Hello everyone, here is another chapter in this mental health topic

I have said I am open to make new chapters in my mental health fics if people want to. And, I had a person asking for more of this and some specific scenes, one of which being when Ace ran out of meds and got unsure, as I mentioned in the last chapter

I will do other topics when I have the time, but it takes a small while to make these at times

But, thank you everyone for your support and how you like this series. It means more than everything

This is more of a wrap-up and a bit of closure for Ace and everyone (There is still no pairing. Marco is just a good big brother and Ace looks up to him. But, you can choose how to view it yourself)

Hope you enjoy

Read and relax

Ace made a small unsure sound, seeing his pill bottle was empty. Bay hadn't given him anything or told him to come to the infirmary, which she had done before when he was empty; she actually always did it as he had a dose left. Maybe she had forgotten it? Ace shook his head. Bay wouldn't forget that, Ace was just being stupid, Bay would surely come get him soon.

It was starting to get late now, and Bay might be busy. Ace just needed to wait; he still had until his last dosage for the night, before he went to bed or out to stay up. He could handle missing one dosage; he couldn't go and bother Bay. Ace tried to tell that to himself, stay calm, and act normal. He could do this. During supper, he did notice some people looking at him, which made him feel uncomfortable, but Ace tried to brush it off, to act calm, saying he was fine when Pops asked. He was fine, he was just acting stupid. When he was finished with supper, he went back to his room, sitting on the bed and having the covers over himself as he tried to relax. It was closing in on the last hour for him to take the pills, needing to take them before midnight, having a couple of hours to take them as it didn't matter much since he usually slept in the night.

When the clock was eleven, he was starting to feel unsure, his fingers trembling slightly.

He couldn't go to sleep without taking the pills as that meant he would miss two doses; that was never good. Why hadn't Bay come to get him or given him more pills? Had she forgotten about him? Ace shook his head; she was probably only busy. Ace should maybe go and ask, but it was already late, and he didn't want to bother her. Maybe he should just wait until morning? Ace shook his head; he shouldn't do that.

Ace looked at his door, letting out an unsure sound as he got up and headed out. Maybe he should try to do something.

Ace walked out on deck, glad there weren't many around, barely anyone actually, no one close to him, which was good. Ace could feel his hands still tremble slightly and he felt really unsure. He wanted to go back to his room, he didn't like this, he didn't want to go ask and bother anyone. Ace shook his head; he shouldn't be thinking that, the people here liked him… right? Ace couldn't help but feel more and more unsure with each step he took, thinking he should just go back to his room. Bay would come get him when she had the time. But at the same time, he had a voice telling him he needed to try to do something.

After a minute he stood in front of a door, and after another minute, he got enough courage to knock. But, the second he did knock, Ace regretted it at once.

It was late, it was midnight in less than an hour, Ace shouldn't be out and bothering people. He was just about to turn around and head back to his room when the door opened, and a clearly tired Marco stood there, making Ace regret knocking even more. Maybe he had woken up Marco. "Ace, yoi?" Asked the first commander, looking at him with a small frown, which made Ace lower his head, using a hand to grasp his other hand. He didn't know what to say. Ace closed his eyes, trying to get the burning feeling away from his eyes. "I- I'm sorry. I was just… I-." Ace couldn't even form a sentence, feeling his trembling increase and feeling his anxiousness and feelings getting the better of him as he felt tears start to fall down down his cheeks. Ace shouldn't have knocked.

"Whoa, hey," Said Marco, sounding a bit shocked. "What's wrong, Ace?" Marco sounded concerned, and he shouldn't be concerned, Ace shouldn't make him concerned. Ace tried to speak, but couldn't get past the first syllable. When he couldn't do that, he felt a hand moving to his shoulder, carefully guiding him inside the first commander's room, the door closing behind him. When the door was closed, Ace looked up at Marco, trying to get his emotions back in check. "I- I'm sorry for bothering you. I-." Marco shook his head, "No, it's fine, yoi. It's no bother, really. What's wrong? Did anything happen?"

Ace shook his head, trying to wipe some tears away. It was always so hard to stop once he had started. "N-no. I just- it- I-." Ace couldn't form a sentence, which made it worse as he was being stupid and using up time, using Marco's time. He felt a hand coming to his face, carefully wiping some tears away, which made him look up at Marco, who had a calm look. "Take a deep breath, Ace. Just calm down, I'm not mad or anything, I'm worried." Ace nodded, trying to take a deep breath and calm down. After managing a half deep breath, he tried to speak again. "I- I didn't get my refill f- from Bay. I- I'm sorry for b- bothering you about it."

Marco shook his head. "No, it's fine, yoi. You didn't bother me or anything. Have you spoken to Bay?" Ace shook his head, trying to keep himself in check, feeling trembling in his hands and tears still falling down his cheeks. "N-no. I don't want to b-bother her. It's late and she's busy and I-," Ace cut off as he felt a hand wipe some tears away again, looking up at Marco, who seemed to have an understanding look. Marco slightly shook his head. "Calm down, yoi. It's fine. I'm not mad, and Bay won't be mad. You're no bother, I promise. Why don't we go to Bay together?"

Ace gave a nod, trying to wipe his tears away, he didn't want to go out on deck like this. "I- I would like that. J-just give me a second. I just-." Ace cut off as Marco took his hat, which hang over his shoulders, and placed it on his head. "There, yoi. Not many are out and they can't see now." Ace gave a nod, giving a sniff. Marco was being really nice with this.

When they headed out of Marco's room, Ace grasped his hand again as he was still unsure. Marco was kind, but he didn't know about Bay; she might be mad. After taking a few steps, he felt Marco move a hand to hold around him on his shoulder, continuing to walk with him. "It will be fine. I promise she won't be mad, yoi." Ace gave a nod, but still made an unsure sound between a few sniffs. He was still nervous and on edge, meaning he couldn't stop the tears. He didn't know how Marco knew that, how the other could promise it, but Ace tried his best to believe him. He hadn't lied before.

After a few minutes, they arrived at the infirmary. When they were in front of the door, Ace hesitated, feeling more unsure now. Marco gave him a reassuring look, before they walked in.

When they walked in, the infirmary was mostly empty, just a few nurses here and there. As they were noticed by one of the nurses, who yelled out for Bay, Ace tried to look away from her office, not wanting to be here at all. It wasn't long before a door opened and he heard Bay's heels clicking on the floor. "Commander Marco, Portgas, what brings you here?" Ace blinked, she didn't sound mad. When he dared to look up and towards the voice, he saw that Bay didn't seem mad, but had a more questionable look. She was looking at him, and Ace knew he looked awful, tears still streaming down his face and some small trembles in his hands.

He decided he should try to speak. "I-, umm… I-." Ace shook his head as he moved his hands to his face, wiping at his eyes as he felt more tears coming on. Why couldn't he just say it, why did he have to be like this? He felt Marco moving a hand to his shoulder again as reassurance. "Ace hasn't gotten his refill." Ace was really glad Marco came with him; it helped a lot, especially as he couldn't handle this right now, already way over the edge. He wanted to just go back to his room and hide under his blanket again, where it was safe.

He heard Bay click her tongue, before heels moved again. "You should have enough for the first one tomorrow, the reason I haven't gotten you or given you a refill." Ace gave a nod as that made sense. He took a deep breath, wanting to try to at least explain. "I-, I've taken some extra at times..." Ace ended it with a small sound, feeling guilty for doing that. He heard Bay click her tongue again. "I see. That is fine, you are allowed to take as many emergency pills as you need. I will start and check up a day before from now on." Ace gave a nod, giving a sniff. He was glad Bay wasn't mad about it. It was probably stupid of him to think she or Marco would be mad, but he couldn't get the thought out of his head that they would be.

He soon heard heels clacking and looked up to see Bay coming towards him with a bottle containing the refill. When she saw him looking at her, she gave him something akin to a reassuring look, which he knew she basically never did. "Have you already missed one dosage?" Ace gave a nod, not sure if he could say it, feeling bad for that. Bay gave a nod and handed him the pills. "Don't be afraid to come here if it happens again, no matter what time it is. But, I understand that can be hard, so don't be afraid to go to Commander Marco, or Pops, or any of the others." Ace gave a nod, giving a sniff as he wiped at his eyes again.

Bay gave them a nod, which they returned, before they left. When they were out of the infirmary, Marco gave him a smile and a pat on the back. "I said it would go fine, yoi." Ace gave a half-laugh and sob, before he nodded, sending a look at Marco. "Thank you." Marco gave a small chuckle, moving his hand to his shoulder and giving a half-hug. "It was nothing." Ace gave a nod and sheepish smile. To him, this was so much more than nothing. He tried to gather himself more and take some calming breaths, trying to stop the tears and wipe his eyes, glad Marco seemed to be following him to his room.

When they got to his room, Ace gave a look to Marco again, feeling better as things had gone fine. "I-, Thank you again, it helped." Marco gave a chuckle. "It's fine, yoi. I'm glad you got me. Sleep well now." Ace gave a nod, "You too." Marco gave him a small wave as he left, Ace returning it. Marco was a good friend, a good brother.

When Marco was gone, Ace headed into his room and took his pills, taking one extra as he knew he would need it for tomorrow, knowing that day would be hard as he had completely missed one dosage and had a hard day, before he went to bed, feeling tired.

-x-

Marco gave a small sigh as he rounded a corner. He heard Ace go back into his room again, hearing a small sniff.

He had been shocked when Ace was suddenly at his door earlier as Ace didn't knock on others' door or anything like that. But, the second Ace had started to try and speak, winding up just stumbling across his words and crying, Marco knew something was wrong. He had gotten Ace into his room, so no one would overhear or see Ace like that. He knew Ace didn't like that. Marco was worried someone had done something as Ace usually wasn't like that.

But, when Ace had explained, or at least said enough, Marco knew what was wrong. Ace apparently did not get his medication and had clearly missed at least one dosage, seeming to feel guilty and scared, hands shaking and tears just streaming down his cheeks. Marco had tried his best to say to say it was fine, that he wasn't mad, coming up with the idea to go to Bay together, understanding Ace wouldn't do that alone, scared to bother the doctor, probably thinking he would be a bother or she would be mad.

It always shocked him how different Ace was when he was like that; he was so shy and scared, nothing like he usually was. Ace really seemed like he thought Marco would be mad at him for not getting his refill from Bay, even more scared to go to Bay. He tried his best to be supportive as they went to the infirmary, it seeming to help a bit.

When they did get to the infirmary, Whiskey having called out for Bay and the doctor appearing from her office, Ace completely averted his gaze to everywhere but her, which was good as Marco saw Bay looked annoyed, most likely not liking he was there. Marco couldn't get injured so he understood that, but he wasn't there for himself. Before the doctor could bite out a remark, which she always did when he appeared in the infirmary, Marco made a small motion to Ace, who still had shaky hands and tears going down his cheeks. Marco could see Bay's features softening at once, understanding why he was there.

Bay had thankfully handled it calmly and more caring than he had ever seen her, but she knew about this more than him; she knew the do's and don't's. Marco was sure Ace couldn't handle anything that might be interpreted wrong, the reason Bay acted as calmly as she did and spoke in a calm manner. She even said she would check up on Ace more often and told Ace he could go to him or Pops if Ace found it hard to go to Bay. Marco was glad she understood why Ace had gone to him, scared to meet her or bother her. Ace had even been scared to go to him.

After Ace had gotten the pills and they left, Marco continued to stay calm and glad Ace seemed to calm more down, seeming tired. Marco still decided to walk Ace to his room, just in case, keeping a small sigh inside when Ace thanked him. It was nothing to thank him for, he was just doing his job as Ace's friend and big brother, but Ace seemed to have issues with that when he got like this, always blaming himself for everything and thinking he was a bother, which was as far away from the truth as possible. Ace wouldn't understand that now, but he would later.

When he was sure Ace was safe in his room, just staying to make sure Ace didn't come back out, Marco turned around and headed to Pops' room, knowing the man was awake.

When he got there and knocked on the door, getting a come in, Pops was surprised to see him there, knowing it was his night off and he would try to sleep. The man hid a bottle of sake which he did see, and it made his eye twitch. But, he would take that later, he was here for something else. When Pops asked why he was there, Marco gave a small sigh and explained what had happened. Pops seemed concerned and worried about Ace, but gave a nod when he was finished. "I thought he seemed out of character during supper; this was probably why." Marco gave a nod. "Yes, yoi. He seemed so scared and guilty for 'bothering' me as he called it."

Pops gave a nod, "He does that apparently; blame himself with everything and get scared." Marco gave a nod, "He does. His hands were even shaking; he couldn't even explain to Bay what had happened at first." Pops gave a nod and small sigh at that, "I'm glad he came to you, son." Marco gave a nod, "I am too. He would have been only worse tomorrow. Bay also mentioned he could come to you if he had issues with going to Bay himself." Pops gave a nod. "I will remember that if he shows up, in case that might be the reason."

Pops gave a smile to him, "You sound to have handled it well." Marco gave a small chuckle. "I was shocked at first, but quickly realised something was wrong, yoi. Ace, at least, managed to explain to me what had happened." Pops nodded at that, giving a small chuckle himself. Marco stayed with the man a bit before he left to sleep, mentioning that Pops is not going to drink more tonight, which Pops gave a groan to. He hoped Marco hadn't noticed. With a stern glare, Pops agreed on it. After that, Marco went back to bed, going by Ace's room and glad to see the kid sleeping calmly, tear tracks still on his cheeks. Ace would be better tomorrow. He just needed to relax now.

When breakfast started the next day, Marco wasn't really surprised to see Ace wasn't there.

He had hoped Ace would be there, but he had missed a dose yesterday and had a lot of issues with it, almost missing two. From what he had gathered, it would take only 6 days for Ace to become really bad and shield himself away, as he had done when they found out. Marco hoped that would never happen again. When breakfast was finished and Marco thought about heading to Ace's room and see how he was, he gave a small chuckle to himself when he saw Pops thinking the same and being a bit quicker than him, already heading to Ace's room.

None of them showed up at lunch, but at dinner both were there, Marco glad to see Ace was fine, maybe only a bit seclusive at times, grasping his hand occasionally. But, he was smiling and laughing, seeming to be okay. When Thatch had mentioned a prank, Ace had declined, which made the chef pout, but a glare from Marco had him lay off from bringing it up more and potentially guilt Ace into doing it. Marco had a feeling Ace still had some guilty feeling in him and wouldn't want to do much today. He would be better tomorrow, and they understood that. They tried their best to be understanding to Ace, Ace really seeming to appreciate it. He was even opening up more and more, which was good.

They wanted to get to know this side of Ace better, so they would know more on how to act, although what they did seemed to work. They would learn as time went by too.

-x-

Ace ran with Thatch, trying to run away from the wrath of the first commander, having played a small prank on the man. Ace was a bit faster than Thatch, making so he was in front of Thatch by a foot. They knew Marco would be really mad, having played a bunch of small pranks the last days and this seemed to be the end of the phoenix's patience, which Ace understood. But, he liked the normalcy of it and how it was always taken with humor later, after Marco had yelled and given punishment. It was worth it in the end, Marco was still a good guy; a good brother.

As Ace turned to look in front of him, to be sure he didn't run anyone down, he came to a stop when he noticed Biggie there.

Ace knew Biggie had been promoted to the main doctor on Moby 2, so he shouldn't be here at all. "Biggie?" Asked Ace, head tilted, not sure why the man was here. As Ace had stopped, Thatch ran into him, making Ace do a stumble. "Ace! Why you sto-." Thatch trailed off as he saw Ace had an unsure look, turning to look at Biggie too, understanding something was up.

Biggie gave a smile and small chuckle. "Hi, Ace. Bay and I would like a word with you if possible." Okay, Ace really didn't like that. Why would Biggie and Bay team up? Was anything wrong with him? "Ace, Thatch!" Started Marco, now catching up to them. "Wha-," "Is there anything wrong? ...Am I okay?" Said Ace unsurely, cutting Marco off, who now noticed his unsure look and also noticing Biggie. The first commander walked up to stand next to Ace, assessing him and Biggie. Biggie lifted an eyebrow. "Are you asking me if you're okay?" Ace felt a bit reassured by that, as Biggie acting not too serious was good, but Ace was still unsure and worried. "I just… Why are you here then? Why do both you and Bay want speak to me?"

Biggie gave a smile. "We just want to give you a suggestion. Nothing to worry about."

Ace gave a nod. That was plausible, so it wasn't too scary then. And, the fact Biggie was as calm was good. But, there was still that small uncertainty there, making him still unsure, thinking that they said this to not make anyone react. "Okay. I can come and speak to you." Biggie gave a nod and smile, turning to head towards the infirmary. As Ace was on his way to walk after, a hand on his arm had him stop.

Ace turned around to see Marco having stopped him. "Do you want me to join, yoi?" Ace did his best to give a smile, shaking his head. "It's fine; Biggie's with me. But thanks." Marco gave a nod, giving a smile as he let his arm go, making Ace able to walk with Biggie. Ace liked that Marco asked him if he should join; it was a nice motion in case Ace was too unsure; Ace really trusted Marco to help him when he was unsure, but he trusted Biggie more as the doctor knew him more.

As they walked towards the infirmary, they talked a bit, Ace telling he really like it here, and asked how Biggie was. Biggie said he really enjoyed being the head doctor at Moby 2, glad he could continue being a doctor, which was good; Biggie was a great doctor. They soon got to the infirmary and walked into Bay's office, where the doctor was waiting for them. Ace sat down in a chair in front of Bay, Biggie sitting down in a chair next to Bay.

When they were all seated, Bay looked at him, clicking her tongue. "Portgas. Biggie and I have been talking about some things, as I wanted to know how your issues with depression became as bad as it is now, knowing it wasn't as bad before." Ace gave a nod, that was true. Ace had been better before, the start after setting out, before he started on the narcolepsy medicine to keep him from falling asleep. Bay continued after he nodded.

"Your depression got worse, much more so, when you started on the narcolepsy medicine, and you do not need to decide now, but we want to propose to quit the narcoleptic medication, and eventually the depression medicine too."

Ace blinked, looking at Biggie, who nodded, telling he heard right. Ace looked at Bay again. "Wha-. You want me to stop with the medication?" Ace was baffled by this, not wanting to stop as he didn't know how he would react to it. Biggie gave a nod. "It is, or most likely is, the reason your depression got worse, and you needed them since you were a captain. But, now you are a part of a crew; a family. Everyone has your back, so you're safe in case you have an attack." Ace gave an unsure look and sound, not liking this. "I.. I don't know."

Bay gave him a calm look. "You do not need to decide now. We wanted to inform you we have thought of it, as it might be better for you." Ace gave a nod; he got that. Ace knew he was better generally before he started on the narcoleptic medicine. He still had bad days, but not nearly as bad as his bad days are now. "But… I will fall asleep, and eat and sleep and insomnia and-," Ace cut his rambling off as Biggie moved a hand to his shoulder, giving a reassuring look. "I know this might seem scary; it's new and we're asking suddenly. We know you will have narcoleptic attacks, we know you will eat more; we know all of that. You don't need to say yes now, or no, for that matter. Just think about it. Ask others you trust what they think."

Ace gave a nod, he would try and think about it, maybe ask Marco and Pops what they think. Ace didn't like the idea, but he would think about it, Ace knew he didn't like new things; he usually reacted bad to it because of his depression and medication as it didn't work as well when he was stressed. "I'll think about it." Bay and Biggie gave a smile, the latter moving a hand to his shoulder and giving a pat. "Good. Now, I suggest you go and relax a bit; you look on edge, which I understand. We didn't mean to scare you." Ace gave a small smile and nod. Biggie really knew him well. "I will. I'll also think about it."

Biggie gave a nod. "And, if you want to, Bay is okay with me staying here for a few days while you think and maybe decide." Ace gave a sheepish smile. "Could you..? I would like that if you could." Biggie gave a nod. "I can. Bay and I have talked it over. I can stay here for 4 days." Biggie gave him a small serious look. "Just because I leave back for Moby 2 in 4 days, does not mean you need to decide by then. Use the time you need." Ace gave a nod, Biggie knowing Ace would rush it to make it, but Ace would try not to. Biggie knew how he was. Biggie gave a nod and stood up, making Ace and Bay do the same.

When they were up, Biggie moved and gave him a hug, Ace quickly hugging back. "I will be staying in a spare room in the infirmary. Do not be afraid to come to me at any time, ever." Ace gave a nod, he would remember that. Ace needed to keep some of his emotions in check, now feeling how much he actually missed Biggie, missing these hugs and everything the man did. They soon let go and Ace gave a goodbye to Bay, before Ace left, heading to his room to relax, Biggie being right in saying he was on edge, thinking the worst.

As Ace walked over the deck to his room, he noticed Marco was still scolding Thatch, the latter sending him a look and trying to get his attention, which Ace returned with a smile, or tried to, he was sure he failed as Thatch looked worried, before heading to his room. He barely caught a worried look from Marco, the man seeing Thatch trying to get his attention, most likely to plan a prank or not be alone in the punishment. Ace knew he should go and speak to Marco, to get whatever scolding and punishment the man gave Thatch, but didn't feel like being out right now, wanting to relax. He would be sure to go to Marco when he felt better, giving a small apology for the prank.

When Ace got inside his room, he sat down on his bed and brought his covers to be around himself, also having it over his head, relaxing. Ace tried to think about what Bay and Biggie had said, trying to find any good reasons why he should think of saying yes. He was scared to say yes, knowing he would have sleep attacks. He didn't know if his depression was as light as it was before, and seeing as he had been on the meds for almost 3 years now, he might be worse. But, if it wasn't, it would be better. Ace didn't know what to do right now.

He needed to think. He would try and speak to Marco and Pops about it, but had no idea how to bring it up or what to even say.

Ace stayed in his room for a couple of hours, before walking out of his room, knowing it was closing in on dinner.

As Ace walked out of his room, going out on deck, he thought of heading to see if Pops had time to speak, he was stopped by a hand on his shoulder. When Ace turned around, he saw Marco there. Ace gave a small smile, kind of glad the man was here, wanting to speak to him. Ace spoke before Marco could. "I… I'm sorry for the prank earlier." Marco blinked, giving a small frown, before giving an understanding look. "It's fine, yoi, It wasn't so bad."

Ace blinked. "You're… not going to lecture me or give me punishment?" Ace didn't want to be lectured or given punishment, but he didn't want Marco to give him special treatment since he had been fetched by Biggie to speak to him and Bay, and was on edge now. Marco gave a small chuckle. "I gave a small talk to Thatch, and then gave him kitchen arrest, to keep him away from the deck for a bit, yoi. You have been in your room for two hours, the same amount I gave to Thatch."

Ace gave a small nod, kind of seeing the reasoning with that. Marco gave a look to him. "How did it go with Bay and Biggie, yoi?" Ace gave a nod, on his way to say it went fine, when he remembered something. He looked at Marco. "Actually… could I maybe speak to you for a minute?" Marco gave a small worried look, before he nodded. "Of course, yoi. Want to head to my room? Or your room?" Ace gave a nod, "Your room is okay." Ace knew Marco's room was closer than his. Marco gave a nod and they walked to it. When they got to Marco's room, Ace sat down on the bed, bringing his legs up, feeling more comfortable that way.

As Ace turned to look at Marco, a pillow was in front of him.

Ace gave a sheepish smile, grabbing the pillow and hugging it, making him feel a bit better. He always did when he held a pillow or hid under the blankets, Marco knew him well, being a good listener and seeing what he did. Marco grabbed a chair and moved to to sit in front of Ace. "What do you want to speak about, yoi?" Ace moved his head to have his chin on the pillow he hugged, trying to think on how to start and say what he wants to say.

"I-, Umm… Biggie and Bay told me they have spoke about… making me stop using the narcoleptic medication… and afterwards, maybe the depression one too, seeing as the narcoleptic medication is the reason for the… the reason the… my… chronic depression got worse." Ace didn't like to speak about it, never really liked it; it always made him unsure on how people would react, and Ace was already on edge.

Marco gave a nod. "Why do they want you to do that, yoi?" Ace gave an unsure sound, trying to think how to speak. "Umm… There might be a chance I can… get better; not as bad as I am. But… I'm not sure." Ace hugged the pillow closer, feeling more unsure as this entire thing was on his mind and Ace didn't know what to think of it.

Marco gave a nod, moving a hand to Ace's knee as reassurance. "You're not 'bad', yoi. This is not your fault. And, if this might be able to make you more happier, you should think of it."

Ace nodded. "But… What do you think I should do?" Marco shook his head. "I won't decide for you. I want you to be happy, yoi. You are clearly unsure about this, so you should think of it. I want you to be happy, and if this might help, think of doing it. But, don't if you don't want too." Ace gave a nod. "I-, ummm. I'm not sure since if I do this, it might not work; I might get worse. And, I will have sleep attacks, and eat a bit more, and have issues sleeping, and… yeah." Marco gave a squeeze on his leg, giving a smile. "You eating a bit more won't be an issue, and we will help as we can if you can't sleep. And, if it doesn't work, you can just start on the medication again." Marco gave a sincere look.

"And, we have your back if you have a sleep attack. You're not alone, yoi."

Ace hugged the pillow closer, moving to have his face down in it, hiding his face as he felt really happy with that, and he always felt the burning sensation in his eyes when he got happy when he was on edge; he always got really emotional.

Ace heard some movement, the bed dipping a second later, a hand coming to his back and stroking, Marco knowing why he moved his face down in the pillow. "This is a big decision, yoi. And, not matter what you choose to do, I will stand by your choice. I want you to do what you think is right; I want you to be happy." Ace gave a nod, moving his head up and looking at Marco, ignoring the tear that fell down his cheek. "Thank you, Marco." Marco gave a smile, moving a hand to his cheek and wiping the tear away. "I'm not saying you should choose it, but I do believe you should consider it. But, choose what you want to." Ace gave a nod, he would do that. He would think about this seriously, glad to know Marco would be okay with what he chose.

Ace was on his way to speak, when there was a knock on the door, making Ace move his hands to his eyes, trying to rid of the tears in them.

A second later, before Marco could tell whoever it was to leave, the door opened to reveal Thatch. "Marco, are y-." The chef cut off as he saw Ace on the bed, wiping at his eyes and having his legs up, holding a pillow. Thatch knew Ace was on edge when he sat like this. "I'm sorry for barging in. I came to say dinner is ready," Said the chef with a guilty look, understanding he interrupted something. Ace gave a nod, giving a small sniff, feeling a bit better, but still on edge. "I don't think I'll come to dinner..." Ace didn't feel like being around many right now. Marco moved a hand to his back. "You sure, yoi? There aren't many there yet, and you can leave if it gets too much." Ace gave a slow nod, thinking, before looking at Marco, giving a smile.

"I can try." Marco gave a smile and small chuckle, helping him stand up after Ace had moved the pillow away. Ace knew Marco didn't like when he skipped meals, but understood it if he did. Ace would try and be out today, and he would do his best to think about what he should do with the medication proposal. But, for now, going to dinner was his main thing.

Ace felt proud when he was able to last the entire dinner, but stayed in his room after that, being inside his room until supper.

-x-

Whitebeard gave a hum, looking at Ace that sat on his knee, back leaning against him as he tried to relax, legs up. Ace had just explained why Biggie was here on the boat, Biggie and Bay speaking to Ace, something Marco had told him, but no one knew why. Marco had also said that Ace looked on edge when he got out on deck after speaking to Bay, mentioning they had a conversation before dinner, but not what about.

It was late now. The clock was closing in on midnight, the captain deciding to be out and in his chair for the night, seeing it was clear weather and it was hot out. He knew Marco would be mad, but it was fine. As he had relaxed, Ace had suddenly been there, asking to speak to him, which the captain said okay to, knowing few were out now this late, even fewer close to him, so no one would overhear. Ace had then explained how Bay and Biggie proposed an idea of stopping the medication. The narcoleptic ones first, then the depression ones. Ace also explained he might get better, or get worse. Ace said he would have sleep attacks, eat more, and some other things as he rambled. It was clear there was a lot on Ace's mind.

Whitebeard moved a hand to be closer to Ace, resting next to his body and letting Ace rest an arm on it. "This is a big decision, son. I can't choose for you; only you can choose." Whitebeard halted for a second as he tried to think of the best way to get his words out for Ace. "But, I see no reason you shouldn't try. We can handle your sleep attacks, we will protect you from harm. There is no reason thinking about the food one; you are going to eat until you are no longer hungry. We will help you all we can. And, it might make you happier in the end, but it also might not. It's a chance game." Whitebeard gave a smile at Ace.

"But, you are one to take chances. And, you won't lose too much on it. If it does not work, you can go back to now. But, I do understand if you don't want to do it; it is a big decision. Choose what you think is right. For me, I won't care about which one you choose; you will always have my support. You are my son."

Ace gave a nod, not facing him, leaning on his hand that was next to Ace. Whitebeard carefully moved his thumb to stroke Ace's back, knowing Ace had been on edge a lot this day. Not only from the conversation with Biggie and Bay, but with thinking of this and talking about it. The captain knew Ace often found it hard speaking about things like this, making him be on edge more. Whitebeard wanted to make sure Ace knew he would support Ace no matter what. But, if there was a chance for Ace to be more happy, he did hope Ace tried that.

After a minute, he heard a small sniff from Ace, feeling something wet on his hand where Ace's head was, Ace moving a hand to his face. After doing a wiping motion, Ace spoke up, voice a bit raw from the emotions. "Could you tell a story?" Whitebeard gave a smile, using his thumb to stroke Ace's head for a second. "Of course, son."

Whitebeard started a story from long ago, a story he had heard when he was starting to sail, about a man doing the impossible. After half an hour, he noticed Ace had gone slack, knowing he had fallen asleep. The captain stopped the story as Ace was asleep, moving a hand to his jacket, carefully moving a sleeve to be over Ace as a makeshift blanket. Ace shifted a bit, before he settled, still asleep.

Whitebeard gave a chuckle. "Goodnight, son." He said as he closed his eyes, going to relax too. He hoped Ace chose what he wanted to choose himself.

-x-

Ace gave a breath, knocking on the door to the room in the infirmary Biggie was staying at, hoping the man was there, wanting, and needing, to talk to the man.

He had thought a lot the last day, thinking what he wanted to do and what both Marco and Pops had said, also having a few more small talks with the two. He was still a bit confused, not completely sure, the reason he was here now. He had tried to get enough confidence to do this. It was easy for him to go to Biggie, he was the one Ace knew the best, but this was something he was nervous about.

After a few seconds, the door opened, Biggie standing there, giving a smile to him.

"Ace, how are you? Come in." Ace gave a nod, walking into the room, Biggie closing the door behind him. "I'm okay. Normal day. You?" The man gave a chuckle. "I'm good. This place is much bigger than Moby 2, but it's a nice place, and Bay is a good doctor; she knows a lot." Ace gave a nod, glad the man thought this place was nice. Ace moved to sit down in a chair, Biggie sitting down to, the man looking at him. "Now, I have a feeling you're here for a reason." He gave a nod, using a few seconds to figure out how to speak, what to say. "I- I've been thinking the last two days- and spoken to a couple people- about the medication thing. What do you think?" The man gave a hum.

"What I think? I think you should choose. But after that, I think you should try. That does not mean you should, but that you should think about it. There is a chance, actually a big one, that it will be easier for you."

Ace gave a nod. He hadn't heard that, that there was a big chance it would be easier and better for him, that was a good thing. He had thought a lot, and Marco and Pops had been a good help, and they didn't know this, they only know what Ace had managed to say- which wasn't much- but they had managed to be a big help still. He took a breath and looked at Biggie, having decided, in a way, already. He just needed the small push to say it. That was always the hardest, to say it. He looked at Biggie.

"I want to try it. To stop with the medication."

The man gave a smile. "That's good to hear. What made you decide it?" Ace gave a nod, he was sure Biggie asked to make sure he had decided himself. "Marco and Pops gave good help. They said it might be worth it, and if it didn't work, I could just go back to this- that it's a chance game- and that when I have sleep attacks… they have my back." Ace smiled as he said the last sentence, making the man smile and give a chuckle. "That's good to hear, and they are right. They do have your back, both literally and figuratively." He gave a chuckle himself. That was right, he had the mark on his back. That fit perfect. People would know Ace was a part of this crew if he had an attack off the boat, meaning many would just leave him alone. They had a big reputation and many was afraid of them.

Biggie gave a smile. "Now, when would you like to try and start?" Ace gave a small fidget. "I… I had sort of decided before I came, so I haven't taken the Narcolepsy one for the morning…"

Biggie gave a chuckle. "You are like this, you know? You still ask what to do, after deciding already, and if I had said no, you would still have said you wanted to try." Ace gave a chuckle of his own. "Yeah, I guess you're right." The man nodded. "You also can't just quit on the day, but only take half-doses the rest of the day and tomorrow, even the morning one, okay? And we can try and lower the depression one in 2 days." Ace gave a nod, that sounded like a good plan.

He was ready for this.

He spoke a bit more to Biggie, before they said goodbye, Biggie going and informing Bay about this, while Ace went where he knew he would go, to Marco, and told him what he had decided. He would have gone to Pops, but he was still in his room, and would tell the man later, maybe tonight. Marco was awake now, always being awake in the morning, unless he had the night shift, which he didn't have. He felt proud about this, and wanted to tell others, especially Marco and Pops.

As he was walking to Marco's room, he noticed the man out on deck, standing by the railing, cup of coffee in hand. The clock was barely 6, so many was still waking up. Marco would always be awake and ready for the day, not being morning grumpy as many was.

He walked over to Marco and stood beside him at the railing, also looking out at the sea, the sun starting to rise above the horizon now, making the sky and water look amazing. The man moved to look at him, before taking a sip of his coffee. "You're up early, yoi." Ace gave a nod. "Yeah. I've just been in the infirmary and speaking to Biggie." The first commander sent a small look at him at that. "And what did you two speak about?" Ace gave a smile. "I decided to try, try and stop the medication."

Marco gave a chuckle, looking at him again. "That's good to hear. What did the man say to that?" Ace gave a small chuckle. "He was fine with it, helping with the last push, although I had kind of decided before I spoke to him." Marco gave a nod. "When will you start lowering the dosage, yoi?" He gave a hum. "I'm already lowering the Narcolepsy one, and the depression one in 2 days." He was still nervous about this, but was sure everyone would do their best to help. That, and Biggie was still here for a few more days, maybe a week since he had decided to try.

The first commander gave a hum. "That sounds like a good plan." The man gave a small smile to him. "I am sure it will go fine, even if it doesn't work." Ace gave a nod, he hoped as well, and it was good Marco thought the same. That did mean a lot, even more so as he seemed happy by this. Marco sent a small look at him. "Pops is also awake, yoi." Ace blinked. "He is?" Marco nodded. "Yeah. I just spoke to him." That meant he could tell Pops now! He went away form the railing and started heading for the captain's room, giving a smile and wave to Marco. "Thank you, Marco! See you later!" Then he ran towards the room, wanting to tell Pops. He felt happy about this.

As Ace ran away, heading towards Pops' room, Marco gave a chuckle to himself, leaning on the railing.

He knew Ace had decided something when he said he had spoken to Biggie, and seeing the happy look he had, and the fact he had gone to him, had him think it was he had decided to try. He was glad Ace had decided to try, it could be good for him, at least if it went as they hoped. But even if it didn't, it wasn't a total loss, Ace would just go back to how he was now, on the medication. But they had at least tried if it didn't work. He had also mentioned Pops was awake, sure Ace wanted to tell the news to the man too. Pops wasn't usually awake this early, but they would have a commander meeting in 2 hours, and the man liked to be awake for that, in case someone needed to tell him anything before the meeting, which many did.

That being said, Marco moved away from the railing and headed to the infirmary, going to ask if Biggie could join in on the meeting for a small bit.

If Ace was going to stop the medication, it meant it could go bad, and all the commanders needed to know about that, so they knew and could look out for signs it went bad. No one was better at the signs than Ace himself- but he was sure he didn't want to tell- and Biggie, the reason Marco hoped the man could join. When he came to the infirmary, Biggie was talking to Bay, the latter turning to look at him. "Commander Marco, good you're here, we have some news."

Marco gave a nod. "I know, yoi. Ace just spoke to me. That's why I'm here." He turned to look at Biggie. "We should tell all the commanders about this, so they know and can help look for signs it goes bad. Could you join the meeting we have in 2 hours? You don't need to tell everything or much, just the signs." The man gave a nod. "That sounds like a good idea, I would love to join for that." Marco gave a nod, glad about that. They needed to be able to do their best to help Ace.

He spoke a bit more to the two doctors, before he went on with his morning, making sure the commanders were awake and taking any notes from those who had anything to say or wanted to be spoken about at the meeting, both from commanders and from the others in the family.

When the meeting was starting, everyone present, even Biggie, Jozu was the first to comment why the doctor was there, Pops telling why. Everyone looked shocked, but happy, Ace was going to try and stop the medication, the doctor telling how it could go, both good and bad, also telling what to look after when he stopped the medication. What they should look for was small things that they didn't know, that when they spoke to Ace, or Ace to them, see where he looked. If he didn't looked at them, that could be a sign, same with fidgeting, hands fidgeting, and in the worse states, trembling in hands, stuttering without reason, and the locking away- but not because of needing a break, that would happen.

The doctor also said that he would be on the boat for a week's time, and they could ask him if they wondered about something, or if they had a concern about Ace. But, they could ask Ace too, also ask Bay. It was good help to hear this and get to know what to look after. Biggie also said signs would come within 3 days of lowering the dosage, so to keep an extra eye ou then, but always have an eye on Ace anyway. He also told what would happen when the narcolepsy kicked in again, that he would have small things like eating more, and sleep a bit more, but also less, to was complicated. That, and he would have sleep attacks, when he would just randomly fall asleep, even in the middle of doing something, and how to react and handle that. It was good to hear this, they needed it.

When the man was finished, and had answered a few questions on what things looked like, the man left, the commanders and Pops speaking a bit more about how to look after and what to do if they were worried. They decided that if they were worried, to first ask Ace, then Marco or Pops, if it was something small. But if it was bigger, to go straight to Marco or Pops, or to Bay or Biggie. Everyone agreed on that. The meeting after that went by fine, and everyone seemed happy Ace would try and stop the medication.

When the meeting was over, many did go and tell Ace this was good and they were glad he had decided to try. Ace did look happy the others were glad he would try and stop the medication. Marco was sure Ace was still unsure about this, and this could be a good thing, they needed to try.

There didn't happen much the next couple of days, Ace not even having a sleep attack. But, from what Biggie said, that wouldn't happen for about a week, still taking the narcolepsy medication still, although he took much less than he used to, but it would have an effect.

When Ace did start to stop on the depression medication, Ace looked a bit nervous, but they did their best to keep his spirits up.

This was a big thing, and Acce would react to it, but hopefully not bad.

The next two days went fine, Ace not getting any signs of anything worrisome, which was really good. They didn't put much weight on asking Ace if he was fine, going to try and act normal about this, making it easier for Ace.

If it continued like this, it would be perfect.

-x-

Thatch walked towards the infirmary, Marco and Pops beside him. Thatch had prepared breakfast, and when he saw Ace wasn't there, he had asked Marco if he knew where Ace was. Ace wasn't in his room, which Marco just came from, which had them worried. Marco had said Biggie, Ace's old crewmember and doctor, was here on the ship, and Ace might be with him as the kid was worried about the medication thing, that he was trying to stop using them. They had met Pops on the way and he had joined them in heading towards the infirmary.

When they did get to the infirmary and walked in, the chef felt relieved to see Ace there, sitting at a table.

Ace looked okay. Well, mostly okay. He looked tired, and the captain thought it was because it was early. The fire kid was sitting with someone, Thatch recognizing it to be someone from Ace's old crew, Malik, if he remembered. He looked tired too. As they got more in the infirmary, Thatch noticed Pops and Marco stopping a bit, but Thatch continued walking, not seeing the hesitant and worried look they sent at Ace. When Thatch was closer, he gave a smile at Ace. "Yo. We were worried when we didn't find ya, Ace. It's breakfast soon." Thatch was expecting Ace to nod or something, for Ace to say he would come soon or say he might come. But, what happened was not what he expected.

Ace let out a sob, tears starting to go down his cheek as he moved his head to the table, starting to cry and sob.

Thatch froze, no idea what he did wrong. Malik gave an annoyed sigh to him. "Thank you! I just used two hours to make him stop crying, and you come and ruin everything." Malik then moved a hand to Ace's back. "It's okay Ace, please stop crying." Ace continued to sob, shaking his head, still crying, something obviously being wrong and Thatch making it worse. "I didn't-, I-, sorry." There was a glare from Malik, making Thatch feel even more guilty. A second later, a door opened and Bay and Biggie came out of it. Malik gave a relieved breath. "Thank God, Biggie. Please help. The chef ruined it." Thatch wanted to sink into a hole, this obviously being his fault. Biggie gave a calm look and sat down next to Ace, moving a hand to his back and trying to comfort the crying kid.

As Biggie did this, Bay looked at them, "I think you should leave. Especially Commander Thatch. Ace is in no state to speak to anyone right now. I can allow Pops and commander Marco to be here; Ace likes and trusts you." Thatch felt even worse at that, now understanding he wasn't trusted as much as Marco. Thatch had made Ace break down more than one time, and he still hasn't learned. He wasn't a good big brother; he was a horrible one. "I-, I'm sorry, I didn't mean to. I'll leave." Thatch hung his head a bit as he left, not wanting to make Ace worse; he had been doing good at this point.

When Thatch got out of the infirmary, he stopped and punched the wall, feeling bad for not doing his job as a big brother right; he should able do better.

After a second, the door opened and showed Malik there. When Malik saw Thatch there, he gave a sigh. "Listen, commander Thatch, I'm sorry for saying that. It's just been a long morning as I've used 3 hours to comfort Ace. He's having a really bad day." Thatch gave a nod. That made him feel a bit better, knowing it wasn't entirely his fault. "It's okay. But, I shouldn't have spoken like that." Malik shook his head, moving a hand to massage his face. "You could have said anything, and he would have broken down. It's just really bad today."

Thatch gave a nod. That was a bit comforting. "It's okay, I get it, I think. I still shouldn't have spoken." Malik gave a nod, starting to walk away, hand still massaging his face, giving a breath. "I'm going to bed now. I'm dead tired." Thatch gave a nod, thinking the man had been awake long with Ace; he did look tired. "Sleep well, Malik." Malik gave a nod, using a hand to wave at him. "Thank you, Commander. Have a good day."

Thatch gave a breath as he felt a bit relieved, but still felt bad. Pops and Marco had most likely stopped for a reason, knowing Ace better.

Thatch would make sure to try and get to know Ace better so he could be there for him.

-x-

Marco move and sat down next to Ace, where Malik had been sitting, not sure why Ace was this emotional.

Marco had seen something was wrong with Ace when he walked in, which Thatch didn't seem to get, but it was still a big reaction to just break down like that for Ace, just by Thatch speaking. Ace had never reacted that bad before. Marco could also see Thatch was guilty by the reaction, feeling really bad by Malik and Bay's words. Marco would make sure to speak to Thatch later and tell him Ace usually wasn't this bad. There had to be something up. Marco's first thought being that it was a reaction to the fact he was starting to stop going on the medication. But, Ace had been so well up until now. Pops took a seat next to Biggie, giving a concerned look at Ace.

After a few seconds, Biggie gave a sigh. "Ace has a fever; he get like this then. It's just like all of his mental barriers are just gone. We're think he got the fever because of all the stress."

Marco gave a nod, moving a hand to also stroke Ace's back, hoping to help. He had a feeling it would take time to make Ace stop crying based on Malik's words. He knew Ace had been stressed the last couple of days. Not only by the fact he was nervous with the fact he agreed to try and stop the medication, but also this being the third day where he had a bit less of the depression medication, which probably didn't help.

Biggie moved a hand to Ace's head, moving some hair out of his face that was on the table. "It's fine, Ace. Just try to relax and calm down." Ace gave a nod, the crying not letting up, Ace not looking able to stop. Marco moved a hand to Ace's neck, carefully stroking and massaging, knowing Ace liked that. Marco felt Pops giving out a small bit of Haki, as he often did to comfort and calm them, Marco sure that would help a bit.

After a few minutes, Bay came by and gave a couple of pills to Biggie, before walking off, seeing they could handle this. Biggie moved his hand away from Ace's head. "Here, Ace. This might help now." The doctor then held the pills out, Ace lifting his head to take them. Ace looked close to devastated, eyes red, tears going down his cheeks, cheeks red and giving a small sob now and then. After Ace had taken the pills, he moved his head down to the table again, continuing to try and gather himself. Marco guessed Ace had gotten pills earlier to help, but those hadn't worked. Marco really hoped this would work. Marco kept his hand on Ace's neck, carefully moving his fingers to comfort Ace.

It took almost an hour, but Ace managed to stop most of the crying. But, his eyes were still teary and red, cheeks a bit tinted. Ace really did look sick, maybe more so than he really were. Ace only had a fever, but he seemed to react bad to it.

When Ace was more calm, he managed to tell he just felt way overwhelmed, not really sure why, but he just did, the reason he had gone to the infirmary, to Biggie. Meeting Malik on the way and he had joined, seeing something was up. Ace still had blank eyes, but managed to speak, which was good. Biggie then explained to them that this could happen, and it wasn't because Ace reacted bad to stopping the medication, it just got a bit too much today, most likely because of the fever, but that would fix itself. The doctor did say Ace would get a sort of 'emergency' pil. which wasn't his normal medication, but one he got when he was sick, which worked faster, but also stopped working faster, just a temporary solution for now.

Marco did agree on that, that Ace shouldn't go back to scratch because he had a fever, which made everything a bit more. Ace did stay in the infirmary for a bit, Biggie, Pops, and Marco with him, just helping Ace calm down. When he was more calm, also getting a bit of food from Thatch, who came and dropped it off, Ace headed back to his room to relax, Biggie joining a bit in the beginning, before he too returned, saying Ace had fallen asleep, seeming better. Biggie did say this- even though it looked bad- was a good thing. Ace didn't react much out of his normal way to a fever, which was a really good sing he didn't react bad to the stop of the medication, which was really good news in Marco's opinion.

When it was closing in on lunch, Ace didn't appear in the galley, which didn't surprise the first commander.

He would normally have gone and told the kid it was lunch, but he was sure Ace wanted to relax instead, and would let Ace be for now. Biggie had said it would take time for Ace to compose himself, going to be better when the fever went away, which most likely would be today. He had spoken to Thatch, telling he didn't do anything wrong, explaining what Biggie had said, which calmed the fourth commander down, obviously thinking he was at fault. He also said Bay was tired too, having had an all nighter because of someone being sick, and therefore snapped at him. The chef understood that, but still would apologize to Ace, going to make something extra for him under dinner.

When dinner did arrive, Ace wasn't seen as it started, but appeared closer to the end, looking much better, but somewhat seclusive, but it was fine. He was here at least.

Ace did converse with them, a bit less than he usually did, but it was fine. Ace did have a bad day in a way, being stressed which made a fever. As Ace ate, Thatch came with a special made apology cake, being chocolate, which was Ace's favorite, and the kid seemed to really enjoy it, telling it wasn't Thatch's fault, which it wasn't, but the chef still gave it to Ace, feeling he should apologise. Ace did seem to get more himself after that, food most likely helping and everyone being normal about it, just the fact Thatch feeling guilty, which was okay.

Things would be fine. They just needed to continue like this, and it did look good from what Biggie said, which was everything they hoped for.

The next few days went fine, Ace seeming like himself, having a few days where he looked a bit seclusive.

Marco had had a few commanders, even a few from different division, especially the second where Ace was in, who was worried for Ace at days. Those who had asked Ace if he felt fine, did say Ace had said he felt fine, but they were unsure, or just wanted to tell him about it, which he was okay with. He was glad the family cared for Ace, and was sure Ace thought the same, as long as it didn't become too much.

There had only been a few things the others had reacted to, which was once when Ace had been away for an entire day, being in his room, which had 3 different ones approach him, Pops telling he had had a few too. That, and Ace had been fidgeting a few times, but nothing too bad. There hadn't been any reason to do anything, or even involve Biggie, who also had a few visitors, which the man found funny and nice, glad people cared.

Ace had had 3 breakdowns the last 5 days, two which were because things just got a bit hectic for Ace, being stressed or overwhelmed, and broke down when things either to to much, or he got a chance to relax or just got emotional, but it wasn't anything bad, just a small breakdown. One breakdown had also been because someone- Thatch- had messed up and did a prank on Ace, which was to target Ace, but it went foul, making him breakdown and just be on edge that day. The chef felt really guilty about it, and he had been sure to speak to the chef, same with Pops and Biggie. It was a stupid prank, going on to make the kid feel unsure in a way, confusing him, and then making it worse by telling he had messed something up. The entire thing was stupid and the man promised to never do it again, which was good.

When it had been 8 days since Ace had started to stop the medication, he had just suddenly fallen down on deck, seeming to just fall unconscious, making everyone out panic.

Well, almost everyone, not Malik. The former Spade Pirate had just said to not panic, which had many mad, before the man had just taken a lone feather on the ground from seagull, using it to make the kid sneeze, which was a fiery one. The pirates had then realised this was a sleep attack, really proving it could happen at any point. They hadn't really believed that to be honest. It was weird to see that, but calming to know it was normal. Ace did feel bad about worrying everyone, but Marco said it was since they had never seen it before, it had nothing to do with Ace, so he shouldn't feel bad, or anything about it. Ace did accept it, although he still looked a bit shy of it.

When they told Biggie about it, he said that it was kind of good it had happened, to know the medication was now out of his body. That, and Ace would get more used to it again, and could, at times, tell when an attack was coming on, meaning he could avoid most damage from falling, but it usually always went fine.

Many was now worried at having Ace close to the railing, scared he would have an attack and fall in. Marco did get that concern, but they couldn't baby Ace and keep him away from everything that could be dangerous. As Biggie said, Ace had sailed on his own, as a captain, for a year without the narcoleptic medication, meaning he had attacks, and he was still fine. That was something that calmed many, and they let him go about his day normally, some more reluctantly than others.

After two weeks, Ace was completely off both medication, not reacting bad to it, making everyone happy, and have a party to celebrate it, everyone happy on Ace's behalf, who looked happy himself.

Marco was glad things had gone fine. There was a chance Ace still could have a setback, but that was really rare, and would most likely not happen. Biggie was supposed to leave now, but Marco asked him to stay for a few more days, and when he told why, the man agreed, wanting to be here when they asked Ace. They had spoken about this for long, having postponed it as Ace would try and stop the medication, but they would now try and ask Ace, going to tell it wasn't because he was now off the medication. This had been a thing of discussing for almost a month now.

They would ask Ace to become the new second commander, the spot which had been open for long.

And that's the chapter, hope you enjoyed

I know the end was a bit rushed, but it was becoming way too long. I do hope it was good and that you found it interesting. This was made to completely wrap up the story and give a bit closure to tell it went fine, one can stop medication, especially if the depression comes from something and that is stopped to. One can also stop if it's also depression without a reason, but not everyone can unfortunately, so don't tell people to stop. And always do this with the help of a psychiatrist and/or doctor

If you have the time, I would greatly appreciate feedback. Also don't be afraid to leave a request for my next mental health topic, or send a PM

Also, if you're interested and have it and maybe want to share something or anything with me, come join my Discord server. It's called Azuruko's Fiction. It has a small channel for all my stories, and one main one, but there is one for the mental health series, where you can leave comments, or leave a request. You can also join the channel and add me as friend and leave comments or request that way. (Instant invite: discord . gg / 6hzMhbR) Link also at my profile