Hello everyone, here is the next, and last, chapter

I know this is late, and I apologize for that, but here is the wrap up

Hope you enjoy

Read and relax


"How are you feeling? Ready for this, yoi?" Ace took a breath, looking at Marco. "I don't know, I think so… maybe. I mean, we can leave at any time… right?" Marco gave him a smile, still in his demon from, making it a bit hard to see. "Of course. If it becomes too much, just let me know and we'll leave." That was good, it's what Ace hoped for, that they could leave if he felt that he couldn't do this. But, again, they needed to tell the other high lords; they needed to know, especially if they had felt the change occur. He had already used 2 days taking this in, speaking with Marco and Whitebeard, which had helped a lot.

Marco moved a hand to his arm. "Okay, just wait a second and I can give them a warning, prepare them so that they don't overwhelm us with questions." That sounded good, making Ace nod. He wanted this to go as smoothly as it could, but he knew that it might not happen, seeing as they already didn't like him that much. Well, they had acted nicer in the last few weeks, but still. Ace didn't know if it was an act, or if they meant it. At first, he thought it was the former, but now, he wasn't so sure. This whole situation was confusing, and difficult to comprehend. Ace wished he could speak to Eustass; he's always been able to help him straighten out his thoughts, giving him some clarity on how to proceed. But… Ace couldn't tell him this… How would he react? Ace gave a sigh as he shook his head, he would have to think more on it later. He would speak to the other later. Hopefully by then he'll be able to use his human form. He would have to speak to him in his human form, otherwise Eustass would freak. With another small sigh, he looked at Marco, giving a nod, telling the other to go on ahead- Ace needed to face this.

Marco gave a nod and walked into the room, leaving the door slightly open so that Ace could hear what was being said. Many of the high lords were glad to see Marco, as he hadn't made an appearance since the change, as he wanted to stay with him. Ace guessed that the others were nervous that something bad had happened, Ace wasn't sure how they would react to this, as they thought he was doing something bad to Marco not long ago. But now, he was a dem- no, a prince. Ace took another breath, needing to focus on what was going on inside the room.

"Okay, okay," Started Marco, making them calm down, "I know you all have a lot of questions. Some of you may have sensed a change in the demon realm, yoi." "Is Ace okay?" Thatch asked. Why was that the first thing he asked? There were a lot of other things that should concern him rather than Ace. "He's fine. Ace is fine, yoi," continued Marco, making him hear a few breaths of relief. "But, something did happen. And, I know you all can feel it. But I must ask for you to remain calm, and not to overreact, everything is fine, yoi." Ace could hear a few asking what was happening, before the door was opened fully, revealing the rooms occupants. Many showing shock at him new appearance, except Curiel who was already aware.

Ace lifted his hand, giving a small unsure wave. "H-hi…" After a second, Thatch suddenly moved, walking up to Ace hurriedly, making Ace take a step back. Maybe, he was mad? Before Ace could think more of it, Thatch was suddenly hugging him. "Oh Lord, you're fine! I was so worried!" Ace blinked. What? Thatch then let go, checking him over. "You look amazing! How are you suddenly a demon! Wait, you're grey? Oh Lord! You're a prince?! How?!" Ace tried to answer, but found that he couldn't, unsure of what to say or where to even start.

Marco moved in then, making Thatch take a few steps back to the others, the prince giving a look to him- which he nodded to- before he looked at the others. "Ace died, yoi. His human form died. When he came here, he was already half-bonded to me. Three days ago, I completed that bond, yoi. Ace is now my mate." Ace saw all of the high lords blink, before Izou spoke first. "That is how he became a cambion?! You bonded him?! Why didn't you tell us you found someone?! We have a new brother!" Ace blinked. Izou called him what? "W-what?" Izou went up to him and looked at him. "And you look amazing. I understand why Marco fell for you." Izou then blinked, before turning to Marco. "He died?! How?!" Marco sighed. " It was an accident, a truck hit him, yoi. "

Izou turned back to him. "But, he seems fine." Ace felt very confused. "That's why I completed the bonding process, so that he wouldn't die, yoi." Izou blinked, before turning to Ace again. "You poor thing! It must have hurt! This process was rushed and must be hard to come to terms with. But, look at the bright side, now you can come see the beautiful Hell trees!" Ace had to smile, that did sound nice. He liked the flowers and leaves he was must be so much prettier on the trees themselves. Ace managed to just nod, not expecting their reaction at all. He expected shock and maybe anger, not relief and support. Marco stepped in again. "This was all rushed, so he is a bit overwhelmed, yoi." Izou looked back at him, hands moving to Ace's shoulder and giving him a hug. "Of course this is! You two should go relax, and we'll head out when you feel better, okay?" Ace could only nod again, not grasping this situation entirely yet. They were so nice. He could see the rest standing a bit behind and looking glad and relieved.

Marco moved a hand to his shoulder, making Ace turn around. "Want to head back to our room, yoi? We can come out when dinner is ready." That sounded like a good plan, making him nod. "Yeah, I would like that." He managed with a smile. Marco gave a smile back, and the other gave a goodbye to the rest of the high lords. Ace managing one as he gave a small wave. Everyone in the room gave a smile and goodbye too, some even a 'get well soon', making him feel warm inside. They wouldn't fake that, right? Why would they? They had tried to be nicer the last few weeks, and maybe they did mean it?

When they got back to their room, they sat down on the bed, Ace feeling Marco looking at him. "That went well, right, yoi?" Ace gave a slow nod. "Y-yeah. They were nice… I didn't expect that…" Ace really didn't. Marco gave a smile to him. "They really do feel bad for what they did, yoi. They want you well again and are trying to make up for their past actions." Ace saw that now, actually believing it.

It felt good, to have people around that cared. Maybe it wasn't so bad here.

-x-

Ace and Marco stayed inside their room for a while, and when Marco was fetched by a gremlin to deal with an issue, Ace said he would join Thatch in the kitchen, knowing that he would be there now. He needed to try and move forward; to stop shying away from the other high lords, including the other inhabitants of this realm. Marco had been trying to teach him how to turn back into his human from, but he hasn't had much success, at least not yet. He felt like he needed to get out of the room for a while, as he had taken refuge there since he had come here.

When he got to the kitchen, he was relieved to see that Thatch was there. During his walk there, a few gremlins had stopped to bow to him, which he wasn't sure how to handle. Ace gave a small knock on the door frame, making Thatch look at him. "Um, hi Thatch… Could I- do you need any help?" The man gave a smile to him. "Of course! I would love it if you joined me. I've missed you; it's much more fun with you here." That made him smile, glad that Thatch wanted him to join. He gave a small nod and walked in, going over to help cut some vegetables. As they started preparing the food, Ace noticed Thatch looking over at him after a minute. "So, I need to ask. Have you and Marco always been a thing? I mean, since you arrived here?" Ace gave a small nod. "Sorta… We both… liked each other, but we didn't become a real thing until after a week or so of being here… When we both talked about it." That was sort of how it had happened. He had always liked Marco, and Marco had too, at least from what he had said to him.

Thatch gave a smile. "I'm glad Marco finally found someone; he really deserves it. And it's easy to see that you've made him happy. I just wished I realised it at the start. I don't even know why we thought that you weren't a nice person and had bad intention…. I'm really sorry about that." Ace was glad to hear that he made Marco happy; Marco made him happy too. "It's fine. It's all in the past now." Ace wasn't one to hold grudges. Thatch gave a nod and a smile. Ace really liked hanging out with Thatch like this. He enjoyed helping and the small chatter between them.

After Ace had finished cutting the cucumbers, he moved on to the onions, but as he started to cut the second one, it occurred to him that his eyes weren't hurting. Moving a hand to his eyes, he also noticed that his eyes weren't watering. He has never been able to cut onions without crying, especially when he cut himself. "You okay? They're not bothering you? The fumes, I mean." Ace shook his head, looking at Thatch, who was still cutting tomatoes. "No, they're not. I'm just a little surprised by that…" Thatch gave a chuckle. "One of the perks of being a demon I guess. By the way, how's the training going? Have you had any luck changing back into your human form? I'm sure Marco with teach you how to transform back in no time." Ace gave a sigh- he was still having issues with that.

"Not so well… I still can't do it…" Thatch gave a hum. "I'm guessing you want to learn how to change back, just because you can or because it is more familiar to you?" Ace did, but didn't want to tell him the real reason, as it was private. But, before he could say that, Thatch continued. "I don't need to know why. But, focus on the reason behind your need to change form. That method has always work for me. I really want to be a part of the human world, that's my reason." Ace blinked. "Marco has never mentioned that…" Maybe Marco didn't want him to change back? Thatch snorted. "He's Marco. He's a prince! He's always had a human form! He needs one to perform all his duties, he never had to learn how to change." Ace blinked. "But, he hasn't always been a prince… right? That's why he isn't grey, like me, he's more red." Thatch chuckled. "I see he hasn't told you yet." He started as he dried his hands, throwing a cloth to him. "Here, dry your hands and I'll tell you the story on how Marco became the prince of Hell!" Ace did what he was told as he was wanting to hear this.

Thatch offered him a chair, and Ace sat down on it, Thatch leaning on the table. "Pops found Marco first, centuries, no, closing in on a millennia now. None of use were special in any way- just regular demons. At one point, Pops was an angel and he revealed himself to the previous devil who ruled over Hell and that devil took a liking to him, Pops working on both sides as he was a leader or something to a small group- you have to ask him the details, I don't know that. But then, centuries later, that devil double crossed Pops, as Pops had become privy to a great of information, courtesy of late nights and large quantities of alcohol. The devil had set up Pops, and made sure that all the evidence led straight to Pop, essentially handing him over to Akainu- or God- who is cold, ruthless, hot-tempered and violent. He was kind of an idiot. But, Pops won! After this incident, civil war broke out and when Akainu lost too many archangels, a truce was ratified, and Akainu was informed of the trickery and manipulation orchestrated by the devil. This lead to Akainu making Pops the new Devil! After that, everything just fell into place. Izou, Curiel, Rakuyp and Vista, all fell from heaven and joined Pops, who was happy that he wouldn't have to leave behind all the people he fought together with. Akainu didn't even car."

Ace blinked. He had never heard of this. Thatch smiled. "When Pops was chosen, same with Marco as the prince, they changed everything: the levels of Hell, the rules, the deals we make. They are all because of Pops and Marco! It became hectic for the two of them, of course, and that's where we, the High Lords, come in. Each of us were chosen from the best of each level, for our unique skill sets and knowledge, along with our spirit and personalities. Like Curiel, who is our doctor, of sorts. We all love it, and while it is still Hell, and awful, it's a much better place than it use to be, believe me!" Ace gave a nod. "I can imagine… I was surprised by how nice this place was, given that it's Hell." Thatch laughed. "I know! If you ask Izou, Curiel Rakuyo or Vista, they will tell you about how horrible heaven is!".

Thatch must have thought that hearing that would be reassuring considering that he was now a demon but it only made him worry. "Hey," Started Thatch, not sounding as excited or happy as he had, "Did I say anything wrong?" Ace swallowed. "Is… is all of Heaven horrible?" Thatch blinked. "Wha-" Then his eyes went big, as if realizing something. "Oh, no, no, no. Just for those who work there, you know. Archangels and such. Those who… eh… reside there, those who have died, they have it perfect. Just some limitation about where they can go, aside from that, life there is perfect for them." Ace gave a relieved breath. That was good. That did mean his brothers were happy. "Is, eh," Ace looked at Thatch, who seemed a bit unsure. "Are your brothers in heaven?" Ace gave a small nod. "Y-yeah. Whitebeard found that out…" Ace really didn't want to speak about this, he still missed them so much.

"Oh, hey," Started Thatch, "They are fine, believe me. It's only the ones working there who have it bad. The rest is great, believe me." Ace nodded, giving a smile to Thatch, understanding that he was making the other nervous by not responding. "I do, believe you I mean. I'm glad they're fine." Thatch gave a breath and a smile. "I can imagine. Hey, we should finish making dinner, if you still want to help, that is." Ace smiled. "I would love to." Ace liked to help Thatch, he was good company and always told him the truth.

As they restarted with the food preparations, Ace sent a look over at Thatch. "Erm, you mentioned that you got your human form since you wanted to get to know humans. But… what is your demon form?" Ace was curious, having a feeling not all demons were alike. Thatch gave a small laugh. "Of course, I haven't showed you. Want to see? I have heard mine can be a bit intimidating though." Ace nodded, wanting to see Thatch's demon form.

Thatch gave a nod, before he moved his shoulders bit, before he was engulfed in a burst of flames, after they dissipated, Thatch was in his demon form.

The man had grown taller, having 6 horns on his head, protruding outwards with the tips pointing up. He was more heavily built, with two pointy horns from his calves and shoulders. His fingers were much longer with sharp nails, like claws; his feet were larger, with three toes, like a bird's feet. Thatch was completely red, even his eyes, which were glowing, his mouth was a darker shade, looking like it was open in an angry scream. He could now see that Thatch's body was secreting a type of red liquid, which looked like blood, yet none fell on the ground. Maybe, it was to make him look more dangerous. Thatch did say many thought his demon form was intimidating.

"It looks nice," Said Ace, looking up at the other, who was now almost a head taller, even with Ace being in his demon form. After another burst of flames, Thatch was back to his human form. "Yeah, it's nice. I like it, but many don't. Too scary they say." Ace gave a small chuckle. "But, you're a demon, a High Lord. You should look intimidating, right?" Thatch chuckled. "Yeah, you're right. I'm glad you like it, really." Ace gave a smile as he went back to cutting vegetables, Thatch joining him with some lighter conversation.

Ace was starting to like Thatch more and more, having joined him to make food a few times. It was calming, and he missed it. He had always done it with his brothers, but he had stopped as it was boring had saddening to do it alone. So, he really enjoyed this. Marco had said he didn't need to do it, if the man asked, but Ace had explained that he liked to do it and had offered his help at times. The blond prince had been really understanding of that, suggesting that he tell Thatch that. Not in detail, but that he really enjoyed this and would like to join him more. Marco mentioned that the chef had been feeling guilty about keeping Ace in the kitchen and making him work. Ace hadn't gotten around to that, as he wasn't too sure how to. Maybe, he should just do it?

"Hey, Thatch," Started Ace, making Thatch give a hum. "I just… I really enjoy this, helping you make food. It's relaxing, and a break from the rest- not doing anything or just walking around." Thatch gave a smile as he looked at him. "That's nice. Makes me feel better about putting you to work. Many think it boring. And, you're good at it." Ace chuckled. "No, it's fine. It's calming, and I enjoy it. I often cooked before, but haven't in a while, until I came here." Though he never gave the exact reason, from the look Thatch had on his face for a second, Ace knew he understood when and why he had stopped. "It's fine. I really enjoy the company, much more with knowing that you enjoy this too." Ace smiled, nodding. It did feel good to tell him, having felt that he was in the way at times, or that he did things wrong, scared he wouldn't be allowed to do it again if he messed up. He felt better now, glad to hear Thatch enjoyed having him here. Thatch might have lied, but Ace had a feeling he hadn't.

They talk about some lighter topics whilst completing the rest of the food preparations. When it went into the oven, Ace gave his goodbye, as there was not much left for him to do. He relaxed a bit in his room, before he went to dinner, helping to set the table, Marco joining them and asking how Ace had been. It was nice, and Ace had enjoyed the day up until now.

The lunch went by fine, everyone being good company and calm. As they were finishing up, Izou mentioned she and a few others were heading out to an area with Hell trees that had flowers, and she asked if he wanted to join them.

Ace had to blink at that. They wanted him to join them? He sent a look at Marco, not too sure if he should. Marco did nod and say he could, saying it wasn't too far away, and he would be fine as he was a demon, meaning the atmosphere out there wouldn't hurt him. Ace did forget that at times, that he would be fine now, and was able to go where ever he wanted. After thinking about it, he asked who would be go, which would be Izou, Haruta, and Curiel. Ace had socialised with them a bit before, and they were nice. Ace gave a nod as he said he wanted to join, them saying they would leave soon after lunch, all of them having time off. That did sound nice, and Ace didn't have much to do then. He knew Marco had duties to perform, meaning he should try and find something to do. He knew Marco felt guilty that he left Ace alone at times.

When they had finished lunch and cleaned up, Ace helping, he left with the others to look at those Hell trees. They were about a 20 minute walk away. Ace was feeling excited to finally see the flowers himself. "Just over this hill, and we'll be there," Said Haruta, looking excited herself. Ace was glad he wasn't the only one who liked the trees. They were pretty. When they got over the hill, Ace stopped for a second as he blinked.

"Woah." Ace let out. They were beautiful, absolutely magnificent. They were full of colors, not only the flowers, but the leaves and tree stems too. It was amazing. "I thought you would like it here; most of the different species in Hell can be found here." Ace nodded, still shocked. He'd always loved flowers and trees, but this was beyond his wildest dreams. "Come, let's go closer." Ace nodded as he followed Izou, transfixed by the trees.

When they were close to them, Ace couldn't help but touch a few of the lower hanging branches, taking a loose flower. They were beautiful, this one being a mix of red, black, and yellow. It even smelled nice, like a mix of ashes and the sweetness of the summer. Ace had always liked the smell of ashes, most likely connected to his fascination with fire. That might be why he also liked Marco, he smelled like ashes at times.

"Hey, Ace," Ace turned to Curiel, who was standing close to another tree with Haruta, "These have roses on them, they are hidden behind their leaves." Ace blinked, walking over, seeing they spoke the truth as Haruta showed him one. It was a beautiful dark blue rose. Ace couldn't help but touch it. It reminding him of Sabo, as it looked very similar to his favorite flower. "You can pick it. It won't die." Ace gave a nod, slowly taking the flower, along with a couple of the white leaves surrounding it. He would place this next to the picture of his brothers. Sabo would have loved it. "Are-" Ace needed to swallow, feeling the tears in his eyes and lump in his throat. "Are there any that look like… sunflowers?"

"Um," Started Haruta, "I think so. Izou, aren't the some yellow and brown ones near you?" Ace looked over at the other, who was walking to a tree. "Yeah, these." Izou was close to a tree, showing off some yellow and brown flowers with big petals. Not nearly as big as a sunflower, more like a cranesbill flower, but being brown in the middle and yellow on the petals. It was perfect. "Oh, here," Said Izou suddenly, moving down the higher branch of the tree next to the one with the cranesbills. "These are a bit bigger, closer to a sunflower." Ace smiled as he saw it was true, feeling it, before slowly taking it off, taking some purple leaves with it. He was a bit scared Izou would pick it, when she had moved the branch, but she didn't. He held the two flowers, seeing they were perfect. "They would have loved them." Ace looked at Izou. "Your brothers, it's close to the ones you put on their graves, right? They would have loved them, and they won't die."

Ace gave a smile to the other. "Yeah, I think so too… Thank you, for taking me here." Izou gave a smile back, "It's nothing. The least I could do." Ace felt really happy, needing to shake his head for a second as he felt a bit emotional for a second. He needed some more happy thoughts. "Are there any flowers, or leaves, that Marco likes?" Izou gave a chuckle. "Yeah. The flowers that are light blue, yellow, white, and light red. We call them blue fire phoenixes, as they are warm too. Marco really likes them, but rarely goes here." Izou spoke as he moved, Ace following. They soon got to a huge tree, that had a yellow stem, but the leaves were a mix of vivid colours, and when Izou moved some leaves away, a magnificent light blue flower came to view.

The blue flower was red in the middle, which changed to light blue for the middle and had white and yellow around the edges. The white on the edge of the petals looked like dust; the blue and white made the flower appear semi-transparent.

It was beautiful.

Ace moved to grab a flower, but stopped half way. The leaves and branch were nice too. Maybe he should take an entire one? Not a long branch, but a small one with a few flowers and leaves on it? He looked at Izou. "Can I take a small branch?" Izou chuckled. "Of course. As long as you don't cut the trees down, you are free to do what you want." That was good to know, moving to take a small branch, surprised to find that the branch was slightly hot, like the flowers which also had a comforting warmth radiating from them. He understood why Marco liked them.

When Ace held the branch, studying the flowers, he was shocked when something was placed on his head, looking up to see a flower garland. He turned around to see Haruta, but in her demon form. And, Haruta looked… nice. She didn't have her hair anymore, but had black horns and pointy ears along with dark lips and a nose which looked cat-like. She had yellow eyes, with rings around them, and two spots upon her forehead. Her skins was reddish in colour, she was slightly yellow, perhaps it was due to previously being an angel.

Ace touched the flower garland, it being made of blue and red flowers with white leaves, before looking at Haruta again. "Thank you, I like it. And, you look nice." Haruta smiled, him now noticing Haruta was almost his height. She was usually smaller than him in his human form, well, when both were in human form. Did everyone grow taller when they were in their demon forms? "Hey," Started Curiel, making Ace turn to him, "What do you like, Ace? As in colors, items, element, you know." Ace thought, before he answered. "I… I usually like… fire…" He did, he liked fire, but he couldn't stand the thought of being around it since his brothers died, as they had died in a fire.

Curiel gave a thoughtful hum, before he moved to a tree close by, which had dark leaves and a red stem, taking a couple of flowers out and showing them to him. "How about these?" Ace blinked, looking at them. They were like roses, but their petals were black, like ashes. In the centre, it was bright red which faded as it went towards the end of the petals. The flower looked like it was fire itself. When he took it, it felt hot.

It was magnificent.

He didn't know why, but Ace felt as though this flower was perfect. He hated fire, but he also loved it. He had felt burnt out the last year, just lost, and he felt like this flower was a good sign. He knew his brothers were fine, he had met them, and he had gotten his friends back; he'd also found new friends, and even a lover. He hadn't been close to fire in a while, thinking it was bad for him, making him scared. But, this flower, the red and black flower, which looked like it had been torched, was perfect, it was beautiful. He would place this with his picture too, next to the other flowers.

Ace thought for a second. Should he take another flower of each type? In case he got the chance to send it to his brothers? Would they die there? "Do…" He started, looking at Izou. "Do they… die on earth… or in… heaven..?" Izou blinked, before thinking. "They won't die on earth, but I don't know about heaven. Never had anyone there. Sorry." Ace quickly shook his head. "No, it's fine. It was only a thought." Izou nodded, still giving a somewhat guilty smile. Ace gave a smile back, before he went to pick more flowers and leaves, being sure to keep those for himself, his brothers, and Marco separate, whilst the rest he made into a bouquet. He really loved these flowers and their colors.

As they were heading back home, Haruta spoke. "There is a place on the other side of Hell that might have flowers. It's usually an enclosed place, near the ninth, and last level of Hell, also termed 'the pit', which is reserved for those who commit treachery. Ace gave a nod, not sure what 'there' was, but concerned how bad it a place it would be if it was close to the last layer of Hell. "But," continued Haruta, "It's not dangerous there. It's just a place we barely venture. The souls there are… very few can handle seeing that…" Oh, that made sense. He had never… seen any of the levels which the souls of people resided, he'd only heard about them."Oh, okay. M-Maybe one day..?" Haruta smiled. "Of course! Just so you know. It's a bit… colder there, so a few different species of flowers can be found there, if there are any left." That peaked his interest. He would ask Marco about it. He gave a nod. When they got home, Izou and Haruta followed him to his door, though Ace wasn't sure why, but he didn't mind the company. He still managed to get lost now and then, but there was always a gremlin close by.

When they got to his and Marco's room, they gave a goodbye. Ace walked in, placing the three main flowers in front of the picture of him and his brother. Each flower in front of the right person: the blue on in front of Sabo, the yellow in front of Luffy, and the black one in front of him. It was perfect. The rest he placed in a vase, organising it until it felt right. He felt proud of it. Ace then relaxed for a while before Marco came back, who gave a smile at the flowers, Ace telling him how his trip had been and how he had really enjoyed himself, better than he had expected. He was really starting to like the others. "That's nice, yoi," said Marco as he sat down next to him, having changed clothing. Ace gave a nod. "Yeah, and," started Ace, getting the flowers he had gathered for Marco, "Here. Izou said you liked these." Marco blinked as he took the branch with the flowers, before smiling at him.

"Thank you, yoi. I didn't know Izou remembered that." Ace gave a small chuckle. "She did, she was really nice, as well as the others too. I had fun, immensely so. We're thinking of heading out together again." Marco smiled. "That's good, yoi. I'm glad you're getting along, all of you." Marco then leaned in and gave him a kiss. "We also need to do something soon." Ace nodded, feeling a bit flushed. He still did at times when Marco kissed him. He really liked it. "Yeah. I also got some tips from Thatch on how to use my human form, so maybe we can head up to Earth soon?" Ace would love to get a day out with Marco, just the two of them, outside of Hell. But, he would love to see Eustass again too.

They stayed in their room for the rest of the day, mostly relaxing, though Ace did spend some time try to regain his human form, but was still not having any luck. The next day was very similar to the previous one, excluding the outing with the others. He helped Thatch in the kitchen, who also told him more tips on how to change between forms, though he did say that it had taken him so time to master it. He ate meals with the other High Lords, taking these moments to converse and get to know them all better. In the evening, he and Marco spend their time together in their room, relaxing and once again trying to change form, with the pointers give by Thatch. Ace finally managed to do so, feeling elated when he felt a warm sensation course through him before he was back in his human form again.

Ace stayed in his human form for the rest of the evening, and when the next day started, he and Marco tried make his change between forms almost effortless. When the evening came, Ace had to say he was proud when he managed to change back and forth, without much difficulty. It made him really glad, that he was able to look like a human again. It meant he could be with Eustass again! He made plans with Marco for Ace to head to his house tomorrow, so that he could be with Eustass for the day. Marco would come later in the evening, and all of them would grab a bite to eat before going home. Marco also telling him that they could spend the day after tomorrow together. Both of them wanted that, but Ace really wanted to see Eustass too, which was the reason Ace wanted to do that first.

When the next day came, Ace was really excited. Marco took him to his house in the morning, before leaving, telling Ace that he would come back at 6pm, unless Ace called for him earlier, which he could do at any time. It was fine for Ace and when Marco left, Ace quickly used his phone to send a message to Eustass that he was home for the today. The clock being just 6 am, so Ace was unsure if Eustass would be awake or if he already had plans for the day. Like usual, Eustass quickly replied and said he would come by at 10 am; he only needed to attend the first class of school really, the rest weren't really important. It made Ace so happy, and he used a bit of time to pick up some groceries, such as snacks and drinks they could eat as they were catching up. Afterwards, he relaxed as he waited, feeling elated that Eustass would be here soon.

But, when the clock was a little past 10, a strange feeling came over him, like something was wrapped around his chest, constricting it. Why did he feel like that? Not long after, there was a knock at the door, before the door opened as Eustass walked in, looking happy. "Acey! Missed ya! How was your trip?" Ace merely blinked, as the pain and constricting feeling steadily became worse, coupled with a stabbing sensation. When he looked at Eustass, his eyes instantly moved to his neck, seeing something there that gave a weak black glow. Was this because of the necklace? Why did he feel like this? All he could seem to look at was that necklace.

Ace took a step back, not sure why the necklace had him feeling like he was being stabbed. "W-what is that?" Ace managed, as he pointed at the jewelry. "Oh!" Started Eustass, hand going to the necklace. "Mihawk gave it to me! Some kind of protection shite. Probably won't work, but it's supposed to reveal a demon, as it draws out their real forms, and make them keep their distance. Mihawk said that the demon realm had become more active for reason unknown. He managed to summon one and they apparently fled, so- Hey! What's wrong?" Ace couldn't help but move a hand to his chest, feeling like something was stabbing it over and over, which only increased when Eustass move towards him. "I...I... The n-necklace... get it off!" Ace was scared, scared it would injure him, scared this would finally finish him. Ace could see his hands starting to go grey again, as he tried to back away from Eustass, but he just walked closer. "S-st-stop." Ace managed, Eustass walking closer as he looked worried. "What is it?! I can help!"

Ace shook his head as he backed further away, his hands growing more and more grey the closer Eustass was to him. Ace couldn't reveal it to Eustass like this. He just couldn't. As Ace was about to tell Eustass to back up again, to get rid of the necklace, when a burst of fire appeared in front of him. Marco was suddenly there, in his demon form, looking annoyed as he used a hand to take the necklace off Eustass before throwing it away. Ace heard Marco giving a hiss as he touched it. Ace was sure it must have hurt him.

Oh lord, Marco was here, in his demon form. Eustass was looking at Marco in shock.

When Eustass moved his hand behind the small of his back, Ace knew that Eustass must have hidden a weapon there. Ace moved to place himself in front of Marco, hoping to make it in time. "N-No! Eustass, no!" Eustass took a wrench out and moved to hit Marco with it before Ace could interfere. Marco, thankfully, managed to grab it and yank it out of Eustass' hold, throwing it away, making Eustass take a fighting stance. Marco giving a glare. "You shouldn't do that." Eustass looked at him, looking worried. "Demon! Ace! Get away!" Ace shook his head, moving a hand to Marco's arm, hoping to calm the other. "No! It's fine! It's Marco! Eustass, calm down, please." Estass blinked. "Marco? Marco! That is Marco?!" Ace sent a look at Marco, who changed to his human form. But, instead of calming down, it only enraged Eustass. "You've brainwashed him! Get away from Ace!"

Ace shook his head, walking towards Eustass, ignoring Marco who tried to keep him back. "No, he hasn't. Listen, let me explain. This is why I have been gone, why I left, why I have been distant! I promise, this is why I have been lost in my thoughts, I never knew how to tell. I'm sorry."

Eustass looked at him and then Marco. "You knew? Why are you with a demon?" Ace swallowed. "I… I'm sorry." Ace didn't know where to start. He couldn't explain how he had summoned to so that he would have a friend as he didn't think he and Eustass were anymore, or how he was going to end his life if Marco hadn't seemed so happy to have Ace back these last few weeks. Ace didn't want to worry the other, didn't want to tell him all that. But mostly, he really didn't want to lose Eustass as a friend. "Ace?" Ace tried to speak again, but never got past the first syllable. "I-I-I-" Ace couldn't help when he felt tears in his eyes, scared and lost. He didn't want to lose Eustass, but this was all happening too fast.

Eustass looked more worried, walking closer to him. "Hey, what is it? Has he injured you?" The last part was said with a glare to Marco, making Ace shake his head more, feeling tears sliding down his face. He didn't want them to fight, he didn't want to lose either. He didn't want this at all. He wanted Marco as his boyfriend and Eustass as his friend. "N-no. I-I di- I- I- sorry." Eustass' worried expression only making Ace more emotional. He didn't want this, he didn't know what to do, not able to answer when Eustass asked what was wrong again.

"He's scared, yoi," Said Marco, moving a hand to his back, Ace needing that support. "Of what?! You've brainwashed him!" Marco gave a glare at the other's outburst. "He is scared to lose you! Doesn't know how to explain all of this to you, scared of how you will react. He loves you as a friend." Eustass blinked. "W-what? Why would he lose me as a friend?! You've done something to him! Get away from him!" Ace shook his head more, moving a shaking hand to his eyes, trying to dry the tears and speak, but unable to as he just stuttered. Eustass glared at Marco. "You need to get away from Ace! He is my fri-", "I saved him from killing himself!" The outburst from Marco had Eustass take step back, looking shocked, "W-what?", he said as he turned to Ace. "Ace?" Ace didn't know what to do, no idea how to respond to that. He knew Eustass deserved to know, but didn't want it to be like this.

Marco gave a sigh, moving a hand to rub his back. "It's fine, yoi. Just breathe, I will explain, okay?" Ace nodded, taking a few deep breaths as he looked at Marco, who wore a supporting look upon his face. After a few minutes, Ace feeling more calm, Eustass spoke, startling Ace a bit. "Explain! What do you mean you saved Ace?!" Marco looked at Eustass with a sigh. "Before I start..." Then he looked back at Ace. "Just relax, if I say anything you don't want, stop me, yoi, okay?" Ace nodded, but trusted the other to explain things. Ace did send a look at Eustass, who was dealing with a mix of emotions, ranging from anger to worry and confusion. "I-I'm s-sorry. L-let Mar-Marco expl-explain. Please." Eustass merely nodded.

Ace hoped this would go fine, he hoped Eustass would still be his friend afterwards.

-x-

Marco moved his arm around Ace, still rubbing his back, comforting the other. When Ace looked slightly calmer, Marco looked back at Eustass, who seemed torn between being mad at him and being worried about Ace.

Marco gave a sigh. "Listen, Eustass. Over the last few month, a lot has happened, yoi. So please, let me speak." Eustass nodded, remaining silent. "Ace became depressed, as you may know. But, it was worse than you thought." Marco was sure to bring Ace a bit closer, knowing he didn't want to hear this. "You stopped speaking to him, I know it was because you gave him space, but it made him worse." Marco having a feeling Eustass already figured out where this was headed. "Ace was going to end it; he didn't think he had anyone left." Eustass looked at Ace, worry in his eyes. "Ace, why didn't you tell me?" Ace just shook his head as he moved it to Marco's shoulder, still crying, Marco moving his arm to hold Ace. "Please, let me explain." Marco said with a hand up, continuing when the other nodded.

"But, he was going to give it one last shot, and tried contacting a demon, learning how to from you and your friends. I answered, and Ace had one wish; for a friend, someone to be with. I, of course, accepted." Eustass swallowed, glassy-eyed, clearly having issues listening to this. "I started to visit him, a lot, and really liked it. But, someone- we don't know who- snuck in and stabbed Ace, killing him." Eustass' breath stopped for a second, looking shocked as he shook his head. Marco kept him from speaking with a shake of his head, before he continued.

"I received notice, that a soul was to be taken to Hell, before I knew it was Ace. When I saw it was him, I panicked; I didn't want to lose Ace that quickly, so I bonded him to me. We have been in Hell during the last few months, Ace slowly getting used to things. You know what has happened there, what Ace have gone through with us, we just called it Europe." Marco gave a sigh. "I know this is a lot to take in, but I promise I haven't done anything to Ace against his will."

Eustass shook his head, looking at him. "B-but how?! I don't know much about Hell, but you're a demon- clearly- but how did you bond with him?! Why would the devil approve?! I know he must have! He is the leader! Ace was a human!" Marco sighed. "Hell has a devil, the king, but it has thirteen High Lords and a prince too; they can choose more, make own decisions, yoi." Eustass looked at him with shock. "You're a High Lord?!" Marco shook his head, tightening his grip a bit around Ace in a comforting manner. "No, I am a prince. And when I bonded Ace to me, he became a prince of Hell alongside me."Eustass blinked. "W-what? Ace is… a demon?" Marco nodded, releasing Ace a bit, giving the other a nod and comforting look. Ace gave a sniffle as he changed to his demon form, shocking Eustass more, before Ace changed back, obviously scared.

When Ace was in his human form again, he took a step closer to Eustass. "I-I am so- sorry. I was scared, and lost, and you were gone for good. I thought I had nothing left. I am so sorry! I never meant to scare you, but I thou-" Ace was cut off as Eustass hugged Ace, hugging harder after a few seconds as he closed his eyes, tears streaming down his face. "How could you not tell me? I would never leave you! I am sorry you thought I did. God, I am so sorry!" Eustass moved back a bit and held Ace's arms, looking Ace in the eye. "I would never leave or be mad. I will always be your friend, always!" Ace nodded, crying more, moving to try and dry his tears, giving a small sob. "I- I am so g-glad! I w-was so s-scared you would l-leave."

Eustass shook his head, a hand moving to help dry his tears too. "I would never. Marco has made you so happy. I know, I was just shocked. Tell me, okay? Please, I want to know it all." Ace nodded, giving a teary smile to Eustass. "I-I will. I'm so-sorry I didn't. I just couldn't, I didn't know how." Ace turned to send Marco a look, Marco giving a comforting look in return. "Thank you, Marco." Marco gave a smile, moving to Ace and rubbing his arm. "It's fine. Listen, why don't you and Eustass stay and talk, yoi? I will go back, Pops needs me. But, do not be afraid to call me," He said the last with a serious look, Ace nodding. "I won't. Bye, I'll see you later." Marco smiled as he gave a kiss to Ace's cheek. Marco could see Eustass was shocked, but glad Ace was fine, not looking at him with an angry look anymore.

Marco did send a look at Eustass. "Let Ace explain at his own pace, as this is emotional for him, so don't pressure him, yoi." Eustass nodded, still looking skeptically at him. "I will. But… thank you for caring for him." Marco nodded, before he gave a last rub to Ace's arm before he left, appearing back in Hell.

Marco would be sure to leave the second he felt something was wrong. He had left earlier since he felt Ace was hurting. He really hoped Ace and Eustass would speak and be good friends again. Ace really cared and liked Eustass; Marco was certain that Eustass felt the same. He just hoped this would go fine now, Marco was unsure if Ace could handle Eustass leaving him as a friend. Ace would be devastated.

-x-

Ace tried to take some deep breaths to calm down, still scared and nervous, but also relieved. Eustass was still here.

When he moved to dry his cheeks, when arms suddenly enveloped him again, giving comforting words. Ace merely leaned on Eustass as the other hugged him, giving a small sob. He had been so scared Eustass would leave, that he would hate him. But he was here, hugging him, telling it would be fine. "Shh, it's okay. I promise I won't leave. I will never do that." Ace could only nod, not able to speak, way too emotional to even try. He could hear Eustass' voice shaking a bit, obviously being on edge too. When Ace finally gathered himself, Eustass let go of him, still keeping an arm on his back, rubbing it comfortingly. Ace moved his hands to his face to dry his tears the best he could, trying to look more composed, moving to sit down on the sofa as Eustass did.

"Ace," started Eustass, "Was that true? Did you really think I had left? That I would leave? That you planned… to end it? Why?" Ace took a shaky breath, doing his best to answer, although shakily. "I thought you left. I was all alone, I had no one. I- I know it was wrong, but i felt so alone and down and- and- and-" Ace broke off with a sob, Eustass moving his hand up and down his back, giving comforting words. "It's okay. Just breathe. Why didn't you tell me? Why did you never give me a call? Then, and now?" Ace managed to take a few shaky breaths. "I thought- thought you di-didn't like me any-anymore, and I- I was sc-scared to k-know for s-sure. To lose-lose you." Eustass shook his head, moving to hug Ace, hand stroking his back. "No, never think that. I would never leave you. I could never be mad at you, nor would I ever judge you. I care about you! You're my best friend, and that will never change."

Ace slowly explained how the last few months had been, not shielding away from the fact he had been in Hell, and that he had died, twice. Eustass knew what he was, so Ace wanted him to know everything. When he was done, Eustass shook his head, looking shocked. "It's nice? Hell is nice?" Ace gave a small laugh between his tears. "Sorta. For those who are not… damned? To them Hell is probably awful. I was on the good side? If that make sense?" Eustass tried his best to process what he had been saying. "But you were fine? Safe and all that? They were nice? Aside from the misunderstanding at the start?"

Ace gave a nod. "Yeah. Really. And I even met Luffy and Sabo." Ace felt his eyes tear up again. "They're in heaven, but Marco arranged a meeting. They are really happy, and it felt so good to know that." Eustass was shocked by that but composed himself and tried to comfort him. "That must have been amazing. I'm so glad you are fine. But, you're a prince of Hell now?" Ace gave a nod. "Yeah. Marco… bonded with me. We're... princes together? Princes? Is that the right word? Actually, what is the plural of a prince?" Eustass gave a laugh. "It is princes. Just add another s on the end and you are a princess. Because, you are the girl, right?" Eustass wiggles his eyebrows a bit, Ace giving him a small swat on the shoulder.

Eustass shook his head. "When I met him before I understood that Marco was a special guy. But a prince of Hell? Never would have guessed that. Is that why they wouldn't do anything with Mihawk?" Ace shrugged. "I don't know, honestly. Might be, since I may have mentioned their names… and I'm a prince now…" Eustass shook his head. "That's so weird and yet amazing. I can at least say I have a demon friend now! A demon best friend! And no, I won't tell anyone. This is just between us, and if you want, the gang." Ace smiled, glad Eustass was so understanding and nice, and just perfect, about this. He was the bestest friend he could have ever asked for. "Can I look at the demon side of you again?" Ace gave a smile and stood up, changing to his demon form. Eustass looked really impressed and asked how it felt. Ace gave a shrug. "Weird. I mean, i don't feel things, like heat or cold or stuff, and I can see really well in the dark." Eustass shook his head, hand touching his arm. "It's so cool. You're warm too. I thought demons were red." Ace changed back as he gave a chuckle. "They are. Regular demons. Me, Marco, and the king are more of a grey colour. I'm completely grey since I instantly became a prince." Eustass looked impressed by that and asked more, Ace telling him how all about Hell. How there were gremlins, High Lords, a king, and everything. Even ex-archangels that had fallen from Heaven and were demons now, High Lords even, and how Whitebeard- a name Eustass snorted to- was chosen to be king.

Eustass was shocked by all of this, but he found it all interesting too. "I am so glad you got Marco. Someone stabbed you. You would be dead if you didn't know him. I'm sorry I overreacted at the start." Ace shook his head. "No, you had every right to overreact. I mean, Marco's a demon, I'm a demon. Who wouldn't?" Eustass laughed. "Yeah. The shock of the century. Oh! Imagine, if and when, we tell the others. We perform a summoning and you show up and they're like 'wtf' and you're like 'surprise!' It would be hilarious!" Ace had to laugh too. It would be funny, but he wasn't ready for that just yet. Maybe later. He couldn't help but hug Eustass, so glad everything was fine, that they were still friends.

He might have died, he might have become a demon, a prince of Hell. But, he had gotten Marco; he had met his brothers that was in heaven and doing fine; he had gotten so many new friends in Hell, and everything was fine, he was fine.

He had never felt happier than he did right now.


And that's the chapter.

I know this is really late, but here it is finally, and I hope everyone enjoyed. It is a wrap up and a bit fast paced at times, but I can make more in the one shot series of special scenes, if anyone wants that.

For now, I hope everyone has enjoyed this story. I am currently working on the next story, which is a long oneshot as well as the next long story. From the poll I created, the 'Naruto' "crossover" won, and will be the one I'll write first. But I don't know when the first chapter will be up, as I am still figuring out the entire plot as I have a few different ones in my mind.

And now, thank you all for managing to wait and staying with me through this story and I hope to see you following the next one too

And, if you have the time and want to, please leave a review, they keep me going!

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