, no one being able to since they weren't able to be sensed when hiding beneath dead bodies.
When Ace got to the last pile and had moved away half, he saw a pair of terrified eyes looking at him, breathing harshly.
Ace crouched down a small bit, holding a hand out to her. ¨I am not here to hurt you.¨ The girl, maybe around 6, did not move or say anything, just looking at him terrified. Ace took a small step closer, hoping she would do something. Be it taking his hand, screaming or running. Everything was better than this state of being to terrified to do anything. When Ace moved his hand closer to her, she still made no movement, just looking at him with big and terrified eyes, her black hair making her skin look paler and the blood on her face show more. She was breathing shallower and shallower, panicking.
When Ace understood she wasn't going to do anything and he wanted to keep her from panicking until she passed out or died, Ace made black smoke in his hand and blew it at her, placing her in a illusion. When she was in the illusion, Ace snapped his fingers, making her pass out. Ace could now move her safely, which was good. Ace took off his cape and placed the little child in it as he went back to checking the rest of the bodies for any survivors. Ace gave a sigh when he was done and had found no one else. No one that was even warm. Everyone had been dead for hours, except for the little girl, her somehow surviving the torture she had gone through and hiding to not be found.
Ace gave a moment of silence to everyone, before he lifted the girl in his arms. Ace took a last look around the room, before he disappeared.
When he appeared, he was at an island hidden in the south of grand line, close to the calm belt. When he got there, he walked into a house there, meeting a woman in white, who gave him a bow. Ace gave a nod, handing the girl over to her, telling where he found her and what Althea did to her prisoners. The woman gave a nod, before she left, going to take care of the girl. When she was gone, Ace left the house.
This was a place Azuruko had made years ago, a place with people that had experience with traumatised and injured people. The little girl had gone through hell, gone through something that couldn't even be called hell. She would most likely never have a normal life, but the ones in the house would do their best to help her. They knew what they were doing and were able to do much more than anyone else. Ace hoped she would get better, but he could only hope.
Ace was soon back on the ship and wrote the report on the assignment, keeping some things out as the man who wanted him to do this didn't need to know how horrible it really was. He did say some, on how people were dead, but that was it. When he was finished, he sent it with Dust. When Dust was gone, Ace placed his head in his hands, hating every assignment he did with children, and this was one of the worse ones.
After a minute, Ace grabbed his bottle and disappeared from his room. A second later he was at the ledge with the whale's teeth, Dust sitting a feet away, giving a caw at him in concern. Ace gave a small angry wave at the bird, making it fly away.
It was still early, dinner barely starting now. He wasn't supposed to be back for some hours, so he could be away more. Ace leaned back on the whale's teeth, taking a swig of his bottle with alcohol. Today had been a horrible day, he hated days like this and wanted to sit and drink everything away.
After sitting at the ledge for half an hour, a body slipped down from the top, landing on the ledge and sitting down next to him.
Ace sent a look at Trevor, seeing him not looking at him, just sitting there with him, keeping him company. Ace shook his head a small bit, offering him a drink of his booze, which he took before giving it back to him again.
For now, this was fine. Just sitting and drinking with Trevor, not caring about anything else for the moment.
And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed
The bit with Althea was gory and bloody, but we needed something gory and bloody. Hope you enjoyed it
If you have the time, I greatly appreciate feedback
If you have any questions or wondering about anything, don't be afraid to leave a review or send a PM
And if you like this story, please go check out Ace of Spades One Shots, which contains one shots and different events from this story