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)

68. Chapter 67 The Customary

Hello everyone, here is the next chapter

This one got a big long and has a bit of everything and a bit all over the place. It also has some background information on Mika and Trevor as they have gotten to be a part of the main characters, which have just happened. Aside from that, a lot of things and build up to later

I hope you enjoy

Read and relax

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Whitebeard sat in the galley with his children, breakfast closing in on finished. Things had calmed down the last days, Daisuke leaving five days ago and Ace had mostly been on the boat, just joining in on small meetings now and then, but doing small things now and then, but Trevor had joined now and then. It seemed like things were calm for now, and he was sure things would pick up soon enough and Ace would be gone more as he usually were.

As a few were leaving the galley as they were finished eating, Izou came inside as he looked a bit confused, looking at them. "Have anyone seen my gun? I can't find it." Well, that was rare. Izou never parted with them. "What?!" Started Thatch, looking horrified at his boyfriend. "You lost your gun?!" Izou sighed. "No, I love them. But, I was trying that gun, Cerebus, out again, and put mine on my desk. Now, it's gone." That had Whitebeard frown. He knew Izou would never leave his gun lying around randomly, so he had placed it on his desk. But, who would take it? None of them stole from each other. They might be pirates, but they didn't steal from each other; they were family. "Wait wait," Started Ace, hands out, looking shocked at them. "You don't know? Seriously?" Izou blinked. "No, my gun's gone." Ace shook his head. "No, not that. You don't know about him?" All of them frowned. "Who?" Ace looked flabbergasted, looking at Trevor. "They don't know. I thought they did." Trevor looked stunned too. "Me too. I really thought we were ignoring him or some shit. Or a friend of someone." This just had him more shocked. "What are you talking about?" Both Ace and Trevor looked at him, the latter speaking as he was still shocked. "The guy- probably intruder actually- that's been on the ship for 4 days."

All of them blinked. "What?!" Started Izou, looking floored. "An intruder!? And you say nothing?!" Both Ace and Trevor shrugged. "Again, 4 days. I thought he was allowed here because it been so long. I honestly thought you knew." Said Ace, not looking worried, making all of them shocked and Izou gape. "Where is he?! He has my gun!" Ace then held a finger up, as if asking them to wait, looking to be half concentrating. And when they were about to ask, Ace punched through the wall he was next to, before dragging a person through it, throwing him on the floor behind him. "Here he is. Been walking around for days."

Everyone could just stare at the man and Ace in shock, the man speaking first. "How the hell! How did you do that?! How did you know I was there?!" Ace shrugged, taking a sip of his coffee. "I know where you've been the last 4 days. I just thought everyone knew." The man blinked, before standing up. "I'm done. Just done. I don't care, here are all the things, bye. I ain't dealing with people who can do that shit." The man dropped a bag, before he left, actually seeming done and not wanting to deal with Ace. Not them, but Ace. It made sense, and he hadn't done anything bad, just taken a few things. That, and he had no way to actually leave. They would deal with him, Whitebeard already seeing some going towards him, probably to take him to their holding cells that was a small dungeon of sorts.

"How did you do that?" He heard Izou ask, who had gone through the bag and gotten his gun, now looking at Ace, who shrugged. "Observation Haki. What else?" Whitebeard had guessed that, but that was amazing, and he had not seen anyone with that good of an observation haki. "How did you get so good, son?" Ace shrugged. "Had too. Being forced also help." What did Ace mean? Trevor chuckled. "Worst month of my life. We got a blindfold we couldn't remove, I mean we couldn't, we needed someone to do it. And that's your life for a month. You have no choice than to get good."

Trevor sent a glare at Ace. "And having someone place chairs in front of you at all times helps so much, isn't that right Ace?!" Ace chuckled. "Just harmless fun." All of them blinked, Thatch speaking first. "You put chairs in front of a man that was blindfolded? You know he could have gotten hurt!" Ace snorted. "Yes. Because it isn't like the same person, half a year earlier, put a ladder we needed to climb a bit to the left, so I, when going through the same training, fell out a window and fell 6 feet and broke 4 ribs, and my arm in 3 places, Trevor!" Said man laughed. "It was so awesome! I got an angry Azuruko on me. But damn, watching you fall was the highlight of my life! The fact you got hurt, wasn't as fun. I didn't mean for that." Ace just shook his head, taking a sip of his coffee again. And all of them could just watch the two in shock, Whitebeard no idea how Trevor could have thought that to be a good idea and that he called it his highlight of his life. That was terrible.

Before any of them could react, Mika chuckled. "I placed pin needles everywhere, as well as burning paper, plastic, wood, and such to make everyone not able to relax and panic. So much fun." Ace gave a breath. "And that's how we learned to actually smell if a fire was legit or not, and to never, never, sit down or lean against anything. She legit placed them everywhere." Mika chuckled. "I even put a couple in your hair, Ace. And when Trevor tried to swat you for being a kid, he got a needle in his hand." Ace laughed. "I remember that. Trevor gave such a shocked sound. Scared to touch me for a week. So fun." Trevor gave a sigh. "It hurt like hell too. Damn needle went through my index finger. But yeah, it was fun." All of them gave a chuckle, Whitebeard amused to see how they had their fun, even if it had hurt in the moment. Although, the fact Trevor had made Ace fall out a window and get injured was something he couldn't see how was funny. But, the assassins worked their own way.

They sat and enjoyed small chatter as they continued breakfast, Ace leaving after about half an hour, getting something from Dust. Well, Ace was back to work it seemed like. He knew it would happen, but still had hoped it would be a bit later. Trevor and Mika seemed calm too, which helped him do his best to act normal. Ace had also said he would be back in just a few hours, 6 at most. After that, things were calm and quiet, nothing happening before dinner time, when they were seated, Trevor the only assassin as Ace hadn't returned yet and Mika was somewhere, Curiel had asked if anyone had been in the north region of the New World, having heard it had weeks, months, were it was always dark or always sunny. Just some conversation to discuss as they were in the galley. Jonas said he had, and it was okay, that they had strong light inside, as well as dark curtains to shield the light. It was okay, a bit confusing at times, but okay. And it made sense, and while Jonas was speaking, someone suddenly wanted his attention and he left, making Trevor chuckle. "I've also been there. Although I was kept in this cage shit. Every day felt like it never ended, because it never did. It was light all the damn time, the sun always up. I was sure I was going insane. I ended up biting a thumb off one of the guards and was then thrown into some cell. But, finally dark, felt so good. It was a good torture method to make you insane, but just that. You got confused and felt like time stopped. It was better than a regular torture session, but worse than being left alone in a cell with your own mind in darkness."

It had them blink, and Izou spoke first. "How did you get out? I mean, a cell, you can't just get out easy?" Trevor shrugged. "They weren't smart. A cell means they will leave you alone to go insane, making you able to make a plan and get out. The fact we also have the base and the Red Cloud, makes so we can share experiences and get more ways to get out. It helps us deal with things, get new ideas and information and prepared for the next time we're captured. We all need each other, to cope and just not be alone. Just speaking about it helps us, and we need to speak about it. And yes, I know we usually joke around, that's just how we work and it makes our days easier." Whitebeard got that, and he was sure they would overhear many conversations they would try and forget. However, even if he didn't understand it completely, the assassins needed to speak about it apparently, maybe to downplay what had happened in their minds. He would let them handle things their own way, as long as it didn't make his children too uncomfortable.

"I don't get it still," Started Haruta, "How are you so calm? I mean, how can you talk about it so casually? About your horrors so nonchalant. What do you gain from it? You said you need it, you need each other. Why?" Whitebeard had to agree, it was curious. How they managed to talk about things as casual as they did, he didn't want to ask when they were around so many, not sure if it would be upsetting or not. Trevor shook his head. "I could try and tell and explain. But, you should actually speak to Mika about that. She can tell her story on it. And, it might even help you understand it better. Understand us better." That sounded like a good idea, and Whitebeard wanted to get to know them better, not personality, but emotionally, how they became who they are. And he had a feeling his children agreed.

"Where is Mika actually? She's usually close to you." Trevor chuckled at Haruta. "That will be explained by Mika. There's a reason we're as close actually. And she's fixing a couple of her daggers, one got bent and another lost its hilt. She'll be here soon." The captain hoped Mika could tell something, as they wanted to get to know their new additions. And Mika and Trevor were a part of his family; they might not have a mark, but they were in their family, even if only unofficially as Trevor had said those months ago. They then spoke about other things, and it wasn't long before the door opened and Mika came inside, lifting an eyebrow at all the looks she got from them. "So, what's up?" Trevor chuckled as Mika sat down beside him. "I hoped you could tell them the story about Cade. It might help them understand things. If you want to, that is." Mika gave a chuckle. "I think you're right. It might be good for them." That had Whitebeard glad, hoping it would help.

Mika hummed. "Cade. We grew up together, family friend of my dad's, and we were the same age group, he 2 years older only. I loved our home and group and his family too; calm, wealthy, good looking, smart, and just everything. My family too, aside from mom. She left when I was 5, I never understood it at the time. She said it got too much, my dad got too much. And I remember being confused; my dad who never makes a deal of anything got too much? The man who was as calm as one could get, just confused me. But, she was a good fighter, so I started to train too; we needed someone who could fight, and mom had left. And I was good. From when I started the first day. But then, I got no more challenges; I beat everyone on my island in combat, they couldn't teach me more. So I left to our neighbor island, and joined a group there who did raids. Not assassin things, just raids on boats that passed by, mostly marines or unfriendly pirates. Again, I was good, and one day, we helped Daisuke with something, he needed more men on a raid on a noble. And he said I was good, much more than all of the others in my group, and he offered to help train me. I said yes."

Mika sighed. "I think I was 15 when he took me in. Or not took me in, he came to me to train me. And then he told me about his profession, and I liked how it sounded, but also intimidated. I was weak compared to Daisuke, and he said they were all strong. So I was… 19 when I joined that profession. I was supposed to join at 18, but I married Cade, and we wanted a few months together calmly." All of them blinked. "You're married?!" Asked Izou, looking shocked. Mika shook her head. "No, not anymore. Divorced." That had their smiles fall, and he wanted to ask why, but was sure they would get the reason as Mika continued.

"And, I was happy; Cade was perfect I though. Calm and collected, always kept his appearance up and was the man I imagined I would want to live with, a perfect calm man. He also didn't mind me going off to be an assassin, he was supportive of my choices. And we were the perfect couple, everyone said so." Mika sighed. "Then, at 20, I had my first botched assignment. I already had a few scars from training. But, now I had huge whip marks on my back. And when I got home, hoping for the same support from Cade as usual, and he… was as calm as ever. He said 'we don't look like that, so cover them up. We have a dinner at 3. Rose just had her baby and we're godparents.' and then said it was fine i had messed up, everyone fell down their horse and gave up at times, I wasn't different from him, when he gave up a business deal since the pay was too low. He was calm, he didn't bat an eye. And I believed him, as I always have. I had messed up, and it was fine to fall as he said." Mika moved a hand to her chest. "But no matter how many times I told that to myself, and he told it to me. Why did I still have this huge lump in my chest? As well as a hole? Like I was missing something. Why did I feel like that? It was fine, I had lost, everyone loses, just as Cade said."

Mika gave a breath. "Then, half a year later, I had another botched assignment, and I got my first brand. When it was treated, I headed home again for a break. And just as usual, we didn't speak about it, we didn't care about it. I just messed up again. Just as we didn't speak about Cade's business loss, Mary's miscarriage, or mom leaving. We weren't failures, and we had a front to keep; happy married people, all with our own flaws, but we needed to show our success. We just never spoke about our failures, just as I had been raised to do. If I scraped my knee, I wore long dresses, long skirts, tights, and such. We didn't show our weakness and failures, and we never cared about them. We ignored it. And, again, I felt happy. But, I still had this lump that grew in my chest, making things hard and I always was clothed, especially home as Cade didn't want to see, which I got; I didn't want to see. But, the lump grew, as well as the hole. I felt lost, and I didn't know why. Cade was as amazingly calm as usual, and still loved me, no matter what. We were a happy couple, a normal couple." Whitebeard had to say they didn't sound happy

"When I went back to work, and after a small assignment, Daisuke said I looked tired and let me stay at Amegakure. And it sounded good and I stayed for a few days. And I think on day 2, some time during the morning. I was just out of the shower, and I think I just had my underwear on." Trevor hummed. "Nah. Bra, but a towel on your waist." All of them blinked. How did Trevor know that? Mika gave a smile. "Right, I had just dried my hair and tied it there. And I was looking at my body in the mirror, never really able since Cade didn't like it and it wasn't normal. I tried to think of what dresses I should wear when I got home, since Cade's sister had gotten pregnant, and I needed to look good, to hide the failures, to just show my success." Mika held his hand out to Trevor. "And then he barged in, telling something about breakfast or something." Mika shook her head. "And as usual, I moved to cover my scars the best, and looked like a child caught with her hand in the cookie jar. And then, Trevor snorted, and said;" Trevor gave a laugh. "Missy! If you want to look like a child, fine. Just hide your beauty marks! But get a shirt on, breakfast is in business!" That did sound like Trevor.

Mika laughed. "And I was shocked, so I didn't move. And then, Trevor being himself, rolled his eyes, took a shirt he found lying around- Moira's, not mine- and put in on me, a backless one, and then just dragged me out, still in towel. I tried to tell I needed to change shirt, and again, Trevor just snorted and said; 'that brand needs air, it's swollen. Stop being a child and move! It's breakfast time!" Mika shook her head. "I was so stunned I couldn't speak and just let him drag me to a kitchen, were may other were, including Daisuke, who was the only one I really knew. Trevor then sat me down in a chair, and called Moira over, telling her the brand was swollen and she needed to check. I was still stunned, and just let it happen. She then gave me a lecture on how I shouldn't cover it; it needed to breathe. As any other scar did. Then she said; 'And, is that my shirt? It suits you; keep it. Also, we have another raid on Steclair'- who gave me the brand- 'would you want to join? Show them how you've grown?" Mika held a hand out to Trevor who had a grin. "And I burst into the conversation and said; yes, yes she will! Imma join, and she will too; look at her! She's pretty! Childish, but pretty. Stupid girl tried to hide her beauty mark!"

Mika smiled as she gave a breath. "And that was when I figured it out. My brand and scars didn't show I had lost, that I messed up or been out matched. It meant I had fallen, but gotten right back up to shove their words right back down their throat. It wasn't a flaw, it was a beauty; we get up, we don't give up. I didn't need Cade to tell me to ignore it and hide it, so we could look like the happy couple. I needed someone to look at me. Not Cade's wife, not housewife, or someone who has messed a bit up. I needed someone to see the woman who tried to keep going, that wanted to go to Steclair and shove that damn iron down his throat and enjoy every second of it. I needed to be taken seriously, not pitied or thought to be injured or scarred; because I wasn't. I never was, I was normal. Cade wasn't normal; he lives in a bubble, just as I did. I thought I wanted a normal life as housewife, to live calm. But no, I need to keep going, I need to be able to grow and enjoy life, tackle things. And I can only do that by accepting it. And being around Cade, who didn't want anything to do with it, wanting me to hide them and never show them, made my life worse. That was the lump I had in my chest; I needed to get it out, I needed to handle it, to process and accept it. And the hole, was that I tried to ignore myself, ignore my needs to grow. I let a piece of me die, I let my strength die. And I felt so relieved I understood it, that I figured why I felt like this. I was normal."

Trevor chuckled. "And then, she promptly broke down." Mika chuckled as she shook her head. "Again. I thought Cade was right; my scars showed my failures, and that wasn't normal. But he was wrong; it showed my strengths, and all that I had learned. I fell down, and I just dusted myself off and got right back up. I was relieved. And, Trevor being himself, as I broke down, said;" Mika motioned to Trevor who laughed. "Come on missy! Get up! We have Steclairs to murder! And maybe put on pants. Show some decency, missy- I didn't know her name, so I called her missy."

Mika shook her head. "I then realised what my mom had meant. Cade was too much; he took me away from me. He didn't want a strong woman, a woman who stood back up with her flaws. He wanted a wife that made him look good and happy. He was, and is, a nice man, he wasn't mean. He just never wanted to open his eyes, never admit anything, just push things down and hide things from everyone and be happy. He liked to live in his bubble. And I tried to fix it, fix our marriage, I wanted to be with Cade if I could. But, he never changed. The silence was too much, so loud and constant. So I stayed more and more around Trevor. His carelessness and outgoing and loud spirit was just what I needed to find myself again, and Cade disagreed."

Mika sighed. "We left each other in mutual agreement. When I told dad, he said my mom, Pattiya- never knew her name before that- said the same as she left. It was too much for her, she couldn't grow. My dad never understood it, not now either. But, Sarkis was a good father, and let me go- I still write him though- I didn't need everyone to ignore it, act as they didn't exist. But, I don't need to be coddled, thought to be weak or broken. It's just scars. It shows my strengths, what I have managed to get through. We need to accept them, and we can't do that if those around us don't. That's why so many stays at Amegakure; we get the comfort we need, the help we need, and most important; the ambience we need to grow. Don't care about them, but don't ignore them. If we needed to speak, we would- most often jokingly as humor is gold. To us, a brand or scar is a beauty mark; it shows how we've grown, what we have managed and stood through. So when people act horrified by them, ask how I got through that horror, it shows me I'm around the wrong people. You can't grow before you accept it. It was after that I really got good. This is why we might seem to careless and just jokes around; it's what we need, we need to get past it, to lean on each other and love ourselves as we are. We all have ups and downs, but it makes us. I have heard from almost every pirate; A scar is worn proudly, especially a scar from battle, it shows you fight, that you're not scared to fight; it shows strength. It's the same for us. We can't ignore them, it makes us sick if we do. Not just a saying; we get physically and mentally sick."

Whitebeard nodded, he understood that. The scars were a part of them, and they couldn't ignore them. And if he and his children wouldn't be able to handle it, it would just make things worse for Ace. That was probably why he was reluctant to show, knowing they would react to it. He saw his children nodding, Marco speaking first. "Ace has never shielded away from them, yoi. But he knows we will react badly. He didn't hide when he got the new one either." Mika nodded. "We don't, really. But we know it bothers everyone else, the reason we cover them up around others. We don't care. Cade also handled our divorce calmly; I wanted to slap him. He was so damn calm. Annoyed the hell out of me." Trevor laughed. "Yeah. So I slapped him." Mika chuckled. "And then I slapped Trevor. Cade was nice, just annoying when I noticed how miserable I actually was. And, it wasn't his right to slap Cade; it was mine. He was my husband- now ex-husband. But he was nice. Also remarried and have 3 kids; I was invited to their wedding, it was beautiful and just like mine." Trevor shook his head. "I never liked him. Cade was an asshole." Mika just shook her head.

Whitebeard was glad Mika had told them, them never realising how important it was for them to accept it and have others around them that did the same. But he got it, and Mika was right; A scar from battle was worn proudly. He was sure this information, Mika's story, would help them realise how important it is for them to let their worries go. They would never ignore it like Cade did, they would probably be more on the coddle side. Whitebeard knew his children that much; this was new and they would be careful and thread carefully. But, that wasn't what they needed. The assassins needed them to just accept it, and know it was there, acknowledge it, and not make a deal out of it. But, not ignore it either. That was a good story. He never knew Mika had been married, or that she had joined so late, not before she was 19. She was 29 now, and a quick learner apparently.

"Okay," Started Izou, looking at Mika and Trevor. "I need to ask, and I have wanted for so long. Are you together?" Whitebeard got Izou wondered, and they had been close since day one, and even closer the last months. Trevor blinked and looked at Mika. "Are we?" Mika shrugged. "No idea. Probably." Trevor nodded. "Cool." Izou blinked. "Okay… Not the response I imagined..." Trevor moved a hand out to Mika. "Oh, My fair lady! Would you give me the honor of taking you out?" Mika snorted. "Never. Take me out? The hell's wrong with you?" Trevor chuckled, looking at Izou. "Was that better?" Izou looked shocked. "I- I don't know…" Trevor chuckled. "Romance isn't us." Mika snorted. "So not us." Trevor looked at Mika, having a smile. "I knew you loved me." The response Trevor got was Mika rolling her eyes and moving her leg to break the chair legs, sending Trevor crashing to the floor. It had Mika chuckle, and they got romance really weren't them. They were like this. And, he wouldn't have it any other way. The two's personality and bickering was contagious, making all of them chuckle as Trevor slowly stood up with a chuckle. The two fit just as they were.

Thatch looked at Trevor. "What about you? What's your backstory?" Trevor snorted. "Dad trained me and my brother. Dad was a good fighter and an asshole most times, but a good teacher. My brother got full of himself, killed dad when he was 12 and I 9, he said 'I am now the sole man in this house! I surpassed dad! Worship me!' Then he killed mom as she was dead weight to him in his mind. I got mad and killed him; he took a 9 year old for granted, and I also was a natural- oh, and being not insane helped- and then I left home. I had no one left. Met Hanzo- who I tried to fight and failed- and he took me in actually. Fast forward 8 years, I met Azuruko through Hanzo, then Daisuke. I was already good when Hanzo found me for being 9, and even better now. And I knew Hanzo was an assassin, and I wanted in. That's my story. Boring."

Whitebeard wouldn't call that boring. "Why… why did you call yourself Zidane?" Asked Thatch, making Trevor hum with a smile. "My brother called himself 'a great warrior that would rule the world'. And his name was Zeid, and Zidane means 'a great quantity' and 'more than 9 tricks up your sleeve'- because I was 9 when I killed him. So, mostly spite to Zeid, to say 'fuck you! I won!'." Trevor shrugged. "I still like it. And, grandpa used to call me that; he never got my name but knew it was longer than Zeid. I loved that old senile man." Whitebeard had to say it sounded right, a mix of being forward and brash, and a loving thing. Mika then chuckled. "Mines more boring. Mom liked lilith's, she had the most beautiful lilith garden- dad always kept it as beautiful as it had been- and dad called me his lilith, since mom left, he only had me left, I'm a single child. Also the reason I leave lilith's; to show mom I'm still okay and around. And because it's such a beautiful flower." That was a nice thing to do, Mika telling her mom she was fine. He got many of the assassins didn't have the happiest or best childhoods, but it was interesting to hear on how they ended up becoming an assassin, all of it being just by chance, none of them had searched being an assassin out.

Izou looked at Trevor. "Does it bother you? That your brother killed your dad? That your grandpa didn't know your name?" Trevor hummed. "Not really. As I said, dad was an asshole. He didn't deserve to die, but it happened. He also didn't want us to leave home. So I think it was for the better. And grandpa… he was senile and old, and he actually died just 8 years ago. And he had nicknames he usually used, and after I started this work… I couldn't handle all of them. We all have no-no words, but I'm better at it now. So I told him to just call me Zidane, and I liked it and kept it." All of them nodded, Thatch speaking first this time. "So, you all have words you can't hear?" Trevor nodded. "Yeah. Although, at least I can handle what's usually accidentally said as normal words or nicknames, same with Mika. But we all have words we can't handle, phrases we can't handle, or games we can't see, hear, or think of playing. I'm also not as cute as Ace, and was much older when I started in the field, so many words skipped me, they call kids the worst words. I know Mika have a few names that can be accidentally used since she's a woman and they are spoken lowly off and that can stick. Just, don't use any nicknames that can be derogatory, even jokingly, just in case." It made sense and Whitebeard could understand women and children got the worst nicknames, especially as those are the most often used as playthings too, at least more than adult males, but the world had many horrible people that didn't care what gender or age, just that they could use them as they like. The assassins were doing an amazing job in a world like this.

"What would happen? I mean, if we accidentally say, or someone else, say the no words? Ace had many." Asked Haruta, looking at Trevor and Mika. Whitebeard was a bit curious himself, but also had a feeling it would either make Ace get bad memories back, or lash out. Before any of the two assassins could answer, Marco did. "It would probably hurt, yoi." The captain frowned at his first commander, not sure why he said that.

"Oh no," Started Trevor, having a half-amused face. "What did Bunny do?" Marco gave a weak chuckle with a sigh. "He once broke my nose, cheekbone, and maybe my jaw. Not sure about the jaw though, but the rest. He knows how to bash a face in, yoi." Whitebeard blinked. Ace had hurt Marco? "What?!" Asked Izou, looking shocked. "Ace broke your nose, cheekbone, and jaw?! Why the hell did he do that?!" It sounded bad, Whitebeard had to agree, but also had a feeling it was a reason it had happened. That Ace didn't just do it to hurt Marco. Marco gave a breath. "I… I scared him, and he reacted." Trevor chuckled. "Yeah. That sounds like Bunny. He's broken many noses, jaws, hands, arms, ribs, and such by accident. You're not alone, it happens." Mika chuckled. "I once broke Trevor's nose and eye socket, and another time Hanzo's jaw and knocked out 3 teeth. He was mad for a month." All of them blinked, Izou speaking first. "You… you lash out?" Trevor shrugged. "We get startled. And, in our work, we can't just move a hand to hour head or heart and give a laugh; we need to react, and sometimes we react on normal things on instinct. Our brain just takes it as a dangerous situation."

That made sense. They couldn't afford to not react, that could cost them their life, or put them in a bad situation. "How…" Started Izou. "How can we keep that from happening?" Trevor looked at the crossdresser. "Keep us from reacting?" Izou gave a nod, making Trevor hum. "I'm not sure. I don't even know half the things I react to myself; we just do. But, the usual: don't sneak up on us, don't push us, do not, and I mean do not, mess with water around us. We don't have issues going into water by ourselves, but don't push it, don't throw water at us, don't do anything like that." They all nodded as that made sense, and Whitebeard had a feeling an accident, or couple, might happen. But at the same time, the assassins were amazing in having control on where everyone was and hoped none of them would be able to accidentally sneak up on the assassins. Izou looked back at Marco. "Did he really break your nose and jaw?" Marco nodded. "It was my fault though. Ace was out of it for almost 5 hours, yoi. I really scared him."

Trevor gave a look to Marco. "Was that the first time? That you've seen that side of Bunny?" Marco gave a nod. "I felt horrible, he looked so... fragile, yoi." Trevor nodded. "I know. He usually has control, you startle him and he reacts, worse if it's dark or he's tired, when he sees there's no danger, he gets confused and scared, like the kid he is. He tries to find an enemy that doesn't exist. I got terrified my first time when I scared him, although he was younger and he actually passed out then, and then had a panic attack when he woke. He's grown." Marco gave a nod. "Yeah. He still, at times, react after a nightmare or such, yoi." Trevor nodded, having an understanding look. "Yeah. Those can be harsh. If you need it, don't be afraid to send Dust to get me, or something like that." Marco gave a thankful look to the man as he gave a thanks. Whitebeard was sure Ace had more issues than he let on, and it was clear Marco had seen it and knew it. He wasn't surprised Ace had nightmares, or night terrors probably fit better, and he was sure Ace had reacted to that, and Marco had probably dealt with a lot of sleepless nights to help Ace through those. He was glad Trevor offered to help if Marco needed it, if it became to tough or something; if Marco needed someone else there to help him calm Ace, or Marco needed someone to help him a bit too. The captain could imagine Ace reacted bad if Trevor offered that, and Whitebeard would offer the same to Marco, but he wanted to do it more private.

The rest of the dinner went by calmly, and it was a couple hours later Ace turned up again, telling it had went fine and the day went by normally. It was good to see things were back to normal and Ace back at work and fine, it was how it had been before and a sign things were fine. It seemed to calm his children to, to see Ace were back to his usual duties. When evening came, he got some private time, making him able to speak with Marco. Marco did say that while yes, Ace had nightmares and often reacted, it always went fine, Marco always managed to get Ace through it. But was still thankful Trevor had offered, as he had a feeling some night might be worse than others, and Marco had a feeling Ace tried to hide it. Marco did mention how Ace had been reluctant to share a bed at the start, Marco having a feeling it might be because of night terrors or other things like that. Whitebeard was glad Marco shared a bit, and hoped Ace would open more up with them, and it seemed Marco was making progress, and it would take a bit more time than someone else because Ace wasn't used to all of this, even after the year he had been with them. It would take time.

-x-

Marco sat in the meeting room with most of the commanders and a few others. The last days had been calm and Ace had been away every now and then for his work, but not nearly as much as he had before, but was often away once every day, but not for long. Marco was sure things would catch up and Ace would be more away as he had been before this whole thing. The first commander was glad Ace was still sleeping every night. He wasn't sleeping the entire night, usually between 1-4 hours, but it was much better than what it had been before. He was glad Ace was fine.

One of the reasons they were in the meeting room was since a few people had shown up, apparently knowing Mika and had some updates for her about some things Marco had to say he didn't really get. They weren't assassins or informants, but more of travelers and hunters and had heard Mika was here and dropped by. As they were just chatting, one of the visitors, a man called Pryce, had said something about his brother's wife being annoying and that he wished his brother would leave her. It had had Trevor mention that Pryce didn't really have anything to say, as he couldn't even hold a woman for a night, let alone get someone to marry him. It had had all of the visitors- aside from Pryce- and the assassins chuckle, Pryce getting annoyed as he mentioned he was in the prime of his age, telling that they couldn't disagree he looked good. Pryce was a bit touchy apparently, which many was. But, as the man had said that, Ace had given, what Marco would say, a sensual look, saying some words on how Ace loved the fading hairline of the man and his scratchy voice as he was straddling the man. It had all of them shocked, and before any of them could react, Pryce had just looked at Ace annoyed. "Come on, Ace. I thought we were above petty jokes." It was fake? It apparently was as Ace gave a snort as he stood up and gave a swat to Pryce's head, telling him to stop being stupid and annoying. It seemed like this wasn't the first time it had happened as none of the assassins reacted and the fact Pryce didn't react.

Ace had left after that, and Pryce had sighed as he mentioned he hated when Ace did that, when he joked and gave petty words and motions like that, obviously being a spoof of some kind. Marco was sure Ace had just joked or not meant it., but to see it looking so realistic had him frown. He knew Ace could fake seduction, the reason he had Ann to lure others. But still. Trevor did give a small comment this was normal, and Ace had been annoying this man since the day they met, enjoying to annoy Pryce as it was just a running gag of sorts now. Kind of like how Trevor called Ace bunny. it was just second nature.

It still had Marco confused when he left a bit later. And he headed to Ace's room, seeing the young commander moving things around, some paperwork. "What was that, yoi? It looked believable. And why didn't Pryce react more?" He said as he sat down on the bed, Ace standing on his chair as he took some papers from atop his closet, chuckling. "I was just joking with him. And that wasn't believable. I might be an ass to him, but I'm not that mean." Marco frowned. "What do you mean? It looked believable, yoi." Ace chuckled, moving down to the floor. "I just hovered above him, giving a sensual look. Had I meant it," Ace moved to straddle him, sitting down on his legs. "I would have made our body's touch, moved one hand carefully inside his shirt and to the back, making his skin tingle." Ace did and Marco even felt a shudder go through him, Ace moving his face closer, eyes half closed. "Then I would move my other to his neck, making him crane it as i moved to press my body against him, looking down on his face as I moved closer to his, making sure to gently puff my breaths, making his cheeks go red." Marco felt his body react as Ace said, Marco staring up on the beautiful face of Ace, who moved his head closer, before moving towards his ear. "And when I'm close enough, I would move my hand from his back to his abdomen, fingers moving slightly and barely touching as it makes your skin tingle, the other down his neck as I carefully whisper in his ear; I love you."

Marco felt his eyes close, a small moan coming from his mouth, his body shuddering, never feeling this good and sensual by just light touches and a voice. Ace then moved to have his cheek lightly pressed against his, the hand on his neck moving down his back, small puffs of breathing being let out. "And if I really like them, I would carefully move them down to the bed, my face gently pressed and going now his neck, whispering; you're my only one, Marco; my love." Marco felt all oxygen left him as he fell back on the bed, Ace sitting on top of him and looking down at him with a pleased look. "That was… I don't even know, yoi." Ace chuckled, moving to lie over him with his hands on the bed by his face, one hand gently stroking his hair a bit away from his forehead, face close to his. "It's called sensory manipulation, or stimulation as it's better known as, creating pleasure." Marco blinked. "I both want you to do that again, and also not, yoi." Ace chuckled. "It can be intense, I'm touching sensors that aren't usually used, making it all the more affective." Ace moved down to just be an inch away from him. "And I think you have a little problem we need to fix." Marco blinked, first now realising he had a tent in his pants, Ace moving down and connecting their lips. Ace moved a bit up after a second, giving a lustful look. "I can also make you cum from just that. Not now, but some other time. I've heard it's better than anything." Ace then connected their lips again, Marco really wanting to try that some time. Just what he had done had felt amazing.

He needed Ace to teach him this so he could repay it. Or, maybe he could come up with something else. When Ace moved a bit up so Ace could help get his vest off and loosen his pants, Marco gave a breathless look to Ace as he sat a bit up. "Where did you learn that, yoi?" Ace chuckled, moving to sit down on his lap, taking his own shirt off. "Learned over the years. I'm glad I still have my touch; I haven't done this for a few years." It made him feel somewhat pleased, knowing Ace hadn't done it for a while. "Why not, yoi?" He asked as Ace was starting to loosen his pants, before moving his arms around his neck, resting on his shoulders, giving a smile as his breath was still a bit puffed. "Easy; just my image was enough to make others spill, i didn't need to sell it by action. I made so many spill secrets by just giving a look and a small laugh, with a small sentence like 'my, how big muscles you have, what else can they do than look good?'" Ace had leaned closer as he spoke, his mouth being just an inch away from his ear, voice soft. "And just like that, they are mine. Under my trance and they will tell me whatever I want." Marco would tell anything to Ace if he asked. Ace was amazing.

Marco gave a flinch as he suddenly felt Ace pinching him just underneath his ear, genuinely hurting. "Ouch, why did you do that, yoi?" Asked Marco as he moved a hand to where Ace had pinched, Ace chucking as he gave a smile, having leaned back. "I've done this enough times to know you were in a daze and trance. I don't know about you, but I would like to have you completely in your own mind if we continue; I like that best, especially with you." Marco blinked, before he smiled. "You're right, and I agree, yoi." The first commander said, before moving his arms to be on Ace's hip. "But, that was still enjoyable, yoi." Ace chuckled. "Oh, I know." He said as he pushed him down to the bed again, lips moving to his, Marco moving his hands up Ace's side, before moving down and into his pants, moving over his hips before landing on Ace's butt, giving a squeeze that made Ace moan and arch into him.

-x-

Whitebeard sat inside the meeting room, him trying to figure out what to do with this situation. One of his protected islands had just contacted them, telling they had someone go missing, which could happen, but this wasn't just a normal person, this was Haruta's younger sister, who was just 10, or half sister to be specific. It didn't make sense how she just disappeared, she wouldn't do that, even Haruta finding it weird as she knew her sister enjoyed it on the island. The mayor on the island even said nothing special had happened, making it all the more mind boggling. All of the commanders were in the room, aside from Blenheim, who was out on watch, being the on-watch commander for the morning. Ace was also not here as he had left for a meeting or something, taking the other two assassins with him, telling it was with Daisuke, leaving the same time when the visitors from yesterday left, Ace taking them away to wherever they needed to go. He just hoped they could find something out and when Ace returned, if he maybe had some inputs that would help.

"What's happening?" They all looked at Ace and the other two assassins close behind. They had already used 3 hours to try and find out where to find Haruta's sister, who had disappeared yesterday, and they had just been notified and Haruta was really scared that something had happened to her. It was a calm island too, so it didn't make sense how she disappeared. He explained this to the three, who didn't seem to react much, but walked into the room. This was normal for them, so they might be a good help. As they came inside, Ace looked at the notes they had made and the map they had, not seeming worried at all. Ace then reached for the Den Den mushi, plotting something in before it rang, making a motion to make them be quiet. After a couple seconds, the line answered. "Macquiver's liquor store with young and old tastes." What was Ace doing? Why would he call to order liquor at a time like this?

"Yes hi," Started Ace in a light voice. "I heard you got a new batch in yesterday and I'm looking for a 10-year-old, petite, blond, and fiery, if you have." The Den Den smiled. "Oh yes, I have just the perfect one. Although, there is already a bid on her as she's apparently connected to a Whitebeard commander or some shit." Whitebeard could only stare in shock. He saw Haruta on her way to speak, but Ace held a finger up to silence her. "Yes, what is the bid?" The Den Den gave a couple hums. "1,5 million." Ace gave a light hum. "I can give 5 times that if I can get her today; I need a new young one." The Den Den chuckled. "Oh yes, sold to you. She's not trained yet, so prepare for a feisty one." Ace hummed. "That's fine, I can deal with it. Shall we meet," Ace looked at the map. "At Nabdo. They have a bar I think would fit." The Den Den nodded. "Sounds just perfect. The word is 'Pink Panda'." Ace gave a nod. "Good. Pleasure doing business with you." The Den Den didn't say anything back as it went to sleep.

"W-what did you do?" Asked Haruta, looking shocked and anxious. Ace gave a hum. "I bought your sister." Ace looked at Trevor as they were stunned in silence. "Want to join Ann and pick her up?" Trevor nodded. "With pleasure." "Wait! Wait! Wait!" Started Izou. "You bought her?! How?!" Ace nodded, pointing to the map, the island Haruta's sister were on. "Yes. This island is close to the usual way were some boats travel to pick up new young girls and boys. And when they first get into the human trafficking circle, the best way to get them is buy them. These people know how to hide and moves all the time." They all blinked, Thatch recovering first. "It's- it's that easy? To buy someone?" All the assassins nodded. "Yes." Started Trevor. "We also need to be quick with it, as you heard; a bid was already on her. Someone can still overthrow our bid. But it's rare they will pay more 7.5 billion for a random new kid. If they have any connections, they are bought at day one by those who get the news first, so not many knows thankfully. It's actually easier to buy a person than a boat. It's really and way to simple." Ace nodded, before he looked at them. "Now. Should I bring her here, or back to her island?" Whitebeard could see Haruta thinking, and it was her decision. "Her island. I think that would be best." Ace nodded, looking at Trevor. "Shall we go change? I at least need to." Trevor chuckled. "We should. We'll be back within a couple hours. These things go fast." Whitebeard gave a nod, and the two headed out, leaving them still shocked.

"It is that easy to buy a person? Just a call?" Asked Izou, looking at Mika that nodded. "Yeah. It's really easy. The reason so many are taken; the demand is high. And these ones who take them are good. We never can keep up with them, we are never able to do a raid on them. They move all the time. If we can't buy them, we usually never see them again, if we're lucky we find them alive with some noble, marine, or blue-blooded patrician, but that's rare." The captain got these people were hard to find, just the fact the assassins never was able to do a raid on them showed how skilled they were in hiding and evading. They had been lucky, and Haruta looked relieved too, know her sister would be fine.

They stayed in the meeting room until the door opened and Trevor came back alone, making Whitebeard hope things had gone fine. "Where's Ace?" Trevor looked at them, before he hummed as he sat down. "Informing the people on the island on how to keep human traffickers away in the future. Himemi is fine, just a bit shaken mostly. Cute and strong kid, a lot like her sister." That was good, which had all of them give a breath. "How do you keep them away?" Trevor hummed. "Easy. Show you can fight. They won't try and go to an island they might meet backlash, it's not worth it for them. They go for defenseless islands, act as nice people, and then take children in the dead of night. If you show a couple guards at a dock, that can be enough. Have training sessions in the daylight and outside, just show you can fight." That did make sense, and he was sure the island would do that. He knew they had good fighters, and they might even show more of the protection they had from them.

As they were sure things were fine, they headed out of the meeting room, many of them heading down to the dock and island they were at, all of them wanting to check the new island out. They had allowed them to dock, which had them glad. Whitebeard could also see they had many strong fighters around, many guards and such around. They had warned them about making any ruckus, as they didn't take kindly to intruders or pillaging pirates. Whitebeard had said they wouldn't, and if any of his children acted in an unfavorable manner, to inform him or any of the commanders, telling who they were. It did make the people on the island seem more kind to them and allow them to go around.

When they had been at the island for a few hours, just getting more familiar with it and being friendly with the inhabitants and Thatch trying to make a 'hello' party happen when evening came, they were suddenly blocked by a somewhat large group of marines. It wasn't anyone he knew from the news, which made it easier as it wouldn't be that hard of a fight and they could win easy. But, what had him hesitate, was what the inhabitants of the island had told them when they got here. He didn't know if they were familiar with the marines or not, and while they could handle the marines, the inhabitants at the island would be a tougher fight. This situation could be bad. Whitebeard felt trapped. He didn't want to cause any stir, as they were on a new island and didn't know the inhabitants that well, even less the waters around here, so an escape could be hard as well. Them causing a stir now, giving in to a fight could alert more marines and send them towards here and might make a bad situation happen. He could see his children, mostly his commanders, going for their weapon to hopefully rid of the marine captains as easy as possible, without any fight. It was clear they were welcomed here as none of the inhabitants reacted. So them trying to defend themselves could be bad, but it also might be in their favor and bad for the marines. He was trying to figure if they could take that chance, or if they should leave and try and avoid a fight. But, that idea was quickly not possible as the marines seemed to prepare for a fight, which had them do the same.

But, as they were, Trevor waved his hand at them, as if telling them to put their weapons away, and when he looked at the assassin, Trevor moved his head to his right, him looking that way to see Ace- or Ann as Ace was still in disguise- having a calm look as he took a black glove off carefully. What was Ace going to do? As the glove was off, Ace moved his un-gloved hand up, ready to snap his fingers it looked like, looking at the marines, taking a breath. And then, Ace snapped his fingers, a loud snap sounding, and not long after he heard his children sounding confused, and looked at the marines, who stood motionless and relaxed, as if in a trance, faces emotionless. Another loud snap was heard, and all of the marines fell down unconscious, aside from one, who remained in the trance like state. Was this Ace's power? He could do this with just a snap of his fingers? It had to be at least a hundred marines. He had never seen Ace use his powers, so this was amazing, and a bit terrifying.

Ace then walked over to the still standing marine captain, heels clacking with confident strides. Ace then gave a light hum as he took a few papers from a pocket of the marines' captain, reading them over. "They're just a small patrol to check islands out to find new places to make a base." Trevor chuckled, walking over to look at the papers. "Oh my, the inhabitants wouldn't like that information, especially as they lied." Ace chuckled too, walking towards what he knew was the building to the mayor of this island. "You're right, so why don't we go inform them? It's not our business." Trevor agreed as he walked beside Ace, who lifted his un-gloved hand and snapped his fingers again, making the marine captain also fall down unconscious with the others.

"Is- how-" Whitebeard looked down at Thatch, who was gaping and looking astounded and dumbfounded, as most of his children were. "T-that is what Ace can do?! Just with a snap of his fingers he makes everyone just fall?! What the hell is his fruit?! I thought he could just teleport!" Whitebeard knew a bit about Ace's powers, but it was amazing to see. All of them looked to their right when they heard chuckling, turning to see Mika looking amused. "If you're impressed by that, be ready to faint when you see what he can really do. This is nothing. Don't you remember what he did with Adam?" That was true, Ace had used his powers to stop the attack of just destruction. It had been forgotten in the chaos. This was still amazing, and it was no wonder Ace was such an amazing assassin.

"What can he do?!" Asked Thatch more stunned, looking at the female assassin that chuckled at them. "Nah, not my place to tell. Just wait until you see. Don't want to out anything." The last part was said with a small wink, making Thatch groan, wanting to know. Even Whitebeard gave a chuckle to it, knowing Ace kept his powers a bit of a secret. They would get to know more about Ace's powers, and just Ace in general. All the assassins were secretive, especially about their abilities and powers, so it wasn't a surprise Mika wouldn't tell, and he was sure Ace wouldn't either. It seemed his children got this too, and he hoped that meant they wouldn't try and ask repeatedly for Ace to tell. When the two assassins came out again, a bunch of guards from the island was with them, the guards starting to lift the marines away to a place Whitebeard really didn't care to know. But, he did give a thanks to Ace, which the young assassin just waved off, telling it was nothing. He was also glad to see his children didn't bombard Ace with questions on his fruit, understanding it probably wouldn't do much. Not even he knew much of Ace's powers, even though he had a feeling he knew more than most.

The rest of the day went by calmly, and thatch was excited to know the island would join and help them arrange a party with them, the thing Ace- or Ann- had done making them sure they were good people. Ace was also still in disguise and had said to call him Ann and her when she was dressed as Ann, to help keep the appearance as some people were suspiciously of her if they knew her. Just one small slip up could have big consequences. And that was true, the captain also knowing many of his children didn't know Ace and this Miss Jackson Ann was the same person, and it might be better to keep it like that. It was a secret, as they had learned before, not even all of the assassins knew it, like Soul. Soul did know Ace was the assassin Ace of Spades, but not Jackson Ann. He trusted his children that they wouldn't go around telling these things, but a lot of them enjoyed parties and alcohol, and many things got out then by accident. Better to be sure than anything.

When they were in the galley during mealtime later, Ace still as Ann, Haruta had looked at the young assassin. "I wonder about something," Started Haruta, looking at Ann, as Ace didn't see a reason to change as he could go on an assignment as Ann in a bit. "Why do you have Ann?" Ace shrugged, looking at his nails. "A pretty woman is perfect to go undercover as, when I need information or to lure others away from their group. I give a smile, fiddle with my hair, maybe bend a bit forward as I give a chuckle and look, and boom. They're mine." Whitebeard could see that. Many men were just willing to follow any woman if they were pretty, and Ann, the disguise Ace had, was one of the most beautiful women he had seen. It was as the saying went; if it's too good to seem true, it most likely is. Haruta nodded. "I get that, and agree. But, I heard- or read actually- that you've also targeted women? How do you know Ann will work if it's a straight woman?" That was a good question, how Ace knew Ann would work.

Ace chuckled as he gave an amused look to Haruta. "Oh, Haruta dear, even spaghetti is straight until it gets wet." It had them blink, while Trevor spit his drink out as he laughed. "Holy crap! Yes! This is why I love you, Bunny! Your damn comebacks!" Ace chuckled at that, before looking at Haruta who sat shocked. "It's much easier to make a woman believe they like other women, than to make males believe they like males. Just say and do the right things, and they will follow." That had most of them blink, Izou speaking first. "How? Why does that work?" Ann hummed. "Females think females are pretty, the reason it is such high pressure to be beautiful at times. Females admire the looks to other. With the right words and motions, the line between admiration and lust gets blurry. It just as simple as that. Males don't admire other males for their beauty like that, the reason it doesn't work as well. But, I have used regular myself at situations, but it's just easier as Ann. Also, the fact I can change and hide that person entirely helps too, makes it easier to keep the ploy up." That did make sense and seemed to be an explanation enough for the others too. When the galley was starting to empty, Ann left to do whatever it was she needed to do, the reason Ace hadn't changed.

After that, it was calm. It was still a few hours until the party they would have at the island would start, not starting before midnight, making so they just sat and chatted in the galley for a while. Jozu had come up with a theme to them, asking if they could say or do anything to someone you've lost, or that's dead? If you have anything you regret not telling someone you cared for. The third commander had also said they didn't need to say anything if they didn't want to, or reveal anything. This was for fun and just get out small things one might have on one's mind. Jozu had started it off by saying he would have told a childhood crush he liked her before he left the island. He didn't know if she was on the island still or what she was doing, but had wished he said it as she was a good friend and Jozu really had a crush on her back then. After Jozu, Vista had said he would have taken back some words he said in anger to his grandmother. They had a good relationship, but he had said some things he never apologized for. Nothing really bad, but that was said in anger. The captain enjoyed this, and it also made others open more up about small thing about themselves.

After Vista was done and a few of them giving their thoughts to it, that it wasn't his fault and he shouldn't feel bad if they had a good relationship at the end, that was the most important. When Vista was done, the man had asked Thatch if he had anything he would like to say or take back. Thatch had given a weak chuckle. "I would have told Milka, kind of my foster mom for a few years after I ran away, I would have told her how much I actually appreciated her. I was a teen, and a total shithead to everyone, and I just left her alone." Whitebeard got that. All of them had been teens and it was the age they acted out, when they rebelled. And, Thatch didn't have a good childhood, making him act out. "Oh, Milka Kamei?" Thatch blinked as he looked shocked and gaped. "Y-yeah. How did you know?" Trevor gave a smile to the fourth commander. "About 12 years ago, before I officially became an assassin, I was an informant, as we usually start off as to test things out. Anyhow, this old woman called, she had gotten sick and she had one last wish; to know if the child she had raised for almost 6 years was okay, that he was fine."

Thatch blinked. "She- she wanted to know I was fine?" Trevor nodded. "Yeah. When I first found out I was supposed to do information on the Malasugi family, I was about to hand it off, as I wasn't allowed to deal with nobles yet. But hey, just information, so I checked what we had on you at the base. I found out you joined Edward Newgate, even fourth commander, and seemed to be happy. And even I was taken back; not many nobles leave their family. When I brought this news to Milka, even taking a poster of you where you stood with a blinding smile and showing your mark of on your arm, looking happy, she was so happy. She was such a lovely old lady; the perfect grandma. I just wanted to hug her. When I told her you were more than fine, the last thing she said to me was; 'Oh, I'm so glad he's happy and I was able to get him away from those awful people. I'm glad I made a change, that I managed to make him happy, he made my life so much brighter by watching him grow.'. She knows you loved her, and she really loved you." Whitebeard could see Thatch blinking away blank eyes, the captain not surprised by it. The woman who had gotten Thatch away from his family must have meant a lot to Thatch, and to hear how much she cared for him, even after he had acted out and left, was amazing to hear. It would mean a lot to Thatch. He could see Izou moving a hand to Thatch's, but not saying anything as Thatch got his emotions back under check.

Izou then looked at Trevor. "What about you Trevor? If you could say anything to someone you've lost, or that's dead?" Trevor hummed. "Azuruko. If I could, I would punch him as hard as I can." That had all of them blink. Whitebeard got the start, that he probably had something unsaid with Azuruko he would like to say, but he didn't expect that. "Why would you want to punch him? I thought he was nice to you." Trevor nodded. "Yeah, he was. He made us as close as we are, he started the bond we have with each other. But, he has done one thing I can never forgive him for." When Trevor didn't continue, Izou asked what it was, making Trevor sigh. "Azuruko got sick, the wasting sickness. And we all knew he would die, but it looked good, so we thought he had 2-3 years. But it got worse after a year, and from there, it went faster and faster. But, we all knew, everyone was prepared that he would die, the man who had been everything for us, the man who made us a family of sorts, a group to belong in. But, the one he meant the most to, Ace, he never told Ace. He never told Ace he was sick. While we had months, over a year, to get used to the fact Azuruko would die. Ace however, he found out when Azuruko had just over 2 weeks left, when Ace himself found Azuruko in the infirmary after his left lung gave up. He only got 2 weeks to come to terms with the man that meant the world to him would die. And to get to know everyone knew, but him. I can never forgive him for that, for never telling Ace. It made his sickness, his death, so much harder for Ace, because he wasn't prepared for it, like us. Azuruko broke Ace's heart, and I can never forgive him for that."

Whitebeard felt a sigh leave him. No wonder Azuruko's death was a sore topic for Ace. To know the man that was everything to you not telling he would die, but everyone else knew, and had for months. He was his children nodding, Haruta speaking first. "If Pops got sick like that, and everyone knew but me for months, I would feel betrayed." Trevor nodded. "Yeah. But, Ace never did. He loved that man so much, so he can't be mad at him, even after all of this. One of the reasons I am so mad at Azuruko. I wish Ace would yell, cry, laugh, curse him to hell and back, just get the emotions out, deal with the loss, the fact he was never told, that Azuruko broke his heart. Admit Azuruko was a total shithead for never telling. But Ace won't; he loves that man too much. I loved that man myself, we all did, he was the closest to a father, brother, and just someone there for you. Someone who pushed us to the limit, and went with us in up and downs. How calm he always was, how he always knew what to do or say. Daisuke is amazing, he really is, but he's not the same." All of them nodded. "He sounds like an amazing man." The captain said, and he meant it. He had heard about Azuruko many times, and everyone had said he was amazing. Trevor gave a small laugh. "Yeah. The one thing I remember the most about him, was that no matter what happened, no matter how bad things had gone, if Ace just looked at Azuruko, he was fine. If he just looked into those red eyes, it was as if the world just stopped for him, and then things were fine. He never needed to speak to Ace, it was amazing to watch. He was as calm to us too, but he was the best with Ace. He is one of the most amazing people I've known. And after all of this, after he went away, I can see so much of Azuruko in Ace. And I know things will be fine, that even if the Red Cloud disbands, if Daisuke dies, I know we have Ace."

All of them nodded. Whitebeard got that, and it was amazing to hear how much Azuruko meant to Ace, how they were connected. He could see a clear leader in Ace, so he got why Trevor thought that. Maybe this was why Trevor and Mika had stayed here, and he had seen other assassins around Ace, they went to him or Daisuke or Moira; it was clear they were the leaders, that had the most control. Haruta looked at Trevor. "Why is Ace our second commander? I mean, he is such a great leader, he would fit as a captain or something like that." At that, Marco hummed. "Probably like Benn, yoi. Not being the main leader must be nice." Whitebeard frowned, as well as most of them. "Benn?" Started Izou. "What does he have to do with this?" He didn't get why Marco mentioned that. Trevor chuckled. "Yeah, the same reason. Take a step back, but still able to go back as a leader if needed. I am sure if you asked Ace to take over for a day or two, he would. But only if you asked." It made sense.

"I still don't understand what Benn has to do with this. He just joined Shanks when he started, a friend or something. I've never really heard him speak much, but he seems to have control, especially on Shanks." Said Izou. That was true, Shanks had mentioned that with their first meeting after Shanks started his own crew. Benn was just an old friend. Marco chuckled. "Yeah. But, he was an assassins and informant for years, yoi. And, his brother is doing great work with running the Red Cloud." Izou leaned forward, sending a look at Marco. "What?! Benn is Daisuke's brother?!" Marco, Trevor, and Mika shrugged, Trevor speaking. "Didn't you know? It's not a secret, at least not that big of a secret." Izou blinked. "Excuse me. How would we know? Why did he leave? Why isn't he with his brother?! Just why?!" Marco chuckled. "He said it wasn't for him, yoi. He didn't enjoy being an assassin, and was an informant until he was about 30, and retired from his family business. And then joined Shanks when he started his crew, having known him for years." Whitebeard wouldn't have guessed that, but could see it. Benn was a man of many talents he had heard.

Trevor sighed. "Also, one of the other reasons Ace is a second commander, and Benn is with Shanks, or me and Mika here. We aren't seen as assassins, we're just a normal human here. We get to see the world, fight, be around others, meet others, and just be ourselves. It feels great. You don't look at us like a man for hire, a hitman, or assassin. We're equals, and that feels great. Even Daisuke takes a break with Benn now and then, actually, many of us do. Shanks' ship is a grey zone. He's neither an ally nor enemy. He helps us travel if we need, or if we need help patching up. Just a place we can be, basically." Everyone nodded, and Whitebeard understood that. And, Ace had even mentioned that when he first joined them, that he wasn't a personal assassin, he wouldn't share his information that wasn't made for them. Not that they would do that, or even think that. But he could why others thought so, but that was wrong. He always knew something was up with Benn, but not this.

Izou chuckled. "Well, now I get why Ace often speaks with Benn, and how Shanks haven't sunk his ship or done anything too stupid." Trevor chuckled. "Yeah. Benn is a great person to speak to. He's calm and has a lot of information and knows how to read a person and situation just right. He is just as amazing as Daisuke. But, he fit as a pirate too." Whitebeard had to agree, but he wondered about something now. "Are there more? As in assassins or informants that are pirates? Or marines for that matter?" Trevor chuckled as he nodded. "There is. Most aren't the captain as that would give them a bit too much attention, but a few are. I am sure we'll run into someone like that now and then. And, don't try and fight them. We might not go around showing what we can do, but if a fight happens and we know you're on the way to be defeated, we will jump in."

Whitebeard blinked. "Does that mean-" Trevor nodded before he could finish. "Yup. You have 3 assassins at your disposal if things go south, but only if things go south." Whitebeard had to say that brought him some comfort, to know if something unexpected happen, they had the help of the assassins. "However," Continued Trevor. "And I am sure Ace have mentioned this. We have a list, and we will go after them and kill them if sighted, no matter what." Whitebeard nodded. "Yes, Ace has mentioned it, and we understand it." That had Trevor nod, glad it had been mentioned. "I have a question," Started Thatch. "That list. Who does it have? I mean, if we run into my old family? Sabo's family? Or nobles in general?" Trevor shook his head. "Your old family aren't on the list; they are far from it. Our list is made of people that doesn't deserve to live, they doesn't deserve to breathe another second. The most despicable, horrendous, and abhorrent people you can't even imagine. These aren't people we have fun with, these aren't the ones we kill slowly. But we kill them as fast as we can, to rid the earth of what once was a human being, but has passed the line into a real monster. Everyone who even has contact with them, will be under our watch."

All of his children nodded, understanding these were people that no one wanted to deal with or know existed. Whitebeard looked at Trevor. "I heard from Ace that Teach had been in contact with some of those." Trevor nodded. "Yeah. The bastard even sold two of them out. He was this far from winding up on our list." Trevor made a motion as he spoke, Whitebeard now realising how despicable and repulsive that man was. It also seemed to make his children realise how bad things could have been if Teach was allowed to live, if they hadn't sent Ace after him, and worse if Ace hadn't given the warning. Everything would have been different.

They continued to speak about bits and things for the reminder of the evening, Dust came in and landed on the table, armor still on. When the bird landed on the table, it jumped to be in front of Trevor, giving a caw as he shook his body, moving his wings out. His first thought was that something was wrong, but it quickly disappeared as Trevor gave a chuckle, moving a hand to take the armor off. "Yes, yes, I'll help. Just stand still." The armor on the raven was mostly held together with chains of sorts and clasps, and it fit just perfectly. When it was off, the bird ruffled his feathers, obviously being glad to get it off. He found it amazing as the helmet had its own reinforcement going over his beak too. His talons having armor too, even metal claws that looked sharp and was bendable. Even Dust's wings had armor, looking like thin and light metal plates covering about half of them from his body, which also had the same kind of armor. He also knew the talons were seastone, and had a feeling the beak were the same. Just the bird was a threat to those Ace went against.

As it was off and the pieces of armor was put away by Trevor, possibly in a pouch or something like that, Whitebeard looked at the assassin. "Where did Dust get his armor?" Trevor chuckled. "Azuruko made it. He was amazing with things like that. I am sure there wasn't a single thing that man couldn't do. This is Dust's… 3rd armor. The other two getting outdated or broken. He is used a lot at times, either to be a diversion or claw and peck people's eyes out." That made sense, and the bird was smart, and the fact Dust and Ace could communicate through his powers, made Ace able to tell the bird exactly what to do, and the bird could probably tell what he saw from the sky. Dust must be a good help for Ace when he did work, or even when he was just walking around, as Dust could warn about dangers.

When it was closing in on midnight, they headed out and helped with the preparations to the party, which was a huge and loud one, lasting until the sun rose when most had fallen from the many drinking games and cheers. He had seen Ace and the other assassins a couple times, but they didn't join them. He knew parties like this weren't something they enjoyed. They left the island next day when dinner was over when most felt better from their hangover. The next two days went by fine and Ace seemed to be back to his usual day of work, but also seemed to more often than before taking Trevor and/or Mika with him, Trevor mentioning it was since a lot of work had piled up and it made things easier. They were now in the middle of the ocean, not really sure which islands were close as this was new waters for them, their log pose being their main way to know were an island was, and it felt good to have that surprise moment of adventurous feeling back. The captain was in his room as it was night and they were in a sort of humid and cloudy place, making Bay want him to be inside as the humidity wasn't good for him she meant. That, and the doctor wanted him to actually sleep, which he didn't feel like. He was enjoying a book as he was relaxing.

So when he heard a knock on his door, he was curious on who it was as not many came when Bay forced him to his room, especially as it was a bit past midnight. He knew it wasn't Marco or Bay, as they usually snuck inside as silent as possible to catch him awake and the scold him for being awake. There weren't that many that came this late, so it peaked his interest and had a feeling it was something serious. He felt his thoughts were right when the door opened to reveal Trevor, who came inside before closing the door. "Trevor, what brings you here so late?" He said as Trevor walked into the room to stand a bit away from him, next to a couple chairs. he had noticed Trevor, or the assassins in general, usually stood when speaking about important things.

The assassin gave a hum. "I just had a talk with Ace, then with Daisuke. And no, nothing is wrong. I just would like to pass a suggestion past you." He gave a small breath as Trevor had probably picked up that he thought something was wrong. He was curious on how the assassins were so observant. But, he still had a feeling this was something significant, as Trevor rarely came with suggestions, even less like this, like he had planned it and spoken with others about it, especially as it was Ace and Daisuke. "What would your suggestion be?" He was interested in what it might be.

Trevor gave a small breath. "Ace have decided to start up with some training again, to get a better handle on his powers and hopefully get a couple new abilities. However, that is hard training, the reason he hasn't done it in a while. I remember when Moira did, and she had days where she was just so exhausted she was barely able to go about her normal day without a long break, or just exhausted for the entire day. And, because of it, Ace is being half laid of work in the field, and get more paperwork and dealing out assignments, like Daisuke is doing, to make it able for him to actually take a break. And the reason I'm telling you this, and I would like you let me finish before saying anything." Whitebeard gave a nod, making Trevor continue. "The reason I'm telling this, is because from what I have seen, being a commander is a lot of work, not only paperwork, but actual work, especially within the division. So, I would like to ask if you could lay Ace a bit off. And before you say anything, I don't mean demote him, but to either have him as a reserve commander, just not fully; or Ace leaves his division to join the first division and that way have less work as they are two, and someone else take over second division; or you conjoint the first and second division, as I'm sure that would help as Marco is probably amazing; or you just tell the second division to try to go to someone else, explaining why so they don't think something is wrong. I think it would be wise, and it's not a permanent thing, just until he's past the hardest part."

Whitebeard nodded, taking it in. "Is the training Ace will do that exhausting? I thought he had full control over his powers?" Trevor hummed. "Yes, believe me, this is exhausting. And yes, Ace has full control of his powers, he's really amazing. But, Daisuke and Moira are sure he has so much more potential, and Ace has done this training before, but kind of halted it slowly over the last 5 years as it's exhausting, since his work got in the way. Ace would like to start it up, but knows it will be awful and tough. He's never really managed what they think he might be able to do, and it would be a life changer if Ace manages." The captain nodded. "I see. I know, from the short and rare times I have seen Moira, that she's strong. So I am sure it would be exhausting if she got tired. May I ask what kind of training it is? What do they think Ace can manage? Is it only limited to him?" Trevor hummed. "What do you know about his powers?" Of course Trevor wouldn't just say what it was. Whitebeard tried to think off what Ace had told, as well as the book. "I know he doesn't have a normal devil fruit, but a Legendarie, and he controls something which I don't know, but he is able to rot and decay, as well as shut down pieces of the brain. I know he can travel with it, and that Dust is connected through it. More I can't."

Trevor nodded, giving a 'huh'. "I know you might think that's nothing much, but that is a lot. We hide the powers to them as they are powerful. Moira can do so many things." Whitebeard nodded, also glad to hear that. "I have heard. I heard she controls the rain, and can make duplicates." Trevor nodded. "Yeah. It's amazing. With the rain, she can see and feel every bit of movement. She can feel how ants move, how many, or even leaves that fall of trees. She can make out your expression just based on it. Ace is not able to do that, that is limited to her. But, his powers have their own special abilities, amazing ones. I haven't seen it, only heard about it from Daisuke and Azuruko, and it sounds amazing and I hope Ace will manage it. I have hoped he would continue his training, and him actually being well in his mind and actually sleeping every night, helps so much. Ace feels ready to start again, and I really want him to do it, every one of us do."

Whitebeard nodded. "I understand, and I also want all my children to reach their full potential. But, while I acknowledge the suggestions you had, I must say I don't know which would be best for us. I agree Ace should get less work as he pursuits his potential and appreciate you informing me, but I don't know which to choose." Trevor gave a nod. "And I can understand that. But, remember it is only for limited time, not an invariable decision. Things will go back to Ace being second commander alone with full duties." That was true, and he needed to remember that, that this was only while Ace got over the toughest part. Even Thatch had been laid a bit off after the Teach incident, to recover, as many others had when accidents happen. But this felt it needed to be more planned, and make everyone understand it was only for a couple weeks to maybe some months. All the ideas Trevor had gave sense and fit. "Which suggestion do you think would fit?" Trevor hummed. "Honestly, I would think the best would be to keep both divisions separately, but have both of them act more like one, that they both has Marco as main commander, and Ace in reserve. And yes, I understand it might sound a lot for Marco, and it probably is, so both me and Mika have no issues helping. We might not know completely what their duties are, but I am sure we can help. And that leads Marco to be the main commander, Mika and I be a bit under him, but as reserve or backup commander for Marco, and then Ace there to help Marco when needed, still a commander and recognized as one, just more on the side. Nothing really changes aside from Mika and I helping out, and the second division goes more to Marco- and if not him, Mika and I- which I have figured have been a former concept, after Teach disappeared and before Ace joined."

That did sound like a well thought idea, and Whitebeard had to say he had a feeling that would be the best. But before he could voice that, Trevor spoke again. "And you don't need to decide anything now. As I said, this is only a suggestion. I have not mentioned this to either Ace or Marco, and it was an idea Daisuke and I came up with. I would suggest you first speak with Marco, ask what he thinks about it, as it will effect him the most. And if he agrees, or disagrees, that it's a good idea, and take it from there." Whitebeard nodded, glad Trevor seemed to have thought out what to say. He really should ask Marco fist, as Trevor said. He had a feeling Marco would agree as he wanted the best for Ace too, but the captain should still be sure it was fine. "I agree, Trevor. I will ask Marco to drop by during the day and bring this suggestion to his attention." Trevor nodded. "Sounds good. And I can join if you'd like. To explain it and why it would be needed for Ace to take a step back." A good idea which had him nod. "I would like it if you could." Trevor gave a nod and mentioned he would ask Marco to join him here when he was awake, or when all of them had time to speak privately. He hoped to do it when the day came, as it would take a bit of planning, hopefully not more than a week.

He had a good feeling that Marco would be okay with it, especially as both Mika and Trevor would help. He knew the two assassins were good leaders and would understand what a commander's duties would be. The work might even be less for Marco than it usually were, sure it would work just fine. And when things are back to normal, when Ace won't be exhausted from the training, Mika and Trevor could be official backup commanders for everyone, just there if needed. He was sure they would stay with them for a while, him hoping they would officially join the family. Whitebeard had a feeling Trevor and Mika were a part of their family, but they hadn't brought it up after the two had said they were unofficial part of the family. He'll might try and ask about it after dealing with this, to see how his children would react to the change of Mika and Trevor getting responsibilities, especially as it would be commander responsibilities.

Whitebeard had a feeling things would go just fine.

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And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed

This was a bit of everything and I hope no one mids I keep making up islands and adding OC's and everything, which I don't know why I do as I know I can't keep up with all of them at one point, but I hope everyone enjoys it

This also got a bit long accidentally and I hope everyone enjoyed it as this was a mix of everything

If you have any ideas, don't be afraid to tell them, I love making things other want

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