Ace of Spades

by himmelblu

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

52. Ace of Spades Chapter 51 The Aftermath 2

Hello everyone, here is the next chapter

Last chapter was everywhere and I hope you liked it. This is still going to be of the aftermath

Hope you enjoy

Read and relax

---

Rayleigh walked off the boat and onto the Moby, worried what news they would get. Newgate had sounded strained when he had called 5 days ago, and that didn't sit well with him at all. He knew the battle had been hard and the only thought he had was that Ace was dead. Although he hoped that wasn't true. If it was, the two brothers would be devastated.

When they got onto the ship, they were met with the captain and most of the commanders. As Rayleigh was on his way to ask how Ace was. But before he could, Luffy was suddenly in front of him and looking at Newgate. ¨Where's Ace?!¨ Asked the kid, sounding scared by the answer. Newgate gave a smile, ¨He's in the infirmary. He might be asleep though.¨ Luffy nodded, before he ran off, heading to what he believed to be the infirmary. Sabo soon following, looking relieved by the fact Ace was alive. He had a thought Sabo thought Ace was dead too.

When the two were gone, the rest of their crew staying on the boat as they didn't want to go on the Moby for now, Rayleigh looked at Newgate, giving a breath. ¨I thought you would have bad news for us. I'm glad it wasn't.¨ The captain gave a nod, before sending him a look, making Rayleigh think there was more to this. ¨We originally didn't have good news, but something happened.¨ Rayleigh gave a nod, not liking this. ¨What happened?¨ Newgate gave a sigh. ¨There was an accident and Ace didn't make it. But hours later, after calling you, he was suddenly alive again, no one has an answer to how or why.¨

Rayleigh gave a slow nod, taking that information in. Ace had been dead. He had been right then, and he was now glad Newgate had told them to come here before telling the news. If he had told Ace was dead, Luffy and Sabo would have been devastated. He looked at the captain. ¨I have never heard about it myself. But it's good to know Ace is alive and well now.¨ Newgate gave a nod, ¨We think so too. He is a bit beaten up, but he will be fine.¨ Rayleigh gave a nod. That was the best things now.

He exchanged a few more words with Newgate, before he went to see how Ace was.

When he got to the infirmary and looked inside, he saw that Luffy had crawled up onto Ace's bed, laying down next to Ace, who was still asleep, Sabo sitting in a chair next to him, a man on the other side of the bed.

Rayleigh decided to leave them be for now. Seeing how Luffy curled up against Ace and Sabo holding onto Ace's hand, the other on Luffy's back. He could speak with Newgate for a while, they hadn't spoken for some time.

-x-

Sabo sat in Ace's bed in the infirmary, both he and Luffy sitting on the bed, sitting and looking at Ace, speaking about small things as they hadn't seen Ace in a while and they had been really worried when Whitebeard said they needed to come to the Moby. But Ace was fine, mostly. They sat a bit down in the bed, next to his legs, which he knew Ace still couldn't walk on, Ace having said it earlier. They were alone in the infirmary now, Bay in her office and the pirates and Trevor off doing something. When their current conversation ended, Ace looked at them. ¨What do you think about Marco?¨

Sabo gave a frown, on his way to ask why he suddenly wondered about that now. But before he could speak, Luffy tilted his head, before he smiled. ¨I like Birdy Blue Breast. He is awesome!¨ Sabo couldn't help the chuckle. He knew Luffy liked the man, Luffy liked everyone on the ship for that manner, some more than others, Thatch and the captain being the ones he liked the most. When he heard Ace give a chuckle, not minding the nickname even, Sabo looked at Ace and saw him smiling, moving his hands a bit, making Sabo look down.

And to his surprise, he saw a ring on Ace's ringfinger, Ace having a finger carefully stroking it.

Sabo felt his jaw slack a bit, before he grabbed the hand, looking at the ring, it clearly being more special than a normal ring. He looked up at Ace. ¨He didn't? Did he?¨ Ace gave a smile, before giving a nod.

It didn't even take a second before Sabo had moved and hugged Ace, shocked and happy. Not only by the fact the man had apparently proposed, but Ace had said yes. Or maybe he had said maybe, but still. Ace gave a small laugh as he clapped Sabo on the back. ¨He did it 4 days ago.¨ Sabo gave a nod, that answering his next question. This was still new then. It now made sense as to why he asked. Sabo never believed Ace would be with someone, much less get engaged.

When Sabo leaned back, Luffy had his head tilted. ¨Who did what?¨ Sabo looked at Luffy, feeling he was really happy for Ace. ¨Marco proposed to Ace, and he said yes.¨ He gave a quick glance at Ace, to be sure he said yes, which he nodded to. Luffy tilted his head the other way, having a confused look. ¨What's 'proposed'?¨ Sabo looked at Luffy, trying to figure out how to explain it. ¨Remember when Makino told you how some poeple who love each other get married?¨ Luffy nodded, ¨Yeah! And they only do when they are sure, and there is a huge party, and then they have kids!¨

Sabo gave a chuckle. That was a good explanation in a way. Sabo nodded. ¨Yes. But to get married, one needs to propose. And if the one you propose to says yes, you can marry.¨ Luffy tilted his head at him, before his eyes got wide and he looked at Ace, looking excited. ¨Are you and Birdy Blue Breast getting married?!¨ Ace gave a small chuckle. ¨Maybe. We haven't decided. But he proposed, and I said yes.¨ Luffy nodded, eyes big and sparkly, looking excited. ¨So you and Birdy is getting married and having a party and getting children?!¨

Ace gave a chuckle, patting Luffy on the head. ¨Maybe a party. And we can't have children, Lu. We're both males. Both Makino and I have taught you this.¨ Luffy nodded, giving an ¨Oh. I forgot.¨ before smiling again. ¨But you're getting married! That sounds soooo cooool!¨ Both Ace and Sabo gave a chuckle at seeing Luffy so excited. Sabo was glad that Ace looked so happy about it.

Luffy got a small frown, before he looked at Ace. ¨What will Birdy become then?¨ Luffy gave a hopeful look . ¨Will he become our big brother too?!¨ Both Sabo and Ace looked at him, before both laughed, Ace using a hand to pet Luffy. ¨No. If we get married, he will become a Brother-in-Law.¨ Luffy gave a grin, before he looked thoughtful and looked at Sabo, making him feel as if he should make Luffy quiet based on the hopeful and curious look he had.

¨Does that make Robin our Big-Sister-in-Law?¨

Sabo moved a hand to his face, hearing Luffy slap his hands on his mouth, looking at Ace. ¨Wait NO! I didn't say that!¨ Sabo gave a sigh, feeling Ace looking at him. ¨Too late, Lu.¨ Luffy had said he wouldn't tell, but Sabo knew it was only a matter of time before Luffy spilled, Sabo had hoped to say it himself though. But that was not happening. ¨Sabo?¨ Sabo gave a sigh, seeing Ace looking at him, and looked over at Luffy. ¨Why don't you go to the others while Ace and I speak for a minute?¨ Luffy gave a nod, having a guilty look. ¨I'm sorry, Sabo.¨ Sabo shook his head. ¨It's fine, Lu. I'm not mad. Go now.¨ Luffy gave a nod, before he jumped down from the bed and headed out of the infirmary. When he was out, Sabo looked at Ace, who looked at him in curiosity and question. ¨You and Nico Robin?¨

Sabo gave a sigh as he nodded, might as well explain everything.

¨We saved Robin from CP9, which I am sure you know who and what are, them taking Robin to execute her. We managed to save her and everything was fine. But the night after we rescued her, we celebrated and I was not drunk, but buzzed, and we spoke as I was for some reason walking her to her room, lord knows why, maybe because I wanted to make sure she was fine. But anyway. As I was about to leave, something came over me and I... kissed her, her kissing back, before moving to her room, her having a private room. We didn't go much further before we both fell asleep in her bed, tired from everything. Luffy caught us the next morning before I left.¨

Sabo had not planned anything, and had no idea what he was supposed to do when he woke up to Luffy staring at them the next morning. He was glad they didn't go further, meaning both were fully clothed.

Ace gave a nod. ¨And what now? Are you together?¨ Sabo gave a sigh. ¨I… We haven't spoke too much about it, way too much happening.¨ He looked at Ace. ¨We've spent some nights together talking and such, but that's it. I like her, as in more as a friend.¨ Ace gave a nod, giving a supporting smile. ¨You should speak to her.¨ Sabo gave a chuckle, he had thought the exact same thing for days, weeks almost, but he never had. Robin had stopped calling him 'captain-san' in private, just going with Sabo, which was nice. He had figured out he felt more for her after they had saved her and that night. ¨I will, I just don't know where to begin or what to say.¨

Ace gave a hum. ¨Just ask her what she thinks of you and everything. She did kiss back.¨ Sabo gave a chuckle. Ace was right, Sabo was probably just thinking way too much about this. He should just do it. ¨I will try to do that later.¨ Ace gave a nod, ¨It will go fine, no matter what she says.¨ Sabo nodded, Ace was right.

Sabo looked at Ace, giving a smile. ¨Over to something else. You and Marco?¨ Ace gave a chuckle. ¨It kind of just happened. We also haven't spoke much about it and need to do that.¨ Sabo gave chuckle at that, glad he wasn't the only one. ¨I'm happy you're happy.¨ He lightly punched Ace in the shoulder. ¨And I swear, you better make me the best man if you marry.¨ Ace gave a small laugh. ¨If we marry, both you and Luffy will be my best man.¨

Sabo gave a chuckle. It went much better than he had thought.

-x-

Garp walked onto Newgate's ship, giving a quick nod and asking where his grandson was. He was almost shocked to hear all the brothers were here, but Sabo and Luffy were probably worried for Ace too and came to check on him.

After finding out Ace was in the infirmary, he headed there. He was worried, really worried, but he would hide that behind fake anger as he always did. That brat dared to make him worry like this, making him believe he was dead. This was why he didn't want Ace to be an assassin, they died way too early. When he came to the infirmary and walked inside, he saw the bed all his grandsons sat at and walked over, having a glare and readying himself to yell and maybe try giving a punch to Ace as usual. Ace did look fine, no wounds he could see, other than a few bruises and such.

But when he was halfway to the bed, the doctor, Bay, was suddenly in front of him, having a glare and pointed a finger at him. ¨If you even think about laying a hand on Commander Ace in anything other than carefully, or even yell. You will regret it.¨

Garp blinked. He knew about the doctor, White Bay, being harsh and demanding in her ways. He knew the doctor wasn't afraid to use force or other means to get through to her patients, so for her to tell him to lay off, was basically telling Ace was in bad shape. Garp gave a nod, the doctor giving a glare, before she walked a bit closer, speaking in a low but harsh voice. ¨The two brothers don't know about him being dead. Don't mention it.¨ Garp gave a nod. He wouldn't do that. The doctor gave a glare again, before she moved.

When she was gone, Garp looked back at the bed and walked up to it, Luffy smiling at him, the other two having more relaxed looks, Ace maybe having a small smile. When he was up to the bed, he gave a glare at the three in bed. ¨How do you dare to worry me like this?¨ Luffy gave a smile. ¨We were worried too, Gramps. But Ace will be fine.¨ Garp tried his best to look mad. ¨Still, you brats. You had me worried.¨ He said the last part looking at Ace.

Ace gave a small smile. ¨You didn't need to come, Garp.¨ Garp was taken back at the weak and hoarse voice. Garp gave a glare. ¨How could I not? You are my grandson. Why are you even in the infirmary any more? You look fine.¨ Ace looked to be on his way to speak, before he gave a sigh, moving a hand to his legs, having a tired look. Garp made a frown and on his way to ask, but before he could, Sabo spoke up. ¨Ace can't… walk right now. Someone broke his back.¨ Garp blinked, before looking at Ace, who gave a nod. Garp was frozen for a second. Ace couldn't walk? Before he could react more too it, Ace shook his head. ¨It will be fine. I just needs time to heal.¨ Garp felt a breath leave him, relieved by that. He was scared Ace would have lost his ability to walk. But his fruit was a special one, having a great healing, he had heard.

Garp looked at Sabo and Luffy, moving his head towards the door. ¨Scram, I want to talk to Ace for a minute.¨ Luffy puffed his cheeks up, but gave a nod and jumped off the bed, Sabo following. When they were out, he looked back at Ace. ¨Are you really going to be fine? Not just saying it to calm Luffy and Sabo down?¨ Garp would understand if Ace did that. Ace nodded. ¨I will be fine. This isn't the first time I've broken my back.¨ Garp gave a nod. That was good. Not the fact he had done it before, but that he would be fine. Garp gave a serious look to Ace. ¨What now? Will you continue? Everyone knows who you are and you almost died. Or you could have stayed dead.¨ Garp hoped Ace wouldn't continue this work, this was way too close for comfort.

Ace gave a sigh. ¨I don't know yet. We're seeing how it looks. But I most likely will continue, only maybe a bit different.¨ Garp nodded. Not what he wanted to hear, but he was expecting it. ¨I understand.¨ Garp moved over and carefully, for the first time in years, maybe ever, gave a hug to Ace. ¨I'm glad you're fine.¨

Ace tensed for a second, before he slowly hugged back with a hand. After a couple of seconds, he let go and took a step back. ¨Be careful and start being more pirate than assassin. Maybe you won't die too early.¨ Ace gave a small chuckle. ¨We'll see what happens, Garp.¨ Garp nodded, that was the best he would get. He never liked it, would never accept it, but he still loved his grandson. ¨See you later, Ace.¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨Same to you, Garp.¨ Garp gave a nod, before he left the infirmary.

He exchanged a few words with Newgate before he left, glad Ace was fine.

-x-

Marco walked to the infirmary, going to see how everything was there. He knew Daisuke and Moira were back for a small bit, maybe to give an update on how things looked.

He hoped it wasn't as bad as he thought, although he knew many had seen the broadcast even more reading the newspaper that had been released the day after. The newspaper that had come today had a statement from the marines on what had happened in the fight. It had said that the marines, the admirals, had fought the man, Adam, and had won after fighting for over a day. When they had killed Adam, the pirates and assassins had escaped. Marco was mad they took all the fame and told that the assassins had ran away. But, he guessed they would never admit they had worked together with their enemy.

When he got to the infirmary and opened the door, he stopped for a second at what he saw.

Ace was out of bed, standing next to a chair he was holding on, another chair a few feet in front of him. Ace seemed to be struggling, legs shaking some and being a bit sweaty, Moira, Daisuke and Bay with the chair in front of Ace, Trevor at the side.

¨Come on, Ace.¨ Said Moira, seeming to stand and wait. Ace took a breath, looking at Moira, ¨I can't.¨ Marco was glad Ace's voice was back to normal, the hoarseness going away this morning. Moira gave a sigh, ¨Just try.¨ Ace seemed to get annoyed, none of them seeming to notice him. After a second, Ace let go of the chair he held and took a small step. When he was about to step down on the leg, it gave out and Ace fell, Trevor barely managing to catch him before he fell to the floor. Ace gave an annoyed sigh. ¨I can't do it.¨ Trevor gave a small chuckle, lifting Ace. ¨You know how this is. You need to try. But it's not too long before you can walk again. You can stand on your legs.¨

Ace gave a sigh, seeming to not like the fact he couldn't walk yet. But it would get better, he could already stand on his legs, even if that was with some issues. Trevor carried Ace back to his bed, Bay taking the chairs away. ¨We should do this now and then.¨ Said Bay as she took the chairs away, Ace not looking to pleased about that.

When Ace was in the bed, Marco walked in. He wondered if Daisuke and Moira had been able to update Ace and Trevor what was going on or not. He knew they had almost just arrived themselves. When Marco got more in the room, being noticed by the others, Moira gave a hum at him. ¨Should he be here?¨ Marco now knew they hadn't spoken about what Daisuke and Moira had figured out and was on his way to say he could leave, but Ace shook his head before he could. ¨It's fine. They will find out anyway. It will affect them either way.¨ Moira nodded and sat down in a chair. Marco was glad he could stay, and Ace was right; it would affect them since Ace was a part of their crew.

When everyone was seated, Daisuke looked at Ace. ¨It's not as bad as it could have been, but it's bad. Almost everyone in the world saw the broadcast or the newspaper the day after, revealing all of our identities. Thankfully, not everyone believes it. But many do, and that's bad for all of us.¨ Ace nodded, giving a sigh. ¨How bad is it for me?¨ Daisuke gave a small chuckle. ¨Many have issues believing Ace of Spades is a 20 year old, but many do believe it. It explains how you suddenly became so famous. The marines are also changing your wanted poster, the pirate one, to fit more in the assassin area.¨

Ace gave a nod. ¨Are they keeping the assassin one?¨ Daisuke nodded. Ace gave a nod to that. ¨That's good. That might help some people not believe I am the assassin. But the raise I will get is bad. Do you know how high it will be?¨ Daisuke shook his head. ¨We don't know how high, but it will be in the billion area. If we're lucky, as Jace is trying his best, both posters stay and will have different bounties. Same goes for Trevor, Mika, Jace, Raiden and Hanzo, as all those are known with their real name as other people.¨ Ace nodded. Marco thought that it would be good if both posters stayed, although the raise would be bad. He also didn't know some of the others were known by their real name, although he had heard about Raiden and Hanzo, but not much.

Ace looked at Daisuke. ¨Do they know who Ann is?¨ Daisuke shook his head, and Ace nodded. ¨Ann might be doing more then.¨ Daisuke gave a nod and small chuckle. Marco couldn't help a small chuckle himself. It was no surprise Ace might go more as Ann; she wasn't known by many and her identity was still not revealed. Daisuke looked over at him. ¨You and the other pirates, especially the commanders and pirates, will most likely get a raise in your bounties too, since you were at Sabaody Archipelago, and also the fact that Ace is a commander here.¨ Marco gave a nod, he had expected that. He wondered if it would be a big raise. He hoped not, it would only cause issues.

Daisuke looked at Ace. ¨Will you continue?¨ Ace gave sigh. ¨I don't know, but I think I will. I might do less for now, but I won't stop.¨ Daisuke gave a nod. ¨I think it would be best to keep a low profile for now. We're having a meeting when we get everyone gathered, hopefully next week. None of us will do much until then.¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨I will try to be there.¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨How are the others?¨ Daisuke gave a small chuckle. ¨The others in the fight all but collapsed in exhaustion when they got back to Amegakure. But, the others are in a small frenzy, asking questions. We need to see if we should keep everyone.¨ Ace gave a nod, giving a sigh. ¨This will cause a big stir, and we'll handle that next week.¨ Daisuke nodded to that.

Daisuke and Moira stayed for a bit more, before they left, heading to check more on how bad things were, before they would head back to Amegakure to handle everything there, hoping Ace could join then. Moira said Ace might be able to walk mostly fine in a few days. He was healing nicely. Ace was awake for a small while, speaking to him and Trevor, before he fell asleep. Marco hoped it wouldn't be too bad and that things would be fine.

-x-

Chopper walked into the infirmary on the Moby Dick, going to see if he found Luffy as dinner was ready and said man should eat. The only place he could think of the other being in the infirmary with Ace, his brother. Chopper would be brave and see if he found Luffy here. The brother couldn't be that bad so he would hurt him… right? Chopped shook his head as he tried to rid of that thought. He should be brave enough for this. He had managed to give a ¨Hi¨ to one of the commanders he had passed. Which terrified him, but he managed. He was supposed to be strong, he could face a person… that might be an assassin… that happened to be the Ace of Spades. Chopper was terrified.

When he got inside the infirmary and to the bed where Ace and hopefully Ace would be in, he walked around them to see the bed, freezing when he saw there was no Luffy there, only the assassin. He wanted to move, to leave, but was frozen, especially when black eyes turned to him. He felt his frame shake a bit, no idea what would happen.

The assassin looked at him, assessing, before speaking. ¨You're Chopper, right?¨ Chopper managed to nod somehow, but was still terrified. He wanted to run. The assassin gave a nod. ¨You're a doctor, right?¨ Chopper gave a nod, still not able to speak. Maybe the assassin didn't think he was a good doctor. The assassin gave a nod. ¨Are you good with animals, as a doctor?¨ Chopper nodded, his mind sure the assassin didn't like he, a reindeer, was Luffy and Sabo's doctor. He had met people before that didn't like it.

The assassin gave a nod, moving some blanket that was on his lap. ¨Could you look at Dust, my raven. He says he can't move his wings, and I'm not sure if it is from an injury or because he is exhausted.¨ The blankets moved to show a black raven, who looked at him, giving a caw. 'Tanuki?' Chopper was shocked, seeing a raven there with the assassin, and it thinking he was a Tanuki. Ace gave a chuckle, petting the raven. ¨Reindeer, not Tanuki.¨ The raven looked at the assassin, before looking back at him. 'Reindeer?' Chopped gave a nod to the bird, no idea what to do next. The assassin looked at him. ¨Could you look at him? You might be able to see if anything is wrong. Luffy does say you are a good doctor.¨

Chopper, forgetting his fears for a minute as the raven tried to lift its wings, only to fail, was next to it in a minute, lifting its wings and checking them. ¨When did they stopped working?¨ he asked as he looked at the bird. The raven looked at him, before looking at the assassin. 'Days?' The assassin gave a nod, ¨4 days.¨ The raven gave a nod and repeated the thing to him. Chopped looked at the assassin, ¨You speak together?¨ When black eyes looked at him, the fear came back as he froze. The assassin gave a nod. ¨We are connected by my powers.¨ Chopped nodded and forced himself to concentrate on the raven.

After lifting its wings and checking, he gave a nod to himself as he gave the raven a pet. ¨No injuries, only some strain and a lot of exhaustion.¨ The assassin gave a nod, lifting the raven up to him and gave it a hug. ¨That's good. Then you'll be fine soon.¨ The raven gave a nod, giving a caw. 'Then I can hunt again, and fly!' The assassin gave a chuckle, petting it. ¨You can.¨ It looked like the assassin really cared for the raven. It was weird to see. He thought the man would be heartless, not this.

When the assassin looked at him, he felt fear again, but the assassin gave a smile. ¨Thank you, Chopper. You seem like a good doctor. I'm glad you're with Luffy and Sabo.¨

Chopped moved a hand to the back of his head, massaging it as he was embarrassed. ¨Saying that won't make me happy~.¨ Chopper stopped after a second, remembering who this was. But the assassin only gave a chuckle. ¨Luffy was right in choosing you. I think he's in the library with Sabo.¨

Chopper nodded and left after giving a small bow. When he left, he heard the raven say he liked Chopper, which made him blush again, the assassin only chuckling to it.

Maybe the assassin wasn't as bad after all.

-x-

Sanji stood on the boat, having a small break before he started lunch. A guy with a pompadour had said they could eat at their boat, he didn't need to cook. But Sanji liked to cook and would do that, the man, most likely a chef based on his clothes, understood that and left.

When he took a drag of his smoke and looked over at the Whitebeards' ship, not really too afraid of the ship and the people there as Luffy was allowed. The only one he was wary of was the assassin, and he wasn't out. But as he looked at the ship, at the deck, the smoke fell from his fingers and down to the floor as he could only stare at what he saw, too shocked to react for a second.

Luffy was sitting crouched on the ground, a couple of white seagull feathers in his hand, a black raven that Sanji knew belonged to the Ace of Spades, Luffy on his way to move a feather to the raven's head.

Sanji moved and hoped he would be able to do something before the bird got mad. He knew the raven didn't like people close to it. When he was off his ship, Luffy had placed a white feather on the raven's head, it thankfully not reacting yet. ¨Don't touch the bird!¨ Luffy didn't seem too hear him and moved to place the other feather on the raven's head, next to the other, the kid giving a smile to the raven. ¨You're a bunny!¨ Sanji was just a few feet away from the brat, ready to drag him away.

But the raven gave a caw and did a… jump? Giving a caw, before jumping off, looking happy.

Sanji had frozen in mid step, seeing the raven acting nothing like he had heard. He was completely shocked. The brat turned to him, tilting his head. ¨Sanji? Why are you all white?¨ With that comment and truly innocent and confused look, Sanji fell to the ground, feeling like he just shattered into pieces from the shock. The bird didn't care? How?! Luffy crouched next to him and poked him with a finger. ¨Shouldn't you make lunch?¨ Sanji gathered himself at that, standing up and fixing his tie. He had a job to do. He needed to be nice to the kid, his brother was here. ¨I will.¨ Luffy gave a nod, before running off.

When Sanji turned to head back to the boat, he saw Chopper standing at the railing at their boat, jaw open and looking utterly shocked. Maybe he was shocked as Luffy could touch the bird. But before he could ask, Chopper turned to him. ¨The raven said 'I'm a Bunny!' Before he jumped off.¨

Sanji blinked, looking back at the Whitebeards' deck, seeing Luffy running after the raven, who was jumping with the feathers on his head, like a bunny.

This felt really weird and Sanji didn't know what to think or do.

Maybe it wasn't Ace of Spades' raven after all.

-x-

Sanji headed into to the infirmary on the Moby, a man called Rakuyo saying Luffy and Sabo were there, and it was soon dinner, meaning the two captains should come back to the ship to eat now. The Whitebeards seemed like nice people, although Sanji acted more courteous than normal. They were the world's strongest crew after all. He didn't need to cause any issues if he could avoid it. Most of the others had stayed on their boat, scared to go to the Whitebeards, well, Robin had a few times, same with Brook. But those two where their own set of people. Zoro would probably head to the ship when he noticed they had booze there, but he hadn't yet, which was good.

When he got to the infirmary door, Sanji stumped his smoke and took a breath. He knew who was behind these doors aside from his two captains. Their brother, Ace of Spades was also there. Sanji was nervous what the assassin might say or do. Sanji only hoped he was calmer around his brothers. He was scared the assassin might know he had tried to get information on them, or that he was a Vinsmoke. His family and the other assassins didn't go well together. And, he would be dead if the assassin knew Sanji had not been the nicest at all times. He had tried, but still had Luffy fallen off board and gotten injured and everything. This might be bad.

After getting his confidence up, Sanji opened the door and walked in.

When he got into the infirmary, he looked around and saw it empty, aside from a bed that was half shielded by some curtains. He could see a hand or something laying on the bed. When Sanji walked further and saw the bed, he stopped and stared at what he saw.

I the bed laid the assassin, who held around Luffy who laid close to him, a hand over Sabo who laid behind Luffy, all three of them asleep.

Sanji didn't really know what to do now. He didn't want to wake the two captains, not knowing how the assassin would react to that. He clearly cared for the two a lot. As he was thinking of heading back out and not bother the three in bed, just to not anger anyone, a sound had him freeze. A cawing sound. Sanji turned to look behind him, seeing the raven from earlier jumping up to the bed. Sanji could only watch the raven in shock, wanting to make it be quiet, but the bird jumped past him and under the bed, heading to the other side. When the raven was at the other side, it gave another caw, and Sanji felt all oxygen leave him as the assassin moved.

The assassin moved his hand off his brothers before he moved it down to the side of the bed, lifting the bird up. ¨Hey.¨ Said the assassin too it, looking at it with a small smile. The raven, who now Sanji believed to be the assassin's raven, ruffled his feathers and gave a caw, before looking over at him. Sanji felt his heart do a jump as the assassin turned to look at him, having a small frown. ¨Vinsmoke Sanji.¨ Sanji managed a nod, not sure how he did. He didn't manage to speak, just not sure how this would turn out. ¨What are you doing here?¨ Sanji tried to focus, tried to get his lungs and mouth to work, to speak. It took a few seconds, but he managed to speak. ¨It's dinner time.¨ He wanted to explain why he was here based on that, but his lungs decided to just give up then.

The assassin gave a nod, not seeming bothered by it. Just as he was on his way to speak, to try to explain he came to get the two other in bed, he closed his mouth as the assassin moved a hand to Luffy's shoulder, shaking him so he stirred. When the kid woke up, massaging an eye, the assassin looked at Luffy. ¨It's dinner time.¨ The kid looked at the assassin, before he looked over at him. Luffy gave a pout, looking back at the assassin. ¨But I wanna eat here.¨ Sanji was just on his way to say he could bring the food here, but before he could even get his mouth to move, the assassin moved a hand to Luffy's head, flicking him on the forehead. ¨No. Eat in the galley.¨ Luffy, still pouting and now having a hand cradling his forehead, nodded. When Luffy moved to get off the bed, he woke up Sabo too. When the blond was awake, Ace said it was dinner, and the blond nodded, before moving off the bed and heading after Luffy, who ran out of the infirmary.

As the two were gone, the assassin gave a small chuckle as he moved to look at the bird in his lap, who gave a caw. ¨They will come back later. After eating.¨ The raven gave another caw, before ruffling his feathers and moving to lay down on the assassin's lap. The assassin gave another small chuckle, before moving to lay down again, which made the chef walk out of the infirmary.

Sanji was confused by what just happened. The raven was apparently the assassin's, which made him confused as the raven had acted weird earlier, with the seagull feathers as ears. And now this? The assassin acted so calm and caring. The chef wasn't ready to see that. Yes, he had met the brother before, but he didn't think that was how he acted normally. Maybe this was all an act? He would make sure to speak to his two captains later.

Maybe, but just maybe, the assassin wasn't as bad as he believed?

Sanji shook his head. There was no way the assassin was a caring person like that.

-x-

Ace felt himself waking up, feeling something that made him wake up. He looked to his left and saw Whitebeard and Marco asleep in a couple of chairs. He looked to his right and saw it was dark out, most likely in the middle of the night. Ace looked to the door out to deck when he felt something and heard something faint, the door being a tiny bit cracked. Ace was sure he knew what this feeling was, but it was impossible.

Ace slowly moved to sit on the bed, legs down on the floor, before carefully and slowly standing up.

It took much longer than he would like to admit, his legs still weak, but he managed. When he was up, he held his hand on the wall and other close things as he walked, as a small leverage. When he got to the door, he opened it carefully and walked out, heading to a small clearing next to the infirmary that was on the side on the infirmary. When Ace got closer to the corner he needed to go around, still holding onto the wall, he heard faint humming. Ace felt his heart speed a bit up, hearing the familiar voice humming. When Ace got around the corner and saw the small clearing, he felt himself stop and his heart do a leap.

Close to the railing, stood the familiar shape with the familiar white suit, pink hair in a half ponytail and red eyes.

Ace moved to hold onto the railing, walking over to the shape, not sure of it was an illusion or not. When he got closer, the soft humming stopped as the person turned towards him with the same calm look and smile. When Ace was close enough, he moved his hands off the railing and went to hold around Azuruko, not caring if this was an illusion or dream. He just wanted to hold the man and feel safe. He felt tears welling up in his eyes as Azuruko was something he could hold around, not just an illusion. This might be a dream, but he didn't care.

After a second, Ace felt hands come around him and holding him softly back, a hand coming up to stroke his head, making him give a breath, a tear slipping down his cheek.

When the soft humming started up again. Ace didn't want to wake up if this was a dream.

-x-

Marco woke up, not realizing he had fallen asleep. When he woke up and gave a small stretch and looked to see how Ace was, feeling shocked and worried when the bed was empty. Ace should be in the bed, he could barely walk.

Marco looked to his right, seeing Pops there and moved a hand to wake him up, maybe he knew where Ace was. Bay would never wake someone injured up in the middle of the night without a reason. When the man looked at him in question, Marco looked at him. ¨Do you know where Ace is, yoi?¨ The man got a confused look, ¨What do you me-,¨ Pops looked over to the bed as he spoke, trailing off when he saw the bed was empty. Pops looked back at him. ¨He's not here?¨ Marco shook his head. This meant he didn't know either, and that was bad. Where could he be?

Marco saw Pops on his way to speak, but Marco silenced him with a hand as he heard something, something that was both familiar and not.

Marco looked over to the door and saw it open and believed Ace might have walked out for some reason. But this didn't sound like Ace, but no one he knew knew this song either. Marco stood up and gave a look to his father, who looked at him in question, before standing up and following him.

As they got out on deck, Marco heard the faint humming grow more, feeling something or someone being behind the corner, at the small clearing, Ace also there. Marco didn't like this. He could see his father feeling the same as he had a frown. When they got to the corner and walked around it, both froze at what they saw.

Ace was standing close to the railing, holding around the same man they had seen after Ace had come back alive, the man holding around Ace, eyes closed and humming. Humming the same tune Ace did, the tune to calm down mythicals.

Pops looked as stunned as him, and as Marco took a step and about to ask who this was, the man opened his eyes and looked at them with calm red eyes, the humming stopping. The man moved a hand to stroke Ace's head, making Ace turn to look at them, looking confused at them, eyes red, before looking back at the man, who gave a nod and a small caress to Ace's cheek, having a calm look, before he disappeared.

As the man was gone, Ace turned to them again, still looking confused. Marco could see Ace losing his strength and his eyes closing and barely managed to move and catch Ace before he hit the deck. As Marco held Ace, him seeming okay, he looked at Pops, who looked equally as confused and worried as him.

Marco lifted Ace up and carried him back to the infirmary. When they walked in the door, Pops looked at him. ¨I'll go and get Bay.¨ Marco gave a nod to that as he placed Ace in his bed. That man didn't seem to be a danger and Ace had hugged him, but it never hurt to be sure.

As Marco had placed Ace in his bed, Bay came and looked Ace over, Marco explaining what had happened. When she was finished, she looked at them. ¨He's okay, nothing changed, just used his strength up. Commander Ace can't walk well and has a lot of issues with it, which is why. I'm surprised he managed to walk out and stand on his legs.¨

Marco nodded, that was good at least. Bay gave them a nod, before leaving again. When Bay was gone, Marco moved a hand to stroke Ace's head, sending a look to Pops. He didn't seem to have any answer still.

But it seemed like Ace might know who that person was, maybe they should ask Trevor, or Daisuke if he dropped by again.

-x-

Trevor sat by Ace's side in the bed, the black haired kid being asleep. Trevor was just sitting and reading a book, not much other stuff to do, but he wanted to be here in case. They were still also waiting for Daisuke and Moira to show up and tell how bad things were.

As he was about to start a new chapter in the book, the door opened and the captain and first commander came in. Trevor would have just continued reading, but the look the two pirates had made him put his book down for now. They looked like they wanted to speak or ask him about something. The two pirates looked at Ace, who was asleep, before looking at him as they sat down. The captain was the first one to speak. ¨Is Daisuke coming back soon?¨ Trevor shook his head, ¨We don't know, we haven't heard anything yet, but we hope soon. Why?¨ Trevor didn't know why the two pirates wanted to speak to Daisuke.

The two gave a nod. The captain looked at him. ¨Last night, something happened.¨ The captain paused for a second, making Trevor more interested what had happened. He hadn't been here last night, same with Ace's brothers. This might be the reason Ace was still asleep. Ace had usually been up now, he seemed more tired than usual. ¨What happened?¨ Asked Trevor when the captain was silent for more than he liked. The captain gave a small sigh. ¨Ace was suddenly gone last night, walking out of the infirmary. When we found out and followed, there was this man with Ace, Ace seeming to know him as he hugged him, seeming to have cried.¨ Trevor gave a nod, not liking that. Ace shouldn't have walked out on deck in his state.

¨What did he look like?¨ If Ace knew the person, Trevor most likely did too. The captain gave a nod to himself. ¨He had pink hair and a white suit.¨

Trevor blinked. It couldn't be. ¨Was the hair in a half ponytail, the eyes red and calm look?¨ Both pirates seemed shocked by that. ¨Yes, yoi. How did you know?¨ Asked the first commander. Trevor looked down at Ace. No wonder he was tired now. It must have been hard to walk out on deck, and emotional to see the ghost of the man that had been there for him. Maybe the man had something to do with how Ace got back alive? He would need to ask Daisuke and Moira about it.

Trevor looked back up at the pirates. ¨I believe the man Ace was with, must have been a ghost.¨ Both pirates frowned. ¨Why do you think that?¨ Trevor gave small smile. ¨The man you described, is exactly how Azuruko looked like.¨

The pirates looked shocked. ¨How, yoi?¨ Trevor shook his head. ¨I do not know.¨

Even in the afterlife, Azuruko was looking after Ace.

-x-

Ace sat in his room, Luffy and Sabo sitting with him on the bed. He was let out of the infirmary earlier as he could mostly walk fine now, although he needed to go on a few checkups now and then, but it was fine. He did have issues standing up, which he would have the most trouble with for a while.

He was currently putting forward an idea to his brothers. ¨The New World is a dangerous place, much more so than the Grand Line. I know you are strong, but you should get more training. Rayleigh have said he is willing to take you in again and train you more, but this time he will focus more on your Haki, powers and techniques.¨ He had spoken to Rayleigh yesterday night, Ace asking about it and the man saying yes.

Luffy gave a nod. ¨That's fine. I would like to get better at the weird things and control my powers.¨ Ace gave a small chuckle. ¨Haki, not 'weird things.'¨ Luffy gave a pout. ¨Hard to remember.¨ Ace shook his head, looking over at Sabo, who seemed to be in thought. ¨I have thought about the same, but what about the others?¨ Ace gave a hum. They did have a crew, and they should get more experience themselves. He could pull some strings and speak to some people. ¨I can see what I can do. Everyone could need more training.¨ Both his brothers nodded, Luffy tilting his head. ¨How long?¨ Ace looked at him. ¨2 years.¨ Luffy blinked. ¨That's long.¨ Ace nodded. ¨Yes, but learning Haki, as well as control, will take time.¨ Luffy nodded. ¨I want to do that. I want to be strong so I can protect more.¨

Ace gave a nod, that was good. He looked over to Sabo, who looked to wanting to say something. ¨Sabo?¨ Sabo gave a sigh, looking at Luffy. ¨Why don't you go and eat, I need to ask Ace about something.¨ Luffy tilted his head, ¨What are you going to ask about? I wanna know!¨ Sabo shook his head, ¨If we decide on something, we'll tell you.¨ Luffy puffed his cheeks up, but gave a nod and left. When Luffy was gone, Ace looked at Sabo. ¨What is it?¨ Sabo gave a sigh again. ¨I have thought about this before, training before we get into the New World. I've even spoken to Robin about it.¨ Sabo looked at him. ¨I know you won't like this. But Robin knows some people, and while Rayleigh is strong, I think I should maybe go train with someone else. Rayleigh can also focus more on Luffy then.¨ Ace gave a nod, having a feeling he would not like this. ¨Who is it you want to train with?¨

Sabo looked a bit reluctant. ¨The Revolutionary Army, with Dragon.¨

¨No.¨ Said Ace. That was not something he wanted, not with those people. Ace shook his head, looking at him. ¨I know you don't want it, I don't like them myself. But they have a lot they can teach, and I could use what they know. How they are able to stay out of view, fight and Haki. Just please consider it.¨ Ace moved a hand and pinched his nose. ¨How do you even know they will say yes? They are the Revolutionary Army. You will always be on the run, they will push you hard.¨ Ace really didn't like this.

Sabo gave a nod. ¨I-. Robin has spoken to them, to Dragon. He said yes. He doesn't know it's me, but he was willing. And be on the run? That's good! We will be that when we get to the New World. I need experience with that. It would be good for me, for everyone.¨ Ace hated that Sabo was right. They would be on the run nonetheless. They were pirates, and people now knew they were his brothers, the assassin's brother. He was on his way to speak again, but Sabo spoke first. ¨Look, I know you neither like them or Dragon. But think about it. You can even go speak to them if you'd like. Just please, this would be a great chance for me.¨

Ace gave a sigh, looking at Sabo. He hated how Sabo made a good point. ¨Do you really want to go train with them? What if this is all a plot?¨ Sabo nodded. ¨I want to. And Robin asked them before this all happened. I can have Robin tell who I am, and take it from there. I can go with Rayleigh for now and see what they say, and you can speak to them. Think of all the good things that could come out of this.¨ Ace gave a sigh. ¨But what about all the bad things? They aren't nice people, they won't be caring or think much of you. They won't hold back.¨ Sabo gave a sigh. ¨I know, but still. I think it would be the best.¨ Ace gave a sigh. ¨I will think about it. Have Robin ask, and tell me what they say, and I will see.¨

Sabo gave a nod, having a small smile. ¨Thank you.¨ Ace gave a nod, having a hand pinching his nose again. He still didn't like this, but Sabo was right. ¨Don't tell Luffy about it yet, not until we know.¨ Sabo gave a nod, ¨I won't.¨ Sabo looked at him, giving a smile. ¨Thank you, I really mean it. Thank you for consideration it.¨ Ace gave a nod. He hoped he wouldn't regret it. ¨I'll speak to some people and tell the rest of the crew later, maybe tomorrow.¨ Sabo nodded.

Ace hoped everyone would agree to train, they could use it.

-x-

Ace looked at the Strawhats, them looking to agree to train for two years before heading into the New World. He had explained they should get more training and experience before heading into the New World; it was a dangerous place. He had also explained how he would bring them to places he thought they would learn the most based on how they fought and what he knew about them. As he was done explaining, everyone nodded, looking a bit reluctant, but they knew Ace wanted to make sure they were ready. He had originally thought to sent his brothers to train, but Sabo had come up with the idea to send all of them to train. He had to agree it was a good idea to have everyone train to get better.

As the Strawhats nodded, Ace looked to his left when he heard a snort from Roronoa Zoro. ¨I will not accept any place you might deem good for me. I can go on my own.¨ Ace gave a small hum, he had heard about Roronoa Zoro and knew where he might should send the man. ¨I can speak to Dracule Mihawk. He owes me a favor.¨ Zoro, who had been sitting with his eyes closed and mostly ignoring everyone, quickly opened his eyes in shock, before he was bowed before Ace. ¨Please speak to Mihawk.¨

Ace looked at Zoro with an unimpressed look. ¨If you are not up on your legs in 2 seconds, I won't speak to him.¨ Bowing like that, all the way down to almost lying and head down, was too much in Ace's opinion. Unless they had done something where it was needed. But this was far away from that. Zoro gave a nod and quickly stood up again. ¨If you could speak to Dracule Mihawk for me, I would greatly appreciate it.¨ He ended it with a small bow, more in Ace's taste.

Ace looked at the swordsman. ¨I will not make him take you in, but I will ask him to give you a chance. If you prove yourself, he might take you in.¨ Zoro gave a nod. ¨Just to be able to have the chance would be great. Ace gave a nod, he thought the same, it was more he could get on his own. He couldn't even get to Mihawk's island on his own. Ace would be sure to speak to Mihawk as soon as he could. Zoro did have potential. Ace also needed to speak to some other people too.

Ace managed to ask some people and get some favors back, Dust being better and could fly and get the letters around. Dust did have issues flying after flying for a small while, but he could just teleport to where he needed to be. If everything went fine, Ace could send the crew on their way. Sabo would stay with Luffy and Rayleigh for now, Ace still waiting for the response on what the Revolutionary Army thought of training Sabo. If they said yes, Ace would go and speak to them himself to make sure everything would go fine.

-x-

Whitebeard sat in the galley, eating lunch and speaking with his children and enjoying himself. It was calm again and everything was slowly going back to normal. Luffy and Sabo had left in the morning, the others on their crew leaving with them. Ace was often out more now and was getting better. He wasn't out as much as he used to be, but he was much more than what he had been the other days. Everyone was trying to be more around the second commander, and the captain had said to give Ace some space for now, as he still wasn't back to himself, slept a lot, and still was on the pain medication. But he was getting there.

After a few minutes, Ace moved to stand up, most likely finished eating and about to head back to his room to relax. He often did that after being out. It was better than him falling asleep at the table, which he often had done before.

But as Ace was about to stand up, he got a shocked look on his face, before he fell to the ground, the plate he held shattering to the floor.

As soon as Ace fell, everyone fell silent, shocked at that. Trevor, who sat beside Ace, started to laugh as he looked behind him and on the floor. ¨The doctor did say to stand up carefully, Bunny.¨ Ace gave a sigh, moving his hands to the floor and carefully lifting himself up to stand, taking the shattered plate with him. ¨I know. I forgot.¨ Trevor laughed at Ace again. ¨Forgot? How do you forget that?!¨ Ace gave Trevor a look. ¨I'm used to be able to walk, so it's easily forgettable.¨ That made sense, but it was still a shock to see and hear Ace just falling to the ground like that. Everyone in the galley had fallen silent, looking shocked. Ace didn't look to have injured himself, which was good.

Trevor continued to laugh and Ace shook his head, walking to the door and tossing the broken plate in the trash before walking out of the galley, most likely heading to his room to relax.

Nothing much happened after that, everyone going back to doing their own things. After ten minutes later, Marco left too, most likely heading to Ace's room to check on him. The captain was happy with how things were right now.

-x-

Marco walked to Ace's room, knocking on the door before walking in. He knew Ace was there and he might asleep and he slept well now, being tired a lot. It was good to see that things had been calm now. They had docked earlier today, and everyone who didn't like Ace, had left, going to the island close by, going to go their own way. There had been a few they had forced off, knowing they didn't like Ace, having overheard some conversations and such. They would deal with Nathan later, no one giving him much thought or attention, keeping him in the deepest part of the prison, him still being mad and yelling how he hadn't done anything wrong, making many mad.

When Marco got into Ace's room, he saw Ace was in bed and didn't seem to wake much up from him knocking and walking in. Marco gave a small chuckle as he walked up to the bed, taking his sandals off, before he slipped into bed behind Ace, draping a hand over Ace's shape, leaning forward to give a kiss to Ace's neck. He was still relieved Ace was fine. Ace made a bit of movement with, giving a small breath, before settling down and seeming to fall back asleep. It wasn't much of a surprise, Ace had been out for a while today, walking and doing things, which was still a bit hard at times for Ace. The fall earlier showing he was tired on his legs.

Marco wasn't really tired, but he was fine with just relaxing like this. He hadn't been able to be too close to Ace when he had been in the infirmary, so he liked this and tried what he could to be close to Ace, especially as Ace didn't seem to mind.

After a few hours, Ace woke up, giving a breath as he moved a bit, turning around and moving to a sitting position. Marco moved to sit up as well, not having fallen asleep, just relaxing.

When they were sitting up, Marco moved a hand to Ace's hand, looking at him. ¨How are you feeling, yoi?¨ Ace gave a nod. ¨I feel fine. Just a bit tired at times.¨ Marco gave a chuckle. That was to be expected. ¨I spoke to the others earlier, yoi. We're throwing a small party tomorrow, to celebrate that you're fine, and for those who know, that we're engaged.¨ Ace gave a small chuckle, moving his hand up and looking at it. ¨I forget I'm engaged at times.¨ Marco gave a chuckle himself. ¨It did happen fast, yoi.¨ He looked at Ace. ¨Do you regret it?¨ It had been happening way fast, and he could understand it.

Ace gave a hum, before shaking his head, looking at him. ¨I don't. But I'm not ready to get married yet.¨ Marco gave a small laugh. ¨I didn't expect you to be that, yoi. We'll get to that when we get there. If that is months or years, it's fine by me.¨ Ace gave a nod. Marco understood Ace wasn't ready to get married yet, and he wasn't ready for that either. They could stay engaged for now. Ace gave a hum, looking at him. ¨When you say 'small party', is it actually going to be small?¨ Marco gave a laugh. ¨Who knows, yoi. Pops said small party, but it usually becomes a big party. But even if it becomes too much, we can take a break.¨ Ace gave a nod. Marco would understand if it became too much for Ace with a party, there hadn't been much happening the last week and Ace had mostly been alone. He would try and be around Ace tomorrow and make sure he was fine.

Marco and Ace just stayed in Ace's room the rest of the day and night, just relaxing. They were out a bit the day after, but went inside Marco's room to relax before the party. Just based on what they did to prepare, it showed it would be bigger than a small party. He hoped it wouldn't be too much for Ace.

-x-

Trevor looked around the galley, not seeing Ace anywhere, making him give a sigh. This was a celebration for Ace, he should be here.

Trevor gave a small excuse before he went out to see if he could find Ace, hoping the other wasn't far away. Ace usually managed to get through a small party. Well, this wasn't small, and Ace was the center of attention, but still. When he got out of the galley and to the deck, he immediately saw Ace sitting on a small crate not to far away, most likely taking a small break. It was a miracle no one had gone out and checked after him. He couldn't have been gone long. Trevor walked over to Ace. ¨Oi, Bunny. Watcha doing?¨ When Ace looked at him, Trevor gave a small frown. Something seeming off.

But before he could think more of it, Ace gave a sigh, standing up. ¨I don't know. I should be there, but I can't, because of everything and I don't know if I did the right choice and,-¨ Trevor held a hand out, stopping Ace who was rambling. That hadn't happened for a few years. ¨Woah woah, Bunny. Where did this come from?¨ Ace gave a breath. ¨I just-. It's just everything. I can't handle all that is happening there, and everyone is so close and speaking and touching and I just can't. I don't think I'm cut out for this.¨ When Trevor saw tears slowly begin to form in Ace's eyes, he had already moved and carefully hugged Ace. He knew this worked when Ace was way too whelmed when he was younger.

¨Woah now, Bunny. It's okay. It's just a lot happening at once, making you overwhelmed. And you are still on some heavy drugs, which doesn't help. You just need to calm down.¨ It felt weird, this hadn't happened for 2 years, and he felt like this was awfully the same. Ace not able to handle a lot happening fast, especially gatherings, more so when he was on strong pain pills. He felt Ace give a nod, giving a small sniff. Trevor felt out of place, it had been way too long since he had done this; comforting someone, even more as it was Ace. This never happened. But Ace did only need some peace to calm down, and Trevor could help with that.

Trevor decided to just stand there, not really sure where to go or keep his hands, but this seemed to be working as Ace didn't seem to mind, making him believe these pills really messed with Ace's emotions if he took his comfort.

After a few minutes, the door to the galley opened, Ace thankfully having his back to it and didn't seem to notice. He saw the captain and some of the commanders standing there, all of them freezing when they saw them, or more like saw a clearly upset Ace. As Trevor saw how the captain looked at them, or at Ace, Trevor carefully moved a hand and waved the captain over. The man went out of the galley and closed the door, making the others stay inside. When the man was close to them, he crouched a bit down.

Before the captain could speak, Trevor carefully moved Ace and turned him around, giving a slow push to the captain, making him get the hint and taking over, Ace not seeming to mind it. Trevor would be sure to tell the doctor that Ace needed to stop on these pills as fast as possible. Ace had probably felt whelmed for a while and had tried to ignore it, and this was what happened because of that.

When the captain moved a hand to hold onto Ace's back, Trevor gave Ace a quick pat on the back. ¨Just relax, Bunny. It will turn out fine.¨ He saw Ace give a nod, and Trevor headed back into the galley. The captain could handle Ace, and he should do it instead of him.

When he got back into the galley, a lot of eyes looked at him. ¨What's wrong with Ace?¨ Asked the chef, Thatch. Trevor shook his head, ¨Just whelmed by everything here and the drugs he is on is not helping at all. Bunny just needs to calm down.¨ The chef gave a nod, having a strained look. ¨He's like that because of us?¨ Trevor suppressed a sigh. He wondered if they even knew Ace wasn't good at handling people, they seemed oblivious, at least the chef. The others looked more understanding. ¨He's not good with being the center of attention, especially with a lot of people being close. Normally, he would have been fine. But again, the drugs he is on is messing with him.¨

The pirates nodded, everyone seeming to realize this wasn't a normal occurrence. The chef gave a small clap, looking to have an idea. ¨If Ace needs some peace, why don't we let him and Marco take a break together?¨ The man next to the chef, the crossdresser, looked at Thatch. ¨That is actually a good idea.¨ The chef looked hurt. ¨Hey! I have good ideas!¨ The crossdresser, Izou, gave a small snort. ¨Yeah no, you don't. This is rare.¨ The chef looked hurt, before the crossdresser went to find Marco.

That was an actually good idea. Ace could use some calmness and to get away for a small bit. Them going together was perfect. Ace liked the man, hell, he had even said yes when the other proposed. Trevor was sure that would never happen. Maybe things were changing for the better.

-x-

Whitebeard carefully had a hand behind Ace, them having moved to sit the ledge looking over the lower deck. He had noticed Ace not being in the galley earlier and had went to check, Thatch, Izou, Jozu and Rakuyo also noticing and went to join. But, as soon as they opened the door and saw Ace and Trevor, Trevor clearly trying to comfort an upset Ace as he was hugging said man, had them all freeze. He wondered what was wrong, and was about to head back into the galley to leave the two, when Trevor waved him over. He made the others go back into the galley and moved over and crouched down, on his way to ask what was wrong.

But was shocked when Trevor moved Ace and half pushed the upset assassin to him, clearly handing him over for him to take it from there.

It was a nice motion, Trevor saying he trusted him to do that, and the captain had moved automatically to have a hand behind Ace, shocked when Ace didn't seem to mind. After that, Trevor left back into the galley, telling Ace he should relax and everything would go fine, making him think Ace was whelmed or something. The party had maybe been a bit too much for Ace so fast.

After just standing with Ace for a second, they had moved to the ledge they sat at now, to be more away from the door to the galley, in case someone went out. Now they wouldn't be as easy noticed by them.

Whitebeard still had a hand behind Ace as they sat on the ledge, Ace seeming more composed, His eyes were still glassy, giving a small sniff now and then. Whitebeard thought the party maybe had been a bad idea, Ace looked to be really overwhelmed. After a minute, he looked at Ace. ¨How are you feeling, son?¨ Ace gave a breathless chuckle, moving a hand to wipe at his eyes. ¨Just whelmed. And the pills don't help at all.¨ The captain gave a nod, moving his thumb to carefully stroke Ace's back. This meant that it wasn't only the fact Ace was whelmed, the pills made it way worse. He would speak to Bay about this. Ace had reacted to them before, but at that time he had only laughed. This was worse.

¨It's fine to be whelmed. A lot has happened.¨ Ace gave a nod to that, giving a small sniff. The captain looked at Ace. He didn't look as locked off as he did, eyes blank and giving the occasional sniff. He looked like the twenty year old he was, his emotions getting the better of him.

They sat in silence and watched the island they were docked at. It was a calm island, no one being on the small dock, near shore or the woods. Everyone was in their home and sleeping or resting. It was late and silent, which fit this moment perfect and hopefully helped Ace. He did seem to calm more down.

After a few minutes, he heard footsteps behind him and looked back to see Marco there, walking up to them, looking his usual calm self, maybe a bit of worry in his eyes. Trevor had probably told him about Ace.

When he came over to them, he moved to sit down beside Ace, moving a hand to lay over Ace's. Ace had given a small chuckle at that, moving his hand to hold onto Marco's. They just sat in silence for a while, not needing to talk. After a few minutes, Marco looked at him, before he looked at Ace. ¨How about heading to the island and just go for a small walk, yoi?¨ The captain gave a smile, that sounded like a good idea. The island was calm now, not many living here from before. And it would be good for the two to get some alone time, they hadn't had much of that the last days.

Ace gave a nod, having a small smile. ¨I would like that.¨ The captain gave a smile at the two, moving to stand up. Marco could take it from here. ¨Well, I think I'll head back into the galley then. Have fun on your walk.¨ Marco gave a nod, standing up and helping Ace. Ace still had some issues standing up at times, but it wasn't as bad as before. When they were up, Marco gave a look to him, giving a nod, which was returned, before they left. Whitebeard heading back into the galley, and Marco and Ace heading off the ship.

When he got back into the galley, he calmed the others who knew Ace was upset down, telling Ace was fine, just needing a bit of time to relax, which they accepted. They nodded to that, looking relieved.

As the night progressed, more and more noticed Ace, who was the person they celebrated was okay, also a small celebration that Ace and Marco were engaged, but not everyone knew that, was gone. When they said they wanted to get him back, the captain said no, saying Ace needed a bit of time to relax, which everyone accepted, some more reluctant than others. But Ace was fine, he was just a bit whelmed for now. Things would soon go back to normal.

-x-

Marco looked at Ace as they were on the beach, being close to a patch of grass for Dust to roam and hunt small insects, the raven had looked glad as it jumped around. The raven had a small break now and Ace sat and petted the bird, Marco sitting beside him on the ground.

He guessed Ace was okay with this, not as whelmed as he had been before, Trevor mentioning the pills he was on was still messing with him, now more with his general emotions. Izou had told him he should go to Ace, who were out with Pops, not saying more, which made him worry. He had tried to be around Ace, but someone from his division needed his attention for a small while. When he was almost at the door out, Trevor had stopped him and told why, telling Ace were whelmed and just needed to relax and calm down. Marco weren't surprised by that and had left, finding Ace and Pops sitting at the ledge that overlooked the lower deck, Marco sitting down beside them.

Ace had looked like he was overwhelmed, eyes red and sniffing at times, but he guessed it had calmed down and it would go over. Ace did look better now anyway. When he suggested to leave for the walk, he could see Pops agreeing it was a good idea, and glad when Ace nodded. Pops had left back to the galley, hopefully to calm everyone down and keep anyone from going after them.

They had walked around in the woods near the shore for a small while, before ending up here they now sat and just relaxed. It was really calming and sky was clear, the moon shining bright in the sky, the town close to them being quiet and calm, same with the boat, everyone being inside the galley. Marco still had his hand over Ace's, slowly stroking it. It was a perfect moment.

After a while, Marco got an idea and stood up. When he was up, he looked at Ace, who looked at him in curiosity. Marco held his hand out. ¨Dance with me, yoi?¨ They hadn't danced together since that time in the barn months ago. Ace had seemed to like dancing.

Ace gave a small chuckle as he took his hand, Marco helping him stand up, before they got into a basic waltz position. After a second, they slowly started a small waltz.

Marco couldn't help give a smile, especially seeing Ace smiling himself, looking glad. This both felt perfect and was perfect for the moment. As they continued to slowly waltz, Marco started adding in other small moves, like small twirls for Ace and some small moves as they danced on the small patch of grass. It was calming, not only for Ace, but Marco felt calm and at peace doing this.

After they had danced for some time, Marco moved Ace into a twirl, and when Ace moved back, Marco moved him closer to him, stopping their movement. He looked at Ace, who had a smile and looked glad. Marco leaned in and connected their lips, the kiss deepening after a second, Ace moving his hands to Marco's shoulders.

They suddenly broke apart when they heard cheering, and looked at the boat to see almost everyone of the commanders, captain and some others being out, cheering at them.

Marco had no idea how long they had watched, not having noticed them as he was too wrapped up in the moment and had really enjoyed himself, blocking everything else out. Before Marco could react, Ace gave a small laugh as he placed his hand on his face, moving to stand against him, looking embarrassed. Marco gave a small laugh, thinking it was still because of the pills he was on that made him embarrassed, them still messing with Ace, and slowly moved his hands around Ace, carefully holding him close. Marco looked up at the boat and saw Pops having a big smile, looking glad and fond at them. Everyone was still cheering and when he noticed more people appearing to see what the commotion was, Marco looked down at Ace, who still had his hands on his face, looking embarrassed.

¨Let's run away, yoi.¨ Ace looked at him, ¨What?¨ Marco grabbed Ace's hand and moved towards the woods. ¨Come on, let's just run away for a bit, yoi.¨ He said as he tugged a small bit on the hand, making Ace follow. He heard someone, most likely being Thatch, booing at them for heading into the woods. Marco wasn't about to be on stand for everyone, and he was sure Ace felt the same. Especially since his emotions was a bit everywhere because of the pills.

When they were a bit into the woods, no longer in sight of the boat and the town, Marco gave a chuckle as he moved his hands to Ace again, moving to a small basic waltz stand and carefully starting up again, Ace giving a chuckle, looking glad to be in peace again.

This felt perfect.

---

That's the chapter, hope you enjoyed

This was still a part of the aftermath and things will go back to more normal in the next chapter, although it will still be a bit calm

And what do you think of the new ship? The Robin/Sabo one?

Also, there wasn't too much of interaction with the Strawhats, but this chapter was already so long. If people want, I can expand on it in the one shots

If you have the time, I greatly appreciate feedback

If you have any questions or are wondering about something 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 different events from this story

And if you'd like, this story is being made into a podfic over at Archive Of Our Own (Ao3). The one making it is called ScandinavianTrash