Chapter Text
The Moby Dick rocked on the waves, having set sail late in the night. Night watch stayed up before heading to bed as the sun arose. Callie, Izo, and Marco were sipping their morning tea.
“My Kaida,” Izo said. “Yes papa.” Callie asked. “That young captain, I believe they said his name was Ace…” Izo said. “If he tries fighting anyone do not get involved.” Izo said. “Papa I’m more than capable of handling an issue like him…” Callie said. “Cal, listen to him; neither of us want you to get hurt..” Marco said. Callie sighed. “Alright…” she finally agreed. “Thank you my darling..” Izo said caressing her cheek.
“Marco and I bought you something that we didn’t get to give you yesterday because of everything…” Izo said handing Callie a black box. Callie set her cup down and opened the box revealing a mother of pearl hair clip. Callie gasped seeing it. “Oh papa! Marco! It’s beautiful! Papa put it in my hair!” Callie said excitedly. “After you wash it, you were all over land yesterday.” Izo said.
Marco chuckled, “Come on Iz just admit it. Eighteen years and you still have trouble doing her hair when it’s dry.” Marco joked. “Rude.” Izo said looking over at him, swatting him with his fan. Callie downed her tea and kissed Izo on the cheek and Marco as well before running to grab her stuff to bathe. Marco poured a little tea in a saucer and sat it on the deck. “Hey pup!” He said. The dog sat up. “Cmere.” Marco said. The dog got up and stretched yawning wide before trotting over to Marco. “Drink.” Marco said tapping the saucer. “Can he drink that?” Izo asked slightly concerned.
“He was eating what he could catch on the streets; I promise a bit of tea won’t kill him.” The dog lapped up the tea before getting in a begging stance. “Well since you asked so nicely.” Marco said, ripping a bit of bread and giving it to him with a little more tea. “No more til Thatch gets up, got it pup yoi…” Marco said. The dog barked before finishing his tea and taking his bread to wait outside the bathroom where Callie was.
Izo smiled and leaned into Marco, placing a kiss on his cheek. “Hey yoi, I will gladly take another.” Marco said before lifting Izo’s chin and kissing him gently. “You know eventually she’s going to find out…” Marco said, threading his fingers with Izo’s. “I know I know…” Izo said. “It’s been fourteen years since we formed our Matelotage Izo.. we can tell her we officially married a month ago...” Marco said. Izo looked up at Marco. “Besides don’t you want to wear the ring I bought you…” Marco asked. Izo smiled. “In due time..” Izo said. “Whatever you say dear.” Marco said stealing another kiss from Izo, trusting him fully. “But, let’s make it fun..” Marco said. “Oh yeah?” Izo asked. “If she freaks out, I do whatever dirty things you want me to do to you, and if she doesn’t freak out, you put that pretty mouth to work my darling swallow.. and I’ll ruin all that makeup…” Marco said. Izo chuckled hearing his dirty nickname from Marco. “As you wish.” Izo said before kissing Marco to seal the deal.
Izo smiled up at Marco. “Never thought we’d be here…” Marco said. “No?” Izo asked. “Well, married and with an adult daughter..” Marco chuckled. Izo smiled, “life is funny like that…” Izo said. Marco kissed Izo’s gloved hand, Izo smiled before seeing the gold band on Marco’s ring finger. “I guess I should take it off.” He said. “No, keep it on...” Izo said. “It suits you..” Izo said. Marco smiled. “Come on just wear it, you wear your gloves 90% of the time anyway..” Marco said. Izo sighed and chuckled. “Go get it..” he said chuckling as Marco practically broke his neck to run to their chambers. Izo smiled and watched as Marco came back up with the ring. Marco removed Izo’s glove and kissed his hand before sliding the silver band on his ring finger. Marco captured Izo’s lips in his again, seeing the ring on his husband’s finger stirring something in him. “Below deck ten minutes.” Marco said. Izo blushed. “Is that a demand?” Izo asked. “More like an order.” Marco said before getting up and heading back down to their chambers.
Ace’s POV
I woke the next morning on the Moby Dick, covered and bandaged. I walked out of the room and out the door, squinting in the sun before sitting down leaning back against the deck.
“Hey! I’m Whitebeard’s 4th division commander. The name’s Thatch; if you’re gonna join us I’m a good friend to have..” a man with a huge pompadour said.
“SHUT UP!” I yelled, putting my head in my hands.
“Kinda grumpy when you wake up huh?” Thatch asked. “Oh yeah! You’re probably wondering what happened… Since Pops knocked you out I mean…” Thatch said.
“Yeah no fucking shit…” I said.
Thatch laughed “ well your crew proved their loyalty and came to get you back. So of course we beat the hell out of them. But they’re not dead. They’re all on the ship too.” He said.
“Shouldn’t I be in a cell or something? you don’t even have shackles on me…” I asked confused.
“Shackles? Nah. We don’t need em not on you.” Thatch said.
I stared at Thatch, wondering if all the hairspray he had to inhale to get his hair to stay like that was getting to his brain.
“I’ll be around.” Thatch said, leaving me. “Captain, what do we do…” Deuce asked running to me. “I’m going to kill that mother fucker if I have to die myself.” I said. “Captain, he spared out lives shouldn’t we..” Saber started. “I told you to do what you wish. This is my goal not yours.” I said.
I started planning my next attack, walking around before seeing a geisha brushing a redheaded woman’s hair; styling it with great care. I was confused seeing the both of them, wondering if the were part of the crew before I remembered seeing the redhead the night before standing next to the geisha. “Alright my Kaida, you’re done,” I heard the geisha say finishing the woman’s hair. The redhead looked at the geisha and smiled. I was taken aback seeing her. She was striking, certainly not anything I thought I’d see onboard Whitebeard’s ship. I shook the thought from my head and took off to the other side of the ship.
Callie’s POV:
After papa finished I smiled, excitedly handing him the new clip. Papa smiled putting it in my hair. “Okay.. it’s perfect.” He said. “Perfect! And grandpa is up! Time for me to join him.” I said before kissing papa’s cheek and getting up. I walked over and sat with grandpa, enjoying his company. “Still no name for the little scamp huh?” He asked. “Not yet grandpa..” I said.
“Well the little guy’s got spunk that’s for sure. What did you have in mind?” He asked. “I don’t know something short and sweet.” I said. “You know, you’ve been talking about getting a bounty, why don’t you call him Beri?” Grandpa suggested. “Beri?” I asked. “Come on try it, he’s over there playing see if he responds.” He said. “Beri! Come here boy!” I called, his ears perked up and he dropped his stick. “Beri!” I called again, I smiled as he took off over to me jumping up and down to get in my lap. “Beri!” I said happily. Beri barked before spinning in a circle. “That’s perfect! Thanks grandpa…” I said smiling.
Beri growled and I looked over seeing Ace looming nearby. I quickly pulled my pistol and watched him carefully. “Calliope…” grandpa said. I didn’t answer instead, blocking Ace’s attack and pistol whipping him, dazing him completely. I kicked him and that sent him off the ship and into the water.
“Callie, he can’t swim!” Marco said. “And?” I asked. A few of the crew was laughing or praising my actions. “I got him!” Thatch said jumping in after him. “Let him drown!” I yelled. “Calliope!” Grandpa yelled. “Dammit what?! He keeps trying to kill you!!!” I yelled.
“Let him try…” Grandpa said.
“Calliope.” Papa said. I froze hearing his tone, a bunch of the crew quickly went silent as he called me. “Yes papa?” I asked sweetly; turning around and immediately bumping into his chest. I smiled up at him who gave me nothing but a cold gaze in return. “Shit.” I muttered.
“Calliope… I told you not to get involved in this right now...” Papa said. “BUT-“ I said. “Your uncles are more than capable of defending your grandfather.” Papa said.
I watched as Thatch brought Ace back on board. “I don’t fight women, it’s not a fair fight.” Ace coughed. “Pussy!” I yelled. Vista laughed. “What it’s not!” Ace said. I quickly pointed my flintlock at him and soon I felt it get knocked out of my grasp and it was now pointed towards me. I stared wide eyed at the one who disarmed me and seen it was Papa. The crew was quiet, all in shock. “Izo, watch yourself.” Grandpa said. I seen papa take a deep breath.
“Please just don’t get involved!” He said, lowering the pistol. “Your temper will get you in deeper trouble than I can get you out of.” I glared at him, stunned at him pointing my gun at me. “Callie, listen to your dad.” Marco said. I stared at Papa, fury not beginning to describe how I felt. “Fuck you Marco! You aren’t my dad! And you aren’t either Izo!” I yelled before storming off Beri trotting after me.
Ace’s pov
I fought against Thatch who pulled me out of the water. “Calm down…” he said as he dropped me back on the deck, coughing. I don’t fight women, it’s not a fair fight.” I coughed. “Pussy!” The redhead yelled. Vista laughed. “What it’s not!” I said, coughing more. I looked back up hearing everything go quiet. The geisha pointing a gun at the redhead. The redhead was frozen in place. “Izo, watch yourself.” Whitebeard said. I watched as who I suspected was Izo took a deep breath. “Please just don’t get involved!” He said, lowering the pistol. “Your temper will get you in deeper trouble than I can get you out of.” he said with an apologetic look on his face. “Callie, listen to your dad.” Marco said. I watched as the redhead clenched her fists and shook in anger. “Fuck you Marco! You aren’t my dad! And you aren’t either Izo!” She yelled before taking off.
“Damn.. she blew up quick.” I laughed. “I will have her kill your ass if you keep it up!” Izo yelled. “Iz, it’s not worth it.” Marco said. I watched as Izo looked at Marco, a look of sorrow on his face. “Shes freshly eighteen, she feels the need to prove herself as one of us now.” Marco said. I looked and saw the woman go into the galley, the dog following.
I felt kinda bad for the two of them but I wouldn’t stop my goal. “I’ll go talk to her.” I seen a man with a curly mustache say before heading after her. I looked up and saw Whitebeard staring down at me. “What are you looking at you old fart?” I asked. “You are really becoming a pain.” Whitebeard said before smiling. “But you’ll fit in just fine.” “I’m not going to join you! What the fuck is wrong with you?!” I yelled jumping and immediately being taken down by Marco. “You have devil fruit powers..” I said starting up at the man hovering over me. “Yeah yoi…” Marco said before landing on the deck. “Pops, let’s go over the next docking station and what we’re doing on the island.” He said turning his attention from me. I stared before looking back where I saw Izo had been; who had now went down below deck.
Callie’s pov:
I stared at the bowl uncle Thatch put in front of me, Beri jumped up to catch a scrap he threw and sat at my feet to eat it.
I have never raised my voice at papa or Marco before, I never had reason to. “Callie..” I heard my uncle behind me. “Yes Uncle Vista..” I said still staring at the bowl. “You alright?” He asked sitting next to me. “I can’t believe him!” I said. “He’s defending that asshole!” I yelled. “Shhh calm down. I know I know but listen Cal,” Uncle Vista said. I looked over at him. “You know Izo wouldn’t have shot you, right?” He asked. “Of course I know he wouldn’t.” I said. “It was a simple move to disarm and stun the person you disarm, he’s taught it to me. I just never thought he would use that move on me…” I said. “Or that you’d come face to face with the barrel of your own gun?” Uncle Vista asked. I nodded. “Listen Callie..” Uncle Vista said, sitting next to me.
“That boy out there is a pain; yes. A real as you said asshole.” Uncle Vista said. “But he’s also not an age you’ve been around. Everyone on the ship is twenty years older than you.. so you aren’t used to being around someone your age.” He said. “Yeah Cal, that is something that you haven’t been around. They are in their twenties.” Uncle Thatch said. “Why don’t you go and socialize with them?” “I don’t really know how to..” I said. “Easy, I’ll help you.” Uncle Vista said.
I followed Uncle Vista to where the other crew was. “Alright, I got a question for you all.” He said loudly to the crew who looked over. “Show of hands how many of you like booze, treasure, and storytelling?” Uncle Vista asked. Quickly everyone raised their hands.
“Well, this is Calliope, granddaughter of Whitebeard, and our weapons specialist! She also developed the handheld mortar device, if you have any questions ask her!“ Uncle Vista said. I looked over at him confused about how this was supposed to help me “what about the booze“ someone asked. “I’m glad you asked!” Uncle Vista said. “ I just so happened to have two untapped barrels of grog. It’s yours for the taking as long as you have questions for Calliope.” Uncle Vista said, with a smile.
“How did you test it?” One asked. “The mortar?” Another added. I sat down and started talking with the crew answering questions as we drank. After a few hours most of the crew was drunk, asking questions about our weapons, journeys on the sea and of course exactly how I was Whitebeard’s granddaughter. I was actually surprised to hear everyone’s stories and learn about everyone.
“Hey Callie! I can call you Callie right?” I heard before looking over my shoulder, seeing that absolute idiot, I stood up and walked over to him, glaring at him
“No, you call me weapons specialist Calliope.” I said, crossing my arms.
Ace walked forward a few steps; I felt my back press into the side of the galley and looked up at him alarmed. “Ah, I’m a little hurt.” Ace said, giving a slight pout, He rested a hand above my head and looked down at me.
“Calliope..” Ace said in a rich voice sounding as if it was dripping with lust, gently lifting my chin so I was looking him in the eyes. A few of his crew whistled loudly. “You might oughta back off captain; she’s really tough…” Deuce said. “And she’s definitely smarter than you!” Saber called out causing the crew to burst out laughing.
I rolled my eyes, what did this idiot take me for? “Keep your sweet talk; I’m not interested.” I said, two can play dirty.
“Maybe you should listen to your crew instead of trying to seduce someone who could easily kill you if you got too close…” I said lacing my voice with a undeniable sensual tone and pressing into him, watching as his eyes went wide before he regained composure. “That’s tough, I’m a sucker for a woman who can just fucking kill me…” Ace said, leaning back down. I quickly side stepped and Ace fell flat on the deck. I chuckled before stepping on Ace as I walked away, feeling his eyes on me as I went to my quarters.
That night I waited until I saw Marco start to head to bed. “Marco, can you talk to him,” I asked. “Of course my songbird, anything for you.” Marco said. “Marco,” I said. “Yeah yoi?” He asked turning around. I threw my arms around him and hugged him tight. “I’m so sorry.” I said. Marco chuckled. “It’s alright yoi..” he said hugging back before pulling away. “I know you my songbird, you are just trying to figure out everything yourself….” Marco said. I smiled and watched as he walked below deck. I called Beri who came running and we headed to bed.
I got up early the next morning and made papa’s favorite tea. I heard Marco talking and peeked out the galley window and seen papa sit down where we had tea every morning. I sighed and took a deep breath before walking out of the galley with the tea pot and cups. I sat them down in front of him and poured him a cup first before going to my knees taking the cup in hand “Jibun no kōdō o mōshiwakenaku omotte imasu. Yurushi gatai kōideshita…” I said, shakily, not confident in my proper pronunciation of my words but knew the effort was what mattered, bowing my head and extending the cup to my father.
“I’m so sorry for what I said Papa, please forgive me…” I said, tears falling; having never truly been rude to him before so I was scared he wouldn’t accept. I felt as he took the cup and squeezed my hand. “You are already forgiven dearest…” he said. I looked up to see his loving gaze. Papa set the cup down and pulled me into his arms. “Oh my Kaida, you are my favorite treasure…” Papa said before kissing my forehead. Marco smiled and wiped away my tears, kissing my forehead while engulfed in a hug from papa. I smiled, noticing a ring on Marco’s finger. I was about to say something when papa let me go from the hug. I noticed he was also wearing a ring and smiled, choosing to ask about it later.
The days blurred.
Ace had tried killing Whitebeard over one hundred times. One night he wound up waking up half the crew in one of his attempts.
Marco set a bowl of soup down in front of Ace, starting to walk away. “Tell me…” Ace said. Marco froze and looked back at Ace. “Why does everyone call him pops?” Ace asked. “You don’t get it? It’s because he calls us sons…” Marco said. “None of us have any family left, hell the whole fucking world hates us yoi, so it’s nice right? I mean, I know it’s just a word but it still feels nice!” Marco said. Ace looked at the deck, absorbing what he said.
“What’s the deal? Are you honestly going to keep on doing this even after he spared your life? Because you can’t keep this up….” Marco said. Ace stared at his feet, listening to Marco. “Hate to break it to you, but you’re not strong enough to kill him yoi.. So you can either get off this ship and start over; or you can stay here, and wear the mark of Whitebeard on your back.” Marco said.
Ace contemplated for a few days before coming to the conclusion of joining the crew.
Ace trained with his crew and slowly the two crews meshed together, Ace was waiting to get his mark once they landed on the next island.
Ace’s pov
Thatch walked with me onto the island
I watched as Izo flicked their fan to lean in and say something to Calliope. “What’s the deal with them?” I asked Thatch. “Ah that’s Izo, you haven’t met him yet..” Thatch said. “Oh we’ve met.” I said remembering when I spoke out of turn before and they were fully prepared to sic Calliope on me. “Why would pops have a geisha on his ship?” I asked. Thatch laughed. “Oh you poor soul you definitely haven’t met Izo yet. You’ll meet soon enough..” Thatch said. I followed him and met up with some of the other crew members.
“Hey I’ve been meaning to ask about the redhead…” I said. “Oh Callie? She’s a sweetheart.” Vista said with a smile, having overheard. Is he blind? She threw me off the ship and pistol whipped me a few weeks ago.
“We all adore her…” Jozu said. I looked around and saw Calliope with Izo. “They hang out a lot…” I said mostly to myself before shrugging. “Jozu, Vista, Teach, come on we’re starting.” Marco called. I watched as the men walked over. “You ready?” Izo asked her. Calliope nodded
I watched as Izo and the others drew swords and charge at Calliope. I watched as Calliope pulled out two flintlocks and started shooting shattering each sword and dodging as she went, dodging the flying metal and deflecting attacks, jumping over Izo at one point to shoot another round the sword shattering as if it were glass. Calliope landed on her feet and holstered the pistols. I stared, never seeing anything like it before. I looked over and saw Pops beaming with pride. “So young and she’s already mastered two of the three Haki.” Thatch said.
“Good form Callie! Izo you’re really rubbing off on her!” Vista said. “Her Haki is impressive!” Jozu said wiping the sweat from his brow.
“Who the hell are they?” Now seeing the pair celebrating her sure shot. “Izo is Callie’s father.” Vista said. “Yeah her shot is perfect now! I don’t have to worry about getting shot anymore..” Teach laughed. “oh I can shoot you no problem if that’s how you wanna act.” Calliope said. I blinked seeing them argue, Izo pulling his daughter back from Teach. Oh so she’s just angry with everyone… okay then. “Her father?” I asked. “Yeah, but that’s Callie’s story not mine.” Vista said smiling. “Looked great from the air my songbird!” Marco said, landing next to Calliope. “And Marco?” I asked. “Izo’s partner.”
“Dinner!” Thatch called I watched as everyone headed to eat and followed suit, I ate then walked to sit under some trees in the shade.
“Hey Ace! I’m ready for you!” Jozu called. I nodded and followed finding myself lying on my stomach. “Alright, I’m going to start,” I heard Jozu say over me. “Go ahead,” I said. “Damn, sorry I’m late uncle Jozu, I’ll just get mine tomorrow.” I heard. “Oh Callie, that’s right you’re getting yours too… Ace do you mind if I do hers first, it’s not as big and it shouldn’t take long…” Jozu asked. I looked up. “No problem, ladies first, do you mind if I stay?” I asked.
“That’s fine.” Calliope said before I got up and let her sit down. I watched as she sat through the tattoo with barely an eye twitch,“Damn Calliope, you’re sitting like a champ…” I said. “Yeah.. well grandpa won’t let me do my back, and if I’m ever in a situation I have to cover up for my safety he wouldn’t let me do my hand so, my arm is where we landed..” Calliope said, looking over at me. I nodded, admiring how much pops cared about his granddaughter. I saw her dog staring up at her. Wanting a better view. “Here boy,” I said. Beri looked over at me then at Calliope. “It’s okay Beri.” She cooed. The dog walked over and I picked him up, holding him so he could watch what was happening, feeling his tail wagging against my side. “Crazy dog.” I chuckled. “He didn’t want you to get one though.” Jozu said. “Why?” I asked. “If you don’t mind me asking..”
“Because I’m his only granddaughter, he knows the weight this mark carries but it kinda defeats the purpose of being his weapons specialist and 17th division commander if I don’t at least have it somewhere.” Calliope said, smiling over at Beri in my arms. “You’re a commander?” I asked. Calliope nodded, “Yeah. Official as of three months ago..” she said. I nodded, intrigued; this was the first time I actually got to speak with her. “So you actually came to your senses Firepower?” She asked. “Yeah, you could say that.” I chucked. “We knew you would eventually, you have too much potential…” Calliope said. “thanks Calliope…” I said.
“Alright Callie, you’re done.” Jozu said. Callie looked down at the tattoo and smiled. “Thank you Uncle Jozu!” Callie said before hopping off the bench. “See ya later Ace.” She said. “Later?” I asked. “Yeah we’re celebrating, everyone in your old crew is now a member of Grandpa’s crew, so it’s a celebration. Cmon Beri!” She said, I sat him down before she walked off to show Izo and Marco her tattoo, the proud pooch following. I got back on the bench and waited.
I got up hours later, now having Whitebeard’s mark on my back, something I would proudly display. I walked back to the ship where everyone was and smiled seeing that everyone was already getting started. “Ace my son there you are! Now the party can really start!” Pops said. I smiled as I was handed a cup of grog.
“Calliope! Ace! Front and center!” Pops said. I walked over towards him and stood facing the crew, Calliope also stood in front of the crew. “The both of you got your tattoos today, so let’s see em!” Pops said. Calliope removed her dressing and turned to the side to show off the mark on her upper bicep, the black and purple standing out on her skin. The crew whistled at seeing hers, Beri even getting in on the celebration by howling; much to Calliope’s delight.
“Alright Ace, let’s see it!” Pops said. I chuckled. “Hey Calliope, can you help me really quick?” I asked. Calliope nodded and walked over. “I’m sore so can you pull my dressing off?” I asked. Calliope carefully pulled the dressing off. “Damn Ace it’s awesome!” She said. I smiled and turned my back to the crew showing off the tattoo.
“Alright Ace!! Go big or go home!” Saber yelled.
After partying for a bit I felt a little overwhelmed by the celebration so I walked away from everything for a bit, leaning against the railing. “Having fun firepower?” I heard. “Yeah I am, just talking a minute to breathe, sometimes I get overwhelmed…” I chuckled looking back and seeing Calliope. “Want me to go?” She asked. “Nah, you can stay..” I said. Calliope walked over and smiled. “Beautiful night isn’t it?” Calliope asked staring out at the night. “Sure is..” I said, not particularly paying attention to anything other than her in the moment.
I heard the yells from the crowd and chuckled. “Do they always do this?” I asked. “Do what?” Calliope asked. “Party this hard..” I said. Calliope laughed. “Ace this ain’t nothing, I’ve seen so much on this ship it’s ridiculous. All my uncles, papa and Marco drink like they are our age and regret it… every time..” Calliope said. I laughed, shaking my head. “Trust me I’ve seen some shit.” She said. “Like what?” I asked, genuinely curious.
“Well I know that uncle Thatch sucks at keeping track of his drink or holding anyone’s because he will drink it, causing him to be super sick because of the mix of alcohol in his stomach. Marco prefers wine but when he has rum he tries to fly around, resulting in Grandpa nearly dying from laughter at everyone trying to catch him… Teach has gotten super fucked up and shot a harpoon before.. and papa doesn’t drink wine because he winds up dancing…. He’s always been more interested in Sake and tea but will drink grog with everyone in celebration…” Calliope said. “You’re very observant Calliope..” I said. “Thank you, and it’s Callie..” she said. “Huh?” I asked. “It’s Callie.” She said. I looked over at her and smiled, never thinking I’d ever join Whitebeard; much less be making friends with his granddaughter. “Callie, right… got it…”
“So you and your dad, your specialty is guns right?” “Yeah, Papa is a trained samurai. But loved pistols and I was always better with a gun..” Callie laughed. I smiled, “I don’t see a resemblance.” I said looking at her features. “Just our fighting style, Izo adopted me.” She smiled. “Papa doesn’t talk about it much, I think it’s because he thinks I’ll be upset about hearing about it but basically grandpa and everybody killed some government agents for attacking a village that gave them shelter at one point when he was having something done to the ship and papa found me. And I became a crew member that night. I’ve been on the sea ever since.” She said with a smile.
“I never met my real father he died before I was born.. and my mom died after my birth so I was raised by my adopted mother.” I said. “I wound up with two brothers.” “That’s cool. I never got any siblings, just a bunch of uncles.” Callie laughed. “But it’s nice right?” I asked. Callie nodded. “I always had someone to play with…” she chuckled.
“I grew up messing with Marco every day much to everyone’s delight…” Callie chuckled. “While I usually behaved, I could always torture Marco by being a kid, I used to tell him the worst dirty jokes Uncle Thatch would teach me.” Callie said. “Seriously?” I asked with a laugh. “Yeah I got taught dirty words early and memorized everything that I probably shouldn’t have..” Callie said. I laughed imagining a little girl getting Marco super flustered with telling him just about everything her uncles said or had her repeat.
“When I got older and I had questions about my body and everything, Marco explained everything. He’s a doctor after all.. so I learned literally everything from him. Papa bought books and explained everything he had knowledge on but if he wasn’t around and Uncle Vista and Uncle Thatch were watching me I would usually ask the women they were talking to. That embarrassed them but the women thought it was normal which it was..” Callie said.
“Yeah I remember asking Dadan what was wrong with me the first time I woke up with morning wood.. sorry not trying to be weird…” I said. Callie laughed. “No tell me, I’m genuinely curious..” she said. “She fell over. She always looked like her eyes were going to pop out of her head. Eventually the male mountain bandits would teach me everything they knew about it. Then in between all that I took care of myself…” I said. “Mountain bandits? That had to have been interesting…” Callie said sitting down, smiling as Beri bounded over with a large bone in his mouth coming to show Callie his prize. I smiled and sat down with her. “Definitely…” I reply. “You got you a good bone there Beri.” I said chuckling at his expression and fiercely wagging tail. He settled in Callie’s lap with the bone.
“I definitely didn’t make raising me easier though, Dadan says I was a nightmare, and with two little brothers I definitely was in crazy company.” I laughed. “What was it like having siblings?” Callie asked. I smiled. “Well, my brothers and I were a terror trio. It was myself, Sabo, and Luffy.. We were constantly into something, planning to be pirates, much to old man Garp’s dismay. He wanted the three of us to be marines together…” I said. “Garp? Are you talking about-“ Callie asked. I nodded. “He’s my adopted grandfather.” I said. Callie’s jaw was slack. “Holy shit he’s a legend and his son being the head of the revolutionary army..” She said. I nodded.
“Unfortunately, my younger brother Sabo died, leaving it just Luffy and I…” I said, turning my arm to face her. “A, a crossed out S for my brother then CE for the rest of my name.” I said. “Luffy plans on being king of the pirates one day, hopefully he will.” I laughed. I felt Callie’s hand gently reach out and touch my bicep. “I’m sorry about your brother..” Callie said, gently stroking my arm. I smiled, feeling my heart flutter at her touch. “It’s alright…I always said if I ever had kids which I probably won’t.. I’d name one of my children after him, we’ll him and my mother..” I said. “That’s amazing..” Callie said smiling, “a beautiful tribute..” I smiled, feeling her hand still caressing my arm.
“I’d like a family.. well. Kids and a partner one day..” Callie said before she slowly moved her hand. I was fighting between grabbing her hand to keep it there or letting her pull away. “But that’s definitely not anytime soon…” Callie said with a smile, I smiled at her, happy to actually have a conversation with someone who I could actually learn from.
Callie yawned and looked up at me with a smile. “Well, I’m actually planning on going to bed, so I’ll see you in the morning Ace..” Callie said. “Here.” I said quickly getting up and offering her my hand. Beri jumped out of her lap and Callie took my hand and stood up. It felt like lightning when she took my hand, never having that feeling before. “Thank you…” Callie said. “Of course, sweet dreams…” I said before kissing the back of her hand. I seen a light blush rise to her cheeks. “Goodnight..” I said smiling as she looked up at me with her blue green eyes.
“Goodnight Ace…” Callie said before walking away. I watched her walk away, my eyes trailing over her figure. I resumed my gaze to the sky before hearing a loud bang come from the front deck. I took off running to see Teach on the ground, piss drunk. “I told him not to chug it.” Saber yelled. “Ace yoi, help me to the infirmary..” Marco said, lifting up Teach. I nodded and helped pick him up walking to the infirmary with them. “Go back out there and finish celebrating yoi, I got this…” Marco said after we laid him down on the cot.
“Thanks. Is he going to be okay?” I asked. “Yeah, this is pretty typical behavior for him.” Marco said. “Okay, I’ll see you later.” I said. “See ya yoi..” Marco said as I walked back out. “Ace!” I heard. I turned to see Izo, his cheeks red and a glass in his hand. “What’s up?” I asked smiling. “Have you seen my daughter?” He asked. “She went to bed just a little bit ago,” I said. “Ah..” Izo said, sipping whatever was in his glass, he turned around to head back to the party.
“Hey Izo,” I said. Izo turned back to face me. “Yes?” He asked. “I didn’t have my parents growing up, either..” I said. “My father died before I was born and my mother died shortly after I was born…” I said. Izo’s slightly inebriated gaze suddenly sobered. “I guess what I’m trying to say is, you did a fantastic job at raising Callie, she’s brilliant.” I said with a smile. Izo’s painted lips curved into a smile. “Thank you… she’s my pride and joy… I couldn’t imagine my life without my Kaida…” he said before sipping his drink. “I’m sorry about your parents Ace..” he said before gently squeezing my shoulder. “But I do hope you’ll be happy with all of us…” Izo said. I smiled. “Thanks.. and I am..” I said. “Atta boy,” Izo chuckled. “I’m going to check in on Callie and them probably head to bed myself after I find out how long my hus- Marco will be up....” Izo said quickly correcting himself. I heard him but let it go. “He’s still patching up Teach,” I said. Izo nodded and headed below deck. I headed back to the party.
Izo headed below the deck and arrived at his daughter’s room.
Callie’s pov
I heard a small knock and opened the door. “Hi papa..” I said. “Hello my darling girl…” he said smiling. “Come in..” I said. Papa walked in and set his glass down. “Papa, what glass in that?” I asked. “It’s only my second glass of wine…” papa said. I raised an eyebrow. “Okay fine it not but it’s definitely my last glass okay?” Papa said sitting on the bed next to me, pulling me into a hug, kissing the top of my head, then resting his head on top of mine. “Daddy? Are you okay?” I asked. Papa looked down at me, knowing I only called him daddy when I was worried about him. “Yes my sweet girl..” he said. “Ace said I did a good job raising you, and I just got a bit sentimental is all..” he said. I smiled. “I just hope you know I’d do it over and over again..” papa said. I smiled, “I know papa, I love you.” “I love you too sweetheart..” papa said, gently swaying. “Papa, you’re dancing..” I chuckled. “Shh let me..” papa said. I smiled rolling my eyes. “Ace is a nice man..” papa said. “I suppose,” I said. “Shhh he is.” He said. I snickered, enjoying the extra love from papa.
“Let me fix your hair for bed.. it’s been so long please..” Papa said. “Sure I was just gonna leave it but if you want to deal with it I’ll let you…” I said smiling as I got up and sat in front of the vanity. I felt him pull out pins and massage my scalp as he went, catching sight of his left ring finger and the silver band; remembering Marco had a matching gold one.
“You know you can tell me anything right papa?” I said. “Yes my Kaida…” he said. “So, when were you going to tell me about the rings…” I asked. I felt papa stop for a moment, hearing a soft sigh escape from his lips. “I just wanted to savor it for a little bit longer…” he said before smiling. “I only need to know one thing and when you’re ready you can share details…” I said.
“What do you need to know dear?” Papa asked braiding my hair. “Does he make you happy?” I asked. Papa finished my hair and I got up and swapped places with him, unclasping his hair, watching as his black tresses cascaded to the floor. “Very happy… god more than happy..” he said as I massaged his scalp. “So very happy..”
“Then that’s all I need to know…” I said as I brushed his hair. Papa smiled and nodded. “Thank you my Kaida..” he said. “No problem papa.” I said before finishing the long braid. Papa stood up and pulled me into a hug. I smiled and hugged him tight. Once we separated he placed a kiss on my forehead and I walked to bed. Papa grabbed his glass and started to leave.
Izo picked up his glass and turned around to look at Callie. “Goodnight my Kaida…” he said, seeing his little girl in his grown daughter’s place. “Goodnight papa!” She said sweetly. Izo’s heart swelled as he blinked away tears and looked back to see his grown daughter curled up in bed with Beri. Izo shut the door and walked above deck.
**Song playing as I wrote this: Midnight Ride Orville Peck**
Izo finished his wine and handed the glass back to Thatch before swaying slightly to the music playing. Izo felt a set of hands come to his chest, gently holding him. Izo smiled knowingly and danced before turning around and facing Marco.
“Well hello..” Marco said. Izo smiled, wrapping his arms around Marco’s neck. “Hmm I’m going to guess about five glasses?” Marco said. Izo chuckled and bit his lip subtly rubbing up against Marco’s member. “Ah seven..” Marco chuckled, shifting slightly. “Callie knows.” Izo said. Marco looked at him. “Shes happy for us…” Izo said. Marco smiled and took Izo’s hand. “Come with me..” he said. “Marco what are we doing?” Izo asked. “I’m pretty sure you know my little swallow…” Marco said. “Remember the bet we made, I said she’d be fine you said she would freak. Time to cash in that win.” Marco said. Izo’s eyebrows raised and followed him excitedly to a back room.
AUTHORS NOTE
Translation:
Jibun no kōdō o mōshiwakenaku omotte imasu. Yurushi gatai kōideshita - I am sorry for my actions. They were unacceptable.
**I used four different translator apps to get this if this isn’t what it says PLEASE EDUCATE ME, DO NOT BELITTLE ME! I want to honor cultures even if it’s a fan fiction. Thank youuuu.
Beri is based on one of my dogs I used to have. A black and white Jack Russell named Dodger.
I’m gonna start putting what songs I’m listening to as I write. Marco and Izo’s last bit was a spur of the moment add in hearing this song. Also I hope Y’all like that pairing. I def ship Izo and Marco.