Oracle @the-epochal-oracle - Tumblr Blog

Feathers, Fire and Fear Part 3

Summary: Y/N meets the Whitebeard himself and as she adjusts to the touchy pirates she is in the care of.

Warnings: Pain, frostbite, fear, yandere, possessiveness

Word count: 14,600

I am re-posting this on my new account. This is my work! Im having to build my blog from scratch because my old one was hacked

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.”

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