Hello everyone, here is the next chapter
I hope everyone enjoyed the last chapter and a lot is happening here
Hope you enjoy
Read and relax
Everyone could only look at the doctor stunned, no idea what to say or do. Ace was dead? It couldn't be true. Had Ace survived Adam, only to die here? But there was no denying what Bay had just said and the look she had. Ace was dead, even after Bay trying her best. Before Whitebeard or the commanders could react, Justin spoke up.
¨That's good. Now we don't need to deal with him.¨
Whitebeard could only look at Justin, who looked like he meant it, having a snarl. He knew Justin didn't like Ace, but he was glad about his death?
Whitebeard as on his way to speak, when Jensen turned around and punched Justin, sending him to the deck.
¨Shut up!¨ Almost yelled Jensen, before looking back at Bay, looking hurt and shocked. ¨You must be wrong! Commander Ace can't die like that! He won't!¨ Bay shook her head, looking emotionless. ¨We tried all we could, there is nothing more we can do.¨ Bay looked at him. ¨We are preparing so you can say the final goodbye, it will take a few hours.¨ Bay gave a small bow. ¨I'm sorry.¨ Before she turned around, heading back to her infirmary to help the preparation.
The preparation for them to say goodbye and prepare a funeral. Ace's funeral.
Whitebeard wasn't sure how to proceed right now. He heard many starting to speak up, some arguing weather this was a good thing or not, especially Justin and Jensen. Whitebeard took a deep breath, ¨Quiet!¨ Everyone calmed down, looking at him. ¨I will not hear any arguing about this. Ace, our family member, is gone. I won't tolerate any bad mouthing on him. If I hear one more word his death was good, you are no longer a part of our family.¨ Everyone nodded, some looking ashamed, while some others, like Justin and his friends, gave a small sneer as they said fine, leaving.
Whitebeard needed to figure out where to go now.
No parent should bury their child.
-x-
Whitebeard sat in the meeting room with his commanders. They had used three hours to calm everyone, many feeling sorrow for the young commander's death. He was the youngest and latest addition to their family, and he was now gone. Every one of them had different reactions. Thatch was outright sharing his sorrows, helping some share theirs, especially Haruta. Jozu, Vista, Namur and Rakuyo tried to be strong for everyone, same with the captain. The rest were quiet, not sure what to say or do.
Then, there was Marco.
The first commander hadn't said anything since they got the news. Whitebeard could see he was trying to keep it together, and was doing a good job at it for now, but he was slowly losing it. But he tried to keep it together for them. The captain would make sure to get a private moment with Marco later, so he could let out his own grief, knowing he wanted to be strong for everyone.
After a few minutes, there was a knock on the door and Bay came in.
She gave a courtesy nod to everyone, before looking at Whitebeard. The captain gave a sigh, they needed to handle this. ¨How is everything going, Daughter?¨ Bay gave a nod. ¨We are still preparing everything as there is a lot to do. But I am here to ask what kind of memorial we should prepare and who will come. He meant a lot to many.¨ The captain gave a nod, and looked at his commanders for a second, knowing they would speak about some funeral arrangements, which could be hard. ¨You don't need to be here if you don't want too.¨ Everyone shook their heads, Haruta and Thatch sniffing. ¨We want to be here.¨ The captain gave a nod, looking at Bay and starting to slowly discuss what to do and who to tell now.
They made the decision to call Shanks and Daisuke first, let them know it and help with gathering the rest. After that, they would call Luffy and Sabo, which the captain dreaded. He had no idea how to tell them Ace was dead.
They gave a call to Daisuke and Shanks, telling that they had tried everything, but it hadn't worked. Daisuke took it calmly and said he would tell the others and get to their location. Shanks gave some swears, before saying he would get as soon as he could to their boat, also giving them a number to Garp, saying he deserved to know. Same with a woman, called Dadan. They called Garp first, who reacted in a violent way, before he abruptly hung up, hearing a small sob or sorts. The woman, Dadan, hang up the moment after they told Ace was dead.
Then came the time to tell Luffy and Sabo.
Whitebeard didn't want to tell them, hoping to wake up and this was a dream, a nightmare. The captain was thinking of telling them to come here and say it in person. It would be better than telling over a Den Den, more respectful to all of the brothers. Everyone decided that that was the best solution and called to tell they should get to their location. Sabo and Luffy tried to figure out why they wanted them and why Ace wasn't getting them or speaking, but the captain just said they were needed on the boat, glad to find out Rayleigh was still there and would help them get to their location. From what he guessed, it would take around 5 days. The captain had a feeling Rayleigh understood why, maybe even Sabo. The worst would be telling Luffy. As they were speaking more of what to do, Bay saying they could come by tomorrow in the infirmary,
Everyone suddenly got thrown to the floor by an immense force. Everyone aside from Whitebeard, Bay, Marco, Thatch, Izou, Namur, Rakuyo, Jozu and Vista passed out.
It only lasted for a few seconds, before going away. Everyone was affected by it and the captain feared someone was attacking them. Bay opened the door to the deck, being the closest to it, and everyone out on deck was passed out as well. What was that? As soon as they were about to head to look for enemies, Whiskey came running around a corner. When she saw them, she stopped.
¨Bay! We need you in the infirmary, now!¨ Whiskey turned around and headed back to the infirmary again before anyone could respond.
The ones awake reacted and ran after, knowing what ever this was, is connected to the infirmary somehow. There could have been an accident or something. But whatever that had been, was strong. It felt like Haki, but it couldn't be as nothing was that strong. A thought that someone tried to take the body of Ace came into the captain's mind, making him hope no one would do anything like that. It was lower than lowest if they did. But everyone knew who Ace was now and many didn't like the assassin. It could happen.
Everyone that had been out on deck was passed out, everyone being taken out by the force of something. When they got to the infirmary door, which Whiskey had left open and got a peek inside. They saw almost every nurse being unconscious, Tifa barely being awake and clinging to a chair.
Everyone froze at the black-haired kid sitting up in bed, looking confused at them, before falling back in the bed.
Bay was the first to move and ran up to the bed and touched Ace's neck, her eyes growing wide as she looked at Whiskey. ¨Get me epinephrine, oxycontin, lovenox, and ketamine, now!¨ Whiskey gave a nod, running to a cabinet and taking stuff out, before running back, closing the door as she went past it, making them stand shocked at the deck.
It took a second, but Thatch soon spoke. ¨W-what was that? Is he...?¨ Whitebeard shook his head. ¨I do not know. But we should wait to hear what Bay says, to not get our hopes up.¨ It did seem like Ace was up in the bed and had been awake, and the fact Bay asked for things might mean he was alive, but it could turn. Everyone nodded and they stayed outside the infirmary door, wanting to know if there was any hope or not. After almost 2 hours, some of the other commanders woke up and joined them after figuring out what they had seen, the door opened and Bay came out.
Bay gave a sigh, looking tired. ¨I have no idea what happened or how, but Commander Ace is alive and stable.¨
It took a second, but sounds of joy soon filled the air, Thatch hugging Bay as he was happy. Everyone gave relieved breaths, smiling and giving laughs, so glad Ace was somehow still alive. ¨He's going to be okay?¨ Asked Thatch when he had let go of Bay. Bay gave a sigh, making some faces fall. ¨I do not know. He was dead for almost 4 hours. Meaning not one part of his body got any blood or oxygen. There might be damage, and we won't know until he wakes up. Or if he wakes at all.¨ Thatch shook his head. ¨He'll be fine. It's Ace.¨ Bay gave a nod, before shaking her head. ¨It looks better than expected, but we still need to wait and see.¨
The captain nodded, that was good, really good. It meant there was hope there.
Whitebeard looked at Bay, ¨What do you think, Daughter?¨ Bay shook her head, giving a sigh. ¨I am not sure. It looks fine, but it's hard to tell. I'll update you later when I know more.¨ The captain nodded, Bay giving a nod back before she went back into the infirmary, closing the door. As the doctor was gone and he knew they wouldn't be allowed in the infirmary, he told everyone to make sure everyone was fine. It had seemed like they were only passed out from haki, which was amazing seeing it was Ace and that he had to be really strong. But then again, he just got back from the dead. How that was possible was a mystery, but for now they were only happy.
They were in different states of shock, Thatch being outright happy and yelling everything would be fine, the rest being a bit more doubtful. One didn't just die for hours then come back to life. But there was also Marco, who still was tense, clearly having issues with handling everything that had happened. Not only that Ace had been dead, which took a great toll on him, but to figure out he was suddenly alive too. Whitebeard knew Marco wouldn't show emotions in front of the others, Marco always tried to be the strong one, even if that meant to ignore his own feelings.
They helped everyone up and told them the changes, but to not get their hopes up for now. Although some were less than happy about it, they still needed to handle that.
When Whitebeard got to his room later in the day with Marco, getting a small break from everything and everyone, he was quick to bring the blond into a hug, knowing he had managed to keep going to this long and not lose it. It didn't take a second before Marco hugged back, his shape trembling. Whitebeard didn't speak, just letting Marco let his emotions out, hugging tighter when he heard a small sob, Marco's form trembling more. He knew this was hard for Marco and he had managed to keep himself almost completely gathered the last hours. He didn't speak, the captain thinking that would have been too much.
Marco calmed down half an hour later, his form stopping its trembling and the small sobbing stopping. Marco was still sniffing and still had tears in his eyes. Whitebeard moved to sit on the bed, Marco sitting beside him. Whitebeard kept a hand on Marco's back, using his thumb to carefully stroke comfortingly as Marco wiped his face.
When Marco was a bit more gathered and looked at him, the captain gave a smile. ¨How are you feeling, son?¨ Marco gave a nod, giving another sniff as he dried his eyes, ¨Whelmed.¨ Whitebeard gave a nod, moving his hand comfortingly. ¨It's okay to be whelmed, a lot happened.¨ Marco gave a nod, drying his eyes again as they were still teary, this was hard on Marco. ¨Do you think he will be okay, yoi?¨ It was ended with a sniff, hands wiping again.
Whitebeard kept a sigh inside, giving a comforting smile to Marco. ¨I'm not sure, son. But Bay said it looked good.¨ Marco gave a nod, moving his hands to his face again. The captain moved his hand on Marco's back. ¨But Ace is strong, we need to keep faith in him.¨ Marco gave a nod, keeping his face in his hands, sniffing.
Whitebeard sat beside him and did his best to comfort Marco. He sat there for hours, until the night came, the captain not minding it. He knew Marco was rare in showing his emotions and he had really been bottling this up. He would gladly sit beside Marco all night.
When the clock was around eleven at night, there was a knock on his door. Whitebeard was on his way to tell he was busy, but before he could, the door opened to show Bay.
Marco did his best to gather himself, but Bay knew and had seen him like this before, Marco more okay with Bay than the others. Bay gave a nod to them, ¨Commander Ace is looking good. The tests looks positive, which is much more than I had thought. We'll still see when he wakes, but this is good.¨ Both the captain and Marco nodded, that was really good. Whitebeard looked at Bay, ¨Can we see him?¨ Bay seemed to be thinking for a few seconds, before nodding. ¨You can. But no loud noises and not be too close, to be sure nothing happens accidentally as this is something I have never seen.¨ Both nodded, that was okay.
Marco gathered himself some more, before they left to the infirmary, sitting in the infirmary and relishing in the fact Ace was breathing, his chest moving up and down. They stayed in the infirmary for a while, before heading into Bay's office to look through some things.
-x-
In the infirmary, black eyes opened and looked at a shape sitting at his bed, the person having pink hair, red eyes and white clothes, humming softly, a hand on Ace's head. The pink haired man gave a smile, red eyes looking calm. Ace managed to have his eyes open for a second more, before they closed, falling back unconscious.
A second later, a door opened and Whitebeard, Bay and Marco went through, speaking together, freezing when they noticed the shape on the bed. ¨Who are you?¨ Asked Bay, giving a glare at the man. No one was supposed to be here other than Bay, Whiskey, the commanders, and the captain. The man turned red eyes to them, looking calm and collected, now noticing a hand on Ace's head. Just as Whitebeard was on his way to speak, the man gave a nod, before disappearing.
Bay went over to Ace, giving a breath as she said he was still stable. Whitebeard looked at Marco, who had no explanation himself. Ace was still fine, which were good.
But that person had seemed familiar.
-x-
Trevor, Mika, Raiden, Daisuke and Moira had shown up the next day, glad Ace was alive. they had taken a boat and let the others get back to the base to do damage control, them wanting to be here. The others would have come back later for the funeral, which they thankfully didn't need to have now. They had called Shanks and Garp and told the great news, Garp deciding to come by, and he was already on his way. Dadan hadn't answered. Sabo and Luffy were on their way and didn't know Ace had been dead, so they just waited for them.
The assassins had been here for a day now, and had mostly spent their time with Ace or close to the infirmary. They had been with them now and then, updating on how the world was, but usually stayed with Ace. And that was fine for the captain and commanders, good to know Ace had someone there while they could use the time to gather themselves and figure out how to handle the things with the different opinion on Ace in the crew. Some were still mad and even madder when he was back alive.
They were deciding if they should let them stay or not. Bay had joined near the end, giving an update that Ace was doing good, which was perfect. Bay stayed a bit and joined in on how to deal with everyone, agreeing that they should send the ones who didn't like Ace away. If they couldn't accept Ace for an assassin, they didn't deserve to be in the family. When it was coming to an end for now, not getting to a decision yet, there was a knock at the door. Before the captain could give a come in, the door opened and Whiskey was there, looking at Bay.
¨Commander Ace woke up.¨
Bay stood up from the seat she had sat in, ¨Okay, I'm coming now.¨ She said as she left with Whiskey, giving a nod to Whitebeard as she left in a haste. Marco sent a look at the captain, and he nodded. Not a second later, Marco was up and following the doctor. Marco had almost always been in the infirmary if he had the chance. The other commanders had noticed the first commander being a lot around Ace and had begun to question whether it was just friendship or something more there, which the captain or those who knew refused to answer, wanting Marco and Ace to tell themselves.
Now they only needed to wait and see how Ace was.
-x-
Marco walked close to Bay, wanting to see if Ace was okay or not. Hoping, desperately so, that he was fine. When they got to the infirmary and Bay opened the door, he felt a breath leave him at the scene in Ace's bed.
Ace was sitting up, Moira looking at his eyes while Trevor did something to his head. ¨Stop it.¨ Ace said in a weak voice, half-swatting Trevor's hand away.
Ace was sitting, speaking, and moving his hands, reacting. That had to be good. Trevor gave a chuckle, doing the same to the other side of the head. ¨I'm just testing.¨ Ace looked to be trying to look annoyed, but looked too tired. Moira gave him a look as she seemed done with the eyes. ¨Anything hurts?¨ Ace swatted Trevor's hand away again. ¨Aside from everything? Everything.¨ Moira gave a small sigh as she felt his head, ¨If you could work with us, it would be great. But you seem mostly okay.¨ Moira let go of his head and looked at Ace, helping him lay down. ¨Now sleep. You need it to heal.¨ Ace gave a nod, and was asleep within a second.
Moira gave a sigh as she dragged the covers over Ace, looking at Bay. The doctor had not interfered, most likely seeing Moira knew what she did. Before Moira spoke, she saw him there and looked at Bay. ¨Should he be here?¨ Moira looked at the first commander, and Marco gave a hopeful look, wanting to hear how Ace was. Bay gave a sigh, looking back at Moira. ¨He can stay.¨ Marco felt a relieved breath leave him. Moira gave a nod. ¨Ace is doing much better than expected, but there are still some small things, like swelling in the head, broken bones, some external wounds and internal wounds, but nothing too severe. He is also confused and weak, but that is most likely because of the trauma and being dead. It's the legs I'm worried about.¨ Bay gave a nod, ¨What is wrong with his legs?¨
Moira shook her head, ¨He can't move them and can barely feel them.¨
Marco felt his face fall. If Ace lost the use of his legs, he would be devastated. Bay gave a frown, ¨What do you think?¨ Moira gave a nod. ¨I am thinking of a broken or severed spine. But it will be healed, it will just take time.¨ Bay blinked. ¨He can heal a broken or severed spine?¨ Moira nodded. ¨He can. But he won't be able to use his legs for a time, maybe around a week or so. But he will be fine and need to take it carefully for a couple of weeks time.¨ Marco nodded, giving a breath. That was really good.
As Moira and Bay continued to speak together, Marco walked over to Ace, who were still asleep, and moved a hand to his head, stroking it for a small second, before moving away when Bay came up to Ace. Marco looked at Ace some more, seeing Bay doing something and decided to leave her to work.
When Marco went to Pops, he told him what Moira had said. And he found it bad Ace couldn't walk, but it was good to know it would get better, that Ace would heal. Pops did make a decision to not tell the others Ace couldn't walk, at least for now, not wanting to add to the tension as it was serious and they didn't want to make them more worried for Ace. One normally couldn't heal a broken spine.
-x-
Marco sat in the infirmary, Ace asleep in the bed next to him. Ace had been asleep almost every time Marco was here, and the few times he wasn't, Ace was tired. He managed to speak some, but Ace was still basically almost asleep. From what he had heard from the others, Ace was often awake during the evening and night for a few hours, since he slept most of the days as the mornings were the worst and he got sleeping drugs and pain medication, which made him sleep a lot. He was thinking of trying to be with Ace in the evenings. He was often with his father at that time, but would try to change that now.
As he was sitting next to Ace and trying to relax, Bay came up to him. ¨Commander Marco, may I have a word with you?¨ Based on the calm and almost too calm for Marco's liking, but nodded and went with her into her office. Wondering what this was, thinking it might be an update on Ace.
But, as soon as they were in her office and the door was closed, Marco was shocked when Bay used a clipboard to hit him over the head, repeatedly.
Marco moved a hand to shield himself. ¨Wh- Bay, yoi?¨ He said as he tried to make her stop. When she stopped and Marco lowered his arm, he was met with a harsh glare. Before he could speak, Bay pointed a finger at him. ¨You, mister First Commander, are in so much trouble. I know you know about it.¨ Marco looked at her, "Know about wh-,¨ He didn't get to finish as Bay hit him again. ¨How a fifth brand 'suddenly' appeared on Commander Ace's back and I have no recollection of him being here.¨
Marco moved a hand to his face, massaging it. He should have told Bay about it at least. ¨I'm sorry, yoi. I should have told you, but I forgot.¨ Bay's glare hardened. ¨Forgot? You forgot? That is not a good enough excuse. Marco gave a nod, ¨I know, yoi. But Ace didn't want to tell and he had gotten medical help.¨ Bay gave a glare again, moving a finger to point at him sternly. ¨If I ever, ever, hear about you hiding anything like this again. Not even your phoenix will be able to save you.¨ Marco gave a nod. ¨I understand, yoi.¨ Bay gave a nod. ¨One more wrong thing, and I will ban you from the infirmary.¨ Marco nodded, ¨Okay, yoi.¨ Bay gave a nod, before calmly walking past him and out the door.
Marco stayed a minute in the office. It was known that the infirmary was Bay's, and no one could make a decision against her in here. Not even Pops. Especially since everyone was afraid of her. She was a stern woman, one of the reasons she was as great of a doctor too.
Marco walked back out into the infirmary after a minute, going back to sit beside Ace, hoping Ace would wake up before Marco had to leave for a meeting that started in an hour. But he wasn't that lucky and gave a caress to Ace's head as he left.
He had started to think more of what Ace was to him, and he had made a conclusion.
The only thing now was how to tell Ace.
-x-
Marco got out of the captain's room, having given him an update and stayed with him for a small while and it was now closing in on midnight. As he headed to maybe grab something to eat from the galley, he felt something hit his cheek and looked up. Another raindrop soon his him, before another and another, the sky opening up as it rained. It was heavy rain, but it felt like light rain at the same time.
Marco got an idea as the rain continued and to his room to grab something, before heading to the infirmary.
-x-
Ace sat awake in the bed in the infirmary, not able to sleep just now as he had for hours. Trevor, Raiden, and Mika were asleep not far away and Ace was thinking of waking one of them up to make this boredom go away. Moira and Daisuke were somewhere. He couldn't just leave on his own, his damn legs still not working. Ace still tried to move them, but had no luck. He still felt weak, using a lot of his powers to heal.
After a minute, the door opened and Marco came in. Ace had barely been awake when the first commander was around, so this was a nice change.
Marco gave a small smile as he came closer. ¨Hi, yoi.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨Hi.¨ His voice was still hoarse. Marco walked up to him, moving a hand to his. ¨Think you could handle a trip out, yoi?¨ Ace gave a frown. Didn't he know? ¨I… can't get out on deck.¨ Ace was not going to say he couldn't walk, that was a bit too much. Marco shook his head, ¨I know. But I can carry you, yoi. I want to show you something.¨ Ace gave a slow nod, thinking. He didn't like to be carried, but some fresh air sounded nice. And Marco had carried him before, it would go fine. And it was night, most were asleep, meaning barely anyone would see. Ace nodded and looked at Marco. ¨Okay.¨
Marco gave a smile as he moved the blanket away and moved a hand under his legs, the other on his back, and lifted him up easily.
Ace moved, softly holding on to Marco's neck. He felt weak like this, but he could manage for a minute. Marco walked slowly and carefully, his hands holding him carefully. Ace felt he was tense and had a moment where he wanted to just go back to the bed, not out on deck, not wanting to be carried around. But he took a breath and decided he could and would handle this. When they got to the door and headed out, Ace was shocked when rain hit him. Weren't they in the middle of two summer islands? It wouldn't rain here. It still felt good, and Ace couldn't help but close his eyes, enjoying the rain, feeling himself smiling. Rain was good.
A second later, he was startled when he felt himself sitting on a surface, opening his eyes to see Marco having placed him on the railing.
Ace used his hands to keep himself balanced, needing it since his legs couldn't do anything still. Ace looked at Marco, giving a small smile. ¨It's raining.¨ Marco gave a chuckle as he nodded. ¨It is, yoi. I was shocked by it, it isn't supposed to rain here now, not for another 5 months.¨ Ace gave a nod and held a hand out, feeling a small chuckle leave him when he felt the raindrops was light. This was Moira's doing. Ace closed his eyes again, tilting his head upwards. This felt good.
¨Ace, yoi.¨ Ace opened his eyes and looked at Marco when he spoke. Marco seemed to be in thought, looking out at the sea. ¨I-. When Bay said you were dead, I was shocked and devastated. I hoped she was wrong, which she wasn't. But then you weren't, somehow waking up, and everything was right again, and I realized something.¨ Ace gave a nod, he had been told he had been dead for almost 5 hours, somehow coming back to life. He looked at Marco, ¨What did you realize?¨ Marco nodded, looking at him.
¨I love you, yoi.¨
Before Ace could respond, Marco moved a hand to his, continuing to speak. ¨I know I am maybe rushing this, but I do, yoi. And even if you are an assassin, even if we get a year, or fifty years together, I want to use them with you.¨ Ace shook his head slightly, not sure how to respond, ¨I know this might be too early, yoi. But I want to be with you, I want to make sure I can be with you, show and prove I want it, that I want to be with you.¨ Marco moved the hand away from his and to a pocket. Ace was still slightly shaking his head, no idea how to respond, feeling eyes tearing up as he had never had anyone outright say it was okay to be an assassin and that someone wanted to be with him like this. Marco looked back at him, ¨You don't need to say yes, or anything, but,¨ Marco took something out of his pocket and held a ring up to him.
¨Ace. Would you spend your life with me, yoi?¨
Ace tried to speak. Marco was proposing? He had no idea how to react. Did Ace want to spend his life with Marco? Spend it here? Ace closed his mouth as tears fell from his eyes as he nodded. He wanted that. Marco gave a small laugh, moving to hug him, before moving to kiss him deeply. It might be going way too fast for Ace, but he wouldn't mind spending his life with Marco. When they parted, Marco carefully put the ring on his finger, glad it fit. Ace gave a small sniff, moving a hand to dry some of the tears away, even though his face was wet from the rain. He noticed Marco giving a sniff on his own, making Ace give a small laugh. ¨That was unexpecting.¨
Marco gave a small laugh, moving to carefully hold his hand and lean against him, Ace doing the same. ¨What can I say, yoi. It was in the heat of the moment and now felt perfect. I haven't even told anyone I was thinking of it.¨ Ace gave a small frown. ¨But the ring?¨ He managed to buy a ring, meaning someone knew. Marco shook his head, grabbing his hand and using his thumb to stroke over the ring. ¨It was my mother's, yoi.¨ Ace blinked, on his way to speak. He shouldn't take Marco's mother's ring, Marco should keep it himself.
Before he could, Marco shook his head. ¨It's okay. I can't think of anything better to do with it; I know you will keep it safe. And if you want, we can buy something.¨ Ace gave a nod, moving his head to Marco's shoulder, slowly using a hand to hold onto him as he leaned on him, feeling his eyes were teary again. He felt way to emotional, but guessed it to be fine when he heard Marco give a small sniff himself. It was good it was raining. Ace couldn't help but close his eyes, enjoying the moment.
After a few minutes, Marco spoke up. ¨Why is the rain avoiding us, yoi?¨ Ace gave a small chuckle, moving to sit up, but still half-leaning on Marco, wiping his eyes and face. The rain had stopped around them only. ¨It's Moira, she controls it.¨ Marco gave a nod, ¨Right, she controls the rain.¨ Ace gave a nod. It wasn't the rain she controlled, but it was close enough.
Marco looked at him, giving a smile. ¨We should head in again, yoi. Before Bay decides to look and kills me for taking you out in the rain.¨ Ace gave a small chuckle, Bay was stern like that. Ace gave a small nod, carefully holding his hands out so it would be easier for Marco to lift him. Ace still didn't like it, but he could manage back to the bed.
When they got into the infirmary again, Bay gave them a glare from where she stood next to his bed, but only shook her head and placed some towels down for them, before leaving for her office.
That was better than her yelling or lecturing them, but Ace had a feeling she might later. It was late now and many were still asleep. Marco carefully carried him to the bed again and laid him down, handing him a towel he used to dry the worst, before he fell asleep, Marco holding onto his hand. Ace had not expected anything close to this when Marco asked to take him out to deck, but he liked what had happened.
After Ace had been asleep for half an hour, Marco moved himself in a more comfortable position in the chair he was in.
He was surprised Bay hadn't said anything, sure she would be mad since he had taken Ace out of the infirmary and out into the rain. But she wasn't, which was good. He was even more glad by the fact Ace had said yes, Marco knowing just saying he loved Ace was a lot, even more was to propose, but Marco wanted to, he wanted to spend his life with Ace. Now he only needed to somehow tell Pops and the others, which he had no idea on how to do.
After another few minutes, Bay came and took the towels away, sending a look at him. ¨Normally, I would have yelled and banned you from the infirmary for taking him out, in the rain no less. But he was smiling. He hasn't done that before now. Whatever you did, cheered him up.¨ Marco blinked and gave a nod as the doctor left. He had noticed Ace not smiling the few times when he had been awake around him, but didn't know he hadn't smiled at all. He gave a smile as he held onto Ace's hand, his thumb moving to the ring there.
Everything would turn out fine.
-x-
Whitebeard walked into the infirmary, Bay having said Ace could get out of the infirmary if he got help, and the captain wanted him in a small meeting with the others. Both to hear how he was doing and how he thought they should handle some of the crewmembers.
When he saw the bed, he saw Ace awake, speaking to Trevor who sat beside him in the bed. It had only been two days since Ace woke up and he still couldn't move his legs from what Bay said, but he could feel them some more, which was good. The other commanders were already in the meeting room, the captain having hoped to get somewhere with them, but they didn't get much further. When he was close to the bed, he gave a smile to Ace. ¨Hi, son.¨ Ace gave a small smile back. ¨Hi.¨ His voice was still hoarse, but it was getting better.
Whitebeard moved to the bed and looked at Ace, ¨We are having a small meeting of sorts, and it would have been best if you could join, if you feel up to it.¨ Ace might not want to right now, and if he didn't it was fine. Ace gave a nod, agreeing to come, but his face fell when he looked down at his legs. Whitebeard carefully moved his hand to be beside the bed, giving a smile, Ace giving a sigh at it. Trevor gave a hum. ¨Either you let him help, or I'll carry you, Bunny.¨ Trevor was still helpful and pushing Ace as normal. Ace gave a nod, before giving a sigh and carefully moved to the captain's hand, carefully holding on his thumb with a hand to not fall. One of the perks of being as big, he could easily carry others in his hand. He guessed this was better than having Trevor lifting him and carrying him in his arms.
The captain carefully walked to the meeting room, ignoring everyone who sent a look at him and Ace as they moved. Some did give a cheer to Ace, seeing him out, but that was it. When they got to the meeting room, Whitebeard carefully placed Ace in a chair next to Marco, Ace giving a small thank you, which the captain smiled to. Everyone seemed to be glad at seeing Ace out of the infirmary. It was a good thing in seeing him out looking mostly okay.
When the captain was seated, he looked at everyone, explaining the situation, that many on the crew didn't like Ace, especially some as they were mad he was alive. Everyone gave a nod, knowing about that, everyone aside from Ace, but the captain had a feeling Ace had been expecting that. Ace knew people didn't like assassins, especially the one he was. The captain asked Ace, what he thought. When Ace spoke, his voice still being hoarse, it shocked many on how bad it sounded. But they went with it when he didn't seem to be in pain. Ace said he didn't know how they would handle it, him not thinking much of it but said it was a bad thing, but they should decide.
Whitebeard felt his inside twist a bit as Ace as this used to people not liking him, and he was thinking of letting those who didn't like Ace go, telling them to move on, but he wasn't sure. Everyone was a bit unsure how to handle this, some saying they should let them go, some saying to force them, while a few said they should try and see how it goes with them on the crew, aside from the worst ones, like Justin. It was a hard decision to make, especially since they couldn't think of a solution they all agreed on.
They continued to try and come to a conclusion for 15 minutes, when Marco suddenly got up and grabbed the blanket from the couch, draping it over Ace, who had fallen asleep on his hands. Ace was still tired, using a lot of energy to heal himself, so it was normal.
Marco gave a smile after placing the blanket over Ace and sat down next to him, moving a hand to hold around Ace's. It made the captain glad to see that, this being the first thing they did out with others.
Thatch gave a sound. ¨You know what, I'm going to ask.¨ Said the chef a he looked at Marco. ¨What are you and Ace? Are you together, as in boyfriends or something?¨ Izou moved a hand to his face. ¨I swear, Thatch. You don't just ask like that!¨ Thatch looked at Izou, ¨Well, I'm sorry. I want to know. Don't you?¨ Izou gave a look back, ¨I do, but don't just out and ask like that, be less abrupt at times.¨ Thatch shook his head, looking back at Marco, ¨Now, are you boyfriends?¨ Whitebeard was curious himself, but would have liked if Ace was awake himself.
Marco opened his mouth to speak, before he closed it, giving a small sigh. ¨We were, but not anymore.¨
Whitebeard blinked, his first thought going to the fact they had decided to not be anything anymore. Thatch blinked, ¨Meaning what? You look awfully close and caring.¨ Many nodded at that, not understanding it either. Marco gave a small chuckle, moving the hand he held. ¨Might as well tell, yoi.¨ Marco moved Ace's hand to show a ring.
¨I may have gotten a bit ahead of myself and might have proposed, and Ace might have said yes.¨
Everyone could only stare stunned, the captain not sure if he heard right. ¨No.¨ Said Izou, looking at Marco. ¨No, you will not just up and do that. You will take it back and do it again, with all of us present. Like one is supposed to do. Like hell, did you do it in the middle of the night? One doesn't do that!¨ Marco gave a small chuckle, ¨It happened. And for your information Izou, it happened in the middle of the night, in the rain, yoi.¨ Izou threw his hands up. ¨That's not how one proposes! It's supposed to be beautiful and perfect. Not rainy, dark and wet.¨ Whitebeard couldn't help but laugh, looking a Marco. ¨Congratulations, son.¨ Marco gave a nod to him, looking glad.
Jozu spoke next. ¨Wait. How long had this been a thing?¨ Marco shook his head a bit, ¨Since New year's, yoi.¨ It had almost been a year since then, 10 months passing. Everyone nodded, giving their congratulations. Even Izou, although he said he wanted in on the planning for the wedding, which made all of them laugh, Thatch yelling out they should celebrate, which made most of the others cheer. Just as the captain was about to say they should wait with celebration, at least until Ace was better, the kid woke up from the sounds, moving a hand to his head, looking to have a headache, which made everyone who had cheered look guilty.
Ace moved the hand on his head in a massaging way as he moved to half sit up, looking at the ones in the room. He closed his eyes for a second, ¨Why is everyone looking at me?¨ Marco gave a small chuckle, moving a hand to his and moving over the ring there. ¨I kind of told them, yoi.¨ Ace looked at Marco for a second, before he gave a nod, not saying anything on it. He did seem to have a headache, so the captain was thinking of taking him back to the infirmary. But before he could think more of that, the door opened and Trevor was there. He gave a look to them, ¨Based on the fact everyone is looking mad at me, I guess the meeting is not close to finished.¨ The captain blinked, realizing they didn't like that he barged in, both because of the meeting and because Ace had a headache.
Before any of them could respond, Trevor shook his head and walked into the room, taking something from his pockets. ¨Here, Bunny. It's been 3 hours.¨ As he said it, he dropped 4 pills in Ace's hand, which he held out. Ace gave a nod, taking the pills dry, not having any issues with it, before moving to lay down on his hands again. Trevor shook his head and gave a sigh, ¨And you are not supposed to sleep at the damn table.¨ Said Trevor, before he moved up to Ace and just lifted him up, carrying him to the couch there and placing him on it. Ace made some small movement, but quickly settled down. He hadn't said anything on Trevor carrying him either. But guessed it had to do something with his headache and the tablets he got. Ace seemed to already be asleep again.
As Ace was in the couch and had the blankets over him, Rakuyo looked at Trevor. ¨Why did you carry him? He's not fond of touch.¨ Trevor gave a hum, ¨Why wouldn't I carry Bunny? How would he get here?¨ Rakuyo looked at the man stunned, and the captain knew where this might go and he wasn't sure on how they would react. ¨He would walk, like a normal person.¨ Said Rakuyo to Trevor, who turned to look at the commanders. ¨You know, I thought you actually knew.¨ Rakuyo looked shocked by it and looked at Trevor. ¨What do you mean? Know what?¨ He said as he looked between the captain and Trevor, the captain knowing he couldn't stop Trevor now.
Trevor gave a look to the commanders. ¨Bunny can't walk. That guy, Nathan, broke his back.¨
All of the commanders froze, staring at Trevor in shock, before looking at Whitebeard, who could only nod. Rakuyo, Jozu, Kingdew, Izou and Thatch stood up, looking angry, Thatch being the first one to speak. ¨We can't let him get away with this! He crippled Ace!¨ The captain looked at them. ¨Don't worry, Ace will be fine.¨ The commanders looked at him, looking shocked. ¨What? Be fine? A broken back is not something that 'will be fine'!¨ The captain held his hands up, trying to calm them down, glad to see them caring about Ace, but this would go fine.
¨Ace's devil fruit makes him heal fast and amazingly.¨ The commanders looking at him, ¨Fast? How fast? How is that possible?¨ Whitebeard decided to just say it. ¨He is close to Marco, but will use time as his body is exhausted.¨ Everyone looked stunned, ¨W-what?¨ Instead of the captain speaking, Trevor did. ¨Bunny is a fast healer. His fruit making it possible. He just needs time, around a week or two.¨ The commanders sat down nodding, looking shocked. It was a lot to take in that Ace healed as fast. Thatch looked at Whitebeard. ¨But Nathan will still be punished? Right Pops?¨ Trevor gave a snort, looking at him with a smile. ¨If you say no, I will gladly take him off your hands.¨ The captain saw the sickening twisted smile as he knew Trevor wanted to tear Nathan apart. He really cared for Ace.
Whitebeard looked at his commanders, ¨Don't worry, he will be properly dealt with. But I hope Ace will be better when that time comes.¨ The commanders nodded, looking satisfied by that. Trevor looked at them, ¨Now. I need to speak to Mika. But an advice on your issues with everyone who doesn't like Bunny. Give them an ultimatum. Either they stay here and accept it, or leave. Easy as that. If they refuse both, force them to leave. Or I can handle them.¨
The captain nodded, that sounded like a good idea. ¨That sounds good, but we can handle them ourselves.¨ Trevor gave a nod, accepting that. He stayed for a second more before leaving. As he was standing in the doorway, he looked at them. ¨When you're done here, just carry Bunny back to bed. He's on some good drugs and won't wake up for a few hours.¨ The pirates nodded to that, understanding that was some of the pills he had given earlier. Whitebeard nodded to that, and then Trevor left.
The pirates continued to speak together for another half hour, deciding to go with Trevor's idea before they left, Whitebeard carrying Ace back to the infirmary. When Ace was safely back in the infirmary, Trevor being there, the captain and Marco went out on deck, gathering everyone, and gave the ultimatum. That if they didn't like Ace, they either needed to get used to the idea, or they leave the ship, the family. Saying that they had 4 days to decide, seeing as they were docking at an island then and those who didn't want to stay, can leave then.
There was some small uproar, while some just accepted it, like Justin, who would gladly leave the family. A few asked what would happen if they were unsure, and the captain said that if he didn't have a reason to think they didn't like Ace, he could give them a month to get used to it. But he was at a zero tolerance for any bad mouthing or attitude towards Ace.
This was the best solution at the moment. The only thing left to handle was Nathan now.
-x-
Whitebeard sat in his room with Marco, relaxing for now as they had the time and Ace was in the middle of a check up that would take some time.
As they were sitting and speaking, there was a knock on the door, and when Whitebeard said come in, the door opened to reveal Henry, who looked nervous. Whitebeard sat more straight, knowing Henry didn't like the assassin Ace was, and he had been very quiet the last days. His friends, Nathan and Justin, had been showing their hatred a lot, and the captain hoped Henry wasn't here to complain about Ace being an assassin. He wouldn't tolerate that right now. When Henry took a few steps inside the room and closed the door, Whitebeard looked at him.
But before Whitebeard could say anything, Henry dropped down to the floor, kneeling with his hands out in front of him on the floor, head down, as if begging. ¨I'm sorry for being disrespectful and rude about Commander Ace, about him being an assassin. I didn't know. Please forgive me.¨
Whitebeard blinked, looking at Henry, who had his eyes closed tightly, waiting for his response, scared what he would say. Whitebeard sent a look at Marco, who looked a bit shocked himself, but Marco looked at him after a second, giving a small nod. Whitebeard looked back at Henry, who was still waiting. He looked and sounded like he regretted it, and he didn't know it was Ace before. Whitebeard looked at Henry, standing up and taking a step towards Henry, before crouching down, making Henry tense more. Whitebeard moved a hand to Henry's back. ¨It's fine, son. I'm glad you realized he wasn't a bad person.¨
Henry moved to sit up, looking shocked at him, having blank eyes. ¨You're not mad at me? I was disrespectful and mean towards Commander Ace. To a family member, a commander.¨ Whitebeard gave a nod, ¨You didn't know it was Ace at that time. You should have been able to see through the fake news, but I forgive you, son.¨ Whitebeard gave a small look to Henry. ¨But I do think you should tell Ace too, apologize to him.¨ Henry nodded, ¨I will, I will do anything. I didn't know and I didn't mean to say it about Commander Ace. I think he is an amazing commander.¨
Whitebeard gave a nod, ¨I don't like that you didn't understand the lies, but I guess the others helped fuel your dislike. You realize your mistake and you will fix it.¨ Henry nodded, looking relieved to know he was forgiven and still let to be on the crew, in the family. ¨Thank you, Pops. I'll speak to Commander Ace when he's out of the infirmary.¨ Whitebeard nodded. ¨That sounds like a good idea, son.¨ Whitebeard helped Henry stand up again. Henry gave a bow to him and Marco, before leaving, saying a thank you again for forgiving him.
When Henry was gone, the captain went and sat beside Marco on the bed again, looking at Marco who had a smile. ¨Not everyone dislikes the change, yoi.¨ Whitebeard gave a small chuckle. ¨It seems so, which is good.¨ It was really good to see some liking Ace still, some even getting over the hatred or dislike they had for the assassin.
Whitebeard hoped more would realize this. But he was glad at least Henry apologized and saw Ace was a good person still.
-x-
After Ace had been awake for 4 days, a ship came into their view. It looked to be Shanks, and they knew he was coming by and he had only left half a day before them at Sabaody Archipelago, but the captain thought they had got Karin home first.
When they boarded their ship, Shanks gave a quick motion to him, before he left for the infirmary, his crew following him. Whitebeard followed him to the infirmary, just to be extra sure he didn't do anything wrong. Although he knew Ace would tell, as well as Marco, Trevor, and especially Bay. When the captain got to the infirmary, Shanks was half fussing over Ace, looking him over and asking him questions on how he were. Ace gave a half annoyed look as he swatted his hand away. ¨Stop it.¨ Both Shanks and Benn looked shocked at the hoarse voice, understanding Ace was still weak, one of the reasons he was in the infirmary.
Shanks gave a sigh, before giving a hug to Ace. ¨Do you know how worried I was when they called? They said you were dead.¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨I know. I don't know how myself.¨ Shanks gave a nod, ¨I'm glad you're fine.¨ Shanks then let go and let the others come through, Benn clapping him on the shoulder and saying something along the lines that Shanks did, the others looking glad and saying they were glad he was okay now.
When everyone was finished, Shanks looked at Ace, Trevor, and Mika, who were there. ¨What are you going to do now? Everyone knows who you are.¨ Whitebeard thought for a second, before he realized he hadn't asked that himself or heard them talking about it. Ace gave a sigh. ¨We don't know. The others are doing damage control to see how bad it is.¨ All of the pirates nodded, that made sense. There might be a way to somewhat save this.
Shanks clapped Ace on the back. ¨Anyway, I have something for you on my ship.¨ When Shanks made a motion for him to follow, Ace gave a sigh. ¨I can't.¨ Shanks frowned. ¨What?¨ Instead of Ace answering, Trevor did. ¨Bunny can't walk. Broken back.¨
Shanks looked shocked for a second, before looking at Ace, seeing the tired smile there. ¨But it will be fine?¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨Yeah. Just needs time.¨ Shanks nodded. ¨That's good. I'll go fetch it then.¨ He said before he left.
When the red haired captain was out of the infirmary, Benn looked at Ace, at his hand. ¨What a pretty ring you have. Am I right in thinking it comes from the phoenix?¨ Whitebeard blinked, almost surprised Benn noticed as fast. But he was a person who noticed these things. Ace gave a nod, moving the hand to let Benn see. ¨Yeah. Happened 3 days ago.¨ Benn smiled, looking at the ring, before moving and hugging Ace. ¨Congratulations.¨ When he let go, he looked at Marco. ¨Same to you, phoenix.¨ Marco gave a nod to the man. When Benn looked back to Ace, he gave a smile as he patted him in the leg. ¨And don't worry, we won't tell Shanks, at least not yet. That might be too much for him.¨
Ace nodded, giving a smile to the man. ¨Thank you.¨ The captain was glad by that. Shanks would freak and fuss a lot, and that wasn't good for any of them, especially Ace. When Benn leaned back, the others also gave their congratulations. A few minutes after that, Shanks came back into the infirmary and handed Ace a small cloth. When Ace opened the cloth, he gave a small sigh, looking at Shanks. ¨Really?¨ Shanks gave a chuckle. ¨You know how that woman is. She gave it to us after we let her off the ship.¨ Ace shook his head holding up a stone, a blue stone. When Ace saw their confused looks, he gave a small chuckle. ¨It's a Kiatine. It's said to give a calming effect.¨ Shanks chuckled too. ¨And everyone knows you are way too tense. Take it, she likes you and means well.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨I will. From her, this is big.¨ Shanks gave a small laugh as he nodded.
Whitebeard thought the girl was a special girl and he hoped to meet her again, and based on how she had acted, for her to give a gift was big.
Shanks and his crew stayed for half a day, before leaving, just wanting to see with their own eyes that Ace was fine. Ace had fallen asleep and would be for some time, which made Shanks pout as he wanted to hug him before he left, which Benn gave a swat too. When they left, Benn was the last to leave the room and when he was the only one left, he looked at Marco. ¨I hope we are invited to the wedding.¨ Marco looked on his way to speak, before he gave a sigh. ¨I don't know if there will be one, yoi. It was in the heat of the moment. But if we have one, you probably will be invited.¨ Benn gave a nod before he left, satisfied with that.
Whitebeard now thought about that thing too. Marco had proposed and one usually got married then, but it had happened suddenly, not only for them, but for Ace and Marco too. He was sure Ace and Marco would speak about this, but maybe not before Ace was better.
He hoped they choose to get married.
-x-
Whitebeard sat in the infirmary, Ace awake as they had lessened the sleeping drugs. They were having some calm conversation, Ace's voice slowly getting more back to itself. It was still hoarse, but not as much as before.
As they were enjoying themselves, Moira and Daisuke walked into the infirmary, Whitebeard realizing they hadn't been around the last 3 days. When they got more inside, he saw Moira held a small blanket of sorts. ¨Ace,¨ Said Moira, going up to Ace. ¨We found something that's yours.¨ Whitebeard looked at Ace, who looked just as shocked as him. Before he looked at Marco, who had no answers himself. ¨What?¨ Asked Ace, his voice still hoarse.
Moira gave a smile. ¨You'll see, but first.¨ Moira moved and hugged Ace. ¨Congratulations.¨ Ace gave a small smile, giving a half hug back. Whitebeard then realized Moira was referring to the fact Marco had proposed, Moira somehow knowing. When she let go, Daisuke gave a quick hug himself, giving a congratulations himself. When they let go, Moira moved the blanket and placed it on Ace's lap. There was something moving there and the captain wondered what it might be. Ace seemed to have an idea as he had a smile.
When he opened the blankets, he gave a strained and watery smile at the raven that laid in the blankets.
¨Hey.¨ Said Ace as he moved a hand to pet the raven, who leaned into the touch. ¨How are you?¨ Dust gave a small caw, and Ace moved to hug the bird close, looking at Moira. ¨Where was he?¨ Moira gave a smile. ¨He was on Sabaody Archipelago, near the shore.¨ Ace gave a nod, looking relieved as he petted Dust. The captain now remembered he hadn't seen Dust around, and that Ace and Dust were connected. When Ace died, Dust probably did too. And they had left the island, meaning they had left Dust. That was probably where the two assassins had been the last days, searching for Dust. Ace petted Dust more, looking really glad as he looked at the bird, before looking at Moira for a second. ¨Thank you.¨ Moira gave a smile. ¨It was nothing. Dust belongs here with you.¨ Ace gave a nod, hugging Dust more.
After a minute, Daisuke looked at Ace. ¨Moira and I are leaving for a few days, to help with the damage control.¨ Ace nodded at them. ¨That's fine. If anything special happens, you have the number here.¨ Daisuke nodded, before he gave a goodbye and he and Moira left. There were probably a lot to do and Ace would most likely like if he could help with it, but he was in no shape to do that now. And based on the fact they said a few days, they were either close to the base, or they would do it from an island close by.
After they left, Ace sat and petted and looked Dust over, asking Bay to do a quick checkup when he said Dust couldn't fly or move his wings. Bay did her best, but she weren't so good with animals, meaning she wasn't sure if he was injured or not, but said she couldn't see or feel any big injuries, which was something.
After that it was calm. When Ace fell asleep again, Dust slept beside him on the bed, looking relaxed and Ace looking glad to have the raven here. It was good things were still calm.
-x-
Whitebeard sat at the table in the galley. It was lunch and it was a calm day and even Ace was in the galley with them. Ace was allowed out of the infirmary in short periods, but he did have to be carried. But, Ace wanted to get out of the infirmary at every chance he got, so he accepted to be carried for a short period of time if it means he got to be anywhere else than the infirmary.
As they were sitting and eating, Trevor saying a bad joke, looking at Thatch. ¨Don't spell part backwards, it's a trap.¨ It took a second, but they soon got it and some gave a small laugh. That was a terrible joke, so much so some had to laugh.
When everyone stopped laughing, the captain looked over at Ace, seeing him still laughing, which was weird since Ace didn't laugh much.
Trevor looked at Ace in a weird way, who was laughing and even placed a hand in front of his mouth and looked to be trying to stop. ¨Bunny?¨ Ace shook his head, not able to speak as he was laughing. Ace managed to take some deep breaths and stopped laughing, before he broke out again, not seeming to be able to stop. When Ace took a breath, but didn't manage to stop laughing still, the captain felt a bit of worry when he saw tears starting to make its way down Ace's cheek. ¨What's wrong now, Bunny?!¨ Asked Trevor, looking shocked and confused at Ace.
Ace shook his head and tried waving at himself to get some air, his cheek red and some tears making its way down his cheeks. ¨I- I don't know.¨ Ace managed to take a few calming breaths, before he broke out laughing again, leaning his head down on the table as his body shook with laughs. Trevor looked at him, before he looked at the captain. ¨Whatever kind of drugs he is on, I want them.¨
The captain blinked, now realizing Ace was still on heavy drugs and this was probably a side effect. Ace's body shook as he laughed, and based on the sniffing and way Ace sometimes moved his hand, it showed he was still crying. Trevor looked at him, ¨Stop it, Bunny!¨ Ace shook his head. ¨I- I can't. I just can't.¨ Everyone was staring at Ace, mostly in worry as this was way unusual for Ace. But what Trevor said about the drugs meant it was because of the drugs, which made sense. Maybe they should tell Bay Ace shouldn't go on these drugs.
They decided to kind of let Ace be, Marco moving a hand to stroke Ace's back to hopefully help. It did take almost 10 minutes, but Ace stopped laughing at last, and moved to sit back up. When he was sitting, he moved to dry his tears. Trevor looked at him, ¨Better now, Bunny?¨ Ace nodded, looking to be better, more calm. Ace looked to be on his way to speak, before he burst out laughing, making Trevor look at him funny. ¨What are you on? Happy pills? Like damn, I really want you to never quit, and I want you to share with me.¨
Ace shook his head and managed to stop laughing after half a minute, waving a hand at himself as he looked warm. Trevor looked at Ace again, ¨Finished?¨ Ace nodded, looking to be composed, at least much more so than before. After it had gone a minute and Ace was still quiet, they decided he was finished, which was good. It was weird to see Ace laughing like that, so uncontrollably.
The lunch continued calmly and normal again after that, Ace falling asleep after 15 minutes. That wasn't a big surprise, he was probably tired from the laughing and this might be another side effect from the drugs he was on.
When most were finished and left the galley, the captain carried Ace back to the infirmary, Marco and Trevor walking with him. When they got to the infirmary and placed Ace back in his bed, Whitebeard told Bay about what had happened at lunch, which she sighed to. ¨I knew that was a common side effect, but hoped it wouldn't affect him. It's the best one we have for the moment, but I guess we have to at least lower the dosage.¨ The captain nodded, that sounded like a good idea. Trevor gave a, ¨Naww.¨ to it, but it wasn't good to have Ace like that either.
After looking over some papers and pills, Bay changed the dose and what kind of pills Ace got, also saying they could lower the dosage in a few days, even stopping with the sleeping pills completely as Ace sometimes still got them. Ace was healing good. He still couldn't move his legs, but he felt them more and could feel it a bit when someone touched them.
Things would get back to normal, it would just take a bit of time.
After that, it wasn't long before they saw a ship in the distance, which they didn't recognize. But when they saw the flag, which had a skull with a straw hat, they were sure on who it was.
Whitebeard really glad he had happier news to tell than the original fact that Ace was dead.
And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed
The story is still going strong and I decided to be kind and do a lot of good after how mean I was in the last two chapters and the beginning of this
This moved along fast and I hope everyone liked it. I will put scenes from this in the one shots as missing scenes, like the reaction everyone had to hearing Ace was dead, like Garp, Shanks and Dadan. Also how Luffy and Sabo reacted to the call and the scene where Ace wakes up
The next chapter will still be of the aftermath as Luffy also show up and some more bonding with everyone and the Strawhats getting to know Ace more after the big revelation that he is the Ace of Spades
Also a question. Marco proposed to Ace and Ace kind of said yes, which is way faster than any had thought, but I thought it fit in the moment, and Ace likes Marco and being on the ship. Anyway. Yes, they are going to get married. but it will either happen fast, as in the next 2-3 weeks in the story, or in 2 years ish. When would you like it to happen?
And if you have the time, I greatly appreciate feedback
If you have any questions or are wondering about anything in the story, don't be afraid to leave it as a review or send a Pm
And if you like this story, go check out Ace of Spades One Shots, which contains one shots and other events of this story