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Chapter Text

The cold bit into my skin as I do my best to remain awake. Despite being raised in such a cold climate and learning how to live with it I found myself being caught unawares and unprepared. Trudging through the cold windy mountains with nothing on my feet to protect them from the snow and ice. I couldn't feel my toes anymore, my feet starting to turn blue.

My hair no longer blew in the wind, frozen to my skull along with my tears. I shiver violently as my body tries to warm me up. I turned to look behind me, even from the mountain side through the snow that was whipping around me I could see my village in flames. My vision was so blurry it almost looked like the sun was rising, but I knew I wasn't that lucky.

I tried desperately to make it to the other side of the island, hoping that I could find a way off it and away from all the carnage and death as I thought about how I got here.
It was definitely a rude awakening when I was suddenly shaken awake by my older brother, yanking me out of bed and out the back door as we began trudging through the snow towards the mountains with no explanation as to why, but once I was outside, seeing the fresh warm blood melting what was once pristine white snow. The ground riddles with cannonballs and bullets while some were still flying in every which way I suddenly understood why we didn't have time to put on our shoes.
Houses were burning to the ground as families screamed inside trying to find a way out. And for those who had made it out they were too busy trying to stop the bleeding of loved ones.

Even though we had only been outside for a few moments I could already feel myself shivering in my light sleeping clothes. My brother holds me tightly by my hand as he drags me around as fast as he can, probably bruising it. We were weaving through small alleyways and streets trying to avoid whoever was attacking, but with all the snow falling you couldn't see three feet in front of you. That being said, it had been made very clear it was pirates. Despite living in the new world we didn't fall under any Emperor's protection, and we almost never saw marines aside from the occasional ship doing to re-supply. But for the most part, If any ship ever ended up here they are almost always off course. We were very close to the calm belt and pretty close to the red line, hence we are pretty out of the way.

Being a small winter island in an out of the way corner of the world came with many benefits. We almost never saw pirates, our island wasn't anywhere on the way to the final island so there wasn't a point to coming here, and the lack of pirates meant a blatant lack of Marines, we were never in danger so it was never needed. At least never needed until now.

I was panting heavily from running around our small little village but trying my damndest to be quiet so we wouldn't be caught. I could hear loud laughing when suddenly my brother stopped just as we were about to leave an ally causing me to run into his back.

I gasped quietly as I stood behind him. I couldn't clearly make out what I was seeing, but from the sound of pained screams and cruel laughing I figured I didn't really want to know.

I hid my face in my brother's back avoiding whatever he was staring at, not wanting to witness the death of my friends. I could feel him start to shiver as he slowly crouched down, leading me down with him till I was on my knees, but I knew he wasn't shivering from the cold, he was shivering from pure unbridled fear.

"(Y/N), we need to be quiet and we need to be fast. We have to sneak by them and get to the mountains, once we get past them we will be able to find a boat on the other side and run. Do you understand me?"

I quietly nodded into his back, wanting to avoid making any sound that could get us found.

Slowly, while still being crouched down we moved out of the dark alley. The carnage was now clearly in my line of sight but I stared at the wall of the building we were crouching beside. The last thing I wanted to see was the corpses of my friends. The thought brought tears to my eyes.

"We're almost there, just a little more."

I try to quiet my sniffles. The fires that had been spreading started to illuminate the village as if it were broad daylight, and the soft crunch of the snow under my numb feet seemed louder than ever while we were trying to sneak around unnoticed. Unsuccessfully

"HEY!!!!!"

My brother whipped his head around looking behind us. He froze for a few seconds before looking down at me with panic all over his face and fear in his eyes. Like he knew something I didn't.

"RUN!!"

We bolt off as fast as our legs would carry us into the tree that surrounds the mountains. In a brief moment of bravery I turned back to try and get a look at who was chasing us and for a split second it looked like a girl with long, half up hair in some kind of robe, pointing a gun at us. But I couldn't make out any proper details.
Just as I turn back around and run with my brother I hear the shot of her pistol.

"ARGGGGGGGGH"

My brother screams as the bullet narrowly misses me and hits his left shoulder blade. He released my hand from his crushing grip as he collapsed on the ground, clutching his shoulder in pain.

I'm about to get down beside him and help before he yanks me in front of him.

"RUN (Y/N), DON'T LOOK BACK JUST RUN!!!!"

Tears pour down my cheeks as I feel my brother's warm blood stain the snow and caress my bare feet, warming them but sending a chill up my spine.

"No, I d-don't want to l-leave you."

My voice was choked with sobs, as I looked past him and saw the shooter calling over more of her crew.

"You need to go. Find the boat on the other side of the mountains and run, don't stop till you find the marines and trust no one."

"I can't!!!"

I couldn't stop the hiccups that came out as I begged him to get up and come with me, to hold on and run with me.

My heart was beating a mile a minute. I swear it was about to explode.

"Please (Y/N), I can't watch you die, run. Live for me, find peace for me."

His voice cracked as he begged me to run. I could slowly see that light fading from his eyes. The blood poured out of his shoulder like a waterfall. The bullet had clearly hit an artery. I sobbed loudly as I clung to him begging him not to leave me and to get up.

"HE'S DOWN, GRAB HER!!!"

I look up to see several of the pirates making their way over to me and my brother, the woman no longer pointing her guns but still holding them. Now she was accompanied by three incredibly tall and muscular men, all coming out of the town and making their way over to us. But now that she was closer, her voice sounded more like a man's.

I looked down at my brother again, seeing his pale skin and his dark lifeless eyes grow cold as ice. I gently kissed his forehead with shaky lips before getting up and running as fast as I could, regardless of my gut reaching sobs and hiccups.

I could hear them chasing after me, yelling and telling me to stop. Once I was in the tree line I started to zig zag through the trees, trying to be as quiet as possible while also avoiding being shot but as I ran I didn't hear any shots being fired, probably trying to conserve bullets. Once I was a ways up the ridge I looked back to see the flames engulfing my home had grown exponentially.

I no longer heard the yells of the pirates chasing me but I didn't want to risk it, they could have gone quiet to try and sneak up on me, so I continued up the mountain as cold rocks and ice cut into the souls of my feet. I was clearly making bloody footprints making it easy to follow but if I'm lucky I'll make it to the boats quickly. The trail would be useless once I'm out to sea.

I continue hiking up the mountain shivering like a scared lamb, all alone while my consciousness begins to fade. Black spots started to appear in my vision, fading and reappearing. Between my fading vision and the darkness of the woods at the dead of night I could feel myself fading bit by bit.

It couldn't have been more than another minute before I collapsed into the cold snow like a boulder in the sea.

"N-no….. I-I can't… d-di-e.. h-here~"

My voice faded into a whisper as I black out, unable to move any further. But before I had completely passed out I saw a brilliant bright light of blue and gold.
Maybe this was the end of me. I could feel my last tear fall, sad I couldn't fulfill my promise to my brother, I guess now I could apologize in person.
—————————————
Consciousness came to me slowly, my body felt numb like it was full of pins and needles all over my body, my extremities especially. I tried to move, lifting my hand only for it to feel like lead. I tried to open my eyes, only to shut them just as quickly from the brightness of the room I was in.

I groaned in pain, even just trying to move a little bit hurt. Warm tears moved down my cheeks. Small sobs escaped my throat. I felt something small hop up on my bed, I felt what seemed like a small paws brush on my thighs over and over. Normally I would find it comforting but instead it hurt with every swipe of the little paw. A quiet whine came from what I now assumed was a small dog.

On one hand I was glad I wasn't dead, but on the other hand I didn't know it was possible to be in this much pain while alive.

Through my small sobs and the whines from the dog I didn't hear the creak of a door opening or the gentle footsteps coming closer to the bed. It wasn't until I heard the dog by my side bark and growl a little at the new stranger I even noticed someone was in the room.

"Quit it Stefan."

It wasn't until I felt the bed dip from the man sitting down beside me that I tried to open my eyes to see who was there but it was all still too bright. Soft hiccups left my lips now as I cried and tried to speak to this stranger.

"Shhhh, pretty girl. It's ok. Deep breaths."

The man above me gently cooed as he gently ran his fingers through my hair, giving my scalp a light massage. I tried to do what he suggested and took a deep breath, holding it for a second and letting it out again.

"There we go, atta girl~."

After a few more deep breaths I tried to open my eyes again, I did it slowly and kept my eyes squinted, I could make out tan skin and an orange, what I assumed to be a hat, on the man's head.

"Ohh, it's too bright isn't it, here, gimme a sec."

The weight was lifted off the bed and the dog gave another little bark at the man. I heard the sound of shades being drawn and the light shining through my eyelids diminishes.

The man walks over and sits beside me again. I felt his unusually warm hand being pressed to my cheek.

"Let's try opening those lovely eyes again, huh?"

I slowly started to open my eyes again, after a second of adjustment and waiting for my tears to slow. Now that the shades had been drawn and the room was just lit by a few candles I looked up to see a handsome man with a big grin looking down at me.

Now that I could see him properly I saw his incredibly toned skin, skin that just so happened to not have a shirt on it. He had a dark red beaded necklace around his neck and an orange hat on top of soft black locks. Looking over to the paws on my legs I saw a little white dog with a crescent moon moustache.

Looking back over to the handsome man I tried to ask him where I was and what had happened. The last thing I remember was seeing a bright light before passing out in the snow. But when I tried to speak all that came out was sad little whimpers that hurt my throat. It was like I had razor blades inside of my throat.

More hot tears fell from my eyes at the pain, I tried to lift my hand up to my throat but it also wouldn't move.

"Ohhh, Shhhhhh sweet girl, it's ok, it's ok. Just breathe, I'm going to go get someone who can help you, ok?"

I nodded as much as I could as my head fell back onto the pillow as I closed my eyes again, trying to manage with the pain as much as I could. I could hear his footsteps walk out and the quiet latching of the door being shut again as I tried to comprehend what was happening and how I got here in the first place.

As the sobs left my body I faintly heard the dog the man called Stefan whine a little as he crawled over to my face, resting his little head on my pillow and licking away my tears for me. I close my eyes, hoping to fall asleep and wake up in my own bed and realise it was all a really bad dream.

After a few minutes I opened my eyes again when I heard footsteps outside my room before the door began to creak open. The shirtless man came back but this time he wasn't alone. Another man with blonde hair and an open button up shirt and a blue tattoo on his chest…… a tattoo I recognized.
When the other man closed the door I saw the large purple tattoo on his back, the mark of Whitebeard. I was with pirates.

I began to thrash around as much as I could, which really wasn't much but it was enough to have Stefan jump off of the bed. My breathing was uneven as I started to hyperventilate as I tried to get up to run away but all I was really able to do was to push the blanket off of me a little before the blonde instructed the other man, who he called Ace to hold me down.

Ace ran over to me moving in behind me so I was leaning against his back as his two strong hands held onto my wrists. The blonde instructed him to move me into a sitting position that was less than comfortable but it wasn't as bad as when I finally saw why I was in so much pain.

My fingers, toes and parts of my legs and arms were purple, a clear sign of serious frostbite. No wonder I was in so much pain. but what was I expecting? Passing out on a snowy mountain in your PJ's was bound to do some serious damage. Tears continued to fall as I 'thrashed' to get out of his grip which was really more like a weak fish flopping around on land then thrashing.

I knew there was no point, my meager strength was nothing compared to a seasoned pirate, but there was no way I wouldn't try.

"Marco, do something!"

I saw the blonde 'Marco' walk over to me with a syringe filled with some kind of liquid, making me try and ‘thrash’ around even more. As he got closer Ace pinned down one of my arms to the bed. I began shaking my head back and forth as much as I could, begging them to stop. Speaking through the pain.

"....N-no, please….. n-o."

I could barely get the words out as I begged them not to do anything.

"Shhhhh, Baby Bird. You're ok. We aren't going to hurt you."

I couldn't help my body trembling as he motioned for Ace to hand him my arm.

"Deep breath, Firefly, just take some deep breaths with me."

I could feel Ace's chest rise and fall as he took some deep breaths, encouraging me to do the same. At first I refused, keeping my eyes trained on Marco and the syringe in his hand, waiting for him to stick me with it, wondering what it would do. But after a minute or two of him staring calmly into my eyes, massaging my wrist with his hand with a feather light touch so as not to do any more damage, I couldn't help but calm down as Ace helped me breathe. Partially because what little energy I had, had been exhausted.

"There we go, Little Bird~. This is just gonna help you sleep a little so I can fix you up a little more."

Ace began to gently rock me back and forth in his arms as Marco managed my wrist, slowly bringing the syringe closer and closer.

Ace nudged my cheek with his, pushing my head to look away from Marco.

"It's ok, Firefly. It's just gonna help you nap a little, you'll be up before supper."

Before I could even whimper, I felt a slight pinch in my arm before everything went black second later.

—————————————

Waking up a second time was a little less painful than before, if not a little more panicked. I was able to sit up by myself after a few minutes of struggling. Once I was up I looked down to see my hands. They were wrapped in bandages that went up most of my arms, the same bandages going up my legs, I could also feel them wrapped around my middle. I was so distracted with my contention I didn't hear anyone come in.

"Good to see ya finally up. We didn't think the dose Marco gave you would last too long but we were clearly wrong. You musta just been really tired, not that anyone would blame you."

I gasp as I look up and see a tall man with brown hair that was styled into a very exaggerated pompadour, a goatee, a large scar by his eye and wearing chef's clothes with a yellow bandana around his neck.

"The name’s Thatch. I'm Whitebeard's fourth division commander, I also just so happen to be the cook here on the Moby Dick."

My mouth hung open as I tried to figure something out to say, I couldn't help the trembling as another member of the Whitebeard Pirates sat in front of me. Talking to me as if we were friends.

I looked down at my hands again, not knowing what to say to him. All I could do was fiddle with the bandages only for a large hand to engulf both of mine, making me look back up at Thatch.

"Better not, Marco would have my head if I let you take off your bandages. He did his best to heal you but couldn't heal all of it, your frostbite was super extensive especially on your poor little feet. He applied some kind of cream all over the parts he couldn't fix right away before he applied the bandages. It would be best to just let it soak in and let it work its magic."

He gave me a little wink before I slowly nodded at him, trying to subtly pull my hands away from him.

His one hand completely eclipses both of mine but he didn't let me pull away, instead he held a little tighter not letting me go while giving me a little smirk when I looked back up at him.

"Come on, Buttercup, we better get some food into ya, you can't heal with an empty belly."

Once he mentioned food I realized how hungry I actually was, not just hungry but really thirsty too. I nodded a little, keeping my head down as I tried to swing my legs over the edge of the bed to stand up only for Thatch to let go of my hands to wrap his arm around my shoulders and one under my knees.
I flinched and yelped a little as he hosted me into his arms, my back was fine but my legs and sides throbbed with pain.

He cringed a little at the sound I made when he picked me up.

"Sorry, Buttercup, I know it hurts but trust me, having you walk right now would be a hundred times worse."

I begrudgingly nodded my head. As much as I didn't like being carried around, especially by a pirate on their ship, if just being picked up hurt this bad I didn't want to know how much it would hurt to actually attempt to walk around.

Thatch smiled down at me and started to walk to the door, the second he opened it after adjusting me a little I heard barking.

I looked down to see the little dog Stefan jumping up at me, his front paws resting on Thatch's legs. I could feel the rumble of Thatch's chest as he laughed at the little dog's antics.

"We had to keep him out of your room because he kept trying to take your bandages off, he really doesn't like them for some reason. But he's been guarding your room ever since we kicked him out."

Thatch walked down the long corridor and up a down flight of stairs. Stefan follows close behind. As he walked up onto the main deck I had to squint my eyes. I didn't recognize where I was but I wasn't too surprised considering I was on a ship in the middle of the new world. But I did know one thing, I was nowhere near my home.
You could see nothing but sea from all angles, no land for miles most likely. The sun had dispersed now and the moon shone brightly, the sea reflecting the light from it and the stars.

"Hey, Firefly! You're awake!"

Ace jumped off the railing of the ship and ran over to us like a bat out of hell. I flinched back as he came closer and reached his hand out to touch me before his face flashed with concern, looking over to Thatch.

"What did you expect, Fire Fist?"

He rolled his eyes but before he could say anything someone cut him off.

"She's hurt, in a new place and surrounded and being carried by new people. Slow it down Ace."

Thatch turned slightly and I was just able to see over his shoulder, Marco was walking over to us.

Ace nodded sheepishly. Marco walked in front of me, hunching over so that we were face to face, not giving me a whole lot of breathing room considering his last statement.

"How are you feeling, Baby Bird? Woozy, dizzy, nauseous, any really bad pain?"

I tried to turn my face away, almost nuzzling into Thatches chest but Marco cupped my cheek with his hand, gently forcing me to look at him. He lifted his other hand to my face, cupping it entirely and slowly turning my head side to side ever so slightly. His eyes clinically examined every inch of my face.

He raised his eyebrow a little once he was done examining, now looking me dead in the eye waiting for me to respond to his question. Thatch gave me a little nudge, silently encouraging me to answer him.

"I.... I feel…. f-fine."

My voice was barely above a whisper. Marco tilted his head at me, clearly waiting for me to say more. After a few more seconds of silence Thatch decided to speak up.

"Come on Marco, like you said, she's scared. I bet she'll feel more talkative once she gets some food in her system."

He signed but nodded, backing up a little, releasing my cheeks from his palms after giving them a few strokes with his thumbs.

Thatch smiled down at me as I curled into myself as much as I could while being held and without hurting myself too much. It was uncomfortable being so close to so many dangerous and world renowned pirates.

Thatch walked over to a pair of double doors, flipped around and pushed them open with his back and walked down a small flight of stars and into a Galley, but not before shooing Stefan away, saying no dogs were allowed.

Thatch walked through the large galley with Marco and Ace following close behind once down I took a look around. The Galley was completely empty. It made sense, with it being dark, everyone would have had dinner by now probably winding down and doing some last minute chores before bed.

Thatch went through another pair of doors leading to a beautiful kitchen. He walked over to a countertop, gently setting me down on top of it before he turned and started to cook.

I shivered as the cold counter touched the part of my bare thighs that wasn't covered in bandages. Ace and Marco stepped into the kitchen not too long after us.

Ace quickly noticed the goosebumps that had spread all over my skin almost instantly.

"Well that just won't do."

He hopped up onto the counter beside me and grabbed my waist, hoisting me to sit on his lap. I yelped loudly, partly in pain and partly in shock, making Thatch look over his shoulder from his cooking only to smirk and look back once he knew I was 'safe'. At least in his terms anyway. On my terms on the other hand, this was less than ideal.
I adjusted myself in his lap a little but with his strong arms wrapped tightly around my stomach there wasn't much I could do. He rested his chin on my shoulder lightly.
He felt warm, almost too warm, as if he had a fever. His body heat began to smother away the cold from the room.

After a minute small flames appeared all over his arms. It took me a second to notice, and when I did I didn't believe it for a second, it must have been some kind of stress induced hallucination. But when they didn't go away I quickly realized that Ace was in fact on fire and I screamed bloody murder causing Marco who was leaning against the counter to look over to me from the clipboard I didn't even notice he had and Thatch who was still making me food to look over at us as well.

As I panic, screaming for him to let me go and trying to get out of his arms while simultaneously trying to avoid the flames before I get burned.

I could hear Thatch laugh at my poor attempt to get away. I was clearly weaker than Ace but the injuries and pain from the jerky, aggressive movement didn't help my struggle.

I didn't understand what was so funny. One of his cremates had just erupted into flames with me held in a vice grip and he was laughing. If I wasn't so scared and badly injured I would try to smack him, pirate or not.

Marco was much more sympathetic to my fear but still didn't give the reaction this kind of situation clearly warranted.. He stepped in front of me, holding my hands that had been trying to shove Ace's arms away from me, bringing my knuckles to his lips despite my harsh yanking.

"Shhhhh, Baby Bird. You're ok. Calm down."

"L-Let me g-go!!!!"

Ace leaned his head back to my shoulder after he had pulled it away when I started struggling, pressing his lips into my ear and whispering softly.

"It's ok, Firefly, just calm down for a second. Focus on Marcos hands, on my voice."

After another second of panic I calmed down a little, my eyes blurred with tears. Thought it was less me calming down and more me losing what little stamina and energy I still had.

Marco and Ace kept talking to me softly, coaxing me into relaxing as much as they could.

"See, Firefly? It's not burning you. We would never let anything happen to you."

I whimpered softly as they both held me close, keeping me from thrashing around. But at this point I don't think I could even pull away if I wanted to. After a few minutes of Marco coxing me to take some deep breaths, Ace spoke up again.

"Do you know what a Devil Fruit is, Firefly?"

I nod stiffly.

Thatch came to stand beside us. A bowl of warm food in his hands. I stared at it longingly until Marco gripped my chin making me look at him again as Ace continued.

"Tell me what you know?"

Ace continued to pry. After I took a few more deep breaths I was able to squeak out a reply.

"T-they ar-e ma-magical fru-its t-that give whoever e-eats them pow-powers, but the-y can't s-swim anymore."

I could feel Ace nodding, his soft hair brushing my ear and his lips pressing into my cheek as Marco gave me a smile.

"Anything else?"

I shake my head. While I knew what devil fruits were I was never interested enough to actually learn anything in detail. And considering their rarity I figured I'd never come in contact with the fruit, nonetheless a user.

"Well, Baby Bird, there are a lot of different kinds of Devil Fruits. Some give you powers like super strength, some let you turn into animals and some like Ace can control elements, even becoming them if he wanted too."

I look back down at Ace's arms, the little flames still there.

"I can control the heat of my flames, Firefly. I could use them to burn my enemies, or warm up those I care about."

Ace lifted one of his hands and covered it completely in fire. Marco took one of my hands he was holding and placed it in Aces despite my resistance. Ace linked our fingers together as I panicked before I realized that the flame wasn't burning me. Just surrounding and warming my hand.

"See, Buttercup? We wouldn't do anything to hurt you."

Thatch nudged Marco out of the way, causing him to let go of my other hand. Marco's hand being replaced with a warm bowl of soup while Ace still refused to let go of my other hand.

"Now eat up, you can ask all the questions you want once you are done."
—————————————

I had to 'force' Ace to let go of my hand so I could pick up the spoon with my shaky hands. I found myself fighting through the pain of holding the spoon to feed myself. But it was the bowl that was really hurting my marred hand. I could barely hold back my tears from the pain but my hunger outweighed my pain.
It had taken me a while to finish my food, it was delicious and I would normally want to savor it but this time I was just fighting to keep the spoon in my grasp so I prioritized getting as much food in my body as fast as I could.

When I was finally finished Thatch had taken the bowl and washed it, Marco taking his previous spot in front of me again. I looked up at him. Not knowing what to do next.

He looks down at my arms and legs, before looking back into my eyes.

"Before anything else I should check on your wounds and change your bandages. It's only been a few hours but I'd rather be safe than sorry."

I nodded at him, keeping my eyes down. It wasn't like I could say ‘no’. They had already proved several times how much stronger they were compared to me. As sweet as they all had been to me so far they were all more than a little intimidating.

Marco huffed a soft sigh as he picked me up and started walking out of the kitchen much to Ace's displeasure and my shock.

The second I was out of Ace's arms the room seemed even colder than it was before making the goosebumps coming back with a vengeance. Once Marco noticed he leaned down and whispered into my ear.

"Don't worry, I'll warm you up soon enough~."

As he walked up the stairs to the main deck I shivered even more when my skin came in contact with the brisk night air. It always got colder at night but it seemed especially worse out at sea. I couldn't help but nuzzle into him a little trying to absorb some of his body heat. As scared as I was, being surrounded by unknowns, none of them had really hurt me….. yet. And I didn't really have any option anyway being in the middle of the ocean on their ship and what not.

Walking across the massive deck to a door Marco opened it to what I assumed was a med bay/clinic. It was really big all things considered. Not something I thought would have been on a ship but considering how big the ship was and how many crew members were aboard it made sense.

Marco set me down on a cot closest to what I assumed was his desk. Behind it were several cabinets that lined the entire wall. Some of the doors had locks on them, others didn't. He walked over to one of the cabinet doors and opened it pulling out a small canister and some more bandages.

He came over and knelt in front of me, taking one of my calves into his hand, looking up at me for permission. After all that had happened he didn't seem like the person to ask permission but I felt a little better knowing he wanted to make sure I was ok with him going any farther.

I nodded after a second. He smiled up at me before turning his attention back to my leg, focusing on the task in front of him.
He slowly started to unwind the bandages, letting me see the damage again. I couldn't help but gasp at the sight of my mutilated legs.
He examined my calf for a second before his hands erupted in blur and gold and blue flames making me scream for the umpteenth time today.
Marco looked at me with a sympathetic smile. Well, at least he felt a little bad.

"It's ok, Baby Bird, I have a devil fruit too. It lets me heal any injury on myself, it also lets me heal others but it doesn't work as well and is considerably draining."

His voice was low and calm as he explained his abilities to me before a realization dawned on me.

I looked at him with wide eyes. Tears filling them at a rapid pace.

"....I-it was…… y-you."

Marco glanced up at me for a second. Staring with an intensity I didn't know existed before focusing on my leg again, humming in a questioning tone. Clearly wanting me to clarify.

Tears fell down my cheeks onto my thighs Marco stood up immediately once he noticed, taking my cheeks in his hands.

"What's wrong, Baby Bird? What hurts?"

He began to look at me all over before I shook my head as much as his hands would let me.

"O-on th-the mount–ain…b-before I pa-passed o-ut and when y-ou put me t-to sleep."

I looked into his eyes but I couldn't really see anything through my tears.

"I saw these same flames."

He smiled at me and pressed his forehead to mine.

"Yes, Baby Bird, I was the one who found you."

A sob escaped my throat as I tried to compose myself, I needed answers and he was the one who had them.

"W-what…happened?"

He sighs again.

"You're Island had been attacked by Pirates, we had happened to be nearby when we saw flames in the distance. Once we got there it had been too late, the town was in flames with hundreds dead. We were fighting the pirates and looking for any survivors when I saw a trace of blood leading to the mountains, that's where I had found you collapsed in the snow. I rushed you to the ship and started treating you as best I could but your wounds are very extensive. I wasn't able to do much. "

I couldn't help the choked sob that came from me before I was finally able to say anything.

".....S-survivors?"

Marco gave me a solemn look, before shaking his head. I couldn't stop my tears once he confirmed everyone else was dead but I had to be sure, I needed to know he was sure.

"A-are you-u su-sure?"

I could barely get the words out through my sobs.

"I'm so sorry, Baby Bird."

 

I collapsed into his arms, feeling him hold me tightly as I sobbed into his chest, his tattoo glistening with my tears. I was nearly unable to breathe as my grief ripped through my chest, it felt like it was stabbing my heart..

"Don't worry, Baby, we aren't going to let anything happen to you."

But little did I know about the horrifying smirk on his face.

Or his plans for my future.

Chapter Text

“………”

“…… ird”

“…. Bird”

“.. Baby Bird.”

"Come on Baby Bird, time to get up.”

I could feel arms wrapped around me, a chest rising and falling softly underneath me, warm breath on my forehead along with a gentle pair of lips pressing softly into my skin. Their voice sounded muffled in my sleepy haze.

I tried to force my eyes open, only to close them just as fast, the light from the window being too bright for my sleepy eyes making me whine out in discomfort. Too sleepy and out of it to make any proper words. I could barely register the person attempting to wake me up.

A smooth voice chuckled before a hand covered my eyes and rolled us over. Now having my back facing a wall the bed was pressed against and my front still snuggled up to someone instead of lounging on top of them. The hand removed itself from my eyes before brushing some hair off my forehead, Lips pressing softly onto my head again before he spoke.

"Come on, Sleepy Bird, Thatch will be sad if you miss your breakfast.”

I force my eyes open blinking away the sleep as best I could. Once my vision cleared a bit I looked up to see Marco smiling down at me.

I stared at him blankly while I tried to connect all the dots and remember how I got here. I must have looked like a gawking fish because Marco could help but snicker at my face.

"w-wha-"

I couldn't even get the full word out, nonetheless a proper sentence to ask what was going on. I could remember being taken to the clinic on board the Whitebeard Pirates ship and Marco changing my bandages after Thatch had given me dinner. I remember recognizing his flames and asking him about survivors.
Hot tears cascaded down my cheeks as I remembered what his answer was. How everyone was dead and my village was destroyed, burned to the ground. Nothing remains aside from ash and blood staining what was once such a peaceful place.

"Oh, Baby Bird."

Marco hugged me tighter to his chest, holding the back of my head, gently guiding my face into the crook of his neck as I cried. Just like I did last night before I passed out.

I couldn't stop the choked up sobs escaping my throat as I clung to Marcos shirt. I remember the look of my brother's dead eyes staring up at me as the blood pooled around his body.

"That's right, Baby Bird. Let it all out. I've got ya, you're ok now."

Marco softly rocked me back and forth, kissing my head and whispering sweet words in my ears. I cried for what felt like hours but could only have been a few minutes. When I had finally stopped Marco hoisted us both up so that he was leaning on the headboard behind us and I was leaning on him. He twisted his upper body slightly to reach over to the bedside table and got a cup that was full with water. He propped me up between his legs and held the cup to my lips.

"Just a few sips, Baby Bird. You can't heal if you don't stay hydrated."

I took an experimental sip before trying to chug it down, the cold refreshing feeling down my throat was addictive. I haven't realized how thirsty I really was but Marco wouldn't let go of the cup.

"Slow down, Baby Bird. Only small sips."

I whined in disappointment but Marco just chuckled at my reaction slowly tilting the cup so I never got any proper gulps of it. Once the cup was empty he put the cup back on the bedside table

After a few deep breaths I was able to take in my surroundings, we were in the same room that I had originally woken up in, the comfortable bed and small port window. The light was relatively bright, just a little past sunrise, the warmth of a new day starting to set in.

Marco tightly hugged me, kissing my forehead again.

"Feel better, Baby Bird?"

I nod numbly, not really knowing what else to do. He gave me one last big squeeze before standing with me in his arms.

"Then let's get some food in your system. Everything will improve once you have a full belly."

Marco walks out the bedroom only to almost faceplant with me still in his arms. He took a second to readjust me in his arms before scowling down by the door only to be greeted by a crescent shaped mustache and a wagging tale. Stefan is sitting there in front of the now open door without a care in the world. Giving us a little woof in greeting.

"Damn it, Stefan."

Looking up at Marco I could swear I saw a vein pop out of his forehead.

Marco started to make his way to the deck of the ship down a long hallway with doors on either side and down a staircase, the door at the bottom on it leading to the outside world.

Marco made his way across the deck and down into the galley, Stefan following us until we got to the stairs that led down to the galley and kitchen. We passed several crewmates on the way down but it was nothing compared to what looked to be hundreds of different men waiting for their breakfast, a few waving saying hi to Marco but some were glaring with a deep disdain.

I couldn't believe what I was seeing, I don't think I've ever seen so many people in one place but I couldn't think about it too long before one in particular jumped up the second he saw us.

"There's my little Firefly, we were worried after Marco told us you passed out again last night, how ya feeling?"

I nodded at him.

"I-I'm fine…. a little h-hungry."

My voice was pretty hoarse from all the crying I've been doing of late, the water Marco had given me helped but not by much. Ace runs his hands through my hair grazing down my jaw and holding my chin in his fingers making my near bloodshot eyes stare up at him.

"How about when you've got some food in ya I take you on a little tour of the ship, we can introduce you to Pops and give you the basic run down of the ship for when your feet heal up, then we ca-"

Ace was cut off from his ramblings by a hand hitting the back of his head, some… guy? Who was dressed in some kind of robe. Their hair was done in an intricate bun style I had never seen before, a few strands of hair framing their face. Lips painted a vibrant red and delicate facial features, the only clue to him being a man was his open robes, showing off his strong pecs and well toned abs.

"Let's not overwhelm her within the first few minutes of her waking up Ace, it's her first proper day on the ship, give her some breathing room."

Ace whined knowing his friend was right.

"At least some people have some common sense."

I could practically feel Marco rolling his eyes as he passive aggressively chastised Ace while the man with better skin then most women came closer to me and Marco, holding his hand up to me, palm up.

"Hello, Little Flower, my name is Izou, like the dufus behind me and the doctor holding you: I'm one of the division commanders for the Whitebeard Pirates."

I stare at his hand for a few seconds before placing my hand in it quietly introducing myself. His smile widens a little as he brings my hand up to his painted lips and presses a delicate kiss on my knuckles, that I only just now realized were still wrapped rather snuggly in crisp white bandages, lightly before letting my hand go and shoving Ace back to the table they were previously sitting at. Marco must have finished bandaging them after I blacked out last night.

“We’ll see you later, Little Flower.”

Marco chuckled to himself before continuing his way into the kitchen without another word. The sound of chopping from sharp knives and sizzling vegetables, with someone barking orders to a few cooks bustling around the kitchen in a frenzy filled my ears.

The most amazing, rich and savory aroma filled my senses. It was so good I could practically taste it already. Being surrounded with food made my stomach growl loudly from hunger. If Marco hadn't been holding me so close he probably wouldn't have heard it over all the hustle and bustle noise and for a split second I didn't think he did until he chuckled, pressing his lips into my temple.

"Come on, Baby Bird, let's get some food in you.”

My face warmed with embarrassment.

Marco kept a good distance from the cooks, making sure to not get in their way and make their jobs harder but close enough to get their attention. Some raised their heads for a moment to greet one of their commanders while others were busy trying to cook and follow the head chef's orders as fast as they possibly could.

“Hey Thatch, got someone here who's starving!”

You could hear some crashing and a few swears before Thatch yelled back somewhere in this giant blur of a kitchen.

“No shit Marco, I have a massive ship of hundreds of pirates, everyone is hungry!”

I could practically feel Marco rolling his eyes at the chef's sassy remark.

“They can wait, our girl here can’t.”

After a beat of silence I could hear a bunch of clattering and heavy footsteps running towards us till I saw him beelining towards us, a goofy grin lining his lips as he snatched me from Marcos arms, hugging me close to him by my hips. The hold lifted me about a head taller than him forcing me to wrap my legs around him and my arms wrapping around his shoulders as he began spinning me in circles so fast I was seeing stars.

When he finally stood still he lowered me to face height and pressed his warm lips to my forehead, not that I really registered it. I was so dizzy I was sure I was still spinning. I could hear Marco laughing in the background, probably laughing at my face. I'd bet money I was cross eyed.

“There's my little Buttercup, I was starting to think you’d sleep through the day again.”

“You keep spinning her around like a top she’ll probably just pass out again.”

Thatch scoffed at Marco,

“Well she's never been in safer arms to pass out in, she’ll be fine.”

“Yes, because passing out multiple times in less than 24 hours after suffering near full body frostbite is a safe thing to be doing and something we should encourage. Uh huh, yes. Great idea Thatch.”

Thatch half turning to glare at Marco and his intense sarcasm.

“She’s perfectly fine Marco, now go do your doctory things...”

“And I would like to keep her that way. Besides, she'll need all the energy she can muster for what Ace seems to have planned for her.”

Having said his piece, Marco made his way out of the kitchen without another word, leaving me with Thatch.

Thatch turned back to me, still not setting me down, his arms now under my butt keeping me in place as I continued to koala hug him out of necessity.

‘Well then, we’ll have to fill you up so you have lots of energy for exploring.”

Thatch walked through the kitchen passing all the cooks and the freshly sharpened knives and small bursts of flame from pans surrounding us as he moved deeper into the kitchen. He took me to a little nook. It was like a little kitchen inside of the kitchen. I hadn't even noticed it last night, but to be fair I had a lot on my mind.

Thatch once again set me down on the counter and started to chop some veggies beside me while making small talk, occasionally stopping to shout orders or answer a question.

“How’d you sleep, Buttercup?”

“I m-more passed out.. t-than fell asle-ep.”

Thatch chuckled at my response, as I rubbed my sore throat. It felt so raw after all my screaming and crying.

Thatch seemed to notice, pausing his chopping to fill up a glass cup with water.

“Fare enough, once you're all healed you'll probably have a proper adjustment period. Everyone has their own approach to it, just wait till you hear Ace’s.”

Thatch chuckled under his breath as I took a sip of the water, but it was warm. As if Thatch read my mind, he answered my unspoken question while he continued chopping.

“Warm water will help soothe that throat of yours much better than cold will.”

I nodded my head, taking a few more sips, the warmth actively soothing the pain in my throat.

“But don't worry, Buttercup, we'll be here for you. Besides the room we set up for you is in the commander's quarters so if worse comes to worse you can always come or call for us if you need. Ace will probably show you today.”

I nodded, my head spinning but this time I wasn't dizzy. I was overwhelmed. I had just lost my brother and not only that my village would be in cinders by now. And even if all the villagers, all my friends weren't dead we wouldn't have anywhere to go in the first place. And I was being taken care of by some of the most infamous pirates on the seas who were oddly touchy.

My mind began swimming with possibilities of my uncertain future. I couldn't stay here. I wasn't pirate material, I didn't have the will or the disposition to be a pirate. But where would I go? I had no other family other than my brother, and now he's dead. I was truly alone and on a pirate ship for god's sake. As thankful as I was to them for saving, feeding and tending to my wounds I knew I was far from safe. Deep down it just didn't feel right for someone like me to be here.

I hadn't even noticed the tears on my cheeks or my soft whimpering till Thatch took my cheeks in his much larger hands, forcing me to look up at him from the now empty cup that I was clutching tightly.

I must have looked horrible. I felt horrible. My stomach in knots, my brain pounding, my face red with heat, my eyes were most definitely bloodshot by now. My legs and arms still wrapped in bandages that I only now started to register were actually in pain.

Staring into Thatchs warm chocolate eyes looked into mine only for me to keep crying. Not only from my emotional pain but the physical as well. My whole body trembling like a falling leaf. My sudden awareness of my condition only seemed to amplify the pain.

Thatch’s hands moved from my cheeks down my arms and stopped at my hands. I couldn't help but flinch from the contact as gentle as it was. My mind was so hyper focused on my physical pain now that I was coming out of what I assumed to be shock. Or maybe I had just been in denial this whole time. Not wanting to think about my pain, not wanting to relive my memories, watching my brother die over and over again in my own mind.

My loud sobbing got the attention of most of the cooks around us a few feet away from the little private kitchen but most only gave a small glance, most focusing on their cooking. Thatch had moved from in front of me to the side, shielding me from their few glances. Not that I noticed, so distracted I didn't notice anyone else around me. It felt like the pain was surrounding me. It was so overwhelming I couldn't do anything but sit there and cry.

It wasn’t till I felt unusually warm arms wrap tightly around me that I started to come back to reality. The hug was so tight yet so soft. I felt a hand on my back pushing me snuggly into a strong chest, another on the back of my head pushing my face into the crook of their neck. They rocked me back and forth slowly, cooing soft things in my ears I didn't even register. I didn't know when Ace got here but I was thankful either way.

After what felt like an eternity the world finally started coming back to me. I pulled away slightly just enough to see a freckled face locking down at me. I collapsed back into Ace’s warm arms, the cup I was holding in my hands falling to the floor shattering as I wrapped my arms around Ace, nuzzling my face into his neck despite the pain in my arms worsening the tighter I held, taking a few deep breaths.

“That's a girl, nice deep breaths, Firefly, just focus on my voice. It's ok, you're ok.”

My sobs quieted down a little but my tears wouldn't stop.

“M-m-mar-co.”

I could barely get out one single name, my throat was even more raw than this morning.

Thatch leaned closer, his warm breath wafting over my cheek.

“Marco? You need Marco, Buttercup?”

I nodded silently but it was enough for Thatch to start making his way out of the kitchen to find the doctor.

“You're hurting pretty bad aren’t you, Firefly?”

Ace's voice was as warm as his arms.

I nodded into his neck, my limbs throbbing painfully but I couldn't let go of my only life line.

“Don't worry, Marco will take away all the pain, promise. Just keep taking those deep breaths for me.”

A few seconds later I heard footsteps running towards us at full speed. Before I could even lift my head from Ace’s neck I was being swept up in different arms. Cradled tightly to another strong chest. It would have hurt if it wasn't for the gold and blue phoenix fire already enveloping my limbs, spreading a warmth throughout my limbs. But it wasn't a warmth like Ace’s, this warmth was distinctly Marcos. A warmth that came from a warm summer breeze.

Immediately my pain faded to a dull throbbing, still present but barely. A hand weaved through my hair at the base of my skull tilting it towards Thatch, his fingers massaging where his hand sat. His warm eyes looked down at me with worry.

“Feel better, Buttercup?”

For a second I didn't say anything. Just stared up at his eyes, letting them ground me all over again before nodding as much as his grip would let me.

Ace and Thatch let out an audible sigh of relief as Marcos hand replaced Thatchs, turning my head towards him and pressing out foreheads together as he looked down at me solemnly despite his other arm still holding me up.

“I’m so sorry, Baby Bird. It was foolish of me not to prepare for this. Panic attacks are common with those suffering from PTSD, I should have prepared.”

“Wh–what?”

I couldn't help my body from trembling. The sudden news was not surprising in the least, subconsciously I knew something like this would happen eventually. Watching the last of one's family be murdered in cold blood was bound to leave mental repercussions, I guess I just didn't want to accept it yet, it was all too overwhelming.

Marcos grip tightened in my hair as I began to hyperventilate again. Doing his best to ground me in the present and not spiral into my own despair again.

I felt as Ace’s warm hands fell onto my trembling shoulders, squeezing them tightly and warming his hands with his powers in a warm massage. As his thumbs worked tight circles on my shoulders and neck I slowly felt myself relax into his warm touch. Between his and Marcos flames I found myself nearly falling asleep till Thatch gave my cheek a gentle tap tap tap to keep me awake.

“Hey now, Buttercup, no falling asleep on me just yet. I still need to get some food into that belly of yours.”

I opened my eyes half way, feeling like weights were attached to my eyelids making them hard to open as I nodded silently as I tried to squirm my way out of Marcos hold so I could eat but his grip never faltered as he cooed down at me.

“Hold still, Baby bird. If you tried standing on your own now you'd just hurt yourself even more. Your frostbite is far from being healed and after a panic attack in a physical condition like this your head would probably be spinning so much you'll see stars. We don't want to add a nasty fall to your repertoire of injuries, now do we?”

Marco adjusted me in his arms, his hand letting go of my hair and moving to the middle of my back, making it easier to hold me upright. I looked up at his calm blue eyes.

I nodded slowly, swallowing down my humiliation for now. But deep down I couldn't deny It felt nice to be held. I can’t remember a time I’ve ever been held.

Marco pulled up a chair, Ace hopping up on the counter smiling down at us as Thatch finished up whatever he was cooking. Nothing was said as Marco held me on his lap, one of his large hands resting on my thighs while the other gently traced his finger tips up and down my spine.

He had maneuvered me to sit sideways with my head resting on his shoulder.

After a few minutes of me being lost in thought, Thatch passed Marco a steaming bowl of what looked like some kind of porridge.

I took a deep breath through my nose, taking in the amazing aroma coming from the bowl. It smelled so good my mouth started to water. I really was hungry and having such amazing food in front of me wasn't doing me any favors. I lifted my hands to take the bowl from Marco only for him to hold it up and out of my reach.

_________________________

I almost lost it when my little bird looked up at me with a look reminiscent of a kicked puppy in the rain. Ace and Thatch seem to feel similarly, Ace being unable to hold back let out a snicker our little bird luckily didn't hear. So focused on the fact I wasn't letting her hold her breakfast.

The hand I kept on her thigh tightened, the Phoenix screaming at me to give our precious girl what she wanted. But I knew that while she is healing it would be crucial she now lift a finger, or a toe for that matter, and making her codependent on us during this time will be important. After all the work we did, this was not the time to fuck up now that she was finally here in my grasp, literally.

I slowly leaned in pressing my lips to the soft shell of her ear while still keeping her breakfast away from her.

“Now now, Baby bird. Your hands are way too fragile to be holding something so hot, it will damage your already traumatized skin. Let me help, I don’t want anything impeding your healing.”

She deflated at my soft cooing, hanging her head down and giving a slight nod and accepting my help. I couldn't help my smirk, my brother joining in my joy as sick as it may seem. Even the Phoenix was preening knowing our little bird was letting me take care of her most basic needs.

I almost couldn't control myself this morning while she nuzzled into my chest while sleeping on my chest. I nearly transformed, the Phoenix fighting to come out and nest with our precious girl in its talons, but she was scared enough as is, seeing the Phoenix would only make it worse.

But still the Phoenix was soothed by the amount of contact we had with her. Treating her wounds last night. Having her pass out in our arms from being so exhausted. Being able to take her to our room and sleep with her all night. But even so, we needed more.

I wrapped an arm around her, bringing it around so my hand could hold the bowl in front of her while still keeping her securely in my lap. Lifting the hand that was on her thigh up to hold the spoon.

I gave her soft words of encouragement, whispering into her ear as she slowly started to eat, spoonful by spoonful, white knuckling my composer not to do anything too hasty as she moaned at the taste of her breakfast. Savoring every bite like it was going to be the last meal she'd ever eat.

Ace was watching her intently, his hand gripping the counter. It was clear he was having the same struggles as I was. The fire in his eyes told me he was ready to rip our little bird from my arms to hold and feed her himself, among other more intimate things. But good things come to those who wait and he would have all day with her.

Thatch on the other hand had paused cleaning the dishes from making her breakfast. His hands still submerged in warm soapy water no doubt griping whatever dish he had been cleaning so tightly it was probably about to break. It was pretty clear why. The hard bulge on his crotch strained tightly at the seams of his pants that did nothing to hide his arousal. His face remained as straight as he could possibly make it but his lightly rosy cheeks betrayed him. Luckily her back was turned to both of them and she was much too focused on her breakfast to pay any notice to them.

I on the other hand was in bliss, the Phoenix the happiest he's ever been, with our little bird sitting in our lap, moaning with tears starting to form in the corners of her eyes as she ate the best breakfast she probably ever had. Thought in comparison to what she’ll have later, this is bland

With that look on her face it was near impossible not to get hard. My cock occasionally twitching every time she let out a soft little moan. Watching her eat I could see a little life coming back to her face. Her cheeks growing a little rosier, her shaky limbs starting to settle. I was sure after a bath and some warm clean clothes she would look even better, her body finally having a chance to settle.

The second she was done her food Ace practically leaped off of the counter, his excitement so overwhelming small flames started popping up all over his arms and shoulders as he reached out for our little bird.

“Relax Ace.”

I couldn't help chastising him but there wasn't any heat behind it. I understood his excitement to show her around but I wasn't quite ready to let her go just yet.

Ace begrudgingly sat back down on the counter, shaking his leg impatiently as I handed the bowl back to Thatch who had finally calmed down enough that his bulge wasn't too noticeable and gave our little bird a pat on the head.

“How was it Buttercup?”

She nodded shyly. She clearly wasn't used to so much love and physical contact. That useless brother of hers clearly didn't know how to take care of such a sweet little thing like her. But he wasn't going to be a problem anymore so we were free to love her as much as we pleased.

I bounced her on my thighs a little, my arms giving her a light squeeze encouraging her to use her words, in part because I wanted her to be able to have proper open communication with us but also because I know the sound of her soft little voice might just send Thatch over the edge.

After another second she slowly looked up at Thatch, giving him a soft smile.

“I-it w-as ama-zing….. t-than-k you.”

Her little voice was so scratchy, not very surprising but still the cutest thing any of us had ever heard.

Thatch didn't move for a second before leaning down and kissing her forehead for a few seconds too long, His hand on the back of her little skull keeping her in place for him.

“I'm so glad you liked it. Let's get you some more water and then you can go exploring with Ace.”

She nodded again, still too shy to talk more than she had to, especially after being kissed even if it was just on her forehead. God knows we all wanted to do a hell of a lot more. Thatch put her dish in the sink but not before licking the spoon with a sly look on his face before popping it into the soapy water.

Moving to grab another glass, the one she dropped having long since been cleaned up, and filling it with some lukewarm water.

“Here you go, Buttercup.”

She took it with a nod and a quiet thank you before she started to chug the glass down.

“Wow, Baby Bird! Slow down, it's not going anywhere!”

I reach my hand up and gently push the glass down a little so she wasn't taking such big gulps. She was clearly thirsty, after all that crying I would be surprised if she wasn't.

Once she finished, in what must have been record time, she let out a sigh of relief that some of her thirst had been quenched. I took my thumb, whipping it on the corner of her mouth catching a small droplet of water that didn't make it into her mouth.

“Feel better?”

She nodded, her face going red from all the intimate contact she's gotten this morning. Any more and she probably starts glowing.

“Do you want some more?”

She pondered for a second, her little hand wandering up to her throat and giving it a little squeeze before answering.

“Y-yes, please.”

I smiled, nodding my head. Passing the cup back to Thatch who was already waiting with his hand out.

Once she was done drinking her second cup, this time much slower and gave it back to Thatch I raised my hand to her throat, pausing when she gasped and tried to jerk away while her hand shot up to grab my wrist. Not that she got very far, my other hand reached to grab hers, holding one of her wrists and quickly grabbing her second so she couldn't use that one. I could feel every muscle in her body tense and start to shake all over again.

“It's ok, Baby Bird. I just need to check your pulse really quick. I promise it won't hurt.”

She stared up at me with wide, scared eyes. Looking into mine with so much intent. After a few long seconds her body relaxed a little and she nodded silently, letting me continue.

I slowly brought my hand back up to her throat. Pressing gently on the soft skin underneath her jaw holding it there counting her heart beats.

After a minute I lowered my hand, my little bird clamming up on herself. I was so proud of her for being so vulnerable with us when we were still technically strangers to her. After going through so much pain and suffering I didn't expect her to be as pliable with us as she has been but that was a good thing. The sooner she's more comfortable the sooner she’ll grow to need us.

“Good girl, Your heart beat is a little higher than normal but that's to be expected. Nothing that I can't fix with a little time”

She nodded, looking down at her lap as she picked at the bandages covering her finger tips. I covered her hand with mine, giving them a tight squeeze to stop her from picking away at the bandages.

The Phoenix started cooing louder and louder wanting to come out even more when we saw the size difference between our hands. One of my hands completely envelops both of her with room to spare. It would be so easy to hold her little wrists over her head with one hand as I made her make even more cute sounds while she's in my bed.

“Now, Ace will show you around the ship and introduce you to a few people. He can show you around your room too, it’s in the commander's wing with us if you ever need anything.”

As much as I wished to have her constantly sleeping with one of us it was too soon to push anything on her. And rushing wouldn’t be good for anyone. Besides, aside from sleeping she would always be under constant supervision.

“O-ok.”

I almost didn't hear her, if I wasn't a Zoan user I probably wouldn't.

I let go of her wrists, taking her chin in my thumb and forefinger making her look up at me with those pretty eyes.

“After lunch Ace will bring you back to the clinic, where I took you last night, and I'll take a look at your bandages and I'm going to prescribe you a few meds but it will take me a while to make up a prescription so you'll have to hold out till then.”

She looked nervous at the mention of medication to which I responded with a loving look of my own before gently kissing her temple, phoenix fire flickering on my lips as I did, the Phoenix getting harder and harder to keep a lid on.

“Don't worry, Baby Bird. It will just be some pain meds to help you throughout your healing process. Nothing too crazy. I'll need to take some blood samples from you too just to make sure everything else is ok. Just a standard doctor's check up, nothing to be scared of, ok?”

She gave another nod, looking back down into her lap.

I looked up at Ace, giving him a subtle nod to come over and take her. He immediately jumped up with just as much, if not more, enthusiasm as before scooping her out of my arms eliciting a frightened yelp from her.

“Careful Ace,you have to be gentle with her while she's healing”

Ace was cradling her in his arms, one hand under her legs where her bandages met skin and one on her upper back while keeping her tightly pressed to his bare chest. Little bird's arms having wrapped tightly around his neck, getting a little tangled with his necklace, while clinging to him for dear life.

“I know, I know, of course I'll be careful with my fragile little Firefly.”

Ace pressed a long kiss to her temple and before I could get another word in he was out of the kitchen and up the main deck.

It was a good thing the other cooks had already cleared out to eat their own breakfast otherwise they would have gotten trampled.

“She will eventually heal Marco, even with you stalling. And you can see it in her eyes, she wants to leave. The last place she wants to be right now is a pirate ship.”

I sigh, looking over to Thatch solemnly. His eyes are downcast as he finishes cleaning his private kitchen.

“It's early Thatch. She can’t walk, her hands are as mutilated as her legs and she can barely talk, her throat is too raw. She'll probably have night terrors for months after what she's gone through. All we need to do is make her depend on us. Even if she does manage to escape, which is far down the road, she has nowhere to go. All we have to do is take care of her and smother her with affection.”

Thatch closes his eyes letting out a deep sigh.

“How long will it take her to heal naturally, without the phoenix fire?”

“She was exposed longer than she should have been, It will take weeks, probably closer to a few months to be able to walk around and use her hands without any pain. I just healed face completely but leaving her limbs as bad as they are gives us an excuse to be with her constantly.”

Thatch groans, throwing a dirty cloth across the room, hitting the wall with a wet slap before falling to the ground.

“I hate seeing her like this Marco! This wasn't how it was supposed to go! She was supposed to be home, safe and sound before we took her! But that bastard just had to run with her!”

I stand for the chair, walking over to him and giving his shoulder a tight squeeze.

“I know, but as much as we hate seeing her hurt, this gives us opportunities we wouldn't have had otherwise. She has no reason to question us. All she knows is that her village and her family are gone, all we have to do is nurture her and she’ll fall right in our arms.”

I could feel Thatch shaking with rage under my palms, I understood his rage. Getting her was supposed to be simple, easy, quiet, and most importantly non-violent but we had no other choice.

“Don't worry Thatch. It will all work out. Besides we have her, that's the most important part.”

_________________________

Once Ace and I were on the deck Stefan immediately started jumping around Ace excitedly, the small dog trying to lick at my toes. I was so distracted I didn’t even register that Ace was talking till he nudged my head with his own.

“Did you hear me, Firefly?”

I look up at him dumbly, his face softening at my expression.

“S-sorry… W-what?”

He chuckled and kissed my temple again. What is with all of them and kisses?

“I said we haven't even been properly introduced. You know my name but I don't know yours.”

I blanked for a second trying to think. Had I really not told them my name?

I opened my mouth to answer only to get interrupted by Izou, my mouth left open like a gaping fish.

“Smooth Ace, really smooth. Is that the best you could come up with?”

Ace rolled his eyes at his fellow commander.

“Please… like you had a better idea.”

I couldn't help being confused by their conversation. What on earth were they talking about? Maybe an inside joke? Just some pirate banter I didn't understand?

I figured there was no point in thinking about it, there were probably a thousand things they'll talk about that I just don't understand. No point dwelling on it when I had a thousand things of my own on my mind.

I started to drown them out as I tried to figure out what my life was even going to look like. Without my family I had no one to lean on. I needed to figure out how to take care of myself. But how would I even begin to start a new life on a completely different island surrounded by strangers. Not to mention my arms and legs. From the quick look I got of them last night they are not in good shape. Severe frostbite all over them.

They hurt in general but I imagine the tightly wrapped bandages and whatever cream Marco had put on them were helping soothe them but it would probably be weeks before I could walk normally again. Not to mention the scaring I'd have would be extensive.

I started to tear up, my hands shaking, not from the pain but my own uncertainty. I couldn't stay here, but I can't leave and fend for myself yet either. I needed help, but who was I to ask the Whitebeard Pirates for help when they were already doing so much for me.

Hot heavy tears fell from my cheeks, soft hic’s leaving my throat as I tried my hardest to come up with a plan.

A soft set of hands cupped my cheeks making me look up at a very concerned Izou.

“Little Flower, what's wrong?”

I sniff, trying to calm down a little and my cheeks going red. Here I was crying in front of a bunch of pirates like a baby. I couldn't tell them the real reason, could I? That would be a death sentence.

“I-i’m fine.”

Izou scoffed looking at me inquisitively.

“You're clearly not Little Flower, tell us what's wrong. We'll be able to help, and if not us, there are hundreds of our brothers on this ship who will be able to help one way or another.”

I could feel myself shaking. My anxiety skyrocketed. I couldn't even form one rational thought. All that was running through my mind was how alone I was. Alone and scared in an unfamiliar place with hundreds of unfamiliar people, and worse those people were pirates. Albeit kind pirates so far but I didn't want to take advantage of that kindness, or come to rely on it. That would be a death sentence in and of itself.

“Oh Little Flower~, Are you in pain?”

I nodded. I couldn't give them any other explanation and in truth it did hurt; my heart and my body.

“Don't worry, Firefly, I'll show you around and introduce you to a few people you won't even realize how sore you are and by the time we are done Marco will have gotten the pain meds ready,”

Ace squeezed me a little, it was a good thing it was only my legs and arms that were so bad, my stomack wasn't great but not unbearable either. Definitely better than my arms and legs otherwise his hug would have really hurt. It was still a little too tight though. Not too surprising however. Someone with muscles and as touchy as he is was bound to be a tight hugger.

Izou chuckled a little watching the scene take place in front of him.

“Careful Ace, you're gonna hug her to death at this rate.”

Ace chuckled with a goofy grin etched on his face.

“Come on, Firefly, Lots to see and not a lot of time to see it. Wanna come with us Izou?”

Izou looked down at me, our eyes meeting for a split second before I quickly turned away from him. Looking them in the eyes was so intimidating, especially Marco even if they did have kind eyes.

“Why not, someone's got to make sure you don't overwhelm her.”

Ace rolled his eyes, scoffing at Izou’s remark.

“Please. She’s perfectly safe with me.”

“Didn't say she wasn't.”

Ace and Izou had already started to walk the rest of the way across the massive deck to the other side. There were a few different doors and they were bee-lining towards the one smack dab in the middle.

“This door leads to the commander's quarters where we stay and where you'll be staying. The other doors lead to the bunks and shower rooms, most other rooms around the ship are just storage; the one on the far right there leads to Marco’s clinic. You went there last night but you'll see that later today. Some of the doors lead to the depths of the ship, it's mostly just maintenance down there. You won't have to worry about those though. For now let's just get you used to our rooms, the kitchen and the main deck. Sounds good, Little Flower?”

I nodded silently as Ace and Izou had climbed a set of stairs leading to the long hallway. Now that I was actually paying attention there must have been nearly twenty doors lining the hall. My eyes widened, why on earth would they need so many different rooms? Ace laughed a little, causing me to look up at him. Turns out, much to my displeasure, he was laughing at me.

“Lots of rooms huh, Firefly?”

I nodded dumbly, I couldn't help but feel like I was being picked on. To them this was completely normal, but I had never been on a ship before. And from what I was told they were cramped and tight, with little to no room for their crews, granted I figured the commanders would be granted some privileges like a little more room but this was crazy.

“There are sixteen commanders in total, Little Flower, Ace is the second division commander, Thatch is the forth and Marco is the first and I am the commander of the sixteenth division. Not all the commanders are here, some are on other ships, some on missions, so almost never all of us are here. But we have a bunch of extra rooms too even if they were.

Ace had walked us all the way to the end of the hallway to the door on the left. Ace opened the door to a simple, plain room. Just a bed in the far right corner with a little bad side table and a dresser beside that with a porthole right above the dresser.

It was all pretty bland, the only part of the room that had any semblance of personality being a thick, soft blanket spread over the bed. It was a vibrant blue and gold. It reminded me of Marcos flames. At the foot of the bed was another blanket folded neatly, this one was bright red.

Ace set me down on the bed as I took in my surroundings. Feeling the blanket I was sitting on felt like the softest thing I had ever felt. I couldn't help but relax into it as I watched Ace walk over to the dresser, opening it to rummage around.

“We have some old clothes in here for you till we dock and get you some proper ones. These will do for now but they will be a bit big on you.”

I nodded again, much to their displeasure. But to their credit they hid it pretty well but it was clear they wanted me to actually talk to them.

Ace went over to the door again, where Izou was leaning on the door frame.

“The room right across from you is Marcos, we figured it would be safer if you were closest to him while you heal just in case you need something at night, he's not far, very easy to get to.”

“Not like she’ll have to leave for him to hear her.”

Ace snickered at Izou’s remark. I tilted my head in confusion.

“W-what do y-you m-mean?”

Ace’s face lit up when I finally spoke again.

He came over kneeling in front of me taking my hands in his. It felt nice with how warm he was. The warmth soaking into my bandages.

“It's just a joke, Firefly. Marco has really good hearing and the walls are pretty thin too. So if you fall and get hurt he’ll hear and wake up. Not to mention as a doctor the man’s got trained ears.”

I nodded. It made sense, especially for a doctor.

“Izou is a ways down but I am right next door so if you need something, me and Marco are always nearby but I’m a heavy sleeper.”

Ace looked bashful at his comment as Izou scoffed jokingly again, must be another inside joke.

Ace smiled solemnly, his hands squeezing mine gently, being very careful of my injuries.

“And that door…”

Ace pointed to the far side of the room that I hadn't even noticed yet, walking over and opening the door to show me a little washroom. The only thing I could see from this angle was the counter top, sink and small mirror on the wall.

“... is your bathroom, You can shower and clean up in there once Marco gives you the go ahead. You can ask him later.”

I nodded silently again. Silently praying I'll be able to bathe soon when I suddenly became very aware of my physical condition. I reach my hand up to my hair feeling around my head. It felt knotted, giving a clump a tug I could feel how messy it really was. I must have a rat's nest up there. When I pulled my hand away the bandages were stained a little with black soot, probably from the fire.

I grimaced at my hand. I slowly stood up with my weak legs, my body trembling all over. Ace immediately stood with me, not letting go of my hand. His other hovering over me closely. Izou had stopped leaning on the door frame, taking a few steps closer to me with a concerned look on his face.

Standing hurt, my legs throbbing, pain shooting upt to my spine to the back of my neck, my hair standing on ends.

“You really shouldn't be standing, Firefly.”

I shook my head, I needed to know if I even could. So hesitantly I took a few steps forward, leaning heavily on Ace as I tried to walk over to the bathroom. Ace held me tightly, keeping me upright while trying to remain gentle but I could already feel the bruise forming on my arm. Not that I really paid attention to it, my legs and my destination taking up all the space in my mind. I wanted…needed to see what I looked like.

I saw my reflection as I got closer and closer to the bathroom. My image getting bigger and bigger. Finally after a painstaking few minutes of just walking across my small room I stood in the bathroom with Ace beside me and Izou behind me as I looked at myself for the first time.

I could feel more tears well in my eyes, but not because of the pain,

I barely recognized the person staring back at me. My face was messy, a little bit of ash stained my cheeks and forehead. It looked like some of it had smudged off when I collapsed in the snow. My hair was a rat's nest of soot and dirt, all knotted and messy. If I tried brushing it I would probably break the brush. But that wasn't the hardest part to look at.

I reached my hand to my cheek, brushing my fingertips of the the skin and pulling them away to look down at them, praying that what I thought I saw was just a trauma induced hallucination, that it wasn't really there and when I looked down at my fingers I could take a breath of relief and all would be ok. But I was wrong.

Staring down at my hands, my fingertips stained with blood. I knew I wasn't mine. It was like I was on my island all over again, begging my brother to hurry and come with me after he had been shot. His blood getting all over me.

My legs finally gave out on me, I almost fell to the ground as I wailed out. I would have hit the floor planks hard if it wasn't for Ace catching me, Izou rushing to my side, holding me close as Ace kept me upright on my other side.

They both hugged me tightly, they were talking but I couldn't register anything they were saying as I cried louder and harder than I ever had. My hands coming up to my face trying to scratch away any reminder of the attack and my brother's death.

Ace pulled me onto his lap, holding me tightly as Izou grabbed a face cloth and got it wet. Ace held both my wrists in one hand keeping my hands away from my face preventing me from clawing at it. His other arm was wrapped around me, hugging me tightly as I lean my face into his neck.

Izou crouched down again after a few seconds with a washcloth wet with warm water. The hand not holding the cloth cupped my cheek pulling my face away from Ace. My tears had not stopped but my screaming had. Izou slowly brought the cloth up to my face, his other hand making sure I wouldn't jerk away from him.

When the cloth touched my skin I couldn't help but flinch at the sensation, my skin feeling as raw as my thoughts and emotions. Izou's eyes didn't leave mine as he worked the cloth over my skin, whipping away all the grime and blood as Ace kept me close, using his devil fruit to warm me up in an attempt to stop my shaking even if it wasn't because I was cold.

My warm tears helped the cloth to wipe away all the ash and blood, Izou’s hand moving down to my chin to get to my other cheek.

“There we go, Little Flower. Isn't that better?”

None of us had said a word for the few minutes Izou and Ace tried to calm me down so Izou’s sudden question caught me off guard and it took a few seconds for me to respond. It was only when Ace gave me a little nudge in the form of a tight squeeze that I finally nodded. It did feel better but to be fair I had been filthy for a while now and only just realized it so it didn't bother me till I saw my reflection. I can't even imagine how Marco stomaked sleeping with me in this state.

Izou smiled at me, leaning in and kissing my cheek, making me gasp. Everything felt raw. I raised my hand to my cheek, caressing it. His lips were so soft.

Ace chuckled at my reaction while Izou just got up to clean the now filthy cloth, rinsing away the last of the grime on my face.

“Unfortunately I wouldn't be able to do anything about that hair of yours without a proper bath. But I have lots of good products you can use that will make your hair soft and silky in no time.”

He turned his head back to me, giving me a wink. His own hair swayed with him.

I let out a few last sniffles as my head fell back on Ace’s chest.

“Looks like our Little Flower could use a nap.”

Ace hummed in agreement and I didn't have the energy to properly protest, just raising my hand to his chest and shaking my head a little. The last thing I wanted to do right now was go to sleep again. But Ace was already up and moving to the bed Izou following and pulled back to covers to reveal nice clean sheets.

Ace laid me down on the far side of the bed closest to the wall, I assumed he would just leave it at that, but no. He sat on the bed, took off his shoes, hat and red necklace, placing them on the bedside table and laid down with me. Not only that but he pulled me close. His arm wrapped tightly around me so I was on my side facing him, my head resting on his chest. It was the same position I woke up in this morning with Marco.

My face got red at the intimate position. But Ace was clearly unfazed and just pulled up the blanket, it was even more cozy being under it.

I was about to protest as Izou left the room and Ace got comfortable only to be interrupted by my own yawn. Ace, seemingly anticipating my protest, shoved my face into his chest keeping me silent so he could speak.

“Relax, Firefly. We will have a short nap and then go see Marco after lunch. Besides, you need lots of rest so you can heal up.”

I looked up as much as his hand would let me. His eyes help a kind softness but I couldn't almost see a glimmer of something else. Something dark. But before I could think about it any longer I could feel my mind fading. So comfortable in Aces arms and in the most comfortable bed I had ever been in I couldn't help but slowly drift away into sleep.
_________________________

Apparently we had been asleep a lot longer than we should have because Thatch came crashing down into my room, nearly breaking the door down yelling at Ace with a passion.

I was still half asleep but I could vaguely hear Ace getting chewed out by the chef, something about keeping me away and passing a meal and how I needed to eat and how Marco had been wondering where we were but I failed to grasp the finer details In my half asleep state.

Eventually Thatch just set the plate of food he had brought with him on the bedside table beside Ace's hat and necklace. He then proceeds to grab Ace by the scruff of his hair and throw him from the bed making me collapse into the mattress very suddenly. That was enough to wake me up.

“Owwwwwwww, Thatch, the hell?”

“Oh shut up, you're fine, Fire Fist.”

Thatch was clearly unimpressed, his face clearly displaying his true feelings. Not that he seems to care. But the second he turns to me he’s all smiles again.

“Hey, Buttercup, how ya feelin’?”

I was a little too stunned to speak, my eyes focused on Ace who was currently getting up from the ground.

How strong was Thatch?!? Yeah he was really tall, but damn. My eyes just followed Ace, shocked at what I had just witnessed till Thatch gave my cheek a little pinch. I flinched away from him, my hand cupping my cheek again as I finally focused on him. His smile widening.

“I said you slept through lunch but I made you a separate plate. Me and Marco were talking early and decided it would be best to have you on a separate diet. This will help you heal.”

He held a plate up to me. I nearly started drooling at the sight and smell of it. It was a plate of some mashed potatoes, steamed veggies and what looked like pork chops all cut up into tiny pieces. Everything but the veggies being covered in a warm gravy.

“What about me?”

I could hear the whine in Ace’s voice, I couldn't help the small smile that made its way to my lips. It was funny watching such a strong man whine about not being fed lunch, but clearly Thatch had the upper hand in this case.

“You’ll be fine till supper.”

His voice was so monotone as if he was bored of Ace, this only pushed Ace to argue with his fellow commander. As they argued I took the opportunity to reach for the plate only for my hand to be gently slapped away. Slapped wasn't even the right word. It was a light tap but with how bad my hands were any harder would have had me in tears. My emotions were as raw as my skin.

“I don't think so, Sugar.”

Before I could say anything, Thatch had already gotten a forkful of veggies and held it to my mouth.

I waited for a second, staring at Thatch while I was contemplating. It felt wrong being fed, I was grown, I could feed myself. But at the same time my hands probably wouldn't be able to hold anything properly. I could still feel the throbbing from what I was holding the glass of water

I subconsciously flexed my fingers before I signed, finally conceding much to the chef's delight. I opened my mouth nice and wide waiting for the food.

I just about moaned at the taste when they finally hit my tongue. It tasted so good. Not so over done it was mushy and not under cooked it was still hard. It was perfect. The seasoning isn't overbearing and perfectly even.

I felt some tears gather in my eyes again. I couldn't remember the last time I was so well taken care of. As scared as I was I felt safe at the same time. It felt so conflicting but so nice at the same time. I haven't been taken care of like this before. My brother was always working to provide for us leaving me to tend to everything else since I was young. I cooked, cleaned and took care of myself since our parents passed a few years after I was born. Anytime I was sick or hurt I had to handle it myself. I knew my brother loved me but I had never been tended to before. It was foreign but so nice.

The time I've spent with these pirates has both been the worst and best experience of my life. And I haven't even thanked them properly. They don't even know my name for god's sake. They know nothing about me but they saved me, are nursing me back to health and giving me more love and care than I have ever experienced.

I hiccuped with my choked up tears, Thatch immediately placing the plate down and pulling me into a hug, Ace coming over to sit on the bed, his hand laying on my leg that was still under the cozy blanket.

“What's wrong, Buttercup? Do you not like it? I can make you something else. You don't have to worry about eating anything you don't like.”

I shook my head, opening my mouth to try and get the words out but nothing came, just more choked sobs.

Thatch pulled me into his lap and moved so he was leaning against the headboard. Ace by his legs with his hands still on mine. I tried so hard to talk, all I wanted was to thank them, tell them my name, anything to tell them I was grateful.

“Shhhhhhh, Firefly. Take some deep breaths, follow Thatchs breathing.”

I did as Ace said, trying my best to follow the rise and fall of Thatch’s chest. Laying my head down on his shoulder as I tried to calm down as fast as possible.

“Good job, Sugar. Deeeeeep breaths, good girl.”

I took one last deep breath before I was finally able to get the words out.

“Thank y-you!”

There was a long pause as Ace and Thatch looked at each other. As if they were having a conversation with each other in their minds.

“For what, Firefly?”

“For t-taking care o-of me…. feeding m-e, giving me a-a place to s-stay…. till I fi-figure something ou-out.”

My voice was so choked out but I finally got it out. I would have to say a proper thank you to Marco too especially he was the one who found me and it helped to heal me.

“Oh Buterc-”

“(Y/N)!”

Another pause.

“My n-name i-is (Y/N)....I h-haven't even pro-properly in-introduced myself.”

“Oh, Buttercup. You don't have to thank us.”

“Yeah, you never have to thank us for taking care of you, Firefly.”

My face got warm, the redness rising from my neck up to my cheeks.

“And it’s nice to finally meet you, (Y/N).”

I smile and nod at Ace, relieved I finally got the words out.

“Now, let's get this food in you, Marco is waiting for you, Buttercup.”

_________________________

Thatch had sat on the bed with me for what felt like thirty minutes, feeding me slowly making sure I savored every bite which wasn't hard. This was the best cooking I'd ever had. I had to learn from recipe books which were good for ingredients and steps but not kitchen safety or tips and tricks so my food was never this good.

“How is it, Buttercup?”

I hummed and nodded to him, licking my lips to try and get rid of the last bits of gravy in the corners of my mouth.

“It w-was amazing…. t-thank yo-u.”

Thatch wiped my cheek with his thumb whipping away some crumbs I couldn't reach and brought his thumb to his mouth licking it off.

“Of course, Buttercup.”

I was stunned into silence, just sitting there staring like a fool with red cheeks, I could hear Ace chuckling.

“All right, I better take her to Marco before she lights on fire.”

Thatch rolled his eyes as he stood with the plate.

“Agreed, besides, we’ve kept him waiting long enough. And we all know how he gets when he's kept waiting.”

There was no clock in the room so I had no idea what time it was but I could tell the sun was pretty high in the sky and from what Thatch said about me missing lunch so it must be a little past noon. And Marco did say I would come see him after lunch so he’s probably been waiting for at least an hour.

“Well I’ll let Ace and Marco handle things from here, Sugar. I gotta go help clean up lunch and start prep for super. I'll see you later.”

He leaned down, kissing my cheek, smirking at my flushed face that only seemed to get hotter and hotter once he straightened and walked out the room without another word. At this rate I probably would light on fire.

Ace was smirking like a cat at my reaction, I couldn't even look at him. It was so weird being around a ‘family’ that was so physically comfortable with everyone.

Before I could think too much about it Ace had scooped me up again making a beeline to the door.

“Let's go, Firefly. The sooner we see Marco the sooner you heal.”

In seconds we were back on the main deck and in front of the door that led to Marcos clinic. Ace, not willing to put me down, knocked by kicking the door and yelling at Marco through said door.

After a few attempts of aggressive kicking that could only be assumed to be trying to break the door down, a very miffed Marco opened the door, glaring daggers down at Ace.

“Do this ever again, I'll drop you into the sea.”

Ace rolled his eyes, not taking the doctor's threat seriously.

“Pleeeeeease, Like you'd try with your patient in my arms.”

He emphasizes his point by giving me a squeeze and a bounce. Marco dropped his attention down to me, his glare softening into a kind smile, but I couldn't help but shiver underneath his gaze. Something almost predatory settled in them.

“Funny you don't think I can multitask.”

Ace chuckled nervously at Marcos' comment. Marco reached out, snatching me from Ace’s arms before turning back into the clinic without another word. I took a second to look around. It looked the same as it did last night, a lot of beds, his desk and several cabinets, but one thing that caught my eye was four bottles now on his desk with all the papers.

Ace tried to follow Marco and myself into the clinic before Marco slammed the door in his face yelling at Ace through the other side.

“Go do your job Ace, I'll do mine.”

I could hear Ace practically whining from behind the door before stepping away to do whatever he had to do, which was probably a lot considering he had spent all morning and the chunk of the afternoon taking care of me.

I couldn't help but feel bad for distracting him from his duties. Ace was the second division commander, he was bound to have a lot to do but instead he was taking care of me, making sure I was ok. Hell, he didn't even get to introduce me to anyone or show me anything other than my room and the clinic.

I felt myself well up with shame, mostly from my actions, how much I had been panicking and crying, I had only just thanked Ace and Izou, I still needed to thank Marco and Thatch.

I hadn't even realized Marco had set me down on the same bed he placed me on last night till his finger pressed on the underside of my chin, forcing me to look up at him.

“Where’d ya go, Baby Bird?”

I blinked dumbly at him for a second, trying to register what he just said.

“I-I…..”

He smirked at me, I must have looked hilarious, then again this wasn't the first time today I probably looked like an idiot.

“I-I wanted t-to p-properly…. t-thank you….”

His smile widened leaning forward and kissed my forehead. I didn't flinch or freeze up this time. It would seem forehead and cheek kisses are just a thing they do, at least Thatch, Marco and Izou anyway.

“You don't have to thank us, Baby B-.”

“(Y/N)”

“.....What?”

“M-my name.. I n-ever t-told you i-it was (Y-Y/N).”

He smiled down at me in a way that could have been mistaken as loving.

“B-but I do, yo-you saved me a-and took me in… ta-taking care of m-y needs an-d helping m-me heal. I s-swear once I-I heal a-nd find an island t-to settle on to g-get out of your w-w-ay I'll find a-a way to make it u-up to you… I s-swear.”

It was the longest sentence I had said since on board this ship. I was glad I was finally able to get it off my chest, swearing to make it up to them and to leave the second I was healed. But once the words left my lips the dark look Marco had earlier came back but worse, some of his gold and blue flames flickering in the corners of his eyes and on his shoulders.

His hands grabbed mine tightly, his eyes boring into mine with an intensity.

“You don't owe us anything, Baby Bird, don't worry. We’ll cross that bridge when we get there, for now let's just focus on getting you all better.”

His words were kind, but his voice sounded almost menacing. His hand squeezing mine till it hurt. I flinched and yelped out, yanking my hands from Marcos, or at least, I tried to.

“M-Marco….. m-my ha-hands…”

Tears started to well in my eyes, only then did he end up letting them go, placing his hands on the sides of my neck, with our size difference his hands completely encased my neck making me shiver.

“Sorry, Baby Bird. But on that note let's talk about the prescription’s I made for you.”

He finally let me go walking over to his desk to grab the four bottles while I tried to soothe my hands. I know it wasn't on purpose, he probably just wasn't used to holding back his strength with a civilian, the pirates he would usually treat definitely had a higher pain tolerance than me, so he probably just wasn't used to my low pain threshold.

He pulled over a rolling stool and sat in front of me between my legs. The cot/bed was a little low but even sitting he was still a little taller than me. He slotted himself very close to me, His elbow resting on my thighs as he showed me the four bottles. They were all different colors. A blue, red, grey and black bottle. He first held up the Red one.

“This one's for pain, I want you to take it as needed but don't exceed five pills a day. Taking one at breakfast, lunch and supper should be enough.”

I nodded as he placed the bottle in my hand.

“This one is also going to help with your pain a little…”

He held up the blue bottle,

“You're going to be very tense and strained while you heal from such bad physical trauma, this is a light muscle relaxant, it will help you keep lose especially when we start physical therapy but you won't have to worry about taking it right now.

I inspected the blue bottle before looking back up to Marco, the grey bottle already in front of me.

“This is anti-nausea medication. With the pain you'll be in especially when physical therapy starts you'll probably get really nauseous, you also haven't eaten for a while so introducing food might be a challenge. These symptoms are all completely normal but while healing it's important that you are able to keep food and liquids down.”

“O-ok…”

He paused for a second, before holding the black bottle.

“This one you won't be administered by yourself, this is for PTSD.”

I paled a little. Just hearing the word made me shiver.
“You'll probably be having nightmares and random panic attacks soon, when that happens I want you to come to me, or someone else will grab me and I'll give you these myself.”

I swallowed, even just the thought of what was to come made me tremble.

Marco didn't let me wallow in my own misery for long, his big arms coming to wrap around me and pull me into a nice hug.

“Don't worry, Baby Bird. I know it's a lot to take in all at once but I promise we’ll take care of you, you can rely on us. You can always come to one of us. Besides, before you can walk you'll be with one of us pretty constantly.”

I nuzzled my head into his warm chest, it felt nice being held like this. It was weird at first, but I was getting used to their touchyness, even taking comfort in it.

“Now come on, let's get those bandages off then we can get you in a bath. Izou visited me earlier and gave me some of his hygiene products to help with your hair.”

I couldn't help but blush not only at the thought of Marco helping me in the bath but also at the horrible condition I was in. It was bad enough he slept with me while I was still covered in grime, but to have him bathe me? Nah.

My face turned so red I swore I was glowing as my head shot up from his chest shaking my head.

“I-I-I-I don't n-need h-help, I ca-n bathe m-m-yself.

I tried to push myself away a little but he didn't let me get far.

“Now now Baby Bird, it's nothing to be embarrassed about~.”

He cooed down at my face trying to comfort me but all I did was shake my head, refusing to admit I needed help, there was no way they would see me naked.

“Don't be stubborn (Y/N) you can barely move right now, you'll need help to get properly clean. It will be important so that you can properly heal, I would have cleaned you off by now but my priority was making sure you made it through the first few nights.”

Marcos' tone was sharp, not only that but the fact he used my actual name for the first time instead of his nickname for me made it feel even more harsh. I could feel tears well in my eyes. I knew he was right but it felt so humiliating.

I looked down at my bandaged hands, trying to move my fingers but all I did was prove his point. Not only could I barely move them but it hurt when I tried.

Marco sighed deeply before his hands cupped my cheeks forcing me gently to look up at him, one tear rolling down my cheek as he pulled my head up making my glassy eyes look into his.

“I know it's hard, Baby Bird. But with how badly you hurt it will be important for someone to help you, and as the ship's doctor I am the best person to help you. If you tried doing it yourself you would only hurt yourself more and you probably would even be able to get cleaned up properly. I can guarantee you that your arms aren't strong enough to hold a brush and get all these knots out.”

There was a pregnant pause as Marco rubbed my arms and shoulder, squeezing every now and again to massage the tension out of them. I knew he was right and I knew I would feel better once I was properly clean… and I couldn't get clean without help….

I nodded while trying to shake his hands away but he didn't let go, instead forcing my head to stay still as he leaned in, pressing his forehead to mine.

“I need words, Baby Bird, I need to know you understand and wont fight me on matters like this. I know you are a little uncomfortable but this is for the best. I swear I have nothing but your best interests at heart.”

“....o-ok….”

My voice was silent as I tried to look anywhere but him but without foreheads touching that made it difficult.

“Ok what, Baby Bird?”

‘O-ok… Marco….?”

I wasn't too sure what he wanted me to say but the smile on his face told me saying his name was close enough.

“Good girl, now let's get these bandages off and head upstairs for a nice warm bath. Then we can finally introduce you to Pops, some of us have already told him about you. He's usually on the deck most of the day but lately his health has gotten worse so I've had him on bed rest.”

I paled a little at the thought of meeting the mighty Whitebeard, not only that but he’s sick enough to be on bed rest? Considering whenever he's been mentioned on my island he was called the strongest man in the world it was hard to believe someone with that kind of reputation is ill.

I sat silently, if not incredibly tense, as Marco was taking off the bandages on my legs. I didn't want to look at them again. I already knew how bad they were from last night and I'll have to stare at them plenty later, I didn't want to acknowledge them just yet. I was silent while Marco lifted up my shirt to undo the bandages around my stomach. It wasn't till he got to my fingers that I yelped out in pain, trying to yank my hand away.

I looked down at my fingers only to gasp, my gaze shooting up to Marco who had a look on his face that could kill.

The raw skin on my fingers and some on my hand had torn open, probably from when I was clawing at my face earlier. The first few layers of bandages had fresh blood, I guess I was lucky it hadn't fully bled through.

“What happened?”

His voice scared me, it was clipped, harsh and commanding, the kind of voice one would expect the right hand man of the strongest man in the world to have.

“I-I had a p-panic attack t-this morning when I-I first saw my reflection when Ace a-and Izou sh-showed me m-my room…. I started t-to claw at my f-face before A-Ace stopped me.”

My voice was full of shame but I couldn't even tell why. It was like I was scared of disappointing him. But even he said that I would probably have panic attacks with the PTSD.

Marco sighed, carking his neck before lifting my mangled, bloody hands to his lips. Kissing each and every knuckle before turning my hands and kissing my palms not letting me pull them away all the while despite my protests.

“Ma-marco! Marco s-stop! They're a-all bl-bloody!”

He rolled his eyes.

“Baby Bird, I've been a pirate since I was a child and the doctor of the Whitebeard Pirates for decades now. A little blood is not going to deter me from kissing you better.”

I was about to protest till I stopped to think about what he said. He was the doctor of the Whitebeard Pirate’s for… decades?

“H-How old a-are y-ou?”

Marco smirks at my clearly confused face, chuckling before answering.

“I’m forty three, Baby Bird, I turn forty four in a few months.”

My jaw dropped as Marco laughed at my face.

“I don't look it, huh Baby Bird? Thatch just turned forty a few months ago and Izou is the same age as me, he's also turning forty four in a few months.”

I couldn't believe it, how on earth were they middle aged but looking so young. I thought they would have all been in their early twenties. But if they're that old….

“H-how old i-is Ace?”

Marco laughed even more at my sheepish question, it was clear I was scared of the answer.

“Ace is the baby of the ship, He’s twenty.”

I sighed, at least he was closer to my age.

“Now come on, I'll clean the fresh wounds and we can go have that bath.”

_________________________

I couldn’t help but squirm when Marco was cleaning my hands with some kind of rubbing alcohol. The sting became too much after the first few dabs of the cotton ball. But after about five minutes Marco had put the last of the blood covered cotton balls, that had accumulated very quickly, in a little metal dish to be disposed of later.

“There, all done. Now let's head upstairs and get the bath ready.”

I nodded solemnly, dreading what was about to happen but knowing it had to be done. Marco picked me up gingerly, being extra cautious of my now exposed limbs and made his way out of the clinic once he had pocketed the four pill bottles before I could grab them myself.

“You shouldn't hold or touch anything when your wounds are bare until they start to properly scab over, we can't have any bacteria getting in through your fresh wounds. I have your cream and more bandages upstairs to wrap you in once you're all clean and dry.”

“O-ok….”

Marco made his way out the main deck and back to the staircase that led to the commander's quarters. We walked in silence till he got to the end of the hall, but instead of turning left into my room he turned right, into his.

“W-we a-ren't going to m-y r-room?”

“No Baby Bird, because of my devil fruit I need a really big bath tub and it will be easiest for me to help you in a bigger bath, it will also make sure you don't bump into any walls and hurt yourself more.”

I couldn't help but be puzzled, he had healing flames, what part of that required a big bathtub. I know I probably should ask but my curiosity was killing me.

“W-what do yo-u mean your d-devil fruit requir-es a big b-bath?”

He chuckles lowly as he open the door to his room,

“I'll show you another time, for now don't worry about it.”

I nodded silently, as I took in the room. It was the same room I woke up in this morning with him. His bed was still unmade from this morning and I finally noticed an unusual number of blankets and pillows piled on the mattress,

The porthole over the bed still had the shades open letting light into the room, a desk covered in papers and bedside table, near the head of the bed. A dresser at the foot of the bed and two large book shelves full of books beside that.

Marco opened the bathroom door just to the right of us, setting me on the counter as I gasped at the sight of his bathtub. It was massive. Yes Marco was tall and would need more space but this was insane. It could fit five of him with plenty of leg room to spare. It was more like a small pool than it was a tub.

Marco had a satisfied smirk on his face as he walked over to said tub and turned on the faucet letting a rush of steaming water into the tub before he went over to his desk and grabbed a decent sized purple bag bringing it into the bathroom before opening it.

He started to pull out a few different hygiene products before turning to me again.

“Izou gave me his shower bag, he said the products would help with getting that mane of yours under control.”

I couldn't help but turn away in embarrassment, my hand subconsciously moving upwards to run my fingers through my hair till Marco grabbed my arm gently but firmly, forcing me to stop.

“You definitely don't want all that gunk in your hair to get inside your wounds, Baby Bird. Don't worry, I'm gonna help you. It's nothing to be ashamed of, we have had new members come on board in worse shape than you are now, believe it or not. I have handled worse.”

I nodded, not too sure how to respond to that. On one hand it was comforting knowing I wasn't the only one to come to them in such conditions but on the other hand it was kinda scary that some members were in worse condition than me. How often did they run into this kind of trouble, even for pirates that seems excessive. But I guess you don't get the reputation of the strongest crew in the world by doing nothing.
Marco placed a few bottles on the edge of the tub, it looked like a very expensive shampoo and conditioner and a liquid soap that must have been made of gold from the looks of it.

“That should be fine, we might not be able to use the soap though, it will be too harsh on your raw wounds, but I have some gentle unscented soap that will work for now.”

He put the bottle back in the bag, I was kind of relieved. If I used that I would feel like I owed Izou money.

Marco checked the water, the tub filling very quickly. Once he was satisfied he walked over to me standing in front of me.

“Now, let's get you out of those clothes, Baby Bird.”

My cheeks got red, at this point I think it was just my natural complexion. I knew I would have to strip but the thought of doing it in front of him, by him was nerve wracking.

“I… I-I can d-do i-it.”

Marco huffed, he was clearly getting annoyed but at the moment I couldn't find it in me to care much.

“You can't and we both know it. You can barely move or grab anything especially with your hands torn to ribbons, just let me help you. I know it's uncomfortable but I promise you're safe and the sooner you let me help the sooner it is over and done with.”

I felt my eyes well up the tears, but this time from shame. I know he just wanted to help… but… I just can't do it.

“P-please, Marco. A-at least le-t me t-try.”

I tried to bargain.

“A-t least t-turn around….”

“Enough, (Y/N). We can do this the easy way or the hard way. I don't want to force you but as your doctor I'm not going to let you put yourself in a position where you will hurt yourself more.”

He forced his way in between my legs grabbing the hem of the shirt I was in. It still had my underwear on but it was just this oversized shirt to cover my upper body, but in all fairness it was a dress on me, the hem falling at the top of my knees.

He waited for a moment, waiting for me to fight him but I knew I couldn't so when he started to ease up the shirt, all I did was raise my arms when it got high enough, hot tears of shame and embarrassment fell down my cheeks.

Marco tossed the shirt to the corner of the bathroom, his warm hand landing on my hips, waiting a moment before lowering shorts and underwear. It wasn't until he started to tug them down I finally moved.

My hands shot to his chest, my hands shaking as they rested on his tattoo. I couldn't help the choked sobs that I let out. I didn't say anything silently hoping that my tears would be enough.

“Shhh, Baby Bird. You're doing good. I promise nothing will happen, I'll get you into the tub, clean you up and get you into some proper warm clothes. We are getting closer to a cluster of winter islands again, you'll want to be nice and clean in fresh clothes.”

My hands did leave his chest as he finished pulling my underwear off, leaving me completely bare, I couldn't even bring my knees up to try and hide myself. My hands finally leaving his chest to try and discover my own a little.

Marco waited for a second, letting me try and collect myself to try and attempt to save some of my dignity. After a minute he continued pulling down the rest of my clothes and wrapping his arms around me.

“Good girl, just breathe, you're ok. I promise.”

After a second of deep breaths Marco hoisted me up by an arm under my butt making me cry out. It felt so wrong, I've never been seen naked by anyone else nonetheless to be touched while naked.

He walked over and gently lowered me into the warm water. I gasped sharply, I knew the water wasn't that hot but to the parts of my body that were marred, which was pretty much all of it, it felt like lava.

I screamed, thrashing around trying to get out of Marco hold. It burned horribly. In my panic I hadn't even noticed Marco had gotten into the bath with me. I was surrounded by blue and gold flames. The flame cooled and soothed my burning limbs in an instant, chasing away all the pain.

After a few deep breaths I was finally able to take in my new position. Marcos' arms were wrapped tightly around me, my back pressed flush to his chest. I turned around as much as I could with his arms only to see that Marco, somehow, at some point, had also stripped naked. I yelped, turning around and covering my eyes.

“M-Marco!!!”

He chuckled at me, but I myself struggled to see what was so damn funny.

“The healing flames work best with skin to skin contact especially when they're as weak as they are right now. And how else am I supposed to help clean you off without being in the bath with you, and I don’t bathe clothed.”

My heart was beating so hard I could feel it in my neck making its way up to my skull. It was all so much to take in all at once.

Seeming to understand my discomfort, Marco got right to work. He moved so that his back was pressed on the tub's wall with me in front of him so that my side faced him instead of my back.

“Lean back.”

Before I could really lean back Marco guided me back with a hand spread across my shoulder blades, easing me to lean back so my head was dunked in the warm water. Now floating on my back with one of Marco's hands helped hold me up so my face wasn't underwater, his other started to work through some of the strands of hair, gently massaging my scalp. Despite my shame and embarrassment I couldn't help but relax under his hold. His large long fingers worked their way over my scalp just right, helping to loosen the gunk from the strands.

I couldn't help but close my eyes the longer he massaged.

“Good girl, just relax.”

After a few minutes his hand holding my shoulder blades helped to sit me up. He moved me so I was sitting on his thigh, his hands lingering to make sure I wasn't going to try and move away from him. Not like I would get far. He reached to the edge of the tub grabbing the bottle of shampoo. The squirted a hefty amount into his palm rubbing his hands together for a second before they landed on my head again, scrubbing the shampoo in until it was all bubbly. After a minute of massaging it into my scalp, really getting the gunk out now, he leaned me back again to rinse it out.

He did this on more time before grabbing the conditioner. I couldn't help but let out a few moans when his fingers worked magic.

In truth I never felt unsafe with him, embarrassed and nervous, yes. But never unsafe. After several minutes of bathing together I found myself not caring as much. That and I knew deep down I would have never been able to clean myself properly by myself. I found myself grateful for his help.

“Ok, Baby Bird, let's let that sit for a minute.”

I hummed in acknowledgment.

“In the meantime we can clean the rest of you.”

I felt myself get nervous all over again at the prospect of being touched all over but he hadn’t done anything to hurt me or anything to make me believe he had ill intentions so I pushed the fears down.

Marco reached for the edge of the tub again, grabbing a white bar of soap and a blue washcloth I hadn't noticed till now. He dunked the soap and washcloth in the warm water that was already pretty gross from all the dirt and blood in my hair.

“I have no idea why you would have spent the night with me while all of that was covering me.”

Marco just laughed. Like a real, proper, full body laugh while he rubbed the bar of soap all over the cloth till it was frothing the suds of the soap. Once he was satisfied with it and had calmed down he placed the bar of soap down and gently lifted my hand out of the water by my wrist.

“I didn't want to leave you unsupervised after you had passed out like that. And I've slept in much worse conditions. Having my cute little patient with me, grimy or not, is a vest improvement. Now, this shouldn't hurt, especially with the healing flames, but tell me if it stings.”

Marco hadn't stopped using his flames the entire time we were in the tub, I was kind of scared how much pain I'll be in once we get out and he stops using them but that was what the pills were for. Not only that, but he had used them on me so many times when he should be recovering his strength from healing me when he first found me. I felt bad.

He gingerly placed the cloth on my arm, waiting to see if I'd have a negative reaction to it. I looked up at him once I was sure it didn't hurt and couldn't help staring into his eyes, they were so gentle and kind. No judgment or darkness behind them even with our intimate position. He was just… kind. They were the kind of eyes one would expect a varying doctor would have.

He never broke eye contact with me as he started to gently wash my arm, making sure not to tug or irritate the skin while still making sure it was clean.

“I know this is uncomfortable for you, Baby Bird. But I promise the only reason I'm being forceful with you is because I don't want to see you hurt any more than you already are. All of us want to see you get better and would do anything to make sure that happens.”

I took in his words, just staying silent for a moment. I let his words soak into me.

“I'-m so-sorry Marco, I'm s-scared… i've never b-been in such an inti-intimate position b-before, No one h-has e-ever taken care o-f me before. It f-feels wr-ong relying o-on others.”

His eyes seemed to get sad, but not pity, just sad that I have never been able to rely on others.

“I understand, (Y/N). but you need to understand that anything I tell you to do is for your own good. I can't have you fighting me. That will only lead to you hurting yourself more. Do you understand?”

I waited for a second as he let go of one arm and lifted my other hand, starting to gently clean that one as well.

“I-I un-undeastand, Marco.”

“Good girl, now let's finish up and get you into some proper warm clothes.”

The rest of the bath was silent, Marco had to lift me to sit on the edge of the tub to wash my legs. It had hurt a little when he got to my thighs but with the heals flames the pain disappeared as soon as it came. Once he was done he lowered me back down and leaned me back, giving my scalp another massage as he washed out all the conditioner.

“I’m going to go grab you some clothes. I'll be back in a minute.”

Marco propped me up, having my back lean against the tub wall, that was warm from his skin, so that my legs and arms didn't have to support me before he got out of the tub. His healing flames still surrounded me even as he got up and out of the tub. I didn't want to stare but I did catch a glimpse of his naked body.

I couldn't help but gawk a little, I had no idea it was possible for a pirate to be so fit. It looked as if every part of his body was tight with muscle. No wonder it felt like leaning against a warm, breathing brick wall.

Once he left I tried my best to wash my intimate parts, trying to be as gentle as possible so as to not shred my hands any more than they already were. Healing from this was already going to be a pain but after my panic attack was only going to make it worse.

After a few minutes I was satisfied with how clean I was. I waited for another few minutes in the now incredibly grimy water till I decided I would try and get out myself, not wanting to sit in all the ash, dirt and blood.

I tried to grab onto the edge of the tub to hoist myself up but I quickly realised that wasn't going to happen. So I tried to move my legs to get my feet planted under me which was successful until I tried putting any weight on them. The healing flames seemed to keep the pain from the warm water away but they didn't work if I put any more added stress to my limbs. Great.

After several failed attempts I tried to flop myself over the tub's edge like a fish but it didn't work as well as I had hoped. I wasn't too surprised though, the tub's wall looked like it was a little over three, maybe four feet tall, and without being able to put any weight on my limbs it was no surprise I struggled to get over it.

Maybe if I?….

“What are you doing? Baby Bird?”

I looked up to see Marco, once again dressed and carrying a large fluffy towel and fresh clothes and underwear for me.

There were a few seconds of silence as I tried to think of ways to explain my odd position as I tried to cling to the edge of the tub with my armpits to keep my head up and over the edge of the tub.

“I….I’m t-trying to g-get o-out of the t-ub…. by m-myself.”

Marco stared at me for a second, taking in the predicament I had gotten myself into before laughing.I deflated a little, humiliation hitting me like a train once again it was hard not being able to do such a simple thing by yourself, luckily he didn't let me suffer for long.

He walked over, lifting me up and setting me on the counter again before he wrapped me in the towel…… But he was still laughing. I glared at him, more annoyed than humiliated the longer he kept laughing.

“I'm sorry, Baby Bird. I swear I'm not making fun of you, you're just too cute.”

Once his laughter died down he finished drying me off and got me into the fresh clothes.

“They will be a little big on you but they will do for now, especially with the cold climate coming this will be much more comfortable.”

I nodded.

“Y-yeah, thank you M-Marco, Despite m-my embarrassment I r-really do a-appreciate you helping m-e.”

Marco smiled, walking over to the tub and pulling the plug. Letting all the dirty water drain out.

“Of course, Baby Bird and you don't have to thank us. We are going to take care of you, we promise. And on that note….”

He walked over again, placing his hands on my waist.

“Its time I introduce you to Pops.”

Chapter Text

As Marco walked down the stairs from the commander's quarters with me cradled gently in his arms I could feel myself begin to sweat. I knew it was only right to meet the captain of the ship I was on and thank him for letting me stay, but at the same time meeting the strongest man in the world wasn't something I wanted to do.

Yes I wanted to thank him but god forbid he asked a question and I answered wrong. That could be a one way ticket into the ocean, miles from any habitable island, and from what Marco said about a cluster of winter islands we were approaching, the water was probably freezing. It would be a horrible way to die.

Marco seemed to sense my hesitation, which wasn't hard considering I was shaking like a leaf despite just getting out of a warm bath and in warm clean clothes: All nice and clean to meet the most important and intimidating man on this ship.

I tugged at the stitching on the sleeve of the light blue sweater Marco had helped me in. After he had applied more of the soothing cream and wrapped me up like a mummy he had helped me get dressed. He gave me some surprisingly comfortable underwear that fit perfectly, thank god, and a nice pair of pants that were so loose on me I needed to borrow one of his sashes to tie around my waist to keep them up. And even still I had to roll pant legs up several times so that I could see my feet. He said the pants and sweater were his from when he was younger.

From the looks of it he was always freakishly tall even in his younger years. The sweater practically ate me but at the same time it was nice to have something several sizes too big.

The sleeves covered my hands, and then some, the hem of the sweater covered my butt and upper thigh giving me some much needed modesty after being so exposed and the turtle neck gave me something to nuzzle into. It was a good thing too, if it wasn't a turtle neck I doubt the shirt would actually stay on my shoulders. But I couldn't help but notice how it smelled like Marco.

It was like a light summer breeze right after it rained and something distinctly spicy. Kind of like cinnamon but not quite. I had never paid much attention to how he smelled before but to be fair I wasn't in a condition to be worried about my saviours sent. And to be fair his scent is so faint I don't think I would have noticed it if I wasn't in his clothes but now that I did I found myself being enraptured by it. I found it oddly comforting, almost calming, and had to catch myself multiple times before taking a deep breath from the fabric.

Now it was all I could focus on. And thank god for that. It helped me stay calm and somewhat still despite wanting to run for the hills regardless of my injuries, but as Marco carried me to the side of the deck to where his Captain's room resided I found myself focusing more and more on my fear. The anxiousness built up inside me with every step he took. It felt like he was walking me to my death. And I, a helpless girl with no way to escape my impending doom, had no choice but to be carried there. But I still tried my best to think rationally.

On one hand I knew there was nothing to worry about, Marco had already said that his captain knew I was here from the beginning but on the other hand you would have to either be insanely cocky with a massive ego or the world's worst idiot to not be intimidated when faced with the Whitebeard himself, especially when you can barely stand and walk nonetheless run for your life if things turned sour and he decided he didn't like me.

It was only when Marco adjusted me to one arm to knock on the biggest door I had ever seen in my life that I was knocked out of my own thoughts. I tensed up and attempted to curl into myself as Marco raised his fist to knock but just before he did he paused for a second. Confused by his hesitance I looked up to his face instead of intensely staring at the door waiting for him to knock on it.

I hadn't expected to lock eyes with him but the second I did his eyes softened, his hand coming back down to cup my cheek.

“You don't have to be scared, Baby Bird. Nothing is going to happen, I promise. We’ll go in, say ‘hi’ and leave. He's very ill and his condition has gotten worse the last few days so he won't have much energy to chat right now anyway. But I want you to at least meet him”

I stared into Marcos eyes for a few moments, searching for any sign of a lie or insincerity but after a few seconds I couldn’t find anything but kindness and genuine care. I finally nodded, forcing my body to relax a little and take a deep breath. After a few seconds Marco seemed satisfied that I was ready and knocked on the door three times. The harsh knocks echoing all around us before a gruff ‘come in’ prompted him to open the door. I was shocked at the power he had in one arm. I could have struggled with both hands to open such a massive door but Marco had no trouble, doing so with just one hand and little to no effort. But I guess I should be too shocked, he and the others have been carrying me around constantly, and with their physiques it shouldn't be shocking to see their strength in action. I shivered to think what they were like on the battlefield.

Marco had taken a few steps into the room before turning slightly to close the door behind us. It gave me a chance to take a quick glance around the room. It was dimly lit, only a small oil lantern sitting on the bedside table along with several pill bottles lighting the room. The room itself was massive but sparsely decorated. Not at all what I thought such a well traveled Captain's quarters would look like. It was very similar to Marcos. A bed, desk but his was covered with maps and navigation tools, a massive dresser and an even bigger book shelf that went from the floor to the roof with books of all kinds adorning it. On the other end of the room adjacent to the bed there was another massive door that I assumed led to his private bathroom.

After taking in the room my attention fell onto the bed, a massive one but not as massive as the man currently in it, propped up with several pillows so that he was sitting up, there was Whitebeard. The man they claimed was the strongest to ever live, the man who was closest to being the King of The Pirates.

He sat there silently with a small smile on his face that pulled at his slightly wrinkled cheeks and stretched out his crescent shaped mustache. He was currently shirtless, as most men on this ship seemed to prefer, but he was shirtless for a different reason. He was surrounded by wires and tubes, monitors of all kinds hooked up to his chest along with several IV’s in his arms. One seemed to be a kind of medicine and was an odd yellow color, one was clear and was what I assumed to be liquids, and the last was a striking red that could be nothing but blood.

It seemed to be too many IV’s for one person to have all at once, but Marco had mentioned he had been sick for a while and considering his size I guess he could handle it. Speaking of his size he was massive! No wonder the doors were so damn big, he wouldn't be able to get in and out if they weren't. And even so, it looked like he would have to bend down a little just so that he wouldn't hit the top of his head. Right now he was half sitting and half lying down, if he was standing he must have been over twenty feet tall.

For a few second no one made a move, Marco still standing with me in his arms by the door way as they both seemed to be letting me take it all in so as not to overwhelm me so much but after a few seconds Whiteabread beckoned Marco closer with a silent ‘come hither’ gesture prompting Marco to walk over to the side of the bed, much to my displeasure. As grateful as I was, I was more than happy to say ‘hello’ and’ thank you’.... but from a distance. Apparently that wasn't going to happen.

Once Marco had gotten to the side of the bed that was taller than him and leaped up while I was still in his arms to sit by his captain’s outstretched legs. As he jumped I couldn't help but let out a squawk that sounded much like a distressed parrot. Of all the things I was expecting to happen sitting on the bed of the strongest man in the world was definitely not one of them.

Once Marco got comfortable with me securely in his lap, he was kind enough to start the conversation. I was silently grateful. If he hadn't started talking while I just stared at his captain like a fool for a solid minute at least.

“Hey, Pops, how ya feeling?”

Whitebread’s grin widened. His crescent mustache rose even higher.

“Much better now that I get to finally meet our newest member.”

My face grew warm at the mention of being on their crew, I definitely wasn't going to correct him outright but I already knew I wasn't staying long term. But I knew, whether I liked it or not, I would be staying till my injuries healed and from the looks of them not ten minutes ago it was going to be quite a while, besides I would have to do some research on other islands before finding one to settle on and find a way to get there. By then I would have put them out way too much. I wouldn't dare ask for a ride after all they have done for me, even already.

Marco rested his chin on the top of my head, his big arms wrapped tightly around me.

“Yeah, this is (Y/N).”

Marco bounced his legs a little, silently prompting me to say something.

“H-Hello, Mr Whitebeard. I-I wanted to thank y-you for letting m-e stay on your s-ship…. f-for the time b-being…”

Despite not wanting to outright say I wasn't going to be joining his crew and come off as rude and ungrateful, I felt the need to at least subtly clarify that I didn’t intend to overstay my welcome and take advantage of their kind hospitality. But I almost didn't finish my sentence as I felt Marcos arms tighten around me, it was so sudden it took the breath away from me for a second making me gasp.

I couldn't see him with my back pressed tightly to his chest while I sat in his lap but I could almost feel his irritation coming off of him in waves. But it would seem his expression did not reveal his displeasure because Whitebeard was still all smiles.

“No need to thank me child, you are more than welcome to stay as long as you please. I'm just glad that you made it out alive. Speaking of, how are her injuries?”

It was clear he was addressing Marco at the end of his sentence, his eyes moving slightly above me to look at his first Commander.

Marcos arms finally loosened from my torso so that one of his hands could move from where it was resting on my stomach to my arm. He started at my elbow, slowly lowering and caressing my marred skin till he was gently gripping my wrist, twisting in around ever so gently so that my palm was facing upwards as he spoke.

“So far so good. It was worse when I first found her. I had to use a lot of the healing flames to stabilize her and it really took it out of me, I'm still not up to one hundred present. I was honestly surprised that she even made it to the ship alive. But once she was here I was able to get her stabilized with fluids and a topical aloe cream I've been applying every few hours. We are making progress but it's going to be a while till she's up and about by herself.”

Whitebeard nodded along as Marco spoke.

“Not to mention the light malnutrition we’ve had to deal with since she woke up, that's not doing her any favors, luckily it's not too bad but it's something me and Thatch are keeping a close eye on…”

At that I paused, my eyes unfocusing as I got lost in my own thoughts. Malnourished? Sure I hadn't eaten great at home, my cooking definitely wasn't something to go shouting around in the streets but I ate well enough. I could have eaten better but who couldn't. But I was by no means malnourished.

I found myself looking down at myself. Inspecting my stomach as best I could with Marcos old sweater on. I guess I lost a little weight but it has been a very stressful stay so far even with Thatch feeding me. I wouldn't be too surprised if I had lost a few pounds due to stress but if Thatch kept feeding me like he has been I imagine I'd be gaining weight like crazy soon enough.

“But what would you expect after being asleep for almost a week.”

“WHAT!!!!”

The room froze, my sudden outburst shocking everyone, even myself. I flinched the second the word came out of my mouth, my hand shooting up to cover it as if that would take back my outburst.

My mind was spinning. One week. I had been out cold for almost a week. The hand covering my mouth dropped so I could wrap it around my torso, hugging myself. I guess I felt a little skinnier but still. I hadn't noticed anything in the bath so I couldn't have lost that much weight but to be fair I was a little preoccupied by the intimacy of being naked in a bath with an equally naked Marco to really pay attention to anything else.

But the more I thought back it made sense. That’s why when I woke up after Marco had put me to sleep again Thatch was there with me. That's why he said I needed to eat. Because I hadn't eaten anything in a week.

I could feel hot tears well up in my eyes and my cheeks get red. The last thing I wanted to do was cry in front of Whitebeard but the tears got heavier and heavier as I fought to keep them from falling. There was so much time lost. It has been a little over a week since my village… my brother… my friends were all killed.

I could feel Marco hold me impossibly closer to himself as he lifted his head form the top of mine, moving down so his lips touched the shell of my ear. His warm breath spread over my cheek and neck. It would feel comforting if I wasn't so distracted by my own thoughts and welling tears.

“Shhhh, Baby Bird. It's ok.”

I could hear Whitebeard sigh deeply as he watched Marco try to comfort me while I tried to come to terms with this new information but couldn't bring myself to look up at him. My eyes locked with the blanket that laid neatly on the bed and his leg that was closest to us as I spaced out trying to accept what I had just learned.

“It's normal to be shocked after such a traumatizing experience especially if so much time has passed without our poor girl knowing, it's only natural to have a reaction like this, it's healthy.”

I barely registered anything the two of them were saying as I stared blankly until a massive hand wrapped around me making me yelp. Looking up so fast to see what was happening I think I gave myself whiplash.

Whitebeard had reached out, taking me from Marcos lap while keeping me secure in his massive hand that encased my whole body as he brought me up to his height, a soft, almost comforting smile on his face.

“I know you are hurting little one, and I know you are shocked, anyone who has gone through what you have would be. And I know this new information might be hard to swallow but we will keep you safe. We won't let anything happen to you and we will help you move forward.”

The tears finally fell, but not out of grief. They fell out of relief. As scared as I was about what was happening and what I would do moving forward I knew, at least for the time being, I would be taken care of.

_________________________

I couldn't help the smirk on my face as I watched my Little Bird cry and be comforted by Pops. Held securely in his hand as she cried out all her complicated feelings. However I felt a little bad, I hadn't even thought about how telling her that she was out cold for a week would affect her. It had completely slipped my mind that she had not known about it. All of us were so distracted with taking care of her and bonding with her, making her rely on us, it had completely slipped our minds.

But at the same time I was white knuckling my composer. I found it surprisingly difficult watching my Little Bird cry in Pop's hand as he held her close to him. He had her pressed snuggly to his chest making sure she wasn't pressed to any tubes as he whispered calming words to her, saying how she was safe, how he knew it was scary but we would all be here for her as she just cried in his arms. Clearly exhausted from all her complicated feelings hitting her all at once. She just soaked in all the comfort she could as she tried her best to take in steady breaths, only to be met with hiccups and tears cascading down her soft reddened cheeks.

My human side was pleased watching her bond with Pops especially after she was so scared to meet him in the first place and now that she has properly met him it will be much easier for her to accept her new position with us. It was one intimidating obstacle beaten.

But the Phoenix on the other hand was livid. Not because of Pops per say but because his little mate was being comforted by another man while she was in clear distress, even if that man was Pops. The only reason he hadn't snatched her away yet was because he was still in a good mood from the bath and waking up with her in our arms this morning. It was probably the only reason he hadn't forced me to switch forms. After properly ‘claiming’ her in the bath, at least to his standards, he was happy enough to stay back but he was less than pleased that his new mate did not run to us when she was scared. But to be fair she didn't know she belonged to us in that sense just yet, another thing the Phoenix wasn't pleased with. But we both knew that now was not the time to push that on her. She needed time and even though neither of us liked that, we would wait. Besides after that bath we would both be sated for at least a little while.

I found myself having to adjust to compensate for my half hard length pushing against the seam of my pants as I recalled the memories of her in the bath. It was so damn hard keeping my cock soft while I dragged my hands all over her precious body. As I gently cleaned her in the warm water till she was fresh and sparkling brighter than the sun, at least the parts that weren't mangled from the frostbite. But even with the frostbite she was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen. But me and the others had always thought so, from when we saw her photo for the first time to when I first saw her in person when she had collapsed in the snow. Even brutally frostbitten she was like an angel. But I wouldn't let her join them just yet. Not when I only just got her. I had waited too long to have her to let her go. No, my Little Bird would be staying here with us for a very long time. But that wasn't to say in those first few days of her being on the ship I didn't have a few scares.

Once I had gotten to her I immediately turned her over only to gasp at the sight of my poor Little Bird. I had no idea how long she had been out there, how long she was trekking up the side of that frigid mountain in only her PJ's, scared and alone, covered in her bastard of a brother's blood. Having experienced a trauma she never should have.

By the time I had gotten to her, her arms and legs were almost black, her cheekbones, nose, neck and belly the same. I pushed all my energy into healing her face, neck and chest to protect her from brain damage and heart failure and to try and keep her alive long enough to get her to the ship. But I couldn't do anything for her limbs at that moment. I needed to have enough energy to transform and get her back to the ship so I could treat her properly and in a controlled environment. I had transformed, gathering her carefully in the Phoenixes talons and flew faster than I ever had to get her back to the Moby Dick, rushing her to the clinic and starting treatment.

The few times we were scared we would lose her and the Phoenix would rush me with energy letting me heal her a little more, but it was only ever just enough to keep her from deaths cold grasp by a hair. By the time I had gotten her through the worst of it I had collapsed on the floor of the clinic after telling Ace and Thatch to move her to her room to sleep. If I had found her just a few minutes later we would have lost her, so I can accept this outcome even if it hurts us all to see her in so much pain it is better than seeming her dead.

But it worked out better this way. If we had just saved her from our attack, she would most likely be fighting us more, asking questions we didn't need her asking. It was already clear that she was reluctant to stay with us but with her injuries she was forced to rely on us for everything for the time being. If she wasn't so badly injured she would have probably tried to leave already. Not that any escape attempts would work. Between Ace with Striker and me with the Phoenix she would be found easily.

But this guarantees that she will have to depend on us for even her most basic needs, feeding her, dressing her, bathing her, tending to her wounds while they heal, everything. Her fear of us only stemmed from ignorance, the more she gets to know us the more she feels out touch, the more she will want to stay.

My pants only seemed to get tighter as I thought about all the things she would be forced to rely on us for, and more importantly me. As her doctor and savior it will be easy for me to wiggle my way into her good graces. And while I would admit it was important for her to be comfortable with all of us, as she belongs to all of us, me and the Phoenix couldn't help but preen over the thought of her bonding with us first.

With her PTSD and panic attacks she was bound to have nightmares and night terrors. Once they started it would be easy to convince her to sleep with one of us under the guise of keeping her from hurting herself in her sleep and making her wounds even worse. And the sedative I had prescribed to her would keep her knocked out long enough for us to sate some of our growing desires for her that were getting harder and harder to keep under wraps without having to traumatize or scare her with our love. But to be fair my concerns for her sleeping alone were genuine. With how raw and mangled her arms and legs were, any kind of trauma or irritation could shred her skin to ribbons and make healing even harder and while we enjoyed the convenience of her injuries none of us wanted to prolong it.

But her nightmare will force her to take comfort in our presents as we sooth her. That and having us hold her in her sleep will make it so she stays still and won't toss or turn in her sleep, irritating her skin and the second she starts to struggle while having a night terror we will know immediately.

I had to take a few deep breaths forcing every muscle in my body to relax as much as I could. My cock was getting so hard it started to hurt. I knew I had to calm down especially since we would be heading out soon and if she felt my hard on she would probably be terrified. Sharing a bath under the guise of helping her get clean was one thing; but exposing her to our intense passions so soon would only scare her away and make our lives harder in the long run.

We had to do this carefully or the convenience of her injury would be useless. Scaring her like that would probably make her try to run away, hurting herself in the process and make us have to take drastic measures to keep her safe. And while I had padded cuffs to tie her down in my desk if necessary, it was only a last report, especially with the state of her wrists and ankles.

So for now we would all hold back, just the occasional kiss on the crown of her head or her forehead to sate our needs.

After a few minutes she had finally stopped crying, more like ran out of tears to cry, and my hard on finally calmed down enough to be barely noticeable. Pops was still holding her close to him, leading her breaths with the rise and fall of his wide chest. Despite the situation Pops still had that big smile on his face. He knew about her coming to us long before we had docked on the island and he was more than a little excited that he would have another child to dote on, nothing but pleased that his large family was ever growing and that some of his sons had found ‘the one’ as he put it. Even if it was through unusual circumstances.

“There we go little one, deep breaths.”

(Y/N) was finally able to take in a few proper breaths, her hiccups finally calming enough to let in a proper breath of air.

Despite how happy Pops was to have his newest child in his arms, comforting her in a time of need I could see how exhausted he was. From what Tate had told me earlier this morning the last few days have been hard. Pops had barely been able to sit up, the only thing getting him up today was the news that he would finally be able to meet (Y/N).

If i was being completely honest I didn't want to introduce them properly yet, I wanted her to get a little more comfortable with me and the others and meet the rest of the commanders, but if I didn't bring her soon he would probably get up and go hunting for her himself and that would only make his condition worse.

“Alright, come on Baby bird. We best get going now.”

I could feel Pops give me a dirty look as I reached out for him to place her back into my arms.

She sniffled loudly, trying to compose herself the best she could before she lifted her head from Pop’s chest, nodding obediently. It took a few seconds and a sharp glare from myself before Pops finally handed her to me, begrudgingly. I understood he wanted to spend more time with her but he needed rest and she needed to be properly introduced to the other commanders.

Besides, once he was feeling better and back in his rightful chair on the deck of the ship he would have plenty of time to spend with his new daughter. Once she was back in my arms I hopped off the bed being careful not to jostle her.

“Let's go, Little Bird. I have a few more people who want to meet you.”

She nods as she tries to whip away her tears with her shaky hands. But it was clear she wasn't really listening, still in so much shock her body was just on autopilot but she snapped out of it for a split second to say goodbye to Pops like the politely little thing she was.

“G-Goodbye Captain W-hitebeard. Thank yo-u again f-for letting m-me s-stay.”

I couldn't help but roll my eyes at my Baby Bird's words. Of course she was scared he might kick her off the ship, it was a natural fear to have when surrounded by pirates but she had nothing to worry about. I could hear Pops huff at her words.

“Of course my child, and please, call me Pops, little one.”

She nodded again.

“O-Ok… P-Pops.”

Her voice was so soft as she spoke. Once I was satisfied with her acceptance I finished walking the distance to the door but not before I turned my head a little to look back at Pops.

His eyes were closed, his breathing heavy and his heart monitor started to beep a little faster as he collapsed back into his pillows. I made a mental note to up his dosage tonight. It would help him sleep and he needed as much restful sleep as he could get. The sooner he heals the better, he's been getting more and more restless lately, more annoyed and he's been fighting the poor nurses left and right, even Tate.

I knew that part of it was wanting to meet (Y/N) but it was also the fact that he’s been bedridden for almost three weeks now and he was never one to just lay in bed and do nothing even with a doctor's orders. But in all fairness he never did follow doctors orders, it got a bit better when I became the Whitebeard's Pirates doctor but he still fought me from time to time. Too stubborn for his own good.

Walking back onto the main part of the deck we were met with a brisk wind blowing right past us. (Y/N) hair getting caught in the breeze messing it a little. Her soft scent wafted up to my nose. The Phoenix preened at her wanting so badly to nuzzle into her. We had not been able to smell it before, her soft smell muddled with the smell of soot, dirt and blood but now that she was clean I could smell her scent clear as day with a hint of my own scent along with Pops. The Phoenix decided to ignore Pop’s smell of salt and sake, and instead enjoyed how our sends muddled together.

She shivered a little from the breeze, clouds starting to descend upon us, casting us into the cool shade.

“Why don't we head down to the kitchen, Little Bird? It's nice and warm and I'm sure Thatch would be happy to have some good company. I have a few things to take care of before tonight and I'm sure Thatch would love to spend some time with you.”

In truth I really just had to rub one out before I would lose my mind, my Little Bird being too cute for her own good. I had to almost stab myself this morning to keep from taking her right there in my bed. But it would also be good for me to talk to Tate and a few other nurses about Pop's condition in detail and to discuss his medical plan and any changes we need to make again.

She looked up at me with big swollen eyes. Her lips slightly parted. God her face made my cock swell all over again, this girl would be the death of me. I could feel myself toeing the line between human and Phoenix. It was getting harder and harder to keep from transforming. My other half wanted so badly to meet his little mate properly. To love her the way he so desperately felt the need to. But I knew it would be too much for her right now.

I took a breath as I walked across the deck making a beeline for the stairs to the galley only to be stopped by a fluffy nuisance jumping and nipping at my back. I turned slightly so I could see Stefan trying to get to (Y/N) licking and nipping at her bandages on her toes. It had been clear from day one that Stefan had an affinity for our Little Bird and it was something I was both glad for and something I dreaded.

For one thing, Stefan was a very particular dog. He hated most anyone and would always bite people who got too close to him especially when we were docked at an island. In truth he only really liked a few select people for the crew, growling threateningly at the rest. But ‘liked’ was a bit of a stretch, he tolerated some of the crew. The only person this dog actually liked and was sweet towards was Pops. So I found myself to be rather relieved when I went to check on her one evening and found him snuggled on the bed with her by her head while she slept and he wasn't trying to bite her like he normally would, instead laying his head beside hers. He had taken a shine to her rather quickly, sniffing her out within the first few hours of her being in her room. I was glad he wasn't nipping at her violently, but he still tried to nip at her bandages, seeming to hate the sight of them.

I remember the first time I had put them on her. I had made the mistake of leaving the door open. He had come to visit her like he normally did after making his rounds around the ship but the second he saw what I was doing he started growling at me, taking a big chunk out of my hand when he leaped forward and locked his jaws around it.

I had to kick him out and I didn't let him see her for a while, worried he would bite at her. But I forgot to mention to the others I was keeping Stefan away from her so that evening when I went up to see her I saw someone had left her door wide. I rushed in already worried he had done damage only to find Stefan laying beside her, whining pitifully as he licked and tried to nip at the end of her bandage, being ever so careful not to touch or tear her skin. I found myself standing in the doorway for a good few seconds, gawking at the sight before me.

Never in my life had I seen this dog be so gentle and caring with anything or anyone. It baffled me but it also comforted me knowing that no matter what she was safe with him. I still had to try and keep Stefan from nipping and licking the bandages. Having the bandages get torn and soaked with dog slobber definitely wasn't good for such raw wounds.

But clearly he was nothing if net determined, actively trying to get to the bandages on her dangling feet.

“Enough Stefan!”

The dog growled at me, giving me the dirtiest glare a mutt like him could muster before barking loudly, getting the attention of a few of the crew wandering about the deck.

Before I could open my mouth to chastise the dog I was stopped by the most beautiful sound in the world. My little bird had started to laugh. Her soft little giggles echoing over the deck for all to hear as Stefan licked at her feet, tickling her. I couldn't help but let my face soften, any irritation leaving as I listened to her.

It seemed to have had an effect on Stefan as well, the mutt sitting nicely at my feet with a big grin on his face with his tongue hanging out of his mouth.

“Now what's so funny, Little Bird?”

I glared down at her playfully, a smirk stretching across my face. Her giggles never ceasing despite the lack of assault on her feet.

I leaned down, nuzzling my nose down to her cheek and slowly moved down into the turtle neck and into the crook of her neck, making her giggle even more as I tickled her neck with my nose. The sound was music to my ears. Like a hundred angels singing softly in my ear but even more ethereal. My cock only got harder the longer I listened to her.

“Keep that up and she’ll never stop, Marco.”

My smirk widened.

“Who says I want it to stop Izou, besides after the last few days she's had, a few giggles will do her some good. Laughter is the best medicine you know.”

I could feel Izou rolling his eyes at me.

“If that's your professional medical opinion I think we will need a second opinion.”

Izou came and rounded us so that he stood in front of me, raising his gloved hand to cup the back of (Y/N) head, almost completely encasing it. I couldn't help but enjoy how much smaller she was compared to us. She was a perfectly normal height but me and my brothers were known to be unusual in many ways. Our height is but one of the many things on that list. Ace was one of the shortest members of the crew and the closest in height to her but even he was taller than her. Me, Izou and Thatch were all around the same height and compared to her we were all very tall. Dwarfing her when we held her in our arms.

Izou moved her head so she was facing him, leaving her neck wide open for me to attack now that the turtle neck of my old sweater didn't block me as much. My lips finding purchase to her neck: kissing, nuzzling and sucking lightly making her giggle even more.

Izou had the sweetest smile on his face as he leaned down to be eye level with her as he ran his fingers through her clean, still slightly damp, hair waiting for me to stop tickling her neck before saying anything

“You look much better, Little Flower. All fresh and clean, how does it feel?”

After calming down from my assault on her neck so that she could answer him. It took her a few seconds to calm down enough from all her laughing to answer him. We couldn't help but admire her glowing, smiling face as she gained her composer.

She hadn't laughed once since she came here. But now that she was clean, comforted and knew she was truly safe she finally laughed. Not only that but with the amount of stress and tension she had been holding in, the dam was bound to crack eventually. And it was the most beautiful thing we had ever heard.

Her smile brightened up our world despite the clouds that currently surrounded it.

“I, f-feel better, thank y-you Izou.”

He smiled softly at her. Enjoying the sound of his own name coming from her lips.

“What a relief.”

He leaned in, pulling her head closer to him and kissed her softly between the eyebrows, his lips lingering for a few seconds. When he finally pulled away he continued to card his fingers through her hair, trying to get out some of the remaining knots in her hair.

I hadn't brushed her hair after our bath since Izou's fancy hair products seemed to do most of the work for me, only a few slight tangles left. But her hair would still need to be brushed through.

“How about the pain, is it manageable, Little flower”

At that (Y/N) paused as she took the time to consider her pain level. But her answer still held the reminiscent echo of her laughter.

“I-t still h-hurts but n-nothing t-oo horrible.”

Izou looked at me expectantly, clearly waiting for an explanation as to why she was in any pain all while I had done seemingly nothing.

“After having a bath and cleaning herself it's only natural for her to be a little uncomfortable. Her skin will still be irritated regardless of how gentle I was. That and the fact that she had a panic attack earlier and has been moved around constantly, it's no surprise she's hurting a little, and I want to wait for dinner before giving her her pain meds, they should be taken with food.”

Izou nodded silently accepting my answer before looking back at her and taking her little hands in his, bringing them to his lips and kissing each of her knuckles. It was so cute watching her reaction to all of the affection she was getting from us. She clearly wasn't taken care of properly but that was one reason why we took her. She had been neglected for far too long but we would show her how she was supposed to be treated.

“Then I guess our Little Flower will just have to take it easy for a bit, huh?”

“Precisely what we are going to do. I was just going to take her down to spend some time with Thatch before meeting all the others tonight.”

Izou stood to his full height.

“That might not be the best idea. Thatch has been busy all day preparing for the feast tonight. It wouldn't be a very relaxing environment.”

I took a second to consider Izous words. He did have a point, Thatch would have been prepping all day and have been rushing around like a mad man, that probably wasn't the best environment for her at present, that and her presents in the kitchen would only distract him

“Why don't I take her till tonight, I can do her hair and help get her ready for tonight. But I'd like to give her at least one pain med with her doctor's permission of course and let that work through her system for a few hours before introducing her to the rest of us. And being in my room with me would be much more comfortable then sitting in a hot stuffy kitchen with a whole division running around like headless chickens. ”

Izou made a good point, and as much as I didn't want to leave her in the first place I needed to calm down before the Phoenix made me do something I would regret later. And having her relax in a calm quiet environment would do her some good.

Izou, seeming to sense my needs taking the hint and coming close to delicately lift our Little Bird from my arms and into his, tucking her securely to his chest making Stefan move over to him. Now sitting at his feet, clearly not willing to be far from his favorite person. He wasn't even looking at Izou, just staring up at (Y/N) with the dopiest smile the dog could muster.

“You go do whatever you have to do, we’ll be in my quarters if you need us”

I nodded looking down at (Y/N) before kissing her cheek. Before reminded her about her meds

“Make sure she takes the pill with plenty of water,”

I tell Izou before looking down at (Y/N).

“I’ll see you later tonight Baby Bird, do you remember what I told you about the pain meds?”

“Do-don't exceed five a-a day and I-I should only t-take them a-t meal times?”

It took her a second to recall what I had told her about the pain meds but she was clearly still unsure so her words came out as more of a question than a statement.

“That's right, Baby Bird. You don't have to take them with meals so if you take one now it will be fine.”

She nodded and gave me a small smile.

“T-thank y-ou, Marco”

I shook my head before bringing her forehead to mine, looking deeply into her eyes before I spoke.

“I already told you before, Little Bird. You don't have to thank me.”

Before she could get another word in I quickly made my way over to the clinic to take care of my growing issue. Waving goodbye and telling her I'd see her tonight at the banquet.

_________________________

Marco left before I could get in another word, leaving me in Izou's arms as he hurried off towards the clinic.

“Now, let's head upstairs, Little Flower. That hair won't comb itself”

I looked up at Izou, he had a kind face with light makeup on, the only really striking thing about his makeup was his bright red lipstick that looked wonderful on him. But to be fair he already looked more attractive than any man I had ever seen, or women for that matter even with the scar on his right eyebrow.

Izou started walking back that way me and Marco came from, Stefan hot on my heels, literally. He kept leaping up a little to reach my toes to lick and occasionally nip at the bandages but it never hurt so I let the sweet dog do as he pleased, if anything it just made me giggle at the ticklish feeling.

Once we got to the staircase that led up to the commanders, and now my room, I realized I had to thank Izou too, Because of him I was finally clean and my hair free of any blood or gunk.

“I-Izou?”

He took a second to look down at me and acknowledge me, giving me a small ‘hmm?’ In question before looking back up, never stopped his ascent up the stairs.

“Yes, my Little Flower?”

I felt warmth rise to my cheeks again as I looked down into my lap. Too intimidated to make eye contact with him. And a little embarrassed by the nickname, but in all fairness none of them really called me by my name.

“T-thank you, f-for letting m-me use a-ll you fancy s-soaps today. I-it feels a-a lot better now that i-i’m clean.”

Izou paused on the last few steps making me look up at him with a confused look on my face. His eyes met mine with an intense, stern but not harsh look on his face, I couldn't help but curl into myself, shrinking away from his intense glare. I felt him adjust me so that I was held in the crook of one of his arms, his now free hand resting on my cheek, forcing me to make eye contact with him. His eyes were full of determination and focus as he waited till he knew he had my full attention.

“You need to understand something, Little Flower, so listen well.”

I nodded as I began to tremble, terrified I had done something wrong. Terrified of the consequences if I pissed them off.

“LIke Marco said on the deck, you never have to thank us, in fact I never want to hear you say ‘thank you’ to us ever again when it comes to tending to you. We are more than happy to do it. Your wellbeing is thanks enough. Do you understand me?”

I could feel a pressure behind my eyes that I had come to register with tears but this time no tears came. I had cried so much today that I was probably so dehydrated my body couldn't even make tears anymore.

I nodded as much as I could with Izous’ gloved hand keeping me in place, but from the displeased look on his face that wasn't enough for him.

“Words, Little Flower, I need to hear you say it.”

I couldn't help the involuntary whimper that left my lips, Stefan seeming to react to my reaction, growling at Izou till Izou shot the dog the the most intense glare I had ever seen, the air seeming to get heavy making Stefan quite down. Once Izou was sure the dog wouldn't interrupt he looked back down at me expectantly.

“I-I understand….. I-im s-s-sorry.”

My apology was so quiet that I didn't think he heard but from the forgiving smile on his face I assumed he did.

“You don't have to be sorry, Little Flower, it's ok. You're just too polite for your own good. But we’ll break that habit soon enough”

I didn't say anything but Izou seemed satisfied enough to leave it at that, continuing up the last few steps, entering the hallway and walking past the first few doors before he turned left.

He opened the door revealing what I assumed was his room. Out of all the rooms I had seen so far his had the most personality by far. He shooed Stefan away before walking in and shutting the door in the poor dog's face. I could hear the poor thing whine on the other side of the door as Izou just stood there for a second so as to let me take it all in.

It was nicely decorated, a few paintings on the walls, his bed that was in the right corner, just like mine, was made neatly with beautiful pink and purple sheets that matched his robe he was wearing. He also had a desk with some papers on it along with a lamp and a water pitcher. Shiny crystals, beautiful seashells also adorned the desk..

By the door that led to the bathroom was a huge wardrobe. There was even some kind of clothing stand, it held a robe much like the one he was wearing now but this one looked like it was special. Clearly made with great detail and care.

His room was very neat but unlike the others his room also felt the most lived in, the atmosphere of the room just felt so comfortable and homey.

Izou walked in, setting me delicately on his bed before taking a step back, taking a knee in front of me with his hands resting on my lap.

“Now, first things first, do you have your pills?”

I nodded my head, reaching over to the pants pocket to get the red, blue and grey bottle, Marco still being in possession of the black one like he had said he would.

I pulled out all the bottles, showing them to Izou in my cupped hands like I was a child presenting something they had found to their parents.

“Good, do you know what one is for your pain?”

I nodded again, holding up the red one with my shaky hands. Izou plucked it from my fingers, taking the other two and stuffing them back into my pocket for me. He opened the bottle and took out one small white pill. I tried to reach for it but Izou closed his hand before standing and walking over to his desk. He grabbed a pitcher and a glass, filling the glass to the top before coming over and kneeling in front of me again.

I tried to reach for the glass this time but Izou raised it over his head, keeping it just out of my reach.

“Now now Little Flower, you shouldn't be holding anything. Let me help you.”

I just stared at him for a second, trying to see if he was joking but the serious look on his face told me he wasn't playing around. My gaze fell, locking with my bandaged hands that were still shaking a little. I knew he was right, I knew that if I was going to heal as much as possible that I shouldn't use my legs or hands but at the same time I hated the idea of everything being done for me.

I had never had anyone take care of me like this before, it felt wrong. Like it was something to be ashamed of. It made me feel useless. I couldn't even feed myself properly, or bathe, or even take my own pain medication.

Apparently my displeasure was pretty clear to Izou because he set the cup down, taking my hands in his while the other still held the pill. His thumb rubbed soothing circles on the backs of my hands, helping to stop the trembling.

“Hey, it's ok to need our help while you heal. It's nothing to be ashamed of. We are here to take care of you and we are happy to do so.”

I raised my head so our eyes could meet. His eyes were soft and kind, there was no pity or judgment behind those eyes. Just kindness and a deep caring. After a while I nodded my head, silently agreeing to let him help me.

He smiled softly, letting go of my hands and picking up the glass.

“Open wide.”

I did as told and he placed the pill on the middle of my tongue before bringing the cup to my lips letting me take a sip. Once the pill was gone he pulled the cup back.

“C-could I have s-some more?”

Izous’ smile widened as he nodded, bringing the glass up to my lips again as I drank the water greedily. From all the crying I had done earlier I was really thirsty, finishing the tall glass in seconds.

I gasped out, catching my breath once the glass was finally empty. I couldn't help but flinch a little when Izou raised his hand to my face but didn't make any move to stop him, not like I could even if I wanted to. His hand stopped at my cheek so his thumb could wipe away some water on the corner of my mouth. But he didn't pull away yet, instead prompting me to look at him again.

“Would you like some more, Little Flower?”

I could feel a blush dust my cheeks at his question. I was a little embarrassed at how thirsty I was and how desperate I must seem to him, I hadn't noticed how thirsty I was till the water hit my tongue leaving me horribly desperate for more.

“Y-Yes please.”

My scratchy voice and stutter was already improving. The water soothing my throat the more I drank.

Izou poured another glass lifting it to me once again so I could drink it down. I was much slower this time. Having the worst of my dry throat quenched already made it easier to take my time. Taking a few breaths every few sips.

Once I was done Izou set the cup down again, taking both my hands in his.

“Feel better, Little Flower?”

I smiled at him.

“Yes, thank you Izou.”

I was glad I was finally able to get a clear sentence out, the water really helping my sore throat making it easier to talk.

He smiled in return but his eyes held something deeper.

“What did I just tell you, Little flower?”

My face dropped for a second, remembering his words from the hallway.

“I'm sorry.”

My apology was quiet but it seemed to be enough for him, his warm smile coming back to his face.

“That's good. Now, how about you let me take care of that hair of yours.”

“Ok…”

I agreed but silently wondered what that would entail, but if the health of his hair was anything to go off of it would work like magic.

He stood up, and walked over to his bathroom and grabbed a hair brush before walking over to sit in the bed with me. He moved back till his back was resting on the wall the bed was pressed up against before reaching over and wrapping his arm around my waist so he could pull me closer to him. He had me situated between his legs, my back facing his so that he could get to my hair.

Normally I would feel a bit embarrassed at the position, but between Ace and Marco having me sit in their laps constantly and Marco helping me bathe I seem to have gotten used to their touchyness. And if I was being honest it felt nice being taken care of, as scary and intimidating as they all were and as terrifying as my situation was they had all been nothing but kind to me. I realized how unreasonable it had been for me to act as scared as I have been. Even meeting Whitebeard went better than I thought it would… Kind of.

“So, how was meeting Pops, Little Flower?”

I turned red. It was like he was reading my mind.

“Well…. It… didn't go as bad as I thought, but still not… great.”

“Hmm?

I could hear shuffling behind me before one of his hands came around my side. He was holding his gloves in his hand, holding them out to me.

“Hold these for me, will you?”

“O-ok”

I gingerly take the gloves from him holding them in my lap as his now bare hands start playing with my hair for a second before starting to brush through it gently, starting at my ends.

“What do you mean by ‘not great’?”

I start to fiddle with the gloves in my hands, playing with the seams on the fingers as well as I could with my limited mobility.

“Well, I was scared to meet him, worried I would do something wrong and….. be thrown off.. the ship..”

Izou cut me off with a laugh, making me embarrassed. To him and his crew members my fears must seem irrational but how else would someone like me in a situation like this feel.

“Oh Little Flower, if he didn't want you on his ship we never would have set sail with you in the first place. He’s known about you since Marco first brought you aboard, long before you woke up.”

I couldn't help the red faced pout I gave him, turning my head a little to glare only for him to huff playfully at my defiant look, taking my chin in his hand and turning my head away from him so he could continue brushing my hair.

“Was that really all?”

“Well… I didn't know that I had been asleep for a week on the ship before I woke up, and when Marco was introducing me to Whitebeard he updated him on my condition and mentioned it. When I heard him say it I kind of freaked out and started crying. I was so embarrassed.”

Izou didn't say anything for a few seconds. I wouldn't say the silence was uncomfortable, as in awkward but it was uncomfortable in the sense that I was worried about what he would think of me. To such a strong pirate like him, crying after being told you had a long ass sleep must have seemed childish.

“I'm so sorry, Little Flower. I had thought someone had told you already. It's only natural to have such a reaction, I'm sure Pops won't judge you for it. Besides, you're not the first to burst out in tears in front of him and you won't be the last.”

I found myself breathing a sigh of relief before I nodded, silently appreciating his lack of chastisement.

“Yeah, he gave me a hug till I stopped crying…. I think I was just shocked in the moment to hear I had been out cold for so long.”

I could almost feel the smile he had on his face, it was like his joy was radiating all around him.

“There you see, nothing to be embarrassed about. He's already taken a shine to you. Much like Stefan.”

I looked over to the closed door. There was a shadow right in the middle of it telling me that he was still sitting right outside the door.

“Is he not usually friendly?”

Izou scoffs.

“That dog only tolerates some and hates the rest. Those who he tolerates won't be bitten unless they get too close, those he hates can't get within six feet of him or he'll try and put you six feet under. The only person he's actually sweet on is you and Pops.

I tilted my head a little. I couldn't imagine him being so harsh. He was such a sweet little dog. From what Thatch had told me earlier he had slept with me while I healed and hadn't left my side. Honestly the more I thought about it the conversations we had really should have clued me in to how long I had been asleep, but in all fairness I thought he just meant after Marco had knocked me out.

For a while me and Izou just sat in a comfortable silence as he played with my hair, brushing through it, occasionally running his fingers through it to see how damp it was. It felt nice, just sitting there in silence. There was no need to talk, no need to fill the silence. We could just enjoy each other's company. I think this was the most comfortable I had felt since being on the ship.

The others didn't make me feel uncomfortable per say: Ace was kind, Thatch made great food and ensured my safety and Marco made me feel healthy and taken care of. But with them there was a need to fill the silence whereas with Izou we could just sit and enjoy the silence.

I couldn't help but lean into him as the brush worked through my hair. I couldn’t remember a time when I was able to relax and just have a moment with my thoughts even before the attack. This was the first time in the last few days that I had been on the ship that I had a chance to process all my emotions and everything that had happened… even what led me here. I couldn't help but be grateful to everyone. They had all been so kind, healing me, feeding me, even helping me to bathe.

But at the same time I couldn't help but feel ashamed, they had all been so kind and thoughtful and I had been scared and withdrawn. I knew they didn't fault me for my fear and I knew it was only a natural reaction but the longer I sat here with Izou, the longer I processed the situation I was in, the more I grew to appreciate everything that had happened. They saved me from what very possibly could have been my death. I'm alive because of them.

Suddenly I felt arms hug me from behind, Izou pulling me back into his chest in a comfortable hug and breaking me out of my own thoughts.

“Where did you go, Little Flower? What are you thinking about?”

I turned my head to look back at him through the corner of my eye. He really did have a kind face. They all did but this was just the first time I noticed it but there was something else behind all those eyes that I just could quite put my finger on.

“I'm thinking about everything that has happened, everything that has gotten me to this moment. How I got here and what i'm going to do next.”

Izou smiled.

“Well, Little Flower, you have had quite the last few days, it's no wonder you would be lost in thought, but I promise, there is nothing but clear skies ahead of you.”

I huffed a little.

“You and I both know that the New World is anything but just blue skies Izou, as such a seasoned pirate you should know at least that much.”

Izou raised a playful eyebrow at me, leaning back and turning me so I was sitting on his lap sideways so as to look at each other properly.

“Is that so, and just what makes you think I'm such a seasoned pirate?”

I couldn't help but giggle a little. It felt so good to be able to laugh again. Marco must have been right, laughter was the best medicine but in all fairness it was probably just the pain medication kicking in and giving me a little relief, letting me think about something other than the constant sharp ache that felt like it was in my bones.

“Well Marco said you and him were the same age, and I think anyone in their mid forties would be considered seasoned.”

My tone was playful as I talked, holding back my laughter at the face he made. He was clearly shocked and a little annoyed at my statement but I could tell he wasn't actually mad.

“Damn it Marco, how dare he.”

I couldn't help but laugh even more. My stomach started hurting from all my laughing. I never thought I would miss this kind of soreness.

“Dont worry Izou. I thought all of you were in your early twenties. But when Marco said he had been the Whitebeard Pirates doctor for a few decades I asked how old he was and he told me. I was so shocked so I asked him how old everyone else was figuring if I got him wrong I might have gotten everyone's else's age wrong too. Turns out the only one I was right about was Ace.”

I had to whip away my tears, the salt water being absorbed by the bandages. I had been laughing so much my eyes were watering now that I had been hydrated. Izou still had an unimpressed look on his face that only made me laugh even more.

“If it makes you feel better I never would have guessed. I was so shocked when he told me. I really couldn't believe you were that old.”

His face soured even more, I couldn't take it anymore and burst out laughing to the point I couldn't breathe. His face was just too funny. He looked so depressed and annoyed that I knew how old he was.

“Keep at it, Little flower, and I'll give you something to laugh about.”

Before I could even ask what he was talking about his hands came to my side, tickling me while being mindful of the bandages around my middle as I writhed around on his bed, messing up the once neatly made blanket as it got tangled around our limbs.It was a good thing I had taken that pain pill otherwise I imagine all my wiggling around would hurt.

“I won't stop till you apologise, Little Flower.”

A-ap-ologi-se fo-r wh-what!?!?!?”

I could barely get the words out properly while I was laughing. In the midst of my loud giggles I could hear light scratching at the door. Stefan must be getting riled up but I was a little too distracted to really let it register the poor dog was getting rather pissed off.

“For knowing my secret. I go to great lengths to look as young as I do and to keep my true age a secret, only a few select commanders and Pop’s know how old I am, I can't have others knowing without punishment.”

I dropped the gloves in my hand somewhere on the bed in favor of clinging to Izou's shoulders. Despite my weak hands I did my best to push him away as much as possible and ease up the attack on my sides but I figured out pretty quickly that, that wasn't going to happen.

His shoulders were broad, something I expected from his height and I knew he was strong, the front of his robe always opened enough to see his toned pecs and tight abs told me as much but when I felt the muscles on his shoulder and neck flex as he continued to tickle my sides I knew I had no hope but to try and get out an apology.

“O-Ok!!!! I-i’ll a-apo-logi-ze!!!!!!”

I was laughing so much my stomach started to hurt. My palm started to ache a little as I kept pushing back on Izous’ shoulders trying to get him to stop his assault. I had expected him to stop and at least give me a chance to speak once I said I would apologize but he did stop till he noticed my hands shaking violently but they didn't hurt like they did before.

I was barely able to hold a bowl the first night I was here they hurt so much. It felt good to be able to be playful and put some pressure on my hands without screaming in pain so it took me by surprise when Izou took both my wrists in one of his hands, lifting them above my head pinning them gently to the bed while his other hand continued his attack on my side. At least with only one hand it made it a little more bearable but just barely.

“Now we can't have that now can we, Little Flower. Marco would kill me if he found out you hurt your hands again while in my care.”

I tried to respond, telling him I felt fine and that I wasn't hurting myself but I didn't have a chance to get a word in before his head descended onto my neck tickling my sensitive skin with his lips. His hand went back to my sides after lifting it to pull the turtle neck of the sweater down to get clear access to the tender skin.

My cheeks glowed a bright red color. In part from all the laughing I was doing but also because of the embarrassment. It felt so intimate being in this position but at the same time I was a little busy having trouble breathing to really pay attention to the intimacy of the situation. Besides, compared to being bathed by Marco this was nothing.

Izous’ hand moved from my side to my stomach, reaching under the sweater to tickle the bare skin of my stomach. I wiggled and kicked and tried to pull my wrists away from his hold but he just pressed me into the bed with his body weight keeping me from moving around too much. Between that and my wrists starting to ache a little I stopped struggling as much and put what little energy I had left to trying to get out a coherent apology.

“I'-M SO-R-RY, IZ-OU!!!!!!!!!!!! I'-M SO S-S-SO-RRY!!!!!!!!!!!!! I S-SWE-AR I W-ON'T T-T-TELL A-A SOULl!!!!!!!!!!!”

Finally I was able to scream out my apology, granting me a reprieve from Izous’ attack. His hand paused, resting on the middle of my stomach. He was pressing down lightly to keep me still as my chest heaved, finally able to take in some decent breaths of air. His hand was so big it covered almost half of my stomach. His other hand was still keeping my wrists over my head, pressing them down into the blankets.

His face was so close to mine our noses nearly touched. His warm breath spread over my face. He smelled like a kind of flower with his breath smelling like a smooth blend of herbal tea. His scent was something so soft and gentle but I didn't know what kind of flower it would be. To be fair I could count the amount of time I had actually smelled real flowers on one hand, in fact I would only need two fingers. Once at mom and dad's funeral, and once on my eighteenth birthday. But to be fair, real flowers were hard to find on a winter island.

“Say that again, Little Flower.”

I took a few more gulps of air as I tried to calm the last few giggles that bubbled their way up my throat. Izous' voice was serious but the smile on his face told me he was just having some fun with me.

After another minute or so of Izou hovering over me I was finally able to compose myself enough to repeat my apology.

“I’m sorry Izou, I won't tell a soul.”

His smile seemed to widen as he leaned down impossibly closer to my face turning his head slightly to give my cheek a chaste kiss. His lips linger for a few seconds longer than they should have but I was still too busy gathering my thoughts again.

It felt both weird and so good to have such an intense rush of endorphins after so long. I couldn't remember how long it had been since I had a really good belly laugh like that. In fact I don't think there was a time.

Even as a young child my older brother never spent time with me or played with me the way Izou and all the others have been. It felt so weird to be constantly touched. It was weird but not in a bad way. I found myself starting to enjoy the contact.

“Good girl, Now now that your hair is dry, why don't we start getting ready for tonight. By the time we are done the festivities should have already started.”

Izou got up from the bed, supporting me by my back to help me sit up. Once I was upright he gathered me in his arms again. Turning me around to that my back faced the headboard of the bed. He took a second to shuffle around some pillows before he set me down, having me rest against the pillows so I could sit upright comfortably. Once he was sure I was secured he walked back to the bathroom grabbing a purple bag, the exact same bag that he gave Marco to help me bathe.

“Did you already go to Marcos' room to grab your stuff?”

Izou paused mid step, looking at me then back down to the bag before looking back at me nursing out laughing.
“Oh no my Little Flower. I have lots of bags like this. This is my makeup bag. You'll be hanging on to my shower bag until we dock at an island where I can't find proper cleaning products for you. Knowing those fools they would grab the first bottle of soap they see and that just won't do.”

He sat down on the bed facing me while opening the bag, taking out a few things. It looked like eye shadow, lipstick, eyeliner, face powder and a few other things I wasn't too sure about.

“I didn't actually use the body wash, just the shampoo and conditioner. Marco said it would be too hard on my skin, so he used a bar of plain unscented soap and a rag to make it easier on my skin.”

Izou seemed to freeze up for a second before slowly looking up at me with a look that could kill.

“He did what?”

The tone of his voice kinda creeped me out. His eyes had a look of a mad man.

“....we….. didn't use your body wash?”

My answer was hesitant. I wasn't too sure how to answer his question. He was clearly mad about something I just couldn't figure out what.

He stared at me for a few seconds before taking a deep breath through his nose before looking back into the bag he was fiddling with, taking out a few creams before zipping it up and putting it to the side.

“Well, I'll just have to have a word with Marco later tonight then.”

I could swear I saw a vein popping out of his forehead but I decided not to think too much about it.

“Speaking of, what is happening tonight? You and Marco kept mentioning some kind of banquet. What's happening?”

Izous’ smile came back as he moved closer to me to cup my cheeks in his still bare hands.

“It's nothing to worry about, Little Flower. It's not like our usual banquets or parties, we won't be taking you to one of those for a while, It will just overwhelm you. Besides, they're all pigs when drunk.”

He had a look of disgust on his face at the last part. But I didn't find his statement to be surprising, I mean they were pirates after all. It was in their nature, at least most of them anyway.

“No no, tonight is just so we can introduce you to a few of the other commanders. We won't worry too much about anyone else for now. You’ll be spending the most time with me, Ace, Thatch and Marco while you heal anyway.”

Once Izou was done examining my face he grabbed one of the tubes, squirting a little onto two of his fingers before gently and thoroughly rubbing it all over my face.

“Why is that by the way? Why the four of you specifically.”

Izou looked at me with a raised eyebrow and odd smile on his face that didn't meet his eyes.

“Well Marco and Thatch should be obvious.”

I nodded as he spoke till he gripped my chin keeping me from moving, clearly silently telling me to keep still while he picked up some makeup.

“Marco because he's my doctor, Thatch because he is monitoring my food intake and making sure I gain a little weight, right?”

He smiled.

“That right, now close your eyes.”

I did as told before I continued to ask.

“But why you and Ace?”

I heard his huff slightly, feeling his breath on my face again before I felt a brush run over my eyelids making me flinch a little.

“I'm hurt, Little flower, don't you like me and the little matchbox?”

I couldn't help but giggle a little at his nickname for Ace before answering.

“No it's not like that. I'm just curious about the dynamic of it all.”

“Well Ace is gonna be striking around for a few reasons. One with your injuries it will be hard for you to keep in body heat and that can be dangerous for your health, especially as we get closer to our next island, I'm assuming Marco already mentioned it's a cluster of winter islands, yes?”

I had to resist the urge to nod as Izou continued doing my makeup.

“Yeah.”

“Good, but Ace having eaten the flame flame fruit will be able to keep you warm and compensate for your missing body heat. I, on the other hand, am here for emotional support in a sense. I know what it's like to lose those close to you, that's how I ended up with the Whitebeard pirates when I was fifteen. ”

I couldn't help but gasp. He was so young.

“Luckily me and Marco were the same age so I had someone my age to spend my time with, though I can't say we got along very well, we are very different and didn't grow close for a while. If i'm being honest it wasn't till Thatch joined a few years later that we really grew closer together. He has a way to bring people together.”

I smiled at that, it was good to hear a story so similar to mine had a happy ending.

“But i'm here for your emotional health, Not to say the others aren't as well but Marco is better at physical health, Thatch isn't great with heavy emotions and Ace is too much of a goofball, they’ll always try to make you laugh instead of letting you cry your feeling out the way you'll most likely need to in the future when you feel comfortable enough to grieve. So when you're ready to talk we all figured I'd be the best person to listen to.”

He pulled the brush away for a second and it took the opportunity to open my eyes.

“Tha-”

I cut myself off mid sentence. Izou leaded back looking at me with a raised brow, a stern look on his face just waiting for me to dare finish my sentence. I shut my mouth, showing that I didn't intend to say anything, thankful I caught my mistake before I followed through.

After a few seconds Izou lowered his eyes brown before picking up the canister of face powder.

“Good catch, if you had followed through with that I could have had to punish you and that would have been a pain to deal with after I've already done some of your makeup.”

I swallowed nervously glad I caught myself, having no interest in learning what kind punishment I would get. I imagine it was something along the lines of more tickling but I don't think my stomach muscles could take any more laughing.

We sat in silence while Izou finished my makeup. It didn't take him too long. If his own makeup was any hint he didn't seem to be a fan of anything big and extraordinary which I appreciated. The only women I had ever seen with lots of makeup on were prostitutes and while I respected them for doing what they had to do I certainly didn't want to be one.

Once he was done he stood up and walked over to the bathroom again. He grabbed a little hand held mirror, walking back over, showing me my reflection.

I couldn't help but gasp. Izou had done my makeup so it gave me a sophisticated look without having to layer anything on.

My eyelids had a sparkly gold eyeshadow on them with winged eyeliners similar to what he had. The face powder he had applied helped even out my complexion without looking so drastic as a foundation.

I felt tears welling in my eyes. I immediately started to fan my eyes not wanting to ruin Izous’ work. It kind of hurt my wrists to move up and down so quickly but I was determined not to ruin the makeup.

Izou seemed to notice my discomfort pretty quickly. Taking a hold of my wrist he pulled them towards himself. He kissed both my palm.

“Don't hurt yourself, Little Flower. Do you really think my makeup isn't waterproof? Do you have any idea how many times I get splashed in the face with sea water on the daily. I'd have to be insane not to get waterproof makeup, if I didn't I'd be redoing it three times a day.”

I couldn't help but giggle, but it made sense.

“Now let's get you changed.”

I frowned.

"What's wrong with what I'm wearing?”

Izou looked back at me with an ‘do you really have to ask’ look on his face.

“Nothing is wrong with them, Little Flower. Only that they are Marcos old clothes, they don't fit you and I have something that will fit you much better.”

I didn't quite know how to feel. On one hand I liked Marcos clothes, they were soft and comfortable. But on the other hand i'd like to have a pair of pants that I didn't have to roll up one hundred times.

Izou walked over to his wardrobe, opening the doors and reaching around and shuffling through a few things till he found what he was looking for.

My jaw dropped when he pulled out the most beautiful dress I had seen in my life. He walked over, presenting it to me with a pleased smile on his face.

I couldn't believe my eyes. It was a beautiful deep blue, the same color as the deep sea. It would touch the ground once it was one me, completely covering my feet. It had a deep heart shaped plunge for a neckline and over the shoulder sleeves.

It was the most beautiful thing I had seen in my life.

“Izou, I… I can't wear this….”

He frowned at me, clearly displeased at my section.

“And why is that?”

His voice was harsh, normally I wouldn't argue with a tone like that but I felt like I just couldn't wear it.

“I… I just…”

“Trust me Little Flower, you'll look amazing.”

I swallowed.

“I don't doubt it but… Izou, but it's too much!”

He rolled his eyes.

“Nothing is too much for you, Little Flower. Besides this if for first impressions. I won't have you meeting the others in those old rags.”

I clung to the sweater, his words really left no room for argument. After a few seconds of silence Izou placed the dress down beside me.

“Come one, let me help you.”

I looked at him with wide eyes. His hands gripped the hem of the sweater, pulling it up and over my head leaving my top half completely bare due to my lack of a bra but he didn't seem to think twice about it as he immediately moved his hands downwards after tossing the sweater into the corner of the room. His deft fingers made quick work of the sashes tight knot easily slipping it off my waist, the pants following suit.

He grabbed the dress once more telling me to raise my arms. I did as told, letting him slip the dress over me.

Once my head popped out the top of the dress Izou got behind me, fixing the dress so it sat just right. Or at least as well as it could while I was still sitting down, and zipped the zipper on the back of the dress to the top.

 

Only when Izou was happy with the dress did he get off the bed, scooping me up into his arms causing the dress to fall the rest of the way down my legs. He walked over to the bathroom so I could see myself in a bigger mirror.

He set me down but still held me up by my waist that looked even smaller in the dress. I looked breathtaking. I've never looked so beautiful.

Izou leaned down so our cheeks were touching looking at me through the mirror as I stood there speechless.

“Now, let's go meet the others, my beautiful Little Flower.”

Chapter Text

Apparently along with losing the proper use of my limbs I had also lost my sense of time. After a few minutes of me and Izou looking at myself in the mirror he put his gloves back on and hoisted me up into his arms, taking me out of his room down to the main deck. Unlike Marco, however, he didn't forget that Stefan was waiting at the door.

He paused for a moment, giving the pup a second to take in my new appearance before Izou nudged him to the side with his foot, which Stefan tried to bite, and walked past him and down the stairs onto the deck. But the second we got there my jaw dropped yet again.

The sky was pitch black, the cold evening air making me shiver, goosebumps spreading from my arms to my chest and neck. Just how long had we been upstairs? It couldn't have been this long.

But I didn't get to dwell too long on it when my body curled in on itself, as best it could while izou held me, from the crisp air. The dress was nice and flowy so it didn't do much when it came to keeping me warm but I was thankful that it covers my legs and feet, but it was also a thin fabric so it didn't protect my already damaged skin from the breeze as much as I would like. I started to understand what Izou meant when he said I wouldn't be able to retain my own body heat.

I looked around the deck as Izou walked in the direction of the galley. But when we passed one of the massive masts my body seemed to get a lot colder as I quickly realized we wouldn't be having this meeting inside, dread settling in the pit of my stomach.

There on the deck was a bunch of large tables that had been pushed together with several lanterns lining the tables that already had food and place settings on it.

Some of the commanders were already at the table, Ace and Marco among them and several others that I didn't recognise.

As Izou got closer Ace noticed us, propelling himself upwards on a pillar of fire making me yelp. He easily got a good twenty feet in the air before landing in front of us with an ease that can only be achieved through practice. Made me wonder how many times he got it wrong before finally being able to land on his feet.
He held his arms out, opening his mouth to speak only to freeze in place, his smile disappearing just as fast as it came. I waited for a few seconds for him to say something but he just stood there… staring… aggressively.

It felt like a good few minutes but only could have been seconds of him just standing there with his mouth open like a fish out of water before I looked down at my bandaged hands to break the intense eye contact. I burrowed into Izou a little as if it would hide me from Ace’s intense gaze, my fingers fiddling with each other. My cheeks got warm the longer he stared despite how cold I was.

I knew I looked ridiculous in this dress. It was too nice of a dress for someone like me to wear especially when I was all wrapped up in bandages like a mummy. I heard Izou taking in a breath getting ready to say something to Ace but he was beaten to it by Marco who had walked over without me realizing until he smacked Ace upside the head making Ace yell out in pain while catching his hat that had been knocked off.

 

“What the hell Marco!?”

Ace looked back to glare at Marco, rubbing the back of his sore head as he placed his orange hat around his neck with the red beaded necklace.

“You're making her self conscious, you dumbass. Say something.”

Ace stopped glaring at Marco, his head whipping back to face me with a look of worry plastered on his face. His warm eyes full of regret.

“Oh, no, Firefly. That's not it. You look amazing, took the breath right out of my lungs!”

I looked up at him through my lashes. I knew he was being genuine. Honestly, I didn't think he could be anything but honest. He always seemed to blurt out and do the first thing that popped into his head. But I still had trouble believing him.

It would seem my own doubts were not well hidden because Ace’s face seemed to drop even more. I could feel Marcos' presents behind me before I felt his warm hands on my shoulders. I couldn't understand how he was so warm when it was so cold. Even Izou seemed nice and toasty and I knew Aces was, He was made of fire, the lucky bastard.

His fingers squeezed my shoulders a few times, massaging my tense muscles. He leaned down so his lips brushed my ear, something I've learned he likes to do a lot.

“He’s right, Little Bird. Even if ‘Amazing’ is an understatement.”

 

He kissed my cheek before standing up straight as Ace’s worried look turned to one of annoyance, standing up straight to try and meet Marcos height.

“Hey—!!”

Ace clearly had something to say but one look from Marco was enough to shut him up. Ace rolled his eyes, clearly annoyed but didn't say anything.

“Come on, Thatch is almost done getting all the food set up.”

Marco started to make his way back to the long table, joining his fellow commanders. Some of whom were staring at us while most were busy chatting and already drinking.

When Izou didn't start to walk over to the table after a few idle seconds I looked up at him only to find him staring at me with a pinched expression, his eyebrows knitted together and a frown on his painted lips. But as I opened my mouth to ask him what was wrong, my self consciousness surfacing again, he beat me to it and looked back up to Ace.

“You should hold her tonight. It's too cold for her in this weather.”

Ace's eyes widened to the size of dinner plates, almost wider than the smile on his lips that I was worried would tear his cheeks as he came close so Izou could safely transfer me into his arms.

The second I was in Ace's arms I couldn't help the sigh of relief slipping from my lips from the change of temperature. Ace was like a living furnace. It felt like my body was defrosting just from being in his arms. My muscles relaxing immediately and my eyelids close as I soak in all his heat. I felt like putty in his arms as I nuzzled my icy nose into the crook of his neck.

I felt Ace's chest rumble with his chuckle as he watched me snuggle into him. Normally I'd be embarrassed and mortified by my own actions but right now I couldn't find it in me to care. If they were all touchy I didn't see the harm in getting all touchy with them, besides with all the affection they have been giving me I couldn't help but relax around them. And Ace didn't seem to mind at all as tilted his head down so his cheek rested on the top of my head.

“Jeez, you feel like an ice cube. Feel better, Firefly?”

I nodded not wanting to say anything. I was so comfortable I could fall asleep right here.

I heard Izou chuckling before I felt his gloved hand on my cheek, tilting my face towards him while encouraging me to open my eyes.

“Come on Little Flower, we can't have you falling asleep now.”

Ace nodded in agreement.

“Yeah, besides you have to meet a few of the other commanders.”

Ace abruptly turned, surprising me and Izou as he started to walk to the table.

“Not everyone is here. Some of them are out on missions but you'll be able to meet most of them.”

Once Ace got to the table he sat beside Marco who was on Aces’ right and at the head of the table, and who I had my back turned to as Ace adjusted me to sit sideways on his lap, and Izou walked over and sat a ways down the table from us. They all seemed to be sitting in order of their divisions. Nine people were sitting at the table in total, so assuming everyone was here there would be ten commanders since Thatch isn't here yet.

The silence hung heavy in the air as they all stared at me, their previous chatter quieting the second Ace sat down. I was comforted by the fact that none of their stares had any animosity. Some eyes were wide with their mouths hanging open, some were just looking intensely waiting for something to be said, much like myself, but a few were just smiling kindly. The one sitting across from me and Ace being one of them.

He was incredibly tall, a darker skin complexion with black hair with tight muscles and incredibly wide shoulders to match, though for the most part that seemed to be a requirement to be a commander of the Whitebeard Pirates. Everyone at the table, aside from myself and one other, was massive and clearly had muscles to rival Greek gods. The closest to my size being Ace and one other commander who was a little shorter than me seemed to be dressed as a medieval nobleman. He had the most mischievous look on his face as he stared at me with big blue eyes that were framed by light brown cropped hair. By his place on the table beside Izou he was one of the lower ranking commanders but much like everyone at the table, even everyone on this ship, were all stronger than me by a lot.

After a few seconds of everyone staring at me and me taking a glance at a few commanders, Thatch came bursting in from the galley with a few other chefs from his division holding plates of even more food.

“All right! That's the last of it.”

They all place the food down, everyone's eyes leaving me to look at the mouth watering spread of food. Thatch took a seat on Ace’s left side, turning to tell him something but he got distracted by me.

“Hey, Buttercup! Didn't see ya there.”

He throws an arm around Ace pulling him closer, hence pulling me closer along with him, my feet now resting on Thatch’s lap. He seemed to notice the nervous look on my face, but to be fair, who wouldn't be nervous while being surrounded by some of the strongest pirates on the sea.

Thatch takes a look around, noticing my nervous eyes shooting around from person to person sitting at the table when I did not respond to him.

“No worries, Buttercup, as scary as they look I promise they're all already smitten with you. Even Fossa.”

His thumb shoots over to the massive harsh looking man sitting across the table from Izou. A burning cigar pinch between his teeth. His face was harsh and looked unkind and intimidating but the look in his eyes was soft enough as he lightheartedly scoffed at Thatch’s words but didn't bother with any of his own.

Everyone at the table seemed to laugh at his reaction, some throwing in a few jabs at the man but Fossa just glared at them all.

Marco cleared his throat and silence blanketed over the table, everyone focusing on him.

“All right everyone enough of that. We all know why we are here but let me reiterate. As you all know we are here to welcome (Y/N) to our family, she'll be staying with a few of the commanders on a regular basis while she heals...”

Everyone's eyes shot back to me, most giving me small smiles or encouraging looks.

“And secondly we will have our commanders meeting since enough of us are here as well as to prepare for the next docking.”

My eyes go wide. A commander's meeting? I shouldn't be here. I'm a civilian, and I'm here temporarily. Anything said between them when it comes to their work or running the ship should not be heard by my ears.

I look up at Ace, my body starting to shiver from the cold sweats that had developed from my nervousness.

I tapped one of his arms that was wrapped snugly around my waist, trying to get his attention quietly while he listened to Marco who had already started talking about what will be needed at the next port they stop at, who will be assigned what and how it would all work. And while general stocking up wasn't confidential information I imagine there will be other topics of conversation that someone like me should not be hearing.

Ace looked down at me, holding me a little tighter as he warmed himself a little more, noticing my shivering.

“What's up, Firefly?”

He whispered softly with his lips leaning down to the shell of my ear, his hot breath that smelled like cinnamon wafting over my cheek, so as not to interrupt but I could see Thatch’s eyes zero in on me and Ace.

I leaned up as much as I could to whisper in his ear with a little help from Ace’s other arm that was on my back, giving me a little boost, while I tried to be as discreet as possible, luckily only Thatch was paying attention to us as far as I could tell.

“I shouldn't be here.”

Ace scoffed, a little too loud for my taste as he got the attention of a few of his fellow commanders but it was just a cursory glance before focusing on Marco and his long list of ‘to do’s’

“You're fine, Firefly. It's just a few things to go over for the next time we dock, nothing for you to be making a fuss over.”

I felt my cheeks getting a little flushed, I felt like a child being chastised. Deep down some part of me knew that if there was anything that was going to be discussed that I shouldn't hear I wouldn't have been brought here, but still. It felt wrong. Like a private conversation one might overhear at a cafe and all of a sudden you knew something about your neighbors personal lives that you shouldn't.

But with Ace’s reassurance, if you could call it that, I put my head down and stayed quiet till I felt Ace’s lips near my ear again.

“You don't need to look so worried, we have mini meetings like this every now and again before we have a meal together and just catch up. It's just called something as official as ‘the commanders meeting’ because we are all commanders. Especially when we are about to dock, such a big ship like the Moby needs to have all of its commanders to be on the same page, especially when it comes to getting supplies. One slip up can lead to a whole lot of mess.”

Ace looked over to Thatch before snickering a bit.

“Once, Thatch didn't confirm who was buying potatoes before one of our longest voyages, so almost everyone in the fourth division had bought several pounds. We had bought the entire island's worth of potatoes and no one had noticed till we were already set sail. Thatch was beside himself, and he hates wasting food so he was determined to cook them all. I didn't know you could cook potatoes so many different ways but after a good month and a half we all got really tired of them. Even now some of the crew can't look at a potato without heaving."

I couldn't help but laugh, doing my best to keep it down so as not to interrupt or draw any attention to myself. I got a few glances but other than that the focus stayed on Marco. Aside from Thatch, he currently had his palm to his forehead in what looked like shame.

As Marco continued on I took the chance to snuggle into Ace a little more, to the point that if I went any deeper I'd be absorbed into his skin, soaking up as much of his warmth I could trying to relax with his reassurance. The dark clouds that had descended earlier when me and Marco had left Whitebeard's cabin still present, the cold wind still accompanying it.

I looked around the ship and out to the open sea while drowning out Marco’s smooth voice. The waves weren't all that calm but when were they ever? And besides, the ship was big enough that it really didn’t affect the ship, the food that covered the table not moving an inch despite the waves.

I found myself getting lost in the darkness of the deep sea, I couldn't see much but with all the lamps surrounding the tables it was just enough to see the waves surrounding the ship before it all faded into the darkness of the night, but it was still enough. Enough to be hypnotized by their motion.

I knew the sea was a cruel place to be but I couldn't help but find it so calming despite knowing the dangers that it held. The strong motions that I would usually be uncomfortable with on any other ship soothed my mind, my pain seeming less prominent. But I knew It was most likely because of the pain meds izou had given me but it was still nice to have something so hypnotic to take my mind off of my own thoughts.

I adjusted my head so it was on Ace's shoulder, my cold ear and cheek tingling with pins and needles as it warmed up. I could have sworn I felt Ace shiver a little before he brought the hand that was wrapped around my waist up to my other ear, cupping it in his palm. With Ace’s warm hand on my head, Marco's calm, steady voice that was a little more muffled because of Ace's hand and the waves softly rocking the ship all combined with the pain meds finally giving me some relief I took the chance to close my eyes to enjoy the calm atmosphere. I couldn't remember a time when I felt this relaxed. It felt nice to not have to worry about anything but myself.

I don't know how long I had been spacing out, almost asleep, but it didn't feel like two long before Ace gave me a few nudges.

“You awake, Firefly?”

I opened my eyes again, the meeting must have concluded because everyone was chatting, drinking and eating. Two plates full of amazing food in front of me and Ace. I couldn't help but practically drool over the food. The plate I assumed was mine was a little different from everyone else’s. It was well balanced. It had mostly vegetables and protein. There was a nice lettuce salad and some steamed green beans along with what I assumed was sliced roast beef that was in small little pieces and mashed potatoes and a nice slice of cornbread. I looked up at Ace whose eyes were on me along with Thatch's while all the others seemed to be enjoying themselves. It was nice that the other commanders just carried on as normal instead of focusing on me. Having Ace, Marco Thatch and Izou focus on me was more than enough.

“Yeah, I think the pain meds are just doing their thing.”

“It kicked in fast, that's good.”

I turned my head to look at Marco who was also paying attention to me, making my neck stretch a little too much so I could properly look him in the eyes.

“It means I gave you the right dose, I wasn't too sure.”

I looked at him with a confused face.

“What do you mean?”

“Well there are a lot of factors that go into prescribing different medications. Age, gender, height, weight, allergies, all kinds of things. But because you're a little underweight right now I wasn't too sure what kind of meds to give you. For example, the kind of pain meds I would give you compared to what I would give Jozu...”

Marco gestured towards the tall man across from me and Ace who paused eating to shoot us a smile before Marco continued.

“... are very different. I’m used to male patients with unusual sizes, not small little birds.”

I felt my face warm, but I wasn't too sure if it was from shame or the look he gave me.

“Ace is the closest to your size so I went with the kind of meds I would give him but I cut the dosage down by a little more than half to account for your malnutrition and smaller size.”

“Speaking of malnutrition, how bout’ you stop yapping so she can start eating, Marco”

Marco’s eyes rolled at Thatch's rebuke but kept his mouth shut, his hands going up in a kind of surrender.

“Come on, Buttercup. Take a bite, tell me what ya think?”

I looked over at Thatch, my neck protesting a little once I was facing forward again after attempting to turn like an owl. He was looking at me with wide excited eyes. I wasn't too sure why he was excited, the food he had given me so far was delicious but to be fair I was a little too preoccupied to really pay attention to it.

I looked back at mine and Ace’s plate. I hadn't noticed Ace eating but more than half of his food was already gone, and from the smudges on his plate something tells me that this wasn't his first plate. He must have been eating while Marco was talking. Looking up at him and the mess on his face only cemented my theory.

I turned towards my plate, picking up my utensils with some difficulty before trying the salad. Bringing it to my lips and taking a bite was met with a wonderful fresh, crisp taste. It was well balanced and perfectly dressed. I couldn't help the small ‘hmm’ that followed after my first bite.

Looking over to Thatch I was met with a rather smug look. Clearly pleased with my reaction. Forkful after forkful was never disappointing. Every bite of the food is mesmerizing. I definitely could never make anything that could compare back home. But to be fair it was in part because of our living conditions. We always had meat and proteins but never fresh veggies.

I had finished my first plate in what felt like seconds only to fill the plate again with some help from Ace. It became pretty clear I was still very hungry since I didn't take a break from eating, shoveling more and more food into my mouth as well as I could. Even with the pain meds it was still a little hard to hold the fork properly and the more I used my hand the harder it was to tighten my fingers around the utensil, not only that but the tight bandages definitely made it a little more difficult to curl my fingers around it, my fingers straining like they had weights attached to my fingertips. But I didn't care, each bite of Thach’s cooking was more heavenly than the last and the emptiness of my stomach didn't feel like it was going away so I persevered, determined to not only eat, but to feed myself.

I only stopped when I heard a loud laugh.

“Damn Ace, looks like you have some competition.”

I look over to see a…. Shark?

“What did you expect Namur, she hasn't eaten a full balanced meal in over a week. I've just been giving her light soups, porridges and plain foods so that she wouldn't get sick, this will be the first full balanced meal she's eaten.”

Namur, whom I assumed was a fish man, was sitting right across from a man with long blonde dreadlocks and a bandana with the same mark on it as Marco’s chest tattoo, a symbol that I have come to assume is their secondary mark, took a second to take in Thatch’s response before nodding,

“Fair. I guess anyone who hasn't eaten for so long would eat almost as fast as Ace.”

I felt Ace’s chest rumble with a chuckle before he addressed me.

“Better slow down, Firefly. At this rate you're gonna best me, and I have a reputation to uphold.”

Ace took another huge bite of some kind of stake, with his bare hands I might add. Apparently utensils were beneath him. But I didn't get to dwell on it very long before he started to sway from side to side.

Before I could react I heard Marco call Thatch’s name and just like that Thatch snatched me up, depositing me on his lap just in time for Ace to face-plant into his half eaten plate.

I gasp, my hand covering my mouth that was currently open so wide it was on the deck.

“Ace!!!”

My worried outburst got the attention of the table, everyone's eyes glancing at me then Ace before they all burst out laughing.

I look around the table, completely aghast. Their second division commander has just face planted in his dinner, and if he's not dead yet he's probably suffocating in his mashed potatoes and they are just laughing.

Marco seemed to notice my displeasure and concern now that I was facing him on Thatch’s lap.

“Relax, Baby Bird. He's fine”

I glared at Marco.

“He just headbutted his dinner…how is that fine!?”

The table erupted in even more laughs, some of the commanders sounding like they were having trouble breathing. Jozu looked like he was turning blue and about to join Ace.

Marco stood up and leaned over the table, one of his hands supporting his weight while the other reached for Ace. He grabbed Ace’s hat that he had put back on before we sat down, removing it from his head so it rested on his back once more, held in place by the strings attached to it before grabbing a fist full of hair and yanking upwards.

Ace’s eyes were closed, his mouth wide open and his face covered in food. For a second I really did think he was dead, the back of my eyes stinging with the familiar feeling of tears welling up until I heard it.

After a good second Ace let out the loudest snore I had ever heard. I froze. I couldn't believe what I was seeing. He fell asleep. One second he was chatting, eating and enjoying himself and the next he's out cold.

The laughter around the table started to die down around the table and I took a second to look around again. Everyone was holding their stomachs and trying to catch their breath. Some whipping tears from their eyes.

“What just happened!?”

I looked up to Thatch for answers but he was still catching his breath, a few stray giggles escaping him but he was clearly too incapacitated to answer me. The half worried half angry look on my face only made him struggle even more to collect himself. I looked over to Marco who had let go of Ace’s hair, letting it plop back down into his plate with an echoing ‘SPLAT’ before answering me.

“Ace has Narcolepsy, Baby bird.”

I stare at him with an unimpressed look.

“That gives me no answers, that just makes more questions.”

Marco looks down at his own plate, huffing out a laugh while he grins devilishly before he looks back up and explains.

“It's a condition that affects the mind. In severe cases it shuts down the individual's brain making them fall asleep at random time throughout their day, Ace’s condition isn't that severe. He falls asleep randomly but only when he's eating.”

I look down at Ace, then back to Marco.

“He's not hurt?”

Marcos smirk softens.

“Not hurt at all.”

“Just sleeping?”

 

Marco nods, leaning forward to take my hands in one of his.

“He’ll wake up in a minute or two, it happens every time he eats. Honestly I should have known better than to let him hold you while he’s eating but he’s the warmest of us all.”

He lifts my hands, kissing my knuckles.

“I’m sorry it scared you, Baby Bird. I should have warned you, but I promise he's fine.”

I looked back down at Ace who was snoring away in what was left of his dinner while Thatch’s large hands started rubbing up and down my arms.

“Come on, Buttercup. Eat a little more than we best head inside. It's late and the last thing we want is for you to catch a cold.”

I looked back over to my plate past Ace’s head as best as I could. It was almost empty, just a bit of steamed beans and the last bit of my meat. Thatch snatched my plate from the other side of Ace's head, placing it in front of me again right beside his already empty plate. I reached for my fork, before I felt Thatch be shoved forward making my arm jolt forward.

“What?! Bed already? Absolutely not! You haven't even introduced any of us properly yet.”

I looked back to see Thatch being shaken by the medieval looking guy. To his credit, Thatch was doing his best to keep me still but I was still rocked a little which is more than I can say for poor Thatch. It looked like he was in the middle of a monsoon.

“She’s injured and sensitive to the cold right now, Haruta, She needs her rest and not be out in the elements.”

Thatch’s words were all wobbly as Haruta shook him and despite Thatch’s explanation he just rolled his eyes. He paused for a second but only so that he could punch Thatch in the arm. The jolt to his arm that was around my waist made me wince when Thatch subconsciously tightened his arm around my middle.

Thatch took in a breath, getting ready to chastise his fellow commander before he was interrupted by a fist slamming down onto the table. The force of it rattled the table and all the dishes. A few cups tipping over. It was strong enough that Ace shot up so fast I thought he would fall back onto the deck.

I look up, Marco’s fist practically embedded into the wood of the table. The look on his face was sharp enough to kill. And from the look on Haruta's face it looked like he was about to drop dead right where he stood.

“Endanger my patient's health again and you'll have worse wounds than she does.”

Haruta audibly gulped while Ace looked around like a gaping fish after shooting up from his plate of food, his head going from side to side as he looked at the very angry Marco and a very stiff Haruta.

“What happened?”

Rubbing the ‘sleep’ and potatoes from his eyes, Ace looked around now that his face was clear ish. Haruta's face was so white it put the sails to shame and Marco’s face that just begged someone to test him.

“What did you do now you twit?”

Haruta took a second to compose himself before he answered. His face goes from horrified to goofy/nonchalant. Like he didn't just get the scare of his life from the first division commander.

“I just wanted a proper introduction, that's all.”

At that Ace shot up like a bullet.

“Damn, you're right!!!”

Ace looks down at me with a big grin while I imagine I was the one who looked like the gaping fish now but the atmosphere had calmed down again. It was kinda strange, one second it was tense and nerve racking and the next Ace started to introduce all those at the table like Marco wasn’t still staring daggers into Haruta’s skull.

Ace launches himself over the table, much to Thatch’s displeasure who groaned something about leftovers, and clung to Jozu’s shoulders that were a good ten feet above the table forcing me to crane my neck to make proper eye contact.

“This is Jozu, he's the third division commander.”

He smiled softly at me as I gave him an awkward wave. I knew everyone here knew who I was but I didn't know them, so it didn't quite feel right to introduce myself.

“Nice to meet you kiddo.”

I opened my mouth to respond but Ace beat me to it as he jumped off Jozu’s shoulder and made his way to the next seat over. He bumped into a man who was also fairly tall but much easier to make eye contact with in comparison and had a very long mustache with a top hat on while being mindful of the two swords strapped to the man's waist. Or at least as careful as someone like Ace could manage.

“This is Vista, commander of the fifth division.”

“Hello, Little One. It's a pleasure.”

His tone kinda took me by surprise. Out of everyone so far he spoke the most eloquently. Kinda like a proper nobleman but without all the bluster attached to the title. But once again Ace had already moved on to the next person before I could even manage a ‘thank you’ or ‘hello’.

“This is Rakuyo, he’s barely ever here but he's the commander of the seventh division.”

Rakuya, the man with blonde dreadlocks and bandana, nodded at me, opening his mouth to say something. But apparently Ace had other plans as he shoved his hand in his face so he could jump over the table again using poor Rakuyo as momentum.

The fish man Namur who was sitting right beside me and Thatch, who hand maneuvered me the other way so I could see everyone, easily caught Ace before he could shove his foot in his plate of exclusively meat, holding him up as Ace properly introduced him.

“This handsome fella is Namur, the eight division commander.”

Namur gave me a wide, sharp toothed smile in greeting, not even bothering with a ‘hello’. It was a good thing because Ace was on a roll with no intent of stopping.

“This is Fossa.”

Ace paused for the first time, taking the time to re-light Fossa cigar before continuing.

“He's the fifteenth division commander.”

Fossa gave a nod but wasn't looking at me, instead he had his eyes shut as he took a slow drag off his cigar.

“And last, and certainly least, the jester dressed as a wannabe nobleman beside you is Haruta, commander of the twelfth division. Also known as the cause of most problems and headaches that take place on this ship.”

Haruta, being the last to be introduced, gently took my hand, kissing the top of it.

“It's a pleasure. Sorry if I caused any discomfort, it wasn't my intention.”

I looked up at him with a smile but from the looks on Thatch and Ace’s faces this was not normal behavior for him. But it didn't take Ace long to recover, his wide grin quickly returning to his lips.

“And that's everyone, of course you already know Izou, Marco, Thatch and myself and we can introduce you to all the other commanders when they are all here. It's rare enough to have this many of us together so you'll probably never meet the other commanders in a big group like this.”

I nodded my head smiling, gently removing my hand from Haruta's hold.

“It's nice to meet you all, thanks for having me.”

Everyone smiled in some way shape or form. I felt Thatch give me a bit of a squeeze, his head bumping into the side of mine a little.

“Of course, Buttercup.”

I relaxed into Thatch a bit more as the commanders began chattering amongst each other. I sat there for a few more minutes, enjoying the feeling of a full belly and the cool open sea air until the cool air became too cold. I couldn't help the big yawn that escaped me.

I felt a rumbling on my back from Thatch who had laughed a little.

“Alright, Buttercup, I think it's time to call it a day.”

I gave a smaller yawn and nodded.

“Let's get you to bed.”

Before I could say anything, Thatch had stood from his spot at the table and started walking towards the door leading to the stairs leading up to the commanders/my rooms as I heard a few goodnights from the table.

As Thatch made his way up the stairs the slow rocking of his movements and the ship itself only lulled me to sleep even more. By the time he reached my door at the end of the hall I was barely coherent.

Thatch maneuvered me to one arm, opening the door with his now free hand walking into the room and pulling back the sheets while Stefan, who seemed to appear out of nowhere, curled up at the foot of my bed. Thatch laid me down gently before pulling the blanket back up and covering me completely.

I hadn't realized how cold I really was till I was snug under the blanket. I turned to my side, nuzzling into my pillow and pulling the blanket over my chin as much as I could. Stefan moved so his body was over my cold feet.

I heard Thatch chuckle before I heard his footsteps walk over to my bathroom, the sound of running water filling the quiet room for a few seconds before he came back and sat on the bed.

Thatch leaned over me, turning my head to face him. He had gotten a wash cloth and got it wet before gently rubbing it all over my face, trying to remove the makeup without much success.
“.....waterproof…..”

Thatch paused as I mumbled before saying he'd be right back, coming back a few minutes later with makeup remover. But at that point I was already more than half asleep.

“I had to ask Izou but he gave me this, said it’d come right off.”

He tried again, getting the cloth warm again with fresh water and adding a few drops of the makeup remover. This time it came off easily.

“There we go, all clean.”

Thatch placed the cloth beside my sink before he came back and leaned down and kissed my forehead.

“Sleep tight, Buttercup. If you need anything Marco and Ace and I will be up a bit later so just call out and we'll hear you, I'll wake you in the morning for breakfast.”

I heard him talk for a few more minutes before he left but I couldn't recall any of what he said as I drifted off into a deep sleep.

___________________________

I walked back down to the deck, wishing I could stay with (Y/N) all night, preferably in my bed especially with that dress, though not wearing anything would be better. Luckily I couldn't dwell on it too long, knowing I had to clean up from dinner and wanted to do some of the prep for breakfast.

As I got back to the deck I saw Ace, Izou and Marco were the only ones left, Izou having made his way back to the deck after he had given me the makeup remover. They were all talking among themselves. The other commanders are likely doing their last checks before bed.

“What are you hens clucking about?”

Izou and Marco looked at me with an unimpressed glare but Ace snorted at my comment.

“We are trying to figure out what to do next.”

Marco answered for the group. I raised my eyebrows at him.

“How so? She's here, she's hurt so badly she can't walk on her own, you saw how she could barely hold her fork tonight. By tomorrow her hand will be so sore she'll need someone to feed her for the next two days I'd bet. She's completely reliant on us and has no idea how this all came to be. And she's already starting to seek affection and physical contact for us. This is going better than I could have imagined.”

Izou sighs,

“That's true but it's clear she has every intention of leaving the second she's well again, starting new somewhere else. The last place she wants to be is a pirate ship, nonetheless a Yonko ship, no matter how comfortable she is getting with us.”

I nodded, acknowledging Izou's concerns before Ace spoke up.

“Yeah, but she's not going to be properly healed for a long time. We have lots of time for her to warm up to us and want to stay even if we have to manipulate her a little. She has no reality of the situation that led her here and no idea who killed the pig she called brother, all this works in our favor. And in the worst case scenario we can always make her sick to keep her here longer if need be.”

Marco slapped his fist on the table again, this time almost splitting the wood in half. Clearly he didn't like Ace's comment.

“Last resort Macro, only a last resort. The last thing I want is to see our girl suffer but it might be something we need to consider.”

Izou speaks up, soothing the doctor.

“It could be a contingency plan but it's in all our best interests to avoid that, saying as much I think it would be good to smother her as much as possible, especially since she's already getting used to us touching her so intimately. If we keep her with us day and night under the guise of it being for her own safety. Even going so far as to have one of us sleep with her. Not giving her any space and always having one of us in her ear.”

I could see everyone's eyes light up at the thought of sleeping with her, I was obviously all for it as well, thinking back to how cute she looked when I was wiping her face, half asleep and all curled up.

“But what about our duties? We are all very busy and there are some things on this ship I'd rather she not see. Even the talk of some of the crew, one slip up from anyone could jeopardize this whole plan. We were lucky she didn't know anything in the first place. We have to be careful otherwise she's going to be asking dangerous questions.”

Izou looked at me, waiting for me to give him an answer.

“Fair enough, which is why we would rotate. She’ll learn to rely on us for different things: like we originally planned but she wouldn't have any alone time, we would be keeping her from her own thoughts while subconsciously teaching her how to become dependent on us and we can move forward from there. This will also move us forward romantically with her.”

I could feel the air tense, especially around Marco. Izou felt it too and turned to face the man.

“Oh come one Marco, all of us: especially you, want to get her in our beds in more ways than one. What do you think that dress I put her in was for?”

Ace laughed at Izou bluntness, Marco simmering down but still close to boiling. I couldn't help but smirk while Ace decided to speak up.

“As much as I would love getting in her in our beds and in between her legs sooner than later, I think that would have the opposite reaction we want right now. She's hurt, scared and traumatized in a completely new atmosphere and was just introduced to some of the most powerful people in the world. Even if she is starting to seek physical comfort from us, we need to let her adjust to her new reality. Keep things casual. A few kisses won't ruin anything but we need to be strategic about this.”

We all gaped at Ace.

“What?”

“I think that's the first time I've ever heard you think so deeply and carefully about anything, ever…. In your life.”

Ace tried to smack Marco for his comment but was unsuccessful.

“That being said, I do agree. We need to keep her with us at all times but we need to be careful about how much we expose her to. We need to control ourselves. I think we should only mention her sleeping with us until she starts having night terrors, we'll be able to say it's to prevent her from hurting herself. Having her sleep with us will make it so we can keep her from thrashing around and tearing her skin.”

We could all see Marco’s internal struggle with his own statement. Most of the crew knew how his devil fruit was essentially another entity inside of him. A voice with its own feelings and emotions inside him at all times. It was very similar to Marco’s own personality, but in some cases like love and obsession, those feelings multiplied by ten fold making it difficult for him to control himself.

“Then we need to figure out some rules for her and us.”

I suggested.

“She probably won't be too happy about the rules.”
I nodded at Izou's point.

“Ture but we can manipulate the truth a little. Make it seem like it's only for her health and her benefit. These rules won't be permanent and will change as she recovers but when she's as vulnerable as she is, physically and emotionally we need to keep things under control.”

They all nodded.

“We can figure out her rules but the only rules we really need is: nothing forwardly sexual and no competing with each other. We all knew what the goal was but now that she's here we need to be careful. No getting ahead of ourselves. When the time does come to properly have her we will discuss it as a group.”

“Agreed, we can't overwhelm her.”

Once everyone agreed we started coming up with a plan.

Chapter Text

I always found it hard to wake up, especially when I'm pretty sure the sleep I just had was the best sleep of my life. The warm blankets on my cool skin, and Stefan making himself comfortable over my feet provided the perfect temperature as the ship slowly rocked back and forth lulling me to sleep.

Not that it was really required, I was already exhausted. But it was all over way too quickly as I found myself being woken up rather suddenly by a very overenthusiastic Thatch who was way too chipper this early in the morning. Stefan seemed to share in my displeasure growling at Thatch as he jumped off the bed, trying to bite his ankles.

“Up an at ‘em, sugar.”

Thatch shoved Stefan away from him with his foot that Stefan was still trying to bite.

I must have looked like a zombie, I felt like a zombie. Once Thatch got Stefan away from him he took one look at my face while he leaned right over me, his signature chef's coat smelling like bread dough mixed with a very clean but masculine smell of what I assumed was some kind of hair product that must have the strength of concrete to be able keep his hair up in his signature style.

“Come on Buttercup, the day waits for no one!”

I groan, trying to sit up only to collapse right back into the plush mattress as my entire body pulsates with intense pain, not unlike how it felt getting into the bath yesterday before Marco used his powers. Every part of my body was hurting but my hands were definitely the worst of it. The pain meds Izou gave me last night had definitely helped me sleep but it definitely made walking up the next day very difficult after they had worn off.

“It… hurts.”

I could feel every single tear in my skin from my panic attack yesterday with excruciating detail, except now it felt like someone was pouring lemon juice in the wounds. Thatch gave me a tight smile as I looked at him with watery eyes. The rest of my body that wasn't in pain feeling dull and lifeless.

“I figured. You had a very eventful day yesterday, but once you eat something we can give you some more pain killers and you'll be ready to take on the world in no time.”

I groaned as Thatch wrapped his beefy arm about my stiff shoulders, helping me sit up in the bed, my body aching in protest while Stefan, seemingly able to feel my pain whimpered pitifully by the door.

“How are you this energetic at….

I looked around trying to figure out the time of day, my eyes were too hazy from sleep to make sense of anything but I didn't think any proper light was coming from the port hole, at least not any that illuminated the room any, the only light coming from a candle on my bedside table that Thatch must have lit.

“.....what time is it anyway?”

Thatch chuckled, his chest rumbling against my side.

“Well for one; I'm the chef for the entire crew and sleep is practically nonexistent for me. You try feeding all the people on this ship even with a full division to help, and second; It's four in the morning.”

I stare up at him in disbelief.

“Four!!!”

Thatch laughed so hard I thought he was gonna stop breathing. His head was tossed back so far and so fast I was worried he was going to get whiplash.

“Come on, don't be like that. Come spend some quality time with your favorite chef. You’ll be my little taste tester this morning.”

Thatch booped my nose with his free hand as I tried to flop back into the bed but Thatch had already scooped me up and was walking out the door with way too much pep in his step, Stefan following him while trying to nip the bandages around my toes again, and it was only then that I realized I was still in the gorgeous dress Izou gave me last night.

“Wait!!!”

Thatch froze, his arms tightening around my shoulder and the back of my knees, Stefan growling for a second like he thought we were in danger..

“.....at least let me change!”

Thatch stopped in the doorway and looked at my face, then down to the dress before pouting.

“Awwww, but you're so cute. You look so good in this blue.”

Never did I think I would ever see a man like Thatch pout and whine like a child who had their favorite toy taken away from them. Clearly he would need some convincing.

“As a professional chef I would think you’d know about the importance of proper kitchen attire.”

I tried to appeal to his professional sensibilities. And it seemed to work.

Thatch rolled his eyes so hard I didn't think he’d be able to bring them back from behind his skull. But surprisingly he did, bringing them all the way down to look at me as he nodded, if not begrudgingly, and tilted his head from side to side while turning around and plopping me gently on the bed, Stefan coming over to lick at my feet as Thatch turned to rummaging through the dresser that was beside my bed and under the porthole that had no light shining from it. After a second he turned back to me and placed some clothes on the bed beside me.

“Ya need help?”

I looked at the clothes he had picked out for me as I considered his question. It was a simple white knitted sweater and loose black pants with a light purple sash to keep the pants up, but they didn't look like Marcos clothes aside from maybe the sash that looked suspiciously close to his light blue one, but everything else was too small. No, these looked like they would fit me, and even more; they looked like they hadn't been worn. I didn't even know that they had put clothes in the dresser for me.

I looked at my hands, still wrapped tightly in the bandages Marco meticulously wrapped around me after our bath, and thrumming with pain that I didn't think I'd be able to close them, none the less get dressed. I didn't want to ask for help, especially with something so basic but I needed help being fed for the last few days as well as needing Marcos help bathing me and both him and Izou having to help dress me, I'd have to suck it up, again. And clearly I didn't have any other choice, especially because I didn't want to risk ruining this beautiful dress before I could return it to its rightful owner.

So with a deep sigh I finally gave in.

“... yeah”

Thatch could clearly tell how depressed I was about not being able to do it myself. His face contorted into that kind of tight smile you’d give to someone you pity but it was still from a place of kindness. It was humiliating on so many different levels, though not as humiliating as Marco having to give me a bath, but still humiliating. But I guess by now I should be used to others’ clothing me.

But still, I've never needed help like this before, it was so foreign. But at the same time it wasn't like I had anyone to rely on before anyway. Only having myself to take care of everything, everyone and myself while my brother was working. It was strange to rely on others so completely like this. But at least they didn't make me feel bad about it.

Thatch sighed while placing one of his large warm hands on my cheek, stocking it gently with his thumb.

“It's ok to need help (Y/N). You've been through a lot. No one expects you to be 100% right now, that would be ridiculous, we're here to help you till you're all healed up, and however much longer you need.”

I looked up into his kind dark eyes before I nodded begrudgingly. Though it’s not like I really had any other choice.

“I just never thought this was the kind of help I'd ever need.”

Thatch huffed a laugh.

“Fair, but I've never heard of anyone's life going exactly as they had planned.”

I stared up at him with the most unimpressed face I could muster and he put his hands up in ‘surrender’.

“I know, I know; not the point. But I'm not wrong.”

After another second of me halfheartedly glaring at him I raised my arms as best as I could, which wasn't much, silently signaling I would accept his help now.

Thatch leaned over me, my face practically smushed into his chest as his arms wrapped around me in a comforting hug but also so he could reach for the zipper at the back of the dress and carefully unzip it while being mindful of the bandages around my waist. Once I was freed from the beautiful garment I reached for the sweater, determined to try and dress myself at least a little bit. I was able to get it around my neck and one hand into the beginning of the sleeve before it hurt too much for me to get any further myself, my wrist hooked on the arm.

I looked at Thatch like a kicked puppy in the rain, sad and pissed off that I couldn't even get one full arm into a sweater by myself. I looked even more foolish while Thatch looked as red as a tomato with cheeks puffed out so much he looked like a puffer fish as he tried to hold in his laughter…. very poorly. Even Stefan was looking at me with a tilted head, clearly trying to figure out what I was doing.

“Stop staring and laughing and help me, or so help me god.”

He seemed to find my blunt tone even more comical, he wasn't even bothering to hold back his laughter anymore. He was so loud I was worried he would wake up the other commanders.

He slipped his hand into the end of the sleeve I had tried to get my arm through, grabbing my stuck wrist from the inside. He grabbed it gently and helped guide it through the rest of the sweater with the kind of precision only a chef or doctor could have. I winced a bit but the pain wasn't too bad with help.

Thatch went to my other side and did the same, wincing a little at my own pained expressions as he finished pulling the sweater down my torso and over the bandages wrapped around my middle.

“Don't worry, Buttercup. Once I get some food in ya, you’ll feel a hundred times better. My cooking heals all, it almost puts Marco’s powers to shame.”

Thatch’s encouraging smile was strangely contagious. It was hard to be so gloomy around someone so bright. He reminded me of Ace a little at the moment. No idea how he and Ace managed to keep up the attitude seemingly 24/7.

Once my sweater was adjusted properly I stood on shaky legs, the ache shooting up my legs and into my spine, Stefan jumping up and moving a few steps back to avoid being stepped on. \

Thatch leaned down to my height so I could place my hands on his shoulders to help keep me upright as I placed my feet into the legs of the plants as the pulsing pain that was gradually increasing every second became more and more difficult to stomach. My shaking got worse with every second I was on my feet.

“Oooowwwwww”

Thatch winced with me again, that tight, awkward smile returning.

"Bear with me, Buttercup.”

He leaned down, my hands going from being the only thing on his shoulders sliding down to his back, my arms wrapping around his neck as he pulled up the pants for me. Once the pants were up he reached over for the sash before he paused to think for a second.

“Let's sit you down for this, Buttercup.”

Once I was comfortable on the bed Stefan waddled his way back over, laying his head on my feet again while Thatch got down to his knees, still taller than me I might add, and wrapped his arms around me again. My slightly chilled skin absorbs his warmth. He wasn't as warm as Ace but pretty damn close. But he pulled away too fast for me to really enjoy. He wrapped the long sash around my waist one more time before he tucked and tied it so it and my pants were secured around my waist.

Once he was finished he stood back up and gathered the dress that had been abandoned on the floor beside the bed and folded it nicely on the dresser for later. I'd have to remember to let Izou know where it was later so he could get it back.

“Never thought you pirates would be so tidy.”

Thatch gave me a side eye,

“What do you mean by that?’

I shrugged as much as I could before my shoulders tensed too much, my muscles cramping uncomfortably.

“Well Izou and Marcos' rooms are all really tidy, but let's be honest: pirates don't have the best of reputations when it comes to cleanliness."

Thatch makes a sound that's a mix of a sigh and a huffy laugh, his head hung for a second before he walked back over to me, picking me back up and walking towards the door before he said anything, Stefan hot on his…. or…. well…. my heels.

“Fair enough, and to be fair it is true in most cases. However, as the chef of the ship I need things to be clean in my workplace and because my work is practically all consuming it tends to leak out into other aspects of my life. Marco being a doctor is just obsessed with cleanliness and Izou just enjoys things to be organized. Ace could care less but I wouldn't call him a slob. But with the unfamiliar weather in the New World the ship tends to rock a fair bit so anything not tightly secured or bolded down tends to go places whether you like it or not. And the last thing you want to do is trip over yesterday's clothes that you left on the floor if you aren't paying attention to where your stepping after a long day or if you stubble when the ship rocks a bit too hard and you trip over the clothes and end up with a bloody face, so people just tend to keep their spaces tidy…”

I nodded along while he talked and walked down the steps to the deck immediately feeling the intense chill on the side that wasn't snuggled up to Thatch. It was a lot more intense than last night. I shivered in Thatchs arms, goose bumps covering my skin underneath my bandages, making them even more uncomfortable.

“...but I think I know where the messy rumor came from. No matter how clean we keep our rooms, depending on if we have rough seas or just finished a battle, everything tends to get all messed up from all the rocking and shaking unless they're bolted to the walls and floor and naturally we tend to complain about the mess to the shopkeepers when we go buy replacements for any broken furniture or damaged items. I can't even tell you how messy my kitchen is after a rough fight. No matter how much I try to keep things secured I almost always need a new pot or pan, and don't even get me started on the one time I had to replace all our kitchen knives.”

Once we arrived in the kitchen, Stefan being forced to remain on deck, Thatch continued his little rant. I felt significantly warmer now that I was inside, especially because some of the ovens were already on, filling the room with an amazing smell and blanketing me in warmth. Thatch couldn't stop talking about how pissed he was about the time he had to replace all his knives after they were all chipped, some even broken in half and how expensive it was while plopping me on the counter of his little private kitchen again.

I looked over to the ovens that spanned the entire wall all the way down the kitchen and saw what I assumed to be bread pans inside which explained the delicious smell. He must have been awake for a while if he was already able to make bread dough and get them in the oven. Suddenly I was grateful he only woke me up at four am.

“How long have you been awake?”

I looked over to him, pulling my eyes from the ovens, as he threw a dish towel over his shoulder after washing his hands before making his way back to me, pinning me in place as he put his hands on either side of my hips and leaned down so he was a little more eye level with me.

“Funny of you to assume I slept.”

I gawked at him for a second before he chuckled, leaning down a little more so his forehead rested on mine for a second just looking at me, his wide smile never leaving his lips.

“I'm just kidding, I got about three hours. After cleaning up dinner last night and doing a little breakfast prep I was able to catch a few z’s.”

My face didn't change, if anything I'm pretty sure it got even worse which just made Thatch burst out in a cackling laughter.

“How the hell are you so chipper, or even alive for that matter?”

After another minute he finally calmed down, taking in a few deep breaths.

“Oh, Buttercup. You're so cute.”

I glare at him, maybe he stays so chipper by sucking the life out of others.

“I take a few naps during the day between meals, my division's job is pretty all consuming so we don't have any other responsibilities besides cooking and my guys are capable of taking care of most meals especially after I do some food prep the night before. That being said we'll train and always assist in fights or go on missions if Pops needs us to but that's not often. The fourth division is the division you'll see most around the ship.”

I stare up at him in disbelief as he stares back with an all too smug smirk.

“Have you even gotten a solid eight hours of sleep?”

He considers it for a moment, but the look on his face told me he was just fucking with me.

“Nope”

He popped the ‘p’ sounding so smug while saying something so concerning.

“You're kidding.”

His smirk only widened.

“At least not since I joined, which was so long ago I don't even bother remembering.”

I rolled my eyes, opening my mouth to say some snarky remark about his unhealthy sleeping habits before he interrupted me with a soft kiss on the cheek. I stare at him with big eyes, what was with everyone here and kisses?

“Now, what do you want to eat for breakfast? There is always some reliable consistency like eggs and bacon, bread, hashbrowns and the thing almost every pirate on this ship lives off of: Coffee.”

I didn't even comprehend his words, I don't think I've even even seen bacon and eggs on the table at the same time, having so many options and then having thatch asking me what I wanted completely short circuited my brain. But he just waited patiently for me to answer his question, his smirk softening into a warm smile as he watched me clammer to find words, any words, only for me to keep looking at him like a gapping fish.

After a few more seconds of him waiting for me to say something his hand reached up and held the back of my neck, but with the size of his hand it also covered the base of my skull. He gave my neck a gentle squeeze, finally grounding me enough to close my mouth and just stare into his eyes.

I didn't know how to feel. I knew it must have taken a lot to feed everyone on this ship, but having all those options like it was no big deal? I just couldn't comprehend it.

“Come back to me, Buttercup. Where did ya go?”

I blink a few seconds, bringing my vision into focus. But Thatchs smile never faltered, seemingly undeterred by my reaction. After another second I finally answered him, saying the first thing that came to my mind.

“I…I’ve always wanted to try pancakes.”

Thatchs dropped for a split second but it returned so fast I thought it would have just been my sleep-idled brain messing with me.

“Pancakes it is.”

He finally leaves my personal space, not like he went far and started working while I enjoyed the warmth I felt coming from the ovens.

He starts gathering all the ingredients needed. All giant bags of flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, eggs, oil, and massive cartons of milk. He grabbed everything so quickly, knowing where everything was like the kitchen was a part of him. It looked more like a kind of waltz than cooking.

After staring at him for a few seconds I finally decided I couldn't sit in this silence anymore. It wasn't particularly awkward but I still figured talking was better than gawking.

“Speacking of, where is the rest of your division? It's a big kitchen for a big crew but we're the only ones here.”

He turns to me and smiles as he finishes measuring all the ingredients into a giant bowl that I could fit in and still have leg room, placing it into an even bigger mixer. Though I guess I should be too surprised a giant crew needs giant portions and giant cooking tools to make it all.

Once he was sure everything was secure and in motion he walked back over to me, leaning the side of his hip on the counter beside me.

“I tend to do most prep throughout the day and the evening so they just have to gather pre-cut and measured ingredients and combine them into proper food. It lets them go to sleep right after dinner and lets them sleep in a little in the morning. Breakfast is served around eight am, so they’ll be getting up around five or six.”

I nod along.

“So you get most of your sleep in the day when you're not prepping and they sleep during part of the night?”

“Exactly.”

We just stood there looking at each other for a few minutes. Well… he was standing, I was still sitting on the kitchen counter, my limbs still pulsing. The silent staring contest only ended when a bell rang.

Thatch walks over to the ovens, opening them all one by one and taking out the pans and dishes of different kinds of bread with the towel that was on his shoulder, placing all the pans on several tall pan holders so they could cool.

The smell of all the freshly made beards filling the room made me close my eyes and took in a few deep breaths. Some were sweet loafs, some savory like garlic and rosemary, some just plain loaves of white bread and even some sour dough. I couldn't help the low moan that came from my mouth as I continued to sit in the delicious smell. I don't think I've ever smelled anything so amazing.

“I think that's the best complement I've ever heard.”

My eyes shoot open as my face warms almost as hot as the ovens, I'm pretty sure my ears started whistling like a kettle. For a second I completely forgot I wasn't alone.

Thatch looked at me with soft eyes as he moved over to the mixer and removed the bowl of the mixed batter and over to several giant pans on an even bigger stove. No wonder he was so beefy, I would be too if I had to lift giant bowls like that full of pancake batter. Not to mention all the giant bags of ingredients, I'm pretty sure all of them had to weigh at least fifty pounds.

“I kinda feel like a doll in a doll house, everything in this kitchen is so huge.”

Thatch let out a huge belly laugh as he placed a few dollops of batter onto the hot pans.

“Nah, you're just small.”

I glare at him,

“I’m not small, I'm perfectly average, you're all just mini giants.”

He snorted a laugh as he finished placing batter on all the hot pans.

“Hahahah, mini giants?”

“Well Jozu, Namur and Fossa are really tall, their small giants, the true giant is your captain, but you're all still really tall, I think Ace and Haruta are the only ones who are of a normal height, so yes… mini giants.”

Thatch was laughing so hard I thought he was gonna pass out and collapse onto the floor, I'm pretty sure he didn't take in a breath for a good two minutes. After a few seconds listening to his laugh I could help but join in. It was contagious, but I couldn't laugh as hard as he was, the marred skin around my stomach and sides hurting with every movement.

“Oh, Buttercup. You're killing me.”

He wiped a tear from his eyes and he came over again placing a hand on my waist and pulling me into him so my butt was just barely on the counter, kissing my temple this time.

“That being said, don't let Pops hear you call him captain, he’d throw a fit.”

I looked up at Thatch, but I did find it hard to believe someone like Whitebeard would ;throw a fit’.

“I know, he already told me to call him Pops after Marco had introduced us. It just doesn't feel right calling him anything else, so I figured I'd just call him Pops while he's around. ”

Thatch stared at me with soft eyes for a few seconds before moving back over to his pans to start flipping the pancakes.

“He may be our captain but nobody calls him ‘captain’ unless they're in deep trouble. It's Pops just Pops whether he's around or not.”

“Still, it just… doesn't feel right.”

Thatch made a huffing sound, like he was unimpressed.

“What?”

“Buttercup, he wouldn't ask for you to call him Pops if he didn't want you to. But he did, meaning, just like everyone else on this ship, it Pops or nothing.”

I look at Thatch like he had three heads.

“I cried like a child in his hand after Marco told me I had been asleep for a week. He probably only told me to call him that out of pity just to make me feel a bit more comfortable, I'm not even a part of the crew.”

Thatch walked over, each step taken with purpose and leaned over me again, pinning me to the counter, forcing me to lean back but I could only lean so far, Thatch’s face stopping just shy of our lips meeting.

“Sweetheart, you are as much a member of this crew as anyone else in his eyes. And he's not the kind of man who gives ‘pity’.....”

Thatch practically spat out the word. Like it left a horrible taste in his mouth just saying it.

“He hasn't had a daughter on his ship in a long time. He's eager to have one again. I’d bet my commander post that if you called him anything but Pops he’d shed a tear or two himself. ”

I almost scoffed.

“Thatch…I’m not even staying long term, I couldn't. I'm not a pirate, I've never been on a ship. I appreciate the care you all have given me and I'll never be able to properly repay you all, but I'd be useless here. I have no idea how to fight. I've never tied a knot in my life. I’d be a burden even more than I am now and that's a disservice I'd never commit to the people who saved my life.”

Thatch tilted his head and leaned closer till his lips grazed my ear softly.

“Baby girl, the last thing you would ever be is a burden, no matter how hard you’d try."

My breath hitched. My head hung down to rest on his shoulder as his hand moved back up to the back of my neck, keeping me in place. I didn't even know what to say to that.

“I-I, I wouldn't h-have anything to do, o-or even contribute. I'd be de-dead weight.”

I couldn't help my stuttering, I felt all shy and flustered all over again.

“Baby girl, I can think of a hundred things you could do for us that would make you invaluable.”

Thatch still hadn't pulled away from my ear. His warm breath wafted over my neck. In fact I’m pretty sure he stepped closer, pressing his body into mine, as much as he could anyway. I didn't even think it was possible for us to be any closer.

“St-stop messing w-ith me.”

He signed, resting his forehead on my shoulder for a second before looking back at me.

“I wouldn't do that to you, Buttercup. You could join my division, I can teach anyone how to cook.”

I huffed at him.

“I bet I'm better than you already.”

He leaned back to look me in the eyes again as his smirk re-appeared at my sudden boost of confidence.

“Oh, and what makes you think that?”

I pause a second before answering him with as smug a look as I can manage.

“I…..”

I pause for a second before finishing smugly.

“....don't let pancakes burn.”

His eyes widened to the size of dinner plates for he turned back to look at his nearly smocking pancakes.

“Ah shit!!!”

He scrambles back over to the pans and tossed them onto a massive serving tray right before they could get really burned. Once he was absolutely sure the pancakes were safe and far from harm he turned back to me with a face of annoyance but he was clearly trying to hold back a smile.

“You little minx. If you weren't so hurt I'd give you what for.”

I felt my confidence slowly come back.

“Why, because you can't handle the competition?”

He raised one eyebrow and opened his mouth to say something before several chefs funneled their way into the kitchen, finally filling the massive space.

Thatch did a complete one-eighty. One second he's in snarky comeback mode the next he is in commander mode.

“Well look what the cat dragged in, hope you got your sleep because we got hungry brothers to feed.”

All the chefs practically stood at attention although their eyes said they were half asleep.

“I need you guys on meat duty, I want ham and bacon in the oven in ten minutes and sausages on pans.”

He pointed to the first few chefs in front, and after they received their instructions they made their way to their stations, making way for the next few chefs behind them.

“You guys get working on the eggs, I want sunny side, scrambled, hardboiled, poached and omelets.”

And again another wave of chefs go into action.

“You guys are on sauce. I need hollandaise, gravy and nothing else, we don't need a repeat of last week, the less sauce the less we need to clean up.”

And another round of chefs with the disposition of well trained soldiers disappear into the sea of chefs.

“You all are on carbs. I’m talking hashbrowns, slice the beads, prepare the rolls, help me finish the pancakes and get the butter and syrups out”

“And finally the rest of you are on fruits, I want lots of oranges sliced especially, I don't need Marco on my ass again because of another scurvy scare. And be sure to use all of the melons and pineapples, they're perfectly ripe and won't last the rest of the week. And once you're done get the dishes and utensils out on the tables for them to grab as they come in.”

And just like that an army of chefs were at their stations cooking like there's no tomorrow, I know I saw it all yesterday morning but that was when they were already working, it was fascinating to see how they all got started.

As Thatch made his way back to my side watching over all his subordinates now that a few of his division was handling the pancakes. Everyone moved with precision and grace, avoiding everyone while simultaneously working together and hauling anything and everything they needed to where they needed it.

“Damn.”

I was practically out of breath at their efficiency.

“Impressive right.”

Thatch leaned over into my ear so I could hear him over all the hustle and bustle that filled our once quiet kitchen.

I looked up at him in disbelief.

 

“Are they chefs or soldiers?”

He smirks again.

“If I've done my job right, both.”

“ That's terrifying.”

He wraps his arm around me. Hugging my side close to his as the chefs worked around us.

“How so? I promise you're perfectly safe with us, especially in my arms.”

He emphasized his point by plopping himself on the counter beside me and hoisting me into his lap. Securely holding me in place with his strong forearms secured tightly around my stomach while still being mindful of my tenderness. But despite his caution I still wince at the sudden movement.

“Well you never know, i’d argue your division to be the most deadly; they could stab you with expertly sharpened kitchen knives, drown you in perfectly seasoned soups or poison you when you least expect it.”

He leaned over and rested his chin on the top of my head, his goatee tickling my forhead.

“Like Marco would let anything happen to his precious patient. It’s been a while since someone has been so hurt that they needed his daily attention, he won't let anything happen to you. He’s having too much fun, he won't risk losing that to anything.”

“Well it's good to know that you could care less.”

He squeezes my middle a little, making me suck in a sharp breath.

“Don’t even joke like that, Buttercup, none of us would ever let something happen to you and the only thing going into your mouth is going to come from my hands. Just to be safe. Not that I don't trust my division.”

He paused, lifting his goateed covered chin from my head as he looked to his side, my eyes following only to be met with a gaggle of very unimpressed looking chefs.

“What?!?! I said, “I do trust you.”

They all roll their eyes before getting back to their tasks at hand.

I opened my mouth to say something snarky only for my stomach to rumble so lough I'm pretty sure it woke up the rest of the ship.

Thatch laughed for the up-tenth time before the sun had even come up. He kissed the top of my head before hopping off of the counter while I was still in his arms, twisting me around so one of his arms was around my shoulders and the other was under my knees as he made his way out of the kitchen, weaving his way through his division who couldn't be bothered to notice him. Once we were in the galley he set me down on the closest bench style seat in front of an incredibly long table.

“You wait here, I'll be right back.”

He was only gone for a minute but all I could focus on was how hungry I was so it felt like a mini eternity. But when he did come back I could have given him a big ol’ sloppy kiss. He placed a plate of pancakes in front of me, accompanied by some fruits and a glass of juice.

“Eat up, Babygirl, then we'll get some meds in you.”

I nod before I freeze, my body going rigid.

“What's wrong?”

I turn my head up to Thatch, a tight look on my face.

“I don't have my meds on me.”

Thatch stared at me for a second before he huffed out a laugh.

“I thought you were about to tell me something earth shattering, that's why you got so tense, seriously?”

I feel my cheeks warming a little.

“Marco said to always keep them on me.”

Thatch rolled his eyes,

“I doubt he expected them to be glued to you. Besides you were still half asleep when I brought you down here, I'm sure he'll forgive you. After you eat we’ll go back up to your room and grab them. Marco will grab you from there to change your bandages anyway.”

I stared at him for a little longer before looking back down at my mouth watering plate.

“Are you sure it's ok to eat before everyone else? It feels wrong.”

Thatch sat down beside me, one leg on either side of the bench.

“Yes, Buttercup, I'm sure. Call it the perks of being so close to the head chef.”

I smile at him in thanks before I reach for my utensils, only to freeze with my hand hovering over my fork. I was trembling uncontrollably as I tried my damnedest to close my fingers and pick it up.

I tried, and failed to close my fingers more than a twitch. I could feel my eyes burn with shameful tears.

I kept trying, probably hunting my hand more if the pain was anything to go off of, until Thatch’s hand fully engulfed mine and pulled it away from the fork. I couldn't help the choked sobs from escaping my throat as I looked up at him with watery eyes. He smiled that tight smile before bringing me into a hug.

“It's ok, Baby girl, like I said, we don't expect you to be able to do anything. You spent all night last night using your hands, it's only natural they need a break, especially after your panic attack yesterday. Your hands are only starting to feel the real extent of the skin tearing now. In the meantime, that's what I'm here for.”

His arms unwrap from me and reach for my fork and knife with an ease that made me envious. He cuts off a small piece of pancake and holds it up to my puffy lips, waiting patiently for me to open my mouth so he can place the fork in it.

The second the fluffy, sweet pancake hits my tongue, I thought I died and went to heaven, another moan unwillingly escaping my lips.

“This is amazing.”

He smiles while waiting for me to finish chewing and spearing a piece of pineapple for me to eat.

“Well you better get used to it.”

I nodded.

“I don't think I'll ever be able to go back to my own cooking.”

“So you admit that I’m a better cook than you, good. And hey, we just found another thing you could do on the ship. I'll keep you on board just to test new recipes.”

I nodded enthusiastically as I was chewing the tart, juicy pineapple piece. Thatch wasn't kidding when he said it was perfectly ripe.

“I will happily be your food guinea pig.”

After about thirty minutes of him feeding me, my plate was finally empty and my stomach perfectly full. I let out a deeply satisfied sigh as I thanked Thatch.

“No worries, Buttercup, happy to do it. Now let’s get you upstairs, I'll grab Marco after we get your meds, I'll bet he’ll want to take care of the bandages sooner than later.”

I nodded along, too satisfied for words.

Once again I was hauled up into Thatch’s arms and back up to my room. The sun was finally starting to break over the horizon. Reveling beautiful gradient reds and oranges.

“Ah shit.”

I look at Thatch but his eyes are on the red horizon.

“What’s wrong?”

 

“Red skies, we’re gonna be in the middle of a bad storm pretty soon, gonna have to let everyone know. We’ll have to prepare."

“You can tell that just from the color of the sunrise.”

Thatch tilted his head side to side.

“Kinda, it's not a hundred percent but the red sunlight means the light is passing through high-moisture air, making it red. And high moisture means storms. But because we are really close to those winter islands that means it’ll probably be an ice storm.”

I looked at the beautiful sight but now it just made me anxious.

“Well that's not good.”

Thatch nudged me.

“Dont worry about it, Buttercup, we'll keep you plenty safe. It's not our first storm and it won't be the last. We’re very qualified to keep the ship and us intact."

He starts walking forward again, making his way up the stairs and back into my room, plopping me onto the bed.

My pill bottles had somehow found their way onto the dresser right beside the dress. No idea how we missed it before we left but again, I was still half asleep.

Thatch grabbed the red bottle and popped out a small pill before taking out a small bottle of water from his pocket. He popped the pill into my mouth and held the lip of the bottle to my mouth so I could take a few sips.

“Do you want your anti-nausa meds?”

I considered for a second before shaking my head.

“I’m good right now.”

He nodded,

“Alright, but remember to keep them on you, the strom will definitely shake things up.”

I nod.

“I bet if I didn't keep them on me anyway Marco would throw a fit.”

Thatch snickers a little before walking to the door.

“Speaking of, you sit tight and will grab him and he can tend to your bandages. And I'll see you later.”

I smiled and nodded, waiting patiently for Marco.

__________________________

Once I closed (Y/N) door I had to pause and take a breath to calm myself. Pretty sure if I had spent one more second with her I’d have tourn off our cloths and fucked her on every avalible surface. She is just too precious for words.

I turned from her door and faced Marcos, knocking on it a few times till I heard his sleepy “Come in.”

I walked in, finding him sitting at his desk that was illuminated by a few candles. No doubt going over Pop’s charts. But one look at me and he turned to face me completely gesturing to his bed for me to sit on.

I sat down with a huff, dragging my palm down my face.

“You look like you’ve been put through the ringer, it's barely seven.”

I had to take another few breaths before I said anything.

“That girl is gonna be the death of me Marco.”

He smirks,

“Is that so?”

I nodded.

“I can't even tell you. Her cute sleepy face, her sad little pout when she begrudgingly accepted my help getting dressed and eating. Her soft skin as I held her on my lap. I kissed her plush cheek twice and I think I went to heaven. I can't even tell you how close I was to nutting in my pants, especially when she moaned at the smell and taste of my food. I was fighting a boner all morning. God damnit, I could barely focus.”

Marco smirks at me, his elbows resting on his knees.

“Just a few hours alone with her and you're already falling apart, the great Twin Blade Thatch.”

“Like you were doing any better. And speaking of falling apart; we'll have to prepare for a storm today. We got a bright red sunrise and the temperature has dropped several degrees, it's gonna be nasty.”

Marco took a second to properly look outside his porthole to look at the bright red sunset before a deep sigh escaped him.

“I think it'll be smart to keep her with Ace today then, he’ll keep her warm while we deal with the storm.”

I nodded along as he spoke.

“We’ll be docking at the winter island by tomorrow afternoon. I'll tell her about her new rules we discussed last night while I'm bandaging her up. That being said, I think it'll be good for her to spend some time on the island. I bet Izou would take her. I'll be busy with med restock and you'll be busy with food restock, and Ace will be doing recon and scouting so he’ll be too busy. And besides, I bet he’d love to take her shopping for a few souvenirs.”

I nodded.

“I’m sure he'd love to spend some money on our girl.”

Marco agreed.

“Speaking of money, I think it would be good to give her an allowance of some kind. Just a bit of money for her to spend herself so she doesn't feel like she’s mooching off us, We’ll just tell her as part of the crew she gets a cut of the loot.”

“That’s a great idea, that being said we’ll have to work on her accepting her place as a member of the crew, also she's waiting in her room for you right now. Told her you’d want to tend to her bandages right away.”

Marco stood from his chair,

“Then I better not keep her waiting.”

“Yeah…. damn, we must be some of the luckiest motherfuckers in the world.”

Marco looks back at me as he grabs a coat for himself and (Y/N) that was laying on top of his dresser. Prepared as usual.

“Aside from the obvious, how do you mean?”

“We’ve been able to get her dressed and undressed, seeing and feeling her delicate skin, even if most of it is covered in bandages it's still as soft as an angel's wings. I feel like I'm on cloud nine. Now I just need her naked in my bed, pressed close to me in a beautiful, sweaty afterglow while she's all out of breath and half lidded.”

Now it was Marco’s turn to groan.

“Stop, it's hard enough to keep the Phoenix under control as is. If I don't introduce them soon he’s gonna take control and do things I won't be able to take back. I don’t want to scare her but I also can't hold back much longer.”

I hummed in understanding.

“What if you introduced them while on the island, the med restock won't take too long. And I'm sure she'd enjoy a flight on the mighty Phoenix.”

Marco practically moaned. His blue and gold flames flicked around his shoulders.

“It’s a shame that not what I want her to ride, but I guess it'll have to do for now.”

I laughed,

“Go tend to our girl before we both get hard with just the thought of her.”

He chuckled but took his leave. Once the door shut I relaxed into his bed, my legs spreading wide as images of (Y/N), naked and spread out under me, ready and waiting to be devoured.
I groan at myself as my cock twitches to life in my pants. Looks like the fourth division will have to handle breakfast service themself while I take care of myself in my room.

__________________________

It took a few minutes before Marco knocked on my door, popping his head in before I even had a chance to say anything.

“Mornin’ Baby Bird, how we feelin’?”

I smiled at Marco,

“Morning Marco, pretty sore but Thatch just helped me with my pain meds after breakfast so I'll feel better soon.”

He hummed in a semi-unimpressed tone while setting down two coats he had been holding beside me on the bed before getting down on his knees in front of me, his hands resting on my waist.

“Thatch told me about breakfast, you couldn't feed yourself?”

I nodded solemnly.

“Lucky for me, Thatch didn't let me suffer in my humiliation for too long though."

Marco smiled a little before taking my hands in his, turning them to and fro before finally holding them palm up.

“There is no need for you to ever feel humiliated around us. Could you close your fingers as much as you can without too much pain?”

I wasn't able to close my fingers as much as I thought. All I could do was twitch them, but I guess I shouldn't expect vast improvement in my hands range of motion compared to forty five minutes ago in the galley. But that didn't stop me from trying to close them more.

Marco’s face tensed up as he watched me try to close my hand.

“I did say to try and close them without causing excessive pain, didn't I?"

“You did.”

Marco released one of my wrists and took my chin in his hand and made me look down at him. His face leaned in so close that our noses practically touched.

“Then why are you trying so hard and hurting yourself, Baby Bird?”

My cheeks get a little red,

“They're not going to get better if I don't use them.”

Marco’s fingers tightened around my chin.

“Oh, are you also a doctor?”

I scoff at his mocking tone.

“....no”

I drag out the word, begrudgingly accepting my imminent scolding.

“No? Oh. Well I am, and while we will have to do some physical therapy later, right now your skin is fragile and weak, especially after tearing so bad from your panic attack yesterday. That's why I did your bandages up so tight after your bath, so that you don't accidentally tear them anymore while they're so fragile. Not only that but you used them so much last night, you especially need to rest them after that.”

I tried looking down in shame but Marco’s hand wouldn’t let me, his eyes softening. After a few moments of silence he tilted my head to the side and kissed my cheek.

“From now on you're not allowed to use, nonetheless, lift anything with your hands until I give you go ahead, understand? And I mean nothing, no cups, forks, spoons. Nothing”

I grumbled quietly, but the look on Marco’s face shut that down just as quick as it started and I nodded in defeat.

“Words, Baby Bird. I want to hear you say you understand.”

I look up at his half lidded eyes for a few seconds before giving in.

“I understand.”

He smiles.

“Good. Now, let’s get your bandages off so I can reapply the aloe cream on them and re-wrap you, and we can have an important discussion.”

I look up at him with wide, nervous eyes as he helps to lift the sweater and unties the sash and wiggles down my pants till I was bare, aside from my underwear, once more and he started unwrapping me.

“No need to look that nervous, Baby Bird. I don't want you confined to your room constantly, that will just drive you insane. So now that you'll be out and about off the ship and on an island, it's our job to keep you safe and to do that we need some rules. And especially as your doctor it would be against my duty of care if I let anything happen to you and these rules are how we’ll make sure nothing will happen to you.”

He paused sharply, examining the ankle that was in his hold with an intensity. The mangled skin looked worse than I remember.

“Did…. you try walking?”

The look he gave me was enough to kill a shiver shooting down my spine. It took me a second to find my words.

“I..I…n-no.”

His intense stare pinned me in place.

“Then what did you do? Your feet are bruised, you did something, don't lie to me (Y/N)."

How could he even tell?! My skin was already a bluish yellow color.

“I……”

I wrack my brain for why he would think I tried walking. And then I realised.

“OH!! Getting dressed!”

He tilts his head to the side, silently asking for clarification.

“This morning when Thatch helped me get dressed he helped me stand on my feet so I could get my pants on.”

Marco’s stare doesn't let up. If anything it just gets harder. The silence felt like a pressure on my chest.

“Thats it?”

“Yes… that's it, he carried me around the rest of the morning.”

Marco finally broke his stare and continued examining my feet, after a few seconds he signed before grabbing the same topical aloe cream from his pocket that he had been treating me with the last few days.

He dips his finger in and rubs the cream between his palms, spreading it around and warming it up before starting at my feet and working his way up. His hands gently pressed and massaged all the way up my calf and up my thighs.

“So… those rules?”

I tried to get him talking again so that I didn't just have his methodical hands to focus on.

He hummed, but stayed silent a few more seconds before he started.

“Rule 1: No walking around by yourself, on the ship or on any islands we dock at. We can't guarantee your safety if you're not with one of us, but obviously you can't walk around which brings me to the temporary subsection of rule 1: no walking period. Not until you have my say so. You think using your hand for one evening to feed yourself hurts the next day. You don't want to find out what trying to walk too soon will feel like the next day. I'm already not liking the look of your feet after you stood up for less than a minute this morning.”

We sat in silence for a few seconds as I considered his words and he continued to work his way up my body after dipping his fingers in the jar again, having finished on my legs.

“Ok.”

He could tell how down trot I sounded but he didn't comment on it, just nodding at my acceptance.

“Rule 2: No using your hands, like I said before. Not until I give the go ahead and even then only during our physical therapy sessions.”

“Ok.”

Marco paused a little longer that time, his hands no longer rubbing the cream into my stomach and sides and he didn’t start again as he continued.

“Rule 3: You will visit me every day at least once for daily checkups and bandage changing. I'll also continue to help you bathe until your skin is stronger.”

I didn't say anything at that one, just turning my face away from him a little as my cheeks warmed. I felt like a useless child, having rules placed on me, but it was their ship and I had no room to argue while I was under their care.

“And last, Rule 4: No talking to strangers under any circumstances."

My head shoots back to Marco so fast I'm pretty sure I got whiplash, but before I could get one word out the glare Marco gave me shut me up before I could say anything.

His glare pinned me in place for another few seconds, I didn't even think I was breathing until his face softened and he took my cheeks in his warm hands and kissed my forehead. Holding his lips to my skin for a while till we both calmed down a little.

Once he pulled back he took my left hand and started working the cream into it and up my forearm.

“You need to understand that this isn't a punishment, and the last thing we want is for you to feel like a prisoner, that's the last thing you are. But as a Yonko crew, anyone associated with us is in danger, even if they're not a threat.”

My eyes fill with warm tears as Marco explains his reasoning.

“The last thing we want is for you to feel restricted, you have every freedom to explore the ship when one of us is with you to carry you around and you'll get to explore islands with us as well. Do some shopping and see the world.”

He wiped a tear away with his thumb.

“I promise it's not forever, at least not all of the rules, things will change and as you get healthier you'll have free range of the ship by yourself.”

“And islands?”

Marco signs, his head hanging down for a second.

“Like I said, you are vulnerable to being kidnapped or tortured when you're associated with us but we don't want to keep you on the ship twenty four seven, that is cruel. But with that privilege comes restrictions, you'll be able to walk around and explore but one of us will always be with you. Sometimes we will be busy with our own work as commanders but we’ll always make time for you so that you can explore and have some fun at markets. I'm sure Izou and Thatch would love to go shopping with you and no one is more enthusiastic about exploring islands than Ace.”

The tears came a little faster, my nose starting to stuff up as Marco finished up on my other arm.

“Oh, Baby Bird. You are not a prisoner, and we’ll do our best to prove that to you, but you are our responsibility and we care about you very much and we won't leave anything up to chance when it comes to your safety.”

Marco holds my face so that I have to look at him with my tear blurred eyes.

“I need you to say you understand and will follow your rules, even if you don't like them.”

My lip quivers as I stare at Marco, not wanting to give up so much of my autonomy. Even if I knew in my heart I really didn't have a choice.

‘Please, Baby Bird, for me? And my peace of mind?”

His eyes had sympathy but also held firm, he wasn't going to let either of us move an inch till I gave in.

I looked up, needing to avoid his sharp eyes while I collected. I took in a shaky breath, closing my eyes tightly before nodding my head.

“Ok, I understand.”

“You’ll follow the rules?”

“Y-yes.”

Marco sighed,

“I need you to say the words (Y/N).”

I couldn't help the hiccup that escaped me as I finally gave up my useless resistance. Looking back into Marco’s eyes.

“I will follow all your rules, Marco.”

He smiled, but it didn't really meet his eyes. He could tell how disappointed I was but he kissed my forehead once more regardless, like a form of thanks, before grabbing some fresh bandages from his other pocket and started wrapping me up like a mummy again.

“Thank you, Baby Bird, truly. You have no idea how relieving it is to hear you say that. I promise it won't feel like you're expecting it to. However, I am going to need you to promise me one more thing.”

“W-what?”

Marco finishes wrapping one leg and moves on to the other.

“You’ve never been to sea, yes?”

“Yeah”

“And Thatch told you what a red sunrise means, correct?”

“Correct.”

My voice comes easier to me now that I've started to calm down.

“The storm we are expecting will be intense and cold because we are so close to the archipelago of winter islands. Because of the fragility of your skin and the fact you can't properly keep in body heat Ace will be taking care of you today.”

I nodded along as Marco spoke.

“I need you to promise you won't leave his side, you guys will mostly be held up in his room but if anything happens, you don't let go of him, understand?”

The weight of Marco's words hit me like a tsunami. A sea storm is bad enough but in the New World, it's a whole other beast. My hands started trembling. Marco noticed and immediately took them into his own hands, but being mindful of the fact I didn't have bandages on them yet.

“Dont worry, he will keep you perfectly safe, I just need you to promise me you won't leave his side. I need you to hold onto him the entire time until one of us says the storm has passed. Your legs can't handle standing on their own and even if you could stand, you don't have your sea legs. We can't risk you losing your balance and ramming into a wall or the floor, or worse some furniture and tearing open your skin. I'm still too weak to use my healing flames to do anything other than relive some of your pain so it could be catastrophic, and you'd definitely be bedridden in the infirmary for weeks.”

My breathing got heavy but Marco didn't let me get too far into my panic.

“Breathe, Baby Bird. Ace will keep you safe, you just have to be in his arms for him to do that, understand?”

“Y-yes.”

Marco smiles a genuine smile.

“You’ll stay with Ace?”

“I’ll stay with Ace.”

He smiles and brings my marred hands to his lips, giving each knuckle feather light kisses only a doctor could manage..

“Marco! Stop! My hands are disgusting, they're still all torn and bloodie! At least cover them with the bandages first!"

Marco looked at me like I had kicked Stefan but Marco didn't give me the chance react before he lifted me by my hips and plopped me down so I was completely laying down on the bed as he climbed on top of me before I could even blink as he was straddling my hips and completely encompassing me with his wide frame. His lips practically pressed onto mine. His forearms on either side of my head, forcing me to look him in his eyes.

I didn't even have time to be embarrassed that I was pretty much nude underneath him before he spoke.

“I will tolerate many things, (Y/N) but I will not tolerate my patients badmouthing themself, especially when they have only just started healing. Especially when it's my favorite patient”

I gasped as Marco moved his face from right above me to the side of my head, his lips resting on the shell of my ear.

“I have seen wounds far worse than yours, Baby Bird. If I hear you, or hear that you bad mouthed your appearance while healing again, I'll have to do something I may regret.”

I nodded, my throat closing tightly around any words I would have wanted to say.

“Good.”

Marco kissed the back of my ear before he finally sat up, but he still didn't get off me. Just keeping me pinned under his hips without actually putting his weight on me, which I was grateful for. He'd probably break all my bones.

He gently grabbed my arm, starting to wrap the bandage from my fingers up my arm till it reached my shoulder, repeating the process on my other arm. Once he was satisfied that I was thoroughly wrapped up he kissed my hands, his lips lingering on my hands and he stared into my eyes, clearly making his point.

Once he was satisfied with the redness of my face he got up off me and the bed, helping me sit up and putting my clothes back on.

His hands rested on my neck giving it a light squeeze right before his smile faded.

“Did you only take the pain meds this morning?’

I hummed before nodding.

“Do you have your meds on you?”

“Yeah,”

I pulled the three bottles from my pocket, showing him.

“I want you to take a muscle relaxer, you're very tense. That is not good for healing, it'll help relieve the pain as well.”

“Oh?”

I hadn't even noticed how uptight I was.

Marco plucked the blue bottle from my hand, undoing the top and taking out a pill and holding it to my lips.

I opened obediently and he placed the pill on my tongue, pulling out his own water bottle from his pockets that seemed to be neverending and helped me swallow the pill.

“Does everyone have a water bottle on them?”

He nodded,

“I make everyone carry them, the last thing I want to deal with is a bunch of dehydrated and sunstocked pirates every minute of every day.”

I nodded. Smart.

“Now, let's go find Ace before that storm starts, I'd bet anything that he's tormenting everyone in the galley right about now. That is if he's not already passed out into his plate.”

I counted help but giggle at his words as Marco carefully picked me up and started walking back down to the galley to find the aforementioned living bon fire.

Chapter Text

Just as Marco suspected we had found Ace down in the galley, but he wasn't passed out into his plate, no far from it. He was currently involved in what looked like a fight for his life but was really just him trying to steal one of his crewmates' plates while trampling everyone else's. Though I'm not a hundred percent sure if it was really just one plate he was fighting for while everyone else was trying to play keep-away while food and everyone else's plates that weren't Ace’s main focus at the moment went flying.

Marco stood on the stairs with me in his arms for a few seconds. Standing as rigid as one of the masts on deck, staying a safe distance from the chaos while glaring at his fellow crewmates, though mostly Ace. As well as a few from his division as a bunch of crew members tried lunging at Ace to pin him down and stop what had become a battle to the death in its tracks, only for it to be horribly unsuccessful as Ace used his devil fruit and let them all pass right through him and slamming into one of the tables behind him, all the while Ace staying razor focused on his goal.
Marco sighed, his head hanging down as I continued to stare wide eyed at the sight in front of us.

“What….. exactly am I looking at?”

Marco lifted his head just enough to make eye contact with me, contemplating his answer before responding.

“Ace has a bad habit of stealing other people's food.”

I look back over to the brawl taking place in the galley. I don't think you could consider this as something as lowkey as ‘stealing’. No, this was a whole ass war for the greater good. Though both sides had a very different idea of what was the greater good, as wars tended to go.

“He…. he doesn't have his own?”

 

Marco finally peels his eyes away from the mess in front of him, now looking at me with the face of a man who was about to lose what little of his sanity he had left.

“Oh no, he does, Baby Bird. But he’s a black, endless void of hunger who is insatiable and would never feel satisfied even if he had all the food on the planet and because we don't have an endless void worth of food or all the food on the planet he compensates by eating everyone else's food. Or…. at least, tries to. He was more successful when he first joined, but the crew has learned how to adjust after about a year. But because of Ace's powers even with the skills they've learned Ace still wins more times than not.”

I turn back just in time to witness Ace full body tackle three guys at the same time while simultaneously shoveling all of their plates into his awaiting mouth. I’m pretty sure his jaw unhinged like a snake. He really was eating like a starved man.

“But on the other hand, it has really improved everyone's combat skills across the board both offence and defence. No one fights harder than Ace when it comes to food, and no one fights back harder than a crew of tired, hungry pirates.”

“Silver lining I guess.”

Marco chuckled at my dry tone but nodded.

“Ture, it's murder on our furniture budget though. At this point I'm gonna force Ace to learn carpentry so he can fix it all himself. And Thatch just about throws him overboard and lets him drown every time because the food always ends up smeared on the floors and walls, occasionally even on the roof and there is nothing Thatch hates more than wasted food.”

Just as Marco finished his sentence an incredibly loud cracking sound was heard, followed by an orchestra of crashing plates and cups with utensils clattering all around.

Someone, somehow managed to grab Ace by the back of his shorts and slammed his back into one of the tables, cracking it right in two.

Marco groans and mumbles something about Thatch throwing a fit.

Ace shakes his head and places his hat that had fallen off during his body slamming back on his messy black curls right before we make eye contact. His face went from pinched and angry, the face of a man on a mission, to smiling so bright I could have sworn the sun was in the galley.

“Firefly!!”

He jumps up, completely abandoning his feud with what looked like half the crew for bounding over to me and Marco with the kind of speed only a human torch such as himself could ever dream to achieve. But before I could even greet him in return, Marco beat me to it.

“Really Ace? Thatch is gonna kill you. It looks like you broke half his dishes again, and we both know that table is going to be murder to replace. If we weren't about to make land I'd bet Thatch would make you eat off of the floor, that is if he let you eat at all.”

Ace didn't even bother responding to Marco’s snide comment. The rolling of his eyes the only indication that he heard him before his eyes locked on me, smiling like a cat that got the cream as he bent a little so we were eye to eye.

“How ya feelin’?”

Ace’s warm hand finds its way to my forehead. With his unusually high body temperature I wasn't sure if he could actually tell if I was warm or not. Not that it mattered, I was actually pretty cold making his warm palm all the more welcome.

“A little cold but I took my meds a few minutes ago and Marco just changed my bandages so other than that I'm feeling fine.”

Ace’s eyes lit up like a child about to get his favorite treat.

“Well that's easy enough to fix!!!”

Just as Ace reaches for me Marco twists his body so I was just out of the fiery man's reach. Ace glaring at Marco so hard I was pretty sure his face was going to get stuck like that and Marco was about to burst into smoke.

“Before that, we need to talk.”

Ace took a second before he stood to his full height and agreed through gritted teeth. Walking down the last few steps before letting Marco pass him. Marco makes his way to the back of the galley so that we could have some privacy while also sitting at a table that's not cracked, straight up broken in two or more, or smeared with food.

Marco took his seat, plopping me down in his lap and the coats beside us on the bench while Ace took his seat across from us.

“So, what do you need to tell me that's apparently so important that you’re going to let our poor girl freeze to death?”

I could feel Marco rolling his eyes from behind my head. The air getting heavy with every passing second.

“She’s fine, Ace.”

Marco's voice was tight, practically speaking through gritted teeth.

“I disagree, she’s shivering…. Give her to me.”

I didn't think Ace could sound so serious. Marco sighed but apparently decided not to fight Ace this time around, but I think my slightly trembling body helped to convince him. He took a second before he eventually stood up, walking around the table and placing me in Ace’s warm, and eagerly awaiting arms.

Ace gathered me like a small child and cradled me to his chest, taking his hand and pressing my cheek into his chest just like last night at dinner. Letting me absorb all his warmth that he produced in excess as his temperature carefully increased a few degrees. The heat wrapping around me like a cocoon.

“Better?”

Marco’s voice was so dry I was worried he'd start coughing up sawdust. Ace looked at him like a grinning idiot before responding with a little bit too much smugness.

“Yes, much.”

“I wasn't talking to you, Ace.”

Ace’s face dropped as his features shifted to glare at Marco, but it was short lived as I let out a deep sigh of content as Ace’s powers compensated for my inability to hold in body heat and Ace turned his attention back to me, resting his cheek on my head.

“Yes, Marco. I feel much better, thank you.”

Marco's smile matched mine before he looked back at Ace who I could practically feel smirking as he continued nuzzling me with his cheek until Marco cleared his throat and decided to skip any more pleasantries and got straight to business.

“Did you see the sunrise?.”

Ace tightened his arms around my middle a little. He didn't answer right away, instead he just kept his cheek on the top of my head.

“No… Why?”

“It was red.”

‘Aww shit.”

Ace groaned as he tossed his head back dramatically.

“The crew know?”

“Not yet, I'll gather the other commanders and they’ll all alert their respective divisions, I'll take care of the first and second divisions today.”

Ace raised an eyesbrow.

“Why?”

Marco smirked knowingly.

“Becasue, you will be taking care of (Y/N).”

I could practically feel the joy radiating off of Ace. I didn't even need to see his face to know he was smiling like an idiot.

“Looks like I lucked out this time, Firefly.”

Marco rolled his eyes, while ace hugged me into him even more, At this rate I’ll end up sharing a body with him

“Just keep her safe, you hot head.”

“Yeah yeah yeah.”

Marco’s face hardened faster than I'd like to admit.

“I’m not kidding Ace. Her skin is so fragile that if she tripped or fell out of her own bed her skin would tear open. What do you think will happen if you're cashless for even just one second and she gets thrown around the ship's interior during a storm?”

Ace didn't say anything. Marco’s words sinking in like a knife in flesh.

“She'd be torn to ribbons and be bruised like a peach that was thrown around. You need to be holding her the entire time, keep her in the cabin and don't let her go till someone comes and gives them all clear. Her body can only take so much trauma.”

Ace doesn't say anything for a few seconds, instead opting to press his lips onto the top of my head and taking a deep breath.

“I got it Marco. She’ll be fine.”

It was weird hearing Ace so serious and yet solemn at the same time, his usual carefree attitude taking the side line for a moment, really showing how much he did understand the weight of the situation and what was at stake.

“Jeez, you guys are acting like I'm helpless.”

Unfortunately, despite my best efforts in the moment, my attempt to lighten the mood was not well received but I could still feel Ace smile ever so slightly into my hair. Marco did not. No, instead Marcos’ eyes hardened while his hands clenched together so tight his knuckles were as white as snow and Aces’ arms tightened around me. For a second I was worried he'd break skin.

After a tense drawn out silence Marco spoke up again but not before taking a breath. The kind of breath only an overworked or stressed out doctor could take.

“I know you don't like it, Baby Bird, and you really don't want to admit it, but especially after over using your hand last night; you are.”

Marco's words weighed heavy on me, my shoulders sinking under the invisible weight. It's not like I was oblivious or ignorant to my condition, for gods sake I couldn't even walk by myself. But it still hurts to hear it said so bluntly.

Ace leaned down to kiss my cheek, lingering a little longer than he should. It was like he could feel how depressed I was, not that I was really trying to hide it.

“Cheer up, Firefly. We’ll find a way to have some fun. I’ll get snacks and we’ll tell scary stories, it'll be a fun little sleep over.”

I couldn’t help the smile creeping onto my lips, Ace’s happiness was just so contagious it was hard to be sad around his bright optimism.

“I know it hurts, Little Bird. But once we land Izou will take you to the island and you can explore and do some shopping, you just have to humor us for at most twenty four hours.”

I look at Marco with an unimpressed face.

“Shopping?… Really?….. With what money?”

Marco smirked so wide I was worried his cheeks would tear.

“Let me worry about that, Baby Bird.”

Before I could get another word in, Marco had already risen from his seat, taking one of the coats with him and moving the other from its place on the bench to the table beside Ace and me.

“Put this coat on her before you leave and keep it on her, the temperature will drop drastically and very, very quickly. I don't want to see her out of this.”

Ace snorted out a huff as his own smirk spread across his lips.

“Please, with these…”

Ace flexed his bicep, which looked to be nearly the size of both my firsts, and used his power so beautiful orange and red flames flickered around the taught muscles.

“She won't need a damn coat.”

Marco rolled his eyes as his head tilted back with an exasperated huff.

“It's not negotiable Ace. Either she wears the coat with you or I'll find someone else to take care of her.”

Ace lets out an all too cocky and very confident laugh.

“HA! Like anyone else would be able to keep her safe and meet all her needs while she's in this state especially in a storm like this.”

Marco’s eyes squinted even more, if that was even possible, pinning Ace in place. Though to Ace’s credit he did very well holding his own, very cocky, ground.

“Try me.”

Marco's voice was cold and calculated, clearly not messing around. After about a minute of a very intense staring contest between the first and second division commanders while I awkwardly sat silently on Ace’s lap, Ace finally huffs dramatically before grabbing the coat violently placing it beside him on the bench.

“Fine, coat on at all times.”

Ace says every word through gritted teeth. I couldn't practically hear his enamel grinding away bit by bit. I was starting to wonder whether or not he was going to crack a tooth. On the other hand, I don't think the smirk on Marco’s face could get any more smug. Taking a second to bask in his success before getting in the last word.

“That’s what I thought.”

I swear I started to hear steam whistling out from Ace’s ears. Like an incredibly angry, self heating, living tea kettle.

Marco cupped my cheek with one hand while kissing the other, inhaling deeply through his nose while Ace continued to pout before pulling away from me.

“I’ll see you later, Baby Bird.”

I couldn't help the blush that worked its way up my neck and onto my cheeks. The galley suddenly became a little too stuffy between my heated embarrassment and the very angry living furnace I was currently sat upon.

“O-ok.”

Marco smiled softly before he stood to his full height, shooting Ace one last rather pointed look before leaving the galley with his own coat now around his shoulder as he went to no doubt let the other commanders know about the imminent storm and start prepping the ship.

“God, I thought he'd never leave.”

Ace nuzzled his face into my neck, tickling me with his nose and making me giggle uncontrollably.

“There we go! No gloomy faces allowed.”

It takes me sucking in a few deep breaths to calm down after Ace finally stopped tickling me but once I was breathing semi normally Ace plants his hands firmly on my waist and twists me around unexpectedly so I was straddling him on the bench, my hand shooting out to grip his shoulder for support as I yelped from the sudden movement.

“There, much better.”

Ace seemed very content with our new position while I had to take another second to gather myself.

Ace’s hands rested comfortably on my hips, his fingers grazing the top of my ass while he got comfortable, leaning back into the table a little. In fact he was looking a little too comfortable considering we were in a public space with his crew, some of whom were his subordinates.

Speaking of, during our conversation a few more crew members had wandered in to get their own breakfasts, only to be met with the mess Ace had left during his food rampage and a fairly destroyed buffet line that the fourth division had worked so hard on that was not splattered everywhere it shouldn't be as the crewmates Ace was previously fighting so vigorously for their own breakfasts, had been cleaning up. Much to their displeasure that now that Macro was gone, they decided to voice rather loudly.

“OI!!! ACE!!! Get your ass over here and clean up your own mess you dumbass!!!!”

One of his crewmates yelled at him, finally letting all his displeasure loose not that Marco wasn't there. Despite being the second division commander, the gap of respect that was given to him compared to Marco was quite vast. Everyone was on their best behavior when Marco was in the room. But Ace? Not so much.

Ace just smiled innocently, which he definitely wasn't, and took his hat that was resting on his back, hanging from his neck by the drawstrings and plopping it on my head. It definitely didn’t fit, but when I reached to take it off Ace just grabbed my wrist and pulled, forcing me to wrap my arms around his warm neck that had soft sparks coming off his tan skin.

“Sorry boys, no can do. Gotta take care of the lil’ lady. Marco’s orders”

He wrapped his arms fully around my middle, forcing me to practically lay on his chest. My head, that still adorned his hat, rested on his shoulder.

You didn't have to be looking at the crew to tell how pissed off they were. I could feel most of the crew in the galleys eyes burning holes through my skull with sheer spite and will power.

“Now, what do you want to do, Firefly? Have you eaten?”

I just stared at him for a second once he loosened his arms enough so that I could lean back just barely till I could look him in the eye.

“Do we really have many options for activities, between my condition and the coming storm?”

Ace scoffed like I had said the most irrelevant thing in the world.

“Of course, there are tons we can do in my cabin. We’ll have all kinds of fun in there.”

It was my turn to raise my eyebrow in skepticism.

“Really, like what?”

Ace thinks before stuttering and trying to find an example, it looked like he had a few ideas but then thought better of them.

“Uh……. you know what? Don't worry about it. And anyway you didn't answer my other question.”

I laughed a little as he dodged the question. Clearing drawing a blank but not wanting to admit it.

“Yes I ate, Thatch woke me up before the sun came up and had me keep him company while he made and fed me breakfast.”

Ace groaned like he was in pain. For a second I thought I was too heavy and tried lifting my weight off him by planting my knees on the bench and lifting myself a little but I didn't get far. The second my bandaged knees made contact with the wood I felt pain shoot up my legs and spread throughout the rest of my body. But it didn't last long as Ace gripped onto my hips with impressively gentle strength, forcing me down so I was properly sitting/straddling him before he spoke again. But not before shooting me a look you would give a misbehaving child. The kind of look that screamed: ‘Don’t you fucking dare.’

“You poor thing, he barely sleeps. I've gotten to the point where I don't think he understands normal people need at least eight consecutive hours, or better yet; nine.”

I laughed, I really couldn’t disagree.

“Maybe, but I still enjoyed it. It was cool to see how magic happens.”

Ace rolled his eyes,

“Sure, Firefly. You're a good sport. A better sport than any of us deserve but at least we’ve figured out one activity for us.”

I tilt my head a little.

“Oh, and what would that be?”

Ace looks at me with closed eyes and a childish grin.

“A good long nap.”

I look at him like he’d grown two heads.

“You really think that's a good idea?”

He opens his eyes to look at me softly.

“Why wouldn't it be?”

“Really? Taking a nap? In the middle of a brutal ice storm?”

Ace’s innocent smile grew into a mischievous smirk.

“Dont worry, Firefly…..”

His arm tightened around me again so that our chests were pressed together and our noses were touching.

“.... I’d never let anything happen to you, even in my sleep. I've got some of the best reflexes around.”

As if the universe decided Ace needed to prove said reflexes, one of the crewmates, who was clearly fed up with Ace not helping clean up the mess he created, threw a plate directly at his head.

I flinched, yelping as I ducked my head at the unexpected projectile, but Ace didn't even blink. His half lidded, practically sultry eyes never left me as his hand moved with the speed of lightning and caught the plate right before it could come in contact with his temple.

I looked up after a second, hearing the collective groans of the crew. A few go as far as complaining, some saying “I told you it wouldn't work.”

I looked back and forth between the plate in Ace’s hand and Ace and his all too smug face.

“Doing that awake and asleep are two very different things. This proves nothing.”

Ace rolled his eyes, taking a second to throw the plate back, hitting his crewmate smack dab in the forehead, the man collapsing on the floor with an “Ack” sound followed by a thud of him dropping to the ground like a ragdoll.

“Oh, ye of little faith.”

Before I could respond with my own snarky comment, Ace yells over the crewmates, finally taking his eyes away from me.

“Try that again when she’s nearby and I'll make you eat those broken shards! You’ll be shitting sharp ceramics for a month by the time I'm done with ya!”

I blinked a few times at Ace’s bluntness as the crew cringed at the very thought. But he just looked at me and practically giggled like a school girl at what I assumed was my all but gobsmacked face.

“Well if you’ve eaten, why don't we head up to the deck before Thatch comes down and sees this mess.”

“Not worried about the rest of the fourth division?”

Ace takes on a face that tells me he’s all too proud with what he's about to say.

“Nah, I'm a commander, I outrank them. I can do whatever I want.”

One of his crewmates yells back a response before I could get a word in.

“Liar!!! They just learned to stop trying because they can't beat him, but commander Thatch could mop the floor with him if he wanted!!!”

The crew erupts into laughter, the tense atmosphere lifting almost immediately.

“Yeah, yeah. I could still make you eat those shards you assholes!!”

The room goes silent for a second before the chatter starts back up again.

“Come on, Firefly.”

Ace reaches beside himself to grab the winter coat Marco left for me, helping me put my arms through the arms of the thick coat. The coat was much longer and thicker than it looked, going all the way to my ankles and the hood would have encompassed my entire head and then some if Aces' hat wasn't still on my head.

Once I was wrapped like a burrito Ace hoisted me up into his arms again, holding me bridal style and starting making his way over to the stairs leading up to the deck, only to be stopped by a very angry looking Thatch who had his arms crossed across his chest and veins popping out of his forehead.

“Oh, hey Thatch! How goes?”

You could hear how tense Ace's voice was as he tried to sound casual and dare I say even going as far as to attempt to pull off innocences. Thatch on the other hand didn't answer right away, his eyes leaving Ace and drifting down to me wrapped all snug in the coat, his eyes softening instantly only for them to harden just as quick when he looked back at Ace who had the most ‘innocent’ look on his face that he could muster.

“Oh not bad, but you know… I’D BE BETTER IF MY GALLEY DIDNT LOOK LIKE A GODDAMN WAR ZONE!!!”

His yelling took me by surprise, I couldn't help flinching at the sudden increase of volume. And for some reason Ace decides the best response is to feign ignorance.

“What mess?”

I'm pretty sure I saw steam starting to rise from Thatch’s ears.

“WHAT MESS!!!! WHAT MESS!!!”

He moves past Ace, making his way down the remaining stairs so he was standing in front of the broken table and even more broken dishes and started on a rant about what was all broken and how much this would cost and how hard is would be to clean but I couldn't hear much else as Ace quietly made his way up the stairs and onto deck with surprising stealth before booking it as fast as he could to the far side of the deck before he stopped.

He set me down on a barrel, his hand resting on my waist keeping me in palace as he laughed, clearly very pleased with our grand escape. But even with all the distance we could still hear Thatch shout Ace’s name so loud I'm pretty sure the whole new world heard him once he realised that we were no longer behind him.

Ace took a while to calm down from his cackling laughter till he finally looked at me again, I could see tears that developed from his uncontrollable laughter.

“Dodged a bullet, for now at least.”

“What do you mean, “for now?”

Ace grins as smug as a fox.

“Well if I hadn't had a beautiful girl in my arms…”

Ace leans in a little closer, my legs having to spread little to accommodate him

“......he would have beaten my ass without a second thought and I would have been in for a very bad day. But unfortunately you can't always be in my arms, and Thatch never forgets.”

I found it harder and harder to hold eye contact with Ace, my pulse quickening faster than I'd ever admit, even to myself as embarrassment flushed my system. I have to look away. Opting to look over to the horizon only to gasp. Ace turned his head to see what had gotten my attention and made me so spooked, letting out a whistle.

“Damn, this one's gonna be nasty.”

Off in the distance, getting closer with every minute was rolling black clouds. Swirling with a vengeance, bits of white snow and ice twisting and turning around the clouds like a cyclone.

“Y-you're kidding m-me!”

I turn to look at Ace, but while I look terrified he looks as calm and smug as ever.

“There’s no way the ship or we can survive that!!”

Ace pouts dramatically.

“Wow, our little Firefly really has no faith in us. I'm hurt.”

Ace lays his hand over his heart dramatically. But before I could say anything to defend myself or call him absolutely insane, someone else came to my defence.

“Come on Ace, cut it out. She's never been on a ship before. Remember when you experienced your first New World storm? I didn't know a man could scream so high pitched.”

Ace turned his head to glare in the direction of the voice.

“Oh come off it Izou, she’ll be perfectly safe.”

Izou walked over till he was standing beside me, his hip leaning on the barrel but he didn't bother talking to Ace, instead giving me his full and undivided attention.

“Well don't you look cute in your coat. Is it warm enough for you?”

Izou runs his hand up the sleeve, and past my neck. He takes a second to let his gloved hand linger on my chilled cheek before he grabs Ace’s hat off my head and tosses it back to him.

Ace squawking out a very offended “Hey!” in protest. But before I could actually answer his question he frowned. His eyebrows pinched together in what looked like anger.

“What is this? Who got you up this morning?”

“Um, Thatch?”

Izou’s frown deepens.

“I’d think someone like him would know the importance of proper hair upkeep, yours is all messed and tangled again.”

Ace scoffs while putting his hat back on his own head.

“Her hair isn't that bad Izou, besides she’ll be taking a nap later so if you really want to fuss over her appearance like a mother hen, then do it after dinner or tomorrow morning after the storm passes.”

Izou and Ace take a few seconds to glare at each other until Ace decides to speak up again.

“Speacking of, are you warning your division about the storm?"

Izou nodded, clearly annoyed about the coming storm if his exasperated tone was anything to go off of.

“Yes, I'm heading to the galley now to give the rest of the sixteenth division their assignments before we’re in the thick of it.”

Ace nodded.

“Might want to wait a bit, he's in a mood.”

Izou tilts his head to the side, a knowing smile spreading along his painted red lips.

“Well, I can't imagine why. I’m pretty sure the entire ship heard Thatch yell your name a few minutes ago. If anyone should avoid him it's you.”

Ace nods with a smug smile.

“Yeah but I have a secret weapon.”

Ace squishes our cheeks together to emphasise his point.

“Thatch wouldn't dare come at me while I'm taking care of such precious cargo.”

“As true as that is, you can't hide behind our Little Flower forever. Besides he’ll be too busy preparing the kitchen for the storm and by the time it’s past and you have to get back to your own duties and it’s my turn to take care of our girl and accompany her to her first new island he'll hunt you down with a vengeance.”

I could practically hear Ace gulp nervously as Izou's words really sank in. but it only took him a second till he bounded back.

“That's ok. At any rate I'll have a head start.”

Izou didn't even bother responding, his focus shifting to me again.

“Marco will be the one to grab you after the storm and make sure you're ok, but after that you're all mine. The strom will most likely last all night so you'll be sleeping with Ace tonight so that you're not tossed out of your bed in the middle of the night. We will make land fall shortly after. Once we are anchored and Marco gives the go ahead I'll come get you and we’ll explore the markets. Sounds good?”

I smiled, excited to get to the island and spend some time not on a ship.

“Sounds good.”

Izou smiles, kissing my forehead before he turns and continues his way to the galley. Before I called out to him.

“Oh! Izou, wait!”

He turns back to look back at me, waiting for me to say something.

“The dress you let me borrow, Thatch left it on the top of my dresser for you to grab.”

Izou's eyes narrow as he fully turns and makes his way back to me. He didn't say anything till he was right in front of me.

“That was a gift, Little FLower. It's for you to keep. I can definitely hold on to it for you if you truly wish but it's yours now.”

I flush at his words, a little embarrassed and Izou spoke in such a blunt ‘are you kidding me’ tone.

“Oh, um…. Ok. I-i’ll keep it.”

The words sounded more like a question than a statement but Izou just smiled, kissing me again before he continued his journey to the galley.

I look back over to the horizon, before I get too deep in my own embarrassed thoughts. The storm is feeling closer than it should be. The temperature dropped so much I thought my hands would turn to ice cubes. But it didn't take long for Ace to notice me trying and failing to rub my hands together subtly to warm them a little bit.

“Cold?”

Before I can even answer, Ace grabs my hands and places them on his abs. I don't have a second to ask him why or even be embarrassed before his actions answered my unspoken question. His hands moved to cup my chilly cheeks once he was sure I wouldn't move mine, flames flickering all over his shoulders and down his arms, stopping at his hands.

We stay like that for a few moments as I let myself enjoy his intense warmth before the silence becomes too much for me and I have to break it before I go crazy.

“Even if you can become and control fire, I still think it's absurd to be shirtless and in shorts.”

Ace laughs a good deep belly laugh.

“Maybe, but even before I ate my devil fruit I dressed like this as a kid with my brothers, Luffy and Sabo. So even before I couldn't get cold, this was already a habit.”

“Luffy and Sabo? I haven't met them yet, have I?”

Ace takes a second staring at me both blankly and with intensity. I could see the gears actively turning in his head as he tried to figure out what I just said till it clicked.

“OH!! No Firefly, they're not on the ship. Sabo passed when we were kids and Luffy is off with his own crew. He actually would have just set sail a few weeks ago, the day he turned seventeen but he already has a pretty good bounty, I'll show you the poster later.”

I frowned when I heard Ace say one of his brothers had passed.

“Oh, I'm sorry to bring it up.”

Ace smiles at me fondly, leaning in so our noses rested together.

“That's ok, I'm sure Sabo would have loved you, and Luffy will too. I'll introduce you one day but we’ll have to wait for him to come to us. But knowing his ambition he’ll make his way over the red line and find us right away, probably wanting to fight pops as soon as possible. Were a little to alike like that,”

A smile worked its way onto my lips before I even had a second to think about it, it was just so wholesome listening to Ace talk about his brother with some much affection.

“Well, he’s lucky to have such a supportive big brother.”

Ace opened his mouth to say something but he was cut off when I shivered violently, my body curling in on itself as a gust of freezing wind racked its way through the deck.

The crew started clamoring around the deck even more trying things down, clamoring up and down the masts to take care of the massive sails, moving with a newfound motivation to get their tasks done and take cover as the storm arrived, its unforgiving wind being the first sign of the beast to come.

“Come on Firefly, let's get you inside.”

Ace picked me up without a second to waste and made his way over to the door that led to the stairs and up to the commander's wing.

Ace opened the door to his room that was right beside mine and set me down on his unmade bed yet very comfy, keeping my coat on like Marco had told, more like threatened, him to while also wrapping his blankets around me.

His room was almost identical to mine, The only real difference was that his porthole was above his bed, not his desk, instead there was a small little shelf attached to the wall above the fairly empty desk.

“You wait here and don't move, I'll be right back with some extra blankets and some food. With the looks for things I don't think we’ll make it down to lunch or dinner.”

I nodded,

“Ok.”

And with that Ace gave me one more bright smile before heading out the door. It doesn't take him long to return with a tower of blankets and what looks like several little lunch boxes.

“Good news, Thatch had made a bunch of these lunch boxes for us so we are all set, and I got plenty of blankets but dont worry, i’ll be able to keep you plenty warm...”

Ace stops dead in his tracks when he sees me looking down and rubbing my bare feet and gently as I can while still trying to generate warmth and not breaking skin. No wonder Marco insists he bathes me.

“Whats wrong?”

Ace drops the food and blankets and comes to kneel in front of me.

“M-my, my feet are really freezing. I-I hadn't even n-noticed till you left.”

“Oh, Firefly, does it hurt?”

Tears start to gather around my lash line.

“ A-a little…..y-yeah”

“Oh you poor thing, hold still. I got you.”

Ace gently removes my hands from my feet and takes them in his own, but instead of heating up his hands like I expected, he leans down and kisses the tops of both my feet right above my nearly blue toes that peeked out from the bandages. His lips linger on the tops of both my feet for at least ten seconds each.

I tried to pull my feet away, but Ace held them firmly in his hands, not giving me the opportunity to pull away.

“A-Ace!”

Despite my shrieking and protesting he didn't seem to care at all. He just continued to kiss my feet, going back and forth till he was satisfied with his work and the color coming back to my toes.

“There, all better, Hmmm?”

I couldn't look him in the eye for a while but eventually nodded.

“Y-yeah…. Thanks.”

My voice was just a whisper but he heard it, a big grin stretching over his freckled cheeks.

“Of course, any time, Firefly.”

Ace got up off of the floor and walked over to where he had dropped the blankets and lunch boxes. He placed the lunch boxes in the bottom drawer of his dresser and the blankets underneath the bed.

“There, that should keep them in place till we need them.”

Once he was satisfied with his work, he took off his hat and beaded necklace, placing them on his bedside table before sitting on the bed and taking his shoes off. Once he was settled he scooched over and plopped himself on the bed behind me, propping himself on his pillow against the headboard, pulling me back between his legs so that I was leaning on his chest.

His hands work their way to my front, slowly peeling off the coat Marco gave me and tossing it to the ground to join his shoes.

“Are you sure that's a good idea? If Marco comes in and I'm not wearing that I'm pretty sure he'll have an aneurysm.”

Ace laughed while pulling up the blanket that was by our feet over our laps, wrapping his arms around me so my arms were pinned to my sides so he could keep the rest of me not under the blanket toasty. The blanket was the same doop red as the one that was folded at the foot of my bed, the one covering the bed and the same as Marco’s. They must have given me their extra blankets.

“I wouldn't worry, I got blankets for days and like I said….”

He brought his hand up to my face, a flame igniting spontaneously in the palm of his hand.

“....you don't need a coat with me.”

Now that one of my arms had been freed, I couldn't help but raise my hand, letting my fingertips graze the edge of the flickering flame. It really was a beautiful thing. The flames just tickled my fingertips, not even burning my bandages, just dancing around them gently. The flames looked as alive as Ace. I guess it made sense, with his powers he was the embodiment of flame.

“It doesn't hurt, even a little.”

Ace chuckled, the rumbling in his chest vibrating down my spine. His fingers wiggle, making the flames flickering but not dimming with the movement. If anything it looked like they got brighter.

“Do you trust me?”

My hand froze mid air. I wasn't sure what to say. Did I? We barely knew each other. But if the short time I've spent on this ship awake has taught me anything, it's that for some reason, they would keep me safe. Besides, he hasn't done anything to not make me trust him.

“.....yes…..”

I said it so quietly I wasn't sure if Ace had even heard me.

“Hold my hand.”

I turn to look at him, his black curls a little more messy looking without his hat to tame them.

“What?”

His eyebrows knit together in faux offence.

“I thought you just said you trusted me, it's not like you haven't done it already anyways.”

I think back to my first morning on ship, Ace holding me and lighting himself on fire to keep me warm. Marco forced my hand into Ace’s while it was covered in fire.

Gingerly, I raise my hand, placing my palm in his awaiting one.

I gasped a little as the fire wrapped around my hand, but it wasn't a gasp of fear. No, this time I was just amazed.

“How are you doing that, making fire but fire that doesn't burn.”

Ace rested his chin on my shoulder, joining me in watching the flame on his palm dance around my hand.

“In all honesty, I have no idea. I wasn't able to do it when I first ate the devil fruit, but I did learn how to do it pretty quickly out of necessity.”

I turn my head a little looking at the side of Ace’s face. While his eyes are still on my hand in his.

“What do you mean?”

Ace chuckled a little, a slight blush blooming over the apple of his cheeks.

“Well, when I first got my powers I had no idea what I was eating, and the next thing I knew, my hat had burst into flames. It scared the shit out of Deuce and me, but as I was exploring my powers I figured out that my flames would turn my own clothes to ash, and you can imagine how embarrassing that was, so i some how figured out a way to make flames that were warm, but didn't burn so that my clothes stayed in on piece.”

I stared at him for a second, completely stone faced before laughing so hard I thought I would pass out cause I couldn't inhale. While I was dying of laughter Ace turned his head from our hands, his fingers curling around mine to keep it there, to glare at me playfully.

“It's not funny, Firefly. You can't even imagine how much money I had to spend on new clothes every time I tried to use my powers for the first few months. My crew saw me naked way more times than any crew should ever see their captain naked. It got to the point I was so poor I stopped buying shirts”

I finally calmed down, taking in a huge breath of air. My other hand came up to my eye to wipe away a tear that had slipped past my eyeline as I tried to picture Ace wearing a shirt.

“You were a captain? And who is Deuce?”

I could feel Ace puff his chest out in pride before looking back to our hands and answering my questions.

“Of course I was a captain, I wasn't always Pop’s second division commander. And Deuce was my first mate.”

I looked back to our hands, my fingers wiggling around in the flames, enjoying how they wrapped around them like a warm silk.

“How did you meet?”

Ace hummed.

“That is a long story.”

I looked past Ace’s head and over to the porthole, the sky almost black with storm clouds.

“I think we have time if you're willing to share.”

Ace followed my line of sight, grimacing at th esky,

“Yeah I guess we do.”

In an impressive show of strength and speed Ace laid me down on the bed, my back to the wall and him laying facing me with his arm under his head while he gave me him pillow.

“Guess we need to get cozy.”

He had the biggest smile on his face, the kind of smile a little kid would get, the kind of smile that could only come from innocence.

I adjusted into the bed, getting smug in the mattress while Ace’s arm that wasn't under his head snaked its way over my waist, bringing me a little closer practically hugging me.

“Tell me if you get cold, the temperature will probably drop really fast pretty soon if those clouds are anything to go off of.”

I nodded before looking at him with my best ‘tell me the story’ eyes I could muster.

With a huff Ace started his tale.

“I first set sail at seventeen, with big dreams and absolutely no skill. It was no wonder I ended up marooned on an island that was infamous for never letting people leave, the seas that surround it were so choppy and cruel no ship made it in in one piece and even if they did they never left the island. But much to my good fortune, I wasn't alone.”

My eyes widened as I listened, I couldn't believe a life like this was even possible. It really made me think how boring I was in comparison.

“I had found Deuce, he was also stuck but unlike myself, he had sailing experience and was a genius to boot. With his help we were able to build a ship, a ship that didn't even last three seconds in those waters.”

I laughed a little at his unimpressed tone.

“We had been there for days at that point, and worse yet we had no food. The Island was completely barren. We were both getting really pissed off, even lashing out at each other. While looking for food we came across this cave. Inside was a giant ship that had been torn apart. While we explored, hoping to find anything to eat, when this giant very angry bird attacked us. We fought it off and one of the blows had forced it to throw up a chest.”

I made a face of disgust at the thought of a bird vomiting out a chest, my face making Ace laugh a little before continuing.

“When we opened the chest we found what we would soon figure out was a devil fruit. But even though it looked a little strange we didn't think twice, we split it in two immediately digging in. I had taken the first bite, seconds before Deuce which is why I got the powers.”

I looked at him with wide eyes, I was too wrapped in the story. Under normal circumstances I wouldn’t even believe something like this was possible, devil fruits being so rare, the cases of finding own being slim to none, but Ace was laying right in front of me, the living breathing proof he was telling the truth.

“Fun little fact about devil fruits, they taste like shit. So insipid and bland, it was the worst tasting thing I could imagine, so bad I couldn't even compare it to anything. If I wasn't starving I would have thrown up but being as hungry as we were we just kept eating the horrible thing.”

I grimaced at his description of the fruit, my stomach churning while my chest tightened, feeling so bad for them that they had to eat such a horrible thing or starve.

“While chewing Deuce started freaking out, I thought he was reacting to the taste but he was yelling about fire. Next thing I knew my hat was on fire. I started freaking out, trying to put out the flames but they wouldn't go out. After a while of panic we finally realised what had happened. And what he had eaten.”

Ace’s voice softens a bit.

“I had mixed feelings, on one hand I was excited. My brother Luffy had a devil fruit and could do amazing things, but it's complicated living as a pirate that can't swim. And while being surrounded by some of the cruelest seas I had ever seen, and having fallen in the water so many times before while trying to build a boat to escape on I wasn't very excited about my new abilities”

I stared at Ace and his crestfallen face as he remembered how he felt before he smiled again.

“But like I said, Deuce was a genius. We built a small surfboard kind of boat with the wood from the old shipwreck we had found and Duce made a kind of engine on the back of the boat so that I could use my powers to propel it forward so fast we were able to get out of the island's sea and into calm waters. Even including a sail so that when I could use my flames anymore he could still get around. We named it Striker.”

My mouth hung open,

“That’s amazing, I don't think I'd be able to believe it if you weren't right in front of me.”

Ace smirked,

“Then it's a good thing I'm here to make you believe, I could even show you Striker later.”

I gasped, grabbing his shoulder with my hand.

“You still have it!”

“Of course I do, it's my baby, I could never part with it.”

He put on a dramatic face, emphasizing how he could ever be parted from his precious boat.

“But once we were off the island, we stuck together. He was an aspiring adventurer and seeing as we both wanted to see the world and chase our dreams we stuck together and founded the Spade Pirates.

“How did you end up here then?”

Ace’s face went red. His hand moved from my waist to the back of his neck, rubbing it.

“Funny story actually…”

I stared at Ace, waiting for him to continue, not even noticing how the ship had started to rock a bit more than usually.

“.... I was trying to kill Pops, actually,”

I gasped,

“You’re kidding?”

He just stares at me, his hand going back to my waist.

“Oh my god, you're not kidding.”

“I wanted to kill the strongest man on the seas to really make my mark as a raising rookie who already had a pretty big bounty.”

I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

“I found someone who had a close connection to him, demanding he get me a meeting but he refused and we fought for five days straight.”

I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

“How the hell is that even possible?"

Ace just shrugged before continuing.

“We had both passed out when Whitebeard had shown up, saying he had heard about me and how I wanted to kill him. I tried fighting him but he beat my ass in seconds. But instead of killing me he decided to take me in as one of his own, not that I was very grateful. I tried to refuse him before passing out and waking up on the Moby. He had even taken all of my crew on board. From that day onward I tried killing him over one hundred times, failing each time and getting my ass bead to boot, it wasn't until Marco finally made me understand Whitebeard's motivations and that convinced me to stay. The rest is history.”

I didn't think my mouth could hang open any wider without dislocating my jaw.

“You tried killing Whitebeard?!”

Ace nodded, trying not to snicker at my bewildered face.

“Over one hundred times?!”

“Yup”

He popped the ’p’ as I continued to try and wrap my head around what he just told me.

“They all tolerated you for that long?”

Ace’s face twisted,

‘HEY?”

His face made me burst out laughing, him joining in after a while.

“That is insane, I guess that is just one of many ways to join one of the most powerful pirate crews in the world.”

“That’s an understatement, And I was the last one Pops had taken in before you. So everyone is relieved that our newest member isn't persistently trying to kill anyone.”

I scoffed,

“Well unlike you I'm not suicidal."

‘Hey, I wasnt suicidal!”

I looked at him with an unimpressed deadpan.

“Continuing to try and kill the strongest man in the world over a hundred times after he had beaten you ass sounds pretty suicidal to me.”

Ace scoffed, rolling his eyes.

“Yeah well I was determined,”

“Yeah…. determined to die.”

“Why you-”

Ace started to tickle my sides making me laugh uncontrollably, wriggling around like a worm trying to get his hands away from me. He continued to tickle me for a few minutes until the ship suddenly rocked violently from one side to the other. Ace stopped tickling my sides and quickly wrapped me up in both arms and hugged me to his chest so that I wouldn't roll and slam into the wall behind me as a harsh whistling wind that could be heard from the other side of the porthole whipped past of the ship, carrying snow and ice with it.

Even from all the way down the commander’s hall in Ace’s room we could hear heavy footsteps and aggressive yelling form on the deck as Ace grumbled.

“I really hope they get the sails secured in time otherwise we are going to be docked for forever while fixing them.”

He looked down at me when he noticed I was shaking like a leaf. My forehead resting on his collar bone as I whimpered, a few tears escaping my eyes as I wrapped my arms around him, clinging to him like he was a life line. And right now, he was.

“Hey, hey, hey, hey, what with these tears, no need for those, what's wrong, Firefly?”

I hiccupped as I tried to answer him, the words taking a while to get out as my throat closed tightly.

“A-are you s-su-sure the sh-ship will be o-ok?”

Ace ‘tisked’ before placing his lips on my hair.

“Of course I'm sure, I promise you don't need to be scared (Y/N). I got you and I am not letting go. You are perfectly safe in these arms.”

To prove his point he flexed his arms around me, giving me a tight squeeze. I took a few deep breaths, trying to follow the rise and fall of Ace’s chest. I didn't know why I got so scared all of a sudden, I knew it was coming but I couldn't help going into a full blown panic the second I felt the ship lurch like that. Ace gave me a few minutes to calm down, holding me to his chest the entire time, his grip not wavering once. After a while I looked up at Ace. His warm eyes looked down at me as my chest filled with shame.

“......s-sorry…..”

He huffed out a breath that ruffled my hair a little.

“Don’t apologise, Firefly. This is a perfectly normal reaction to have to a New World storm. I'd be more considerate if you didn't freak out.”

I looked up at him for a while, looking for any sign of him messing with me or making fun of mine, but I didn't see anything so I nuzzled back into his chest just in time for the ship to lurch violently. I actually shrieked that time, hugging him as tight as I could without hurting my hands too much.

“Shhhhhh, it's ok, I got you.”

Ace waited for me to calm down again before speaking, it was comforting that he didn't rush me, just held me while I came down by myself.

“How about we eat a little something and then try to take that nap I mentioned earlier.”

I looked up at him with sore, red eyes. My lip quivered as the ship continued to shake from the force of the storm.

“I don't think I can sleep right now.”

Ace smiled.

“That’s ok, at least we can lay here and wait out the storm, I can tell you about all the times Pops beat my ass, some of them are really funny. But either way I want you to try and eat a little something, do you have your pills?”

I nodded.

“You’ll take the anti- nausea and we'll wait a bit before giving you any pain meds, just let me know when the pain gets a little too intense.”

“O-ok.”

Ace smiled at me one last time before he got up out of the bed, grabbing two of the lunch boxes he had brought in earlier from his bottom drawer. He was only out of the bed for a few seconds, but the second he left I couldn't help panicking a bit when I didn't feel my body rocking a bit with the ship, no longer having Ace to hold me steady, but also from the drastic change in temperature.

The second he left the bed a chill ripped through me, my breaths getting heavy as I spaced out, remembering running up the mountain on my island. The feeling of the cold biting my skin, the sharp tingling feeling I had felt then was almost identical to what I felt now. I knew that the temperature wasn't actually that cold, it was just because I couldn't properly contain any of my own body heat and now that Ace wasn't holding me the change in temperature felt even worse.

I hadn't realized Ace was kneeling on the floor in front of me until he tapped his palm that was covered in his bright flames on my cheek.

The second I looked at him he jumped into action once he knew I was back to reality. Within an instant he was back in the bed, sitting up while I was in his lap. He had wrapped his blanket around me like a cocoon. He had lit most every part of his body on fire, warming me in an instant.

It took a few seconds of his staring into my eyes, his presents grounding me before he said anything.

“Where’d ya go?”

I swallowed hard as I tried to get the words out.

‘T-the moun-tian.”

Ace stared at me for another second before he brought my head into his neck, just holding me rightly. I don't think either of us could find any words at that moment.

“It’s ok, you're safe. I promise you'll never feel pain like that ever again.”

For a few minutes I just cried in Ace’s arms, his flames never wavering and lighting up the room in a way the candles couldn't.

Once I had calmed down, Ace reached over to the bedside table where he left the lunch box and opened one. Inside was a delicious looking sandwich and while Thatch had already proved to be an amazing cook, I couldn't help but push my head into Ace, trying to avoid the food.

“Come on sweetheart, At least try a few bites, and then we'll lay down and I won't let you until you tell me to.”

I grumbled a little before turning back around and opening my mouth letting Ace feed me. As nauseous as I felt I could help but moan at the taste. It was some kind of meat that my taste buds couldn't even decipher right now but I didn't care, all I knew was it was delicious and I wanted more.

In not time at all the samuich was gone and Ave wall pulling my anti-nausea meds out of my pocket before helping me drink it from his own flask of water.

“Wanna lay down now?”

I nodded without bothering to even look up at him. Even with the rocking of the ship getting worse and the winds starting to howl I couldn't help but feel sleepy while ace laid up back down.

Ace had positioned me on top of him but not before grabbing one of the blanks under his bed and laying the second layer on top of us. My hands and head rested on his chest while both his arms had wrapped around me, lifting my sweater a little so his hands were on my lower back where bandages didn't cover, both my legs falling on either side of one of his thighs.

I had immediately started to lull into a deep sleep while Ace mumbled in my ear about all kinds of random things, keeping my thoughts away from that mountain and just on him as he traced his fingers around my lower back and let his warmth envelop me.

By the time I had actually fallen asleep all I could think of was Ace. His warmth, his gentle touch, his warm spicy scent like cinnamon and anise, all of it grounding me and keeping my thoughts from spiraling. As I fell asleep again I couldn't help but think: “I’ve never felt so safe.”