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Chapter Text

In the holy land of Mariejois, 16 years prior to the Straw Hats and Trafalgar Law overthrowing Dressrosa. Inside a large manor a 12 year old girl was harassing her father for what must have been the umpteenth time of the day. The girl wore a short white dress with floral patterns at the base of the skirt and cuffs of the slightly puffed shoulders. Her neck adorned with a silver necklace, her legs covered with a pair of white stockings that meet her black slightly heeled shoes. She had milky brown hair in an elegant braided bun on top of her hair with some bangs swept to the side.

“Father, pleaseeee I need that fruit!” She whined whilst tugging on her fathers white and gold coat. Her father groaned and rubbed between his eyebrows. He was normally not a man to deny his daughter anything, but the request this time simply felt unnecessary.

“Maria, how many times do we have to go over this?” Her fathers deep voice was laced with frustration. “You cannot consume one of those fruits no matter what power you may gain.” Her father then shoved her to the ground. “It was a mistake to let you read those fairy tales and an even greater mistake to let you look into that vile encyclopedia. You are a descendant of the gods. What use would that fruit have to you?! You have all the power in the world at your fingertips already, You can have endless slaves.” The man sat down in a large purple felt chair and without even needing to snap his fingers, a shirtless man crawled over and let his joints lay on the ground acting as a footstool. “Want a exotic pet, name it and it’s yours. Wish for someone’s execution, shoot them yourself and no one will bat an eye.” With one large clearing of his throat a cup of tea was placed in front of the man by yet another nearly nude male.

“You don’t understand papa! With that fruit, I’d be even more divine, no doctor in the world can give me what I need. That fruit is my only hope at being happy, life is worthless without it.” Maria’s brown eyes began to well up with tears.

“Maria, don’t you dare give me those fake tears. A young lady like yourself should not be crying at this age.” Maria’s father then snapped his fingers signaling a pair of slaves to rush forward and start a fire in the large and regal fireplace that stood a few feet away.

“What would mother think about you saying no to me!” Maria shouted, causing the room to fall silent and her father to rise.

“You spoiled brat!” Her father’s hand struck her face with a loud smack echoing in the room. Maria’s face stinging caused her to curl up and begin wailing, a few well dressed female slaves rushed over and attempted to comfort the sobbing girl. Seconds began stretching longer and longer as the wailing wouldn’t stop, each cry eating away at Maria’s father.

“Why don’t you love me father?” Maria’s gentle voice managed through sobs. That was the final straw and her father swooped in picking up Maria and rocking her. He simply couldn’t stand it anymore. She deserved what she wanted and he would get it for her however possible.

“I love you so much Maria. I’m sorry I hit you and said no. My baby girl deserves the world fed to her on a spoon if she wants. I’ll see what I can do to get you that fruit.” He cooed and gently began to hum as Maria clung to him.

“Thank you father! I love you too!” She continued to sob but this time out of joy. Her father sat down and let Maria sit in his lap while a slave brought over a transponder snail for the man.

“Let’s see what the navy can do for us.” He murmured while picking up the receiver and made a call.

It only took a month for the fruit to be found. It wasn’t all too sought after nor costly in berries. It was a fruit with little to no combative abilities, no pirate needed it except to brag about having a devil fruit to spare on board. No average citizen wanted to lose their ability to swim in the ocean over it. So it was only a matter of a one on one negotiation that certainly raised a few eyebrows. The pirate crew who did have it felt little need in keeping it but when they found out the navy wanted it clearly it meant something and thus the price began to rise and then stagnated. Once delivered to Mariejois a certain girl was over the moon.

“Father, look!” Maria cried as she jumped around, her hair rapidly grew longer than herself before returning to her natural hip length. “It’s perfect, I can style it how I want whenever! I’m not limited to the yearly waits and pains of the trash!” She spun around and danced while her hair fluctuated lengths.

“Yes it is beautiful Maria, but you have to promise me something.” Her father crouched down in front of Maria, his voice quiet and sprinkled with a hint of nervousness.

“What is it?” She raised her eyebrows slightly and attentively looked at her father, stopping her dancing.

“You must not let another dragon know about this. If you do, you cannot let them know how you obtained it.”

“Why?” Maria didn’t understand, part of the reason she wanted this fruit was to stand out and be the most beautiful lady in all of Mariejois, heck the whole world but that wouldn’t be hard since most of the world was filled with trash beneath her.

“If they found out you ate a devil fruit and I gave it to you, we could be kicked out of the holy land.” He began to sweat and panic at the idea. The only time someone had left the holy land permanently was that idiot from the Donquixote family who robbed his children of the life they had deserved. Maria began to shake at the thought of being removed from Mariejois, the idea of no longer being an all powerful celestial dragon simply couldn’t compute in her pampered brain. “So Maria, whatever you do, don't say a word.” At that moment, the clock began fast forwarding. The holy land of Mariejois felt more and more like a land mine when it came to mentioning Maria or why her father had begun to tighten his normally loose wallet until one fateful night.

“Father!” Maria screamed at the top of her lungs as she flailed against the marines now carrying her away. Her father meanwhile was bound to a pole with a pistol near his temple. “Let me go, you marines! Do you know who I am!?” Her struggles were futile. “They are going to shoot my father! Please stop them! He’s one of them and so am I! I’m a celestial dragon, put me down!”

“You were a celestial dragon.” A large man with a large marine jacket hanging off his shoulders spoke. “You then wasted that by consuming a devil fruit.” Maria’s eye’s both widened and shrunk. “To them and to us you're just some run of the mill commoner who’s tainted their blood.”

“Why are you taking me away, please help-!” Her voice went silent as a gunshot echoed over Mary Jois.

“Your father is being put down for tainting a dragon.” The large marine spoke once more and grabbed Maria by her head with one hand taking her away from the other marines. “Now you be quiet while we drop you off somewhere.” Was the last thing Maria remembers hearing before rudely waking up on a summer island in the middle of the grand line.

Through trials and errors she managed to fight for survival in the wilderness steering clear of the small town nearby for fear of what they might do to her. She recognized it. It was the island her father and her would visit for a 'mind opening experience'. Most of the time they simply abused the townsfolk for their goods and even killed a few who didn’t comply. They would surely recognize her if they saw her.

10 years prior to the chaos in Dressrosa. Maria, much to her reluctance, had become a somewhat capable outdoorsman. But one thing constantly remained an issue, she heavily lacked a green thumb and the ability to garden, thus leaving her reliant on stealing food from the townsfolk. Multiple incidents nearly revealed her identity and many nights she would go to bed hungry early on.

She had developed well despite the hunger only losing a few inches to a foot in height from her lack of food early on. She had now started to concoct a plan to craft a small vessel and set sail across the seas in hopes of finding an island she could merge into and lay low. She was well aware she couldn’t return to Mariejois. Her father had constantly reminded her of that once she ate her devil fruit.

“That Donquixote boy was denied re-entry for his fathers actions, I’m positive the same would happen to you.”

It was just another evening for her. A little grab and go so she could eat. As the townsfolk prepared to close stalls but still sell was when they were most distracted. The evening started smoothly like any other. Most vendors didn’t even notice. She was sneaking down an ally to her final stop. The cured meat. It wasn’t her favorite but protein was protein. She took a deep breath and used the small puddle of water formed by gutter drippings as a mirror to see if the vendor had left or turned his back. She saw it, her split second opening. She swiped at some meat before her wrist was painfully cut off by a tight grip from a large hairy hand.

“Gotcha!” The meat vendor announced proudly to the whole street market. “We have our little thief!” He tugged Maria into the setting sun light. While she may have changed plenty of 6 years, the town immediately recognized her. “It’s you!”

“That celestial dragon brat has been stealing our stuff for the last few years!?” Another vendor shouted.

“If you’re stealing…” The meat vendor’s face contorted into a furious yet twisted smile. “That means you have no power anymore doesn’t it?” Maria was frozen, she was never able to properly hunt, when she did she was a trapper. Now she felt trapped herself. “Gather up the town! Tonight we have our revenge on our tormentor!” The townsfolk began to cheer loudly before Maria felt a heavy bonk on the back of her head.

Smoke and constraints aroused the girl from her unwanted slumber. She looked around in a panic. The sky was shimmering with stars, but black smoke began to pollute the skyline.

“She’s awake! The party can start!” One of the townsfolk notified the rest. Maria attempted to move but couldn't as she looked down, below her was a small sea of fire just barely missing her toes. Rope bound her to a tall post.

“Who gets first dibs!?”

“I got it!” She felt a smack and splat against her face as someone clocked her with a tomato that exploded against her. The crowd below her began to holler.

“Me next! She stole from my stall most often!” One woman protested and pelted Maria in the gut with a good sized rock. Quickly more and more rocks began to pelt and bruise Maria. She began to feel her eyes sting as the pain was rapidly becoming overwhelming.

“Please stop!” She wailed over the roaring mob which was greeted with laughter.

“Hear that everyone?!”

“She’s crying!”

“She’s begging trash like us to stop!”

“Give her hell!”

“She didn’t listen to our cries, why should we hers!”

Maria continued to take the onslaught, she had no choice and every single object that hit her chipped away little by little at her pride, her fire to survive. It was all her fault she was in this situation. Had she never gotten so greedy and wanted a devil fruit. She'd still be with her father happily in Mariejois. She wouldn’t have been stuck with this trash, forced to live below them.

“Hold on!” A feminine voice took over the crowd. The mob turned their heads to see a woman with blue hair pulling back an arrow in her bow. “Once the arrow is in. Aim for it.” The arrow whizzed in the air before piercing Maria in her right side, forcing a scream out of her. The mob followed up quickly by continuing their onslaught of rocks, vegetables and even a few attempted to take arrow shots.

“What’s going on here?” A gruff voice asked a townsfolk in the back.

“We found out a celestial dragon who tormented us was removed from Mariejois and has lived on our island for years stealing from us.”

“Oh a little revenge. Rather beautiful.” The voice’s owner, a large obese man with a hairy chest, a captain's hat, red coat and unusually long boots that merged at his hips, began to let out a hearty chuckle.

“Wait a minute- RUN IT’S THE BOOT PIRATES!!!” cried out the one townsfolk and caused a mass panic. The long booted figure made his way through the panic and kicked down the pole which constrained Maria who had fallen unconscious from the pain.

“I’ll be taking this, I bet the slave auction would go wild for you.” He once again let out a hearty laugh while he freed and re-constrained Maria before carrying her off to his ship.

The salt from the sea water poured into Maria’s nostrils waking her from yet another forceful slumber. “Hello?” Her voice was weak from her desperate please from the previous night.

“Oh you’re awake, good good.” The booted man sat opposite of Maria who was leant against a wall. “My doctor said you’ll be fine, maybe a scar or two on your hip where you were shot but alive.”

“Let me go, you pirate!” Maria attempted to flail only to hurt herself and wince.

“Lil lady. I just saved you from your own demise. You should be thanking me. Now you’re gonna help me out here. We’re on our way to Sabaody Archipelago, not too far from where we are now, just a few more days.” The man adjusted his boots while speaking. “I’m sure you would know all too well what lays there.”

“You wouldn’t dare. I’m a celestial dragon!”

“Bwah hah hah!” The man couldn’t help but laugh at the pathetic sight in front of him. “You were! Seeing how those townsfolk treated you I bet there’s a sicko who’d pay big money to torture you for the rest of your life!” Maria sunk down and everything began to feel dull. From being thrown out by the celestial dragons, to tortured by townsfolk, to captive to a pirate crew and then to slavery. She had fallen all the way down to the bottom of the trash. “Don’t get too sad on me lil lady. I had some crewmates dig up dirt on you. You got devil fruit powers. Why don’t you show me. Let’s keep raising that price tag the auction house is gonna pay me.” Maria didn’t know what else to do and she complied and her matted hair began to slither on the floor. “Maybe some weird freak would love to use you for who knows what.” His chuckle felt much more ominous than before and Maria stopped using her power. “Why don’t we clean you up for the auction, I’ve got a few ladies on my crew. They can fix your hair and hide some of those bruises.” He stood laughing once more and leaving Maria alone with her thoughts for a moment. She may have soon been given company but nothing felt more insulting right now than being ‘dressed up’ to be auctioned off to some freak right now.

“Only 100,000 berries!? You’re killing me Disco!” The booted man’s shouts interrupted the head auctioneer who sported a weirdly shaped hat with flowers.

“I can’t even be sure she’ll sell for that! We don’t often get her crowd of people here.” Disco snarkily retorted. “Take it or leave it before it falls further.”

“Fine.” The booted man tossed Maria towards Disco who had two employees catch her.

“Careful with the merchandise.” Disco then let out a sigh as he contemplated how he was going to market this peculiar piece of merchandise. “Perhaps as a mystery main event? I can’t have her wait till the end. We have a very special and low patient guest today. I guess we’ll peak in the middle. Who knows maybe she won’t even sell and that will crush the auction. That damned boot.”

“We still do have a mermaid, remember. She’s under 30.” One employee calmly reminded Disco as he took Maria behind bars to wait for her turn.

“Oh yes, beautiful. Mermaid after her to recover incase of failure.”

A large pink ship anchored at grove one of Sabaody. The ship’s head is a flamingo wearing red sunglasses with oddly shaped white frames. The sides had large wing designs. And the jolly roger was a simple circle with one line of teeth for the bottom, two eyes and a line through the left eye.

“Is that the Donquixote pirates?” A passerby began to sweat as they headed to the auction house.

“Yeah. What are they doing here… Didn’t their leader become a warlord of the sea recently?”

“Keep your head down and just get to the auction house, they might hear you idiot!” One passerby whispered.

“Young master, we have arrived.” a young woman calmly stood in the doorway of the captain's quarters and informed the captain. A blonde male with very short hair. His legs on top of his desk and crossed at his heels. He was leaning back with his hands in the pocket of his white pants. A white dress shirt unbuttoned showed his tan chest. A massive pink feather coat draped over his shoulders and red sunglasses hid his eyes. He gave the woman a large toothy grin as he slowly uncrossed his legs and rose.

“Wonderful, for how long a trip it is here from Dressrosa, it’d have better been worth it.” His arrogant voice filled the room. His oddly wide steps as he made his way out of the captains quarters and onto the main deck, making him stand out even more.

“Would you like anything prepared while you're at the auction young master?” The woman bowed down whilst the man's pink coat fluttered by her nose.

“Have the ship ready to leave for Dressrosa at a moment's notice.” He ordered while he walked down the stairs to the main deck and then off the ship to the auction house.

The auction house itself was bustling with activity as many a noble clambered for seats, word had spread about the mystery and that there was also a young mermaid. Bright lights engulfed the main stage where Disco stood with a microphone in one hand and using the other to hide his mouth as he conversed with a few employees on the order of items and any last minute needs. The man with the feathered coat entered and sat above in an extravagantly large red chair with a view of the entire audience and stage. A single employee wordlessly bowed and offered a list of the items to the man who lazily took it while relaxing into the large chair, one hand holding the list so he may scan it, the other being propping up his head while he leant on the arm of the chair.

Ambient music began and the lights on the stage dimmed ever so slightly leaving one brighter patch where Disco stood.

“Good evening ladies and gentlemen. We have a very special auction for you tonight, our normally biggest fish, a young female mermaid, is number two to our main event!” The audience cheered and murmured in excitement about the mermaid and possibilities of what this main event could be. “Now it’d only be fitting for a big auction like this to start big!” The curtains that acted as a backdrop began to rise revealing a giant.

Maria who was slumped and chained against a wall heard the excitement of the auction faintly. She couldn’t be bothered to acknowledge that many of the other items were glaring at her. Her kind most often bought and toyed with them and they were so close to being able to get a little catharsis, yet so far. Little by little the cage she was held in became emptier and emptier and she felt the life drain from her more and more, her eyes had long since grown dull and tired from the whirlwind that was her last few days. The bleak reality that laid in front of her weighed her down.

“It’s your turn c’mon.” An employee jostled Maria who lazily shuffled along what may as well be death row for her. The excited murmurs of the crowd growing louder, she could now begin to make out the head auctioneer’s sell job.

“The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived, it’s time to meet tonight’s special item, we’ve had this young lady properly appraised and everything I’m about to tell you is true to the letter.” The man in the feathered coat rolled his eyes. The auction had long become dull. “Tonight’s main event has fallen ungracefully from the holy land of Mariejois! She has consumed a devil fruit and just turned into a mature woman if you catch my drift!” The crowd was silent and something had finally caught the man with the feathered coat’s attention, as Maria stepped onto the stage before being thrust down onto her knees. 

Disco continued to try his best and sell Maria while unease and whispering began to fill the auction house. “I’m sure plenty of you have encountered a celestial dragon in your time here at this very auction house, seeing how they can rip away anything of yours on a whim.” Disco spoke carefully, despite no dragons showing for this auction, you could never be too careful. “Wouldn’t you like to see one grovel at your feet? One beg you for the torment you put it through to stop? Or perhaps you have some acquired taste.” Disco turned to Maria who was blankly staring towards the crowd. It almost insulted her more that no one had jumped at the chance to own her. Was she not even good enough to be a slave? “Would you be so kind as to show us that devil fruit of yours?” Maria complied and her hair that had been cut to her waist snaked its way down before slithering along the floor a few feet around her, her hair having separated into small sections reminiscent of flower petals. “This item is a once in a lifetime opportunity, no joke, we get mermaids now and then but a celestial dragon who fell from grace? We may never see this again in the history of the world! Why don’t we get this auction started, do I have 200,000 Berries!?” The crowd hushed and Maria began to tremble, she was worth more than that and yet no one even bothered to bid. Were they afraid of her? How could they be she had no power.

“I’ll give you a bag of seeds instead.” One audience member had broken the silence. Greeted by a few muffled posh laughter spread through the auction house.

“Would a stone be above that?” The snarky comments poured in, Maria allowed her head to droop and amidst everyone cracking jokes a well dressed gentleman had snuck on stage and towered over Maria.

“I’ll give you one berry for her.” His posh voice was tainted with sarcasm as he pulled out a pistol he had tucked away in his suit. Maria finally decided to speak and verbalize her frustration.

“You dare compare me to the stones you walk on, then offer a single berry for a divine being like myself?” Maria’s voice and body was trembling with rage as she looked up and stared down the pistol. Her tired pupils seemed so small and shook. A broken, infuriated smile had taken over her lips.

“Precisely.” The man shook the pistol in an attempt to threaten Maria. Maria simply began to wheeze out a laugh.

“You don’t have it in you.” Maria taunted whilst the gentleman raised an eyebrow and readied the pistol.

“I don’t? Watch your mouth slave.”

“None of you could possibly pull that trigger!” Maria became hysterical as she stared down death. “You are all filth and dirt on the bottom of my feet!” Even if nothing mattered with death moving in for her she had to die with her pride. “I am divine! So go ahead kill a god! You can’t!” Maria’s words were drowned out as the gun fired. Everything felt like it froze. The bullet inched closer and closer and Maria dared not flinch. Just as the bullet would have met its target, it stopped mid air.

“W-what?” The gentleman had begun to freak out as not only had his bullet stopped and suddenly dropped to the floor, his own hand began to point his gun towards himself. A haunting chuckle took over the auction house as the pink coated man made his way down the stairs and to the stage.

“That was quite the performance, little lady.” Maria stared towards her savior. With one hand in his pocket and the other contorting and almost dancing in the air while the gentleman’s mouth opened and the gun placed inside.

“J-Joker please I apologize for the chaos, this never happens.” Disco begged his superior for forgiveness.

“Apologize? Had this not happened I would have left this snooze fest.” The audience began to murmur as they recognized the recently appointed warlord of the sea, the captain of the Donquixote pirates, Donquixote Doflamingo. Maria couldn’t help but feel like the now spotlight on her savior made him radiant. A muffled please don’t came from the gentleman before one more bang rang out and the gentleman fell backwards, blood leaking onto the floorboards of the stage. “Now keep the auction going, we’re at one berry.” Doflamingo commanded as he struts around Maria getting a proper look.

“D-do we have any other bids?” Disco's voice trembled for a moment as he collected himself. The audience remained silent. No one dared to challenge for a bid, it all was superficial and mattered not, they knew whatever they said would be out bid. By this point Doflamingo had already decided he’d out bid anyone, why risk upsetting such a pirate. While Disco desperately tried to get the audience to bid, Doflamingo squatted down behind Maria.

“W-what do you want?” Maria had finally had her adrenalin rush fade and felt the fear of being so close to such a pirate, yet that fear swealed in her stomach, it contorted into a knot of fear and joy.

“They don’t litter my wanted poster all over of Mariejois as a warning then? That’s a shame.” His deep chuckle after he spoke reverberated in Maria’s chest and she had finally clued in.

“Y-you’re Donquixote Doflamingo?” Suddenly that fear quelled a little, perhaps someone like him understood her struggle. Maybe, just maybe she’d not live surrounded by trash but by someone like her once more, someone divine.

“In the flesh, tell me your name Dove.” Maria’s heart began to flutter at the idea, the hope of hearing her name come from this god behind her, he had already blessed her with hope and a new name if he cared not for her current one.

“Saint Maria.” She was quick to answer, she needed him to save her once more, she couldn’t stand the idea of knowing he had been right behind her, his warm breath passing by her ear and then having to leave his side and be below the trash that lacked any respect for her.

“Already so obedient.” Maria could hear the smirk forming on his lips. Disco had looked defeated, not only had he failed to sell such a unique item, he did so in front of his boss, surely his life was at stake. “Disco.” His body and mind halted. “I’ll cut you a deal since I’m in such a good mood. I’ll reimburse you her cost if I get to take her with me.” Maria’s eyes had widened, the brown color no longer dull but restored. Disco rapidly began to thank his boss for the bailout and ordered some employees to remove Maria’s restraints as well as the self detonating collar via Doflamingo’s request.

“We shall take a short break to clean up and then return.” Disco informed the bidders who stayed seated as Doflamingo walked by with Maria right beside him. His hulking figure made the normally tall woman seem so small, so frail.

“I think that was enough of this snore fest don’t you?” Doflamingo asked Maria who nodded and let out a mhm sound.

“Young master, I see you found something interesting at today's auction. We are ready to sail, would you like me to prepare her?” The woman from before bowed and asked.

“Yes, get her out of those rags she was given then send her to my quarters.” Doflamingo waved the two women off while he went to his quarters.

“Come this way.” The woman led Maria down to a servant room where there were two bunks, one empty the other for the woman leading Maria. “I see the young master removed your collar.”

“Yes, I am indebted to that gracious man.” Maria swooned as she was assisted with changing into a simple pink dress with a feather pattern at the bottom. “Are you also from the auction house?” Maria was so over the moon about being free from that torment she hadn’t really taken in her situation.

“I was yes.” The woman furrowed her eyebrows as she walked around Maria thinking. “I can’t believe your collar was removed so fast, he must like you. So what’s your story.” The woman began making slight adjustments to the dress’ fit on Maria.

“I’m a-” Maria cut herself off. “I was a celestial dragon, just like him.” She may still be divine but after everything she has begun to resent associating with them. The woman nearly choked on her own spit. “Don't ruin this dress, I need to continue my good first impression.” Maria almost panicked at the thought of upsetting her savior.

“Y-yes I understand.” The woman finally understood why the lady in front of her was so special, why she was freed of her slave collar. She had her own unique collar already within a matter of minutes, infatuation. The only reason she could assume the young master had purchased her must have been for some deep personal reason, after all why would a king need to buy a slave when he had a country at his feet now. “Would you be so kind as to let me style your hair?” The woman had hoped her request wasn’t crossing boundaries, she had accompanied the young master before and seen how nobles acted.

“You want to style my hair?” Maria’s eyes sparkled with excitement, she had never had someone other than her mother and the slaves do her hair and only her mother ever asked, the slaves were all ordered so her father didn’t deal with her. “Go ahead, If you need more or less for what you wish to do let me know I’ve got a bit of a talent.” She giggled before skipping onto a bunk sitting at one end while the woman sat at the other and began to work relieved to have not upset the potential landmine in front of her.

“We should be done. What do you think?” The woman gently inquired, while she was proud she still worried for the thoughts of her canvas.

“It's…” Maria went silent as she admired her hair. It had been braided almost like a crown along the sides of her head before meeting at the back in a bun that looked almost like a rose. “Unbelievable. I might just have to keep you as my own personal stylist.” Maria, still over the moon, had let her drilled in dragon mannerisms slip away and shone a bright smile to the woman. “Maybe not all people outside of Mariejois are trash.” The woman felt a sting in her eyes.

“T-thank you, p-please go on and don’t keep the young master waiting.” Maria hopped up and exited the cabin onto the main deck absorbing last embers of the setting sun. Behind that spoiled and bratty exterior was a little girl who dreamed of being a princess, ushered away from the woes of the world by a prince. The woman thought as she sat on her bunk collecting herself she still had to bring dinner and could not allow a moment of weakness just yet, not when the young master could call upon her.

Maria made her way up and knocked on the captain’s quarters. She gently knocked twice, getting muffled enter from behind the door. As she entered she did her best to curtsy. It had certainly been a few years so she was a little out of practice but nonetheless she had earned a minor chuckle.

“C’mere.” Doflamingo ushered Maria to his side where a stool sat, she made her way over and sat down, her nervous mind a wreck, she was sitting right beside him again. This time no longer chained but free, how should she act, how would he want to be addressed, he did buy her from the auction, was she just a slave to him? Doflamingo simply watched the gears turn in Maria’s head while he himself pondered the goal of this acquisition. It was a rare heat of the moment action for him, he didn’t need a servant, he would have plenty in Dressrosa, he certainly didn’t need a plaything woman threw themselves at him in Dressrosa, he was their king. Perhaps simply having her belong to him was all he needed, yes that was all the reason he needed.

“Young master?” Maria had settled on this being the best approach, it was what the slave had called him, while she hated the idea of being on equal footing this felt like her best option. That certainly had a nice ring to it, but if she was truly something so special to him, perhaps she could skip a few steps on the ladder she would much rather address such a spectacular man by his name, maybe even a nickname one day when she was far more sure of her stability. This situation, while a blessing, was far more harrowing to navigate then surviving in the wilderness. How else do you treat a god than utter obedience, but when you’re divine yourself how do you attempt to keep equal footing. It had simply been so long since she was in a position to have wiggle room, a voice to be heard. Doflamingo raised a brow and gave a hum of acknowledgement. “What exactly is our arrangement?” Maria began to hold her breath, did she dare speak her mind clearer, and risk being seen as biting the hand that saved her. She must, she isn’t just some ordinary slave. She was divine herself, he would respect that to some degree surely. “I would ideally not like to be another run of the mill slave-” A finger pressed against her lips quieted her oncoming rambling.

“My dear Dove.” That nickname once again, her heart skipped a beat, his deep voice had rapidly become a soothing sound on her ears, no matter the undertones. “Our arrangement is such. You are mine, you do as I say and I’ll give you what you desire.” He was what she wanted, to stay by his side. That was security, that was safety. She couldn’t help but stare into his lenses, while all she saw was her, it still gave her comfort that he was looking back behind those crimson lenses. He removed his finger from her lips, as if to signal her to respond.

“I understand.” She hesitated for a second, nervous that this was a mistake but finished her sentence. “Doflamingo.”

Sailing back to Dressrosa, was a simple journey for the experienced crew but certainly became more annoying with the ever growing comfortable mini-flamingo onboard. Maria while not nearly as cruel as Captain Doflamingo was, she was however at times unreasonable and drove the crew off the wall when she wasn’t contained in the captain’s quarters, instead constantly talking her mouth off or even once she attempted to lend a hand during a cannon fight with another ship once across the Red-Line into the New World. Her assistance only cost them a shot, her miss so terrible that while she was being scolded by one of the actual cannon operators Doflamingo’s laugh dominated the soundscape. While Maria was starting to gel and freshen up her social skills as well as her dragon mannerisms. Doflamingo had much to consider, while he was certainly confident word in Dressrosa would stay in Dressrosa about the king having a personal attendant, what would more powerful forces say. Would the navy dare bare their teeth at him? Would a future customer attempt blackmail? One thing was certain, once Maria had stepped foot onto Dressrosa she would never take another step off without him there. This woman had stolen a minute corner of his brain and needed to be caged properly, it wouldn’t be hard, she was already indebted to him. Just a few simple tugs in the right direction.

The Donquixote ship had finally docked at Dressrosa late into the night, Maria was out cold on a couch in the captain's quarters, the smell of burning wax of a candle and the lingering scents of Doflamingo on the cushions had sent her into a deep slumber. With a few hush orders, Maria was carried off to a room in the castle he had requested made for her. She needed to be close but she couldn’t be too close, he had already felt himself becoming too attached to the woman. With quick flicks of his fingers he soared through the night sky, skipping off his own strings to the castle.

Maria could barely wake up when the sun was dancing through a window onto her face. The lush bedding, the silky and fluffy pillows, the warm and heavy blankets had her wrapped up in the idea of sleeping in. The smell of breakfast forced her awake, sweet maple syrup, starting to melt butter and the aroma of powdered sugar, pancakes. Maria rolled over to see a tray, with three stacked fluffy pancakes and an icy glass of water dripping with condensation. It was like she was a little girl all over again, a luxurious bed and breakfast warm and ready to draw her away from resting more. As she sluggishly sat up she examined the golden tray, it held her breakfast and required utensils as well as a note and timetable? It was littered with schedules and names of people she had no idea of. Only one name was recognizable and that was Doflamingos. His schedule was simply torn out. As she examined the note she noticed the tears at the edges. ‘Welcome home Dove.’ It read on one side but flipped. It was a schedule but not a single slot was filled, but there was one more section of writing. ‘Enjoy your present.’ What present? The door clicked and opened, in the doorway was the woman from before.

“My lady, may I enter?” She bowed in the doorway. Maria put two and two together based on how she was addressed.

“Yes you may, would you be able to fill me in. Doflamingo certainly left plenty out when we discussed our arrangement.” Maria sunk her fork into the delicate pastry before her, carving out a piece and indulging her hunger for quality food.

“Of course.” The woman shut the door behind herself and pulled a stool opposite of Maria before she began to explain the situation to the girl before her. “You are in the kingdom of Dressrosa where the young master reigns as king. I have been assigned to be your personal servant, I will be at your beck and call for whatever you may need.” Maria nodded as she continued her delectable breakfast. It was nice to have a slave back under her control, but she couldn’t help but feel like perhaps her years of isolation and this woman's gentle attitude had earned her a slightly better title than slave in her mind. Was she being too soft? That was something to discuss with Doflamingo, a good reality check. “Once breakfast is completed I will help you prepare for the morning. The young master instructed me to give you a tour of the castle and introduce you to the family.”

“The family?” Maria spoke after a large swallow.

“Anyone who is a higher up in the Donquixote pirates is part of the young masters family, the one exception being you.” The woman borrowed the blank schedule and pulled a pen from her apron and drew a little higher-archy. “The young master is the top, followed by the top executives and then below them are the standard executives. You stand somewhere between here.” The woman drew a line with two sides of arrows pointing between Doflamingo and the top executives. “I know a lady as radiant as yourself would like to be as high as the young master.” Maria pursed her lips a moment before letting out a deep breath from her nose, the woman began to sweat slightly, worried she had already upset her new master.

“That…” Maria paused and then relaxed her shoulders. “Is acceptable.” The woman let out a sigh of relief. She had no idea what she was getting into, she’d had served Doflamingo and he was certainly a special man who she could not afford slip ups with. This young lady seemed to have more patience than him, but she was a celestial dragon like the young master was, nature or perhaps the young master had softened and reigned her in already. “I have a request for you.”

“Whatever it is, consider it done my lady.”

“I’d like your name.”

“Penny, my lady.”

“Well Penny.” Maria rose from the bed as she had finished her breakfast. “Shall we pick out something cute? I have no idea about the fashion in Dressrosa, or how I should do my hair.” Maria headed over to a large wardrobe.

“Of course.” Penny quickly accompanied her new master. “We can go to the market if you’d like later and properly fill this up.”

“That would be wonderful.” As Maria scanned the half filled wardrobe it was very clear to her she only had her necessities and some of them certainly seemed a little personal. “Any suggestions?”

“It will get warm in the afternoon…” Penny’s voice tailed off as she thought and looked through the wardrobe, taking out a pair of rather short pink shorts, knee high socks, pastel pink mary janes with a small platform, a nearly white but hinted pink short sleeve dress shirt and the piece de-resistance a pink coat with a feathered collar and cuffs. “You can put the jacket around your waist if you get too warm.” Maria snagged the clothes eagerly.

“Wonderful, turn around now while I change.” Penny did as told and turned, she took a couple steps forward grabbing an expensive looking hair brush that sat on a small pillow, the pillow lay on a desk with a mirror and stool for Maria to sit and pamper herself if she so chose. The sound of fabric slipping off and shuffling was all that was in the room as Maria had changed. “I’m thinking, something simple and classic for my hair today.”

“A ponytail and bow sound good my lady?” Penny opened a draw scanning through the assortment of accessories, finding a large silky pastel pink bow.

“Very good.” Maria sat in the stool once changed and allowed Penny to swiftly work. “What is the family like?”

“They all are wonderful, perhaps a little intense.” the soft sound of the gentle bristles running through Maria’s hair accompanied Penny’s voice. “I should prepare you for two specific members' special traits however.” Maria hummed in response. Her legs gently swayed. “Master Pica has a rather high voice, it’d be in your best interest to not comment and Master Trebol does not understand personal space.” Penny finished brushing and began to contain Maria’s hair high on the back of her head.

“I will hold my tongue, I suppose, if that would make Doflamingo happy.” Maria sighed, it was a sacrifice she’d have to make, if Doflamingo considered them family, maybe it’d end up like Penny, a pleasant individual.

“It would be very important to the young master.” Penny stepped back once the ponytail was in place. “My lady you look wonderful, shall we begin the tour?” Maria stood and nodded as she walked back to her bed and grabbed the time table, putting names to faces would be important, this was her new family after all.

The tour was swimming along, Maria had found the library, the kitchen, dining hall and throne room. All unoccupied at the moment. Marias tour continued to the garden where a few servants were at work pruning flowers, trimming hedges and watering needs.

“It’s beautiful out here.” Maria wandered around peering over the shoulders of servants and squatting down at certain flowers for smells. “I’m unfamiliar with all of these plants. Are they all from here?”

“Yes, all flora is native to Dressrosa.” Penny then showed Maria a large hedge in the shape of a flamingo getting a snort from the lady.

“Charming.” She managed through a few gentle giggles as she covered her mouth partially with her hand.

“The young master has splendid taste, no?”

“He certainly does.” Maria agreed, her laughter was not in fun of her savior, she found it adorable. This big bad pirate had a gentle and serene garden with hedge art of his animal namesake, it very much pleased her.

“M’lady could I interest you in a hedge for yourself?” One of the gardening servants asked Maria. Who jumped on the idea.

“Yes please, would you be able to make a dove?”

“Most certainly, I shall request your presence once completed.” The gardener went to work post haste.

“I missed having such a wonderful garden at my fingertips.” Maria continued to wander the garden sitting on the edge of a large stone fountain. “My father would garden with me, it was one of the rare times he didn’t delegate me to my mother or the slaves.”

“Is there a plant you would like to add? I can arrange for us to grow it, my lady.” Penny pulled out a notepad, ready to make arraignments right there. Maria put a finger to her chin and thought. Most flora from Mariejois was of no interest to her anymore, this was an opportunity to explore, she had all the flora in the world at her fingertips.

“Give me a few days of going through some almanacs and I’ll give you an answer.” Maria had decided on not deciding for now. She simply absorbed the rays of sun that warmed her.

“Of course.” Penny returned her notepad to her apron. “We should continue our tour, by now I’m sure a few members of the family should be at the pool.” Maria hopped up, the idea of sitting by the water absorbing the sun sounding spectacular.

By the time the two had arrived at the pool the hustle and bustle of the castle had picked up and Maria could finally hear muffled voices.

“Do you think Doflamingo will be there?” Maria hoped out loud to Penny.

“Possibly, I have no idea what he is up to today.” The young master wouldn’t dare wander too far on your first day, you may not see him but he’ll be there my lady. “Are you going to be alright?”

“I will be fine.” Maria took her first step into the pool area, the sun dancing off her. The pool was crystal clear minus the effeminate looking boy with horns swimming and long chairs lay ready for company to tan. An excessively large couch sits at the end of the pool nearest the entryway. Off to the left was a large man with buck teeth that had the jolly roger of the Donquixote pirates on them. He seemed to be teasing a young teenage female with black hair.

“Buffalo, would you shut your mouth!” The black haired one shouted while she stomped her foot.

“It was an honest question Baby 5, you're getting to the point where it’s weird you haven’t had your first boyfriend.” Buffalo simply continued his teasing much to Baby 5’s dismay.

“Oh yeah?!” Baby 5 looked to Maria. “You, settle something for us!” Maria pointed at herself confused. “Yes you, get over here.” Maria made her way over. “You look like a well put together lady, when did you have your first boyfriend?” Maria was taken aback, no what's your name just straight into this childish struggle. However one problem remained, Maria would be no help in this argument.

“Well about that.” Maria began before Buffalo let out a dumb laugh and cut Maria off.

“You haven’t had one yet either?!” He taunted, Maria was fuming with anger and embarrassment, her cheeks had begun to feel warm. She bit her tongue for a moment, reminding herself to hold her tongue. She simply couldn’t afford to upset anyone just yet, but this guy was clearly just an officer, she should stand her ground.

“You dare taunt me like that, do you know who I am?” She retorted only to get a response that blew her top off.

“You’re the young master's new play thing!” Maria had already had enough of this dope, but before she could exact her revenge his laughter was cut off by Baby 5 jamming her fist into his gut.

“Don’t bother with him, he’s always like this. Head in the clouds.” Baby 5 sighed before properly greeting Maria. “You’re the newest addition to the family, Dove. I’m Baby 5.” Maria felt her chest twinge in delight, she was his dove and that's how he introduced her to his family, how wonderful.

“Thank you for that.” Maria focused herself back on the conversation at hand. “You’re the first members of the family I’ve met other than Doflamingo.”

“Oh then you are in for a very fun afternoon. Most of my family is out around this time.”

“Why, this castle so far seems wonderful.”

“There's the colosseum for starters, that’s where Diamante spends most of his time. Trebol has been glued to Sugar.” As Baby 5 continued to list off where members of the family were Maria’s head span as she attempted to intake the information. “Uh are you alright?” Maria snapped back to reality, she must have begun going cross eyed and looked like smoke was coming out of her ears.

“Of course.” Maria attempted to dismiss the idea she was overwhelmed very unconvincingly. “Just with so many members perhaps observing a dinner or something would be a little easier to digest.” Penny couldn’t help but stifle a laugh at the irony of her master's words. “So, who's the one swimming?” Maria pointed to the still swimming boy.

“That’s little Dellinger, he’s a fighting-fish fish-man.” A fish-man, he certainly didn’t look as fishy as many other fishman she had seen as slaves.

“My lady, if I may intrude, we still have other sites to see.” Maria nodded to acknowledge her servant.

“I will be off then, it was a pleasure to meet you Baby 5, we should sit and chat over tea sometime.” Maria smiled before following Penny off.

“How was your first taste of the family?” Penny inquired while leading Maria down from the pool area and through the castle.

“It was fine, they seemed nice enough. Baby 5 seemed a bit young to be a pirate, no?” Maria emphasized enough before she allowed her curiosity to continue.

“The young master takes anyone with potential, Buffalo and Baby 5 have been part of the family since they were much younger. They had another child with them for a while, I am unsure what happened to him however.”

“So he’s like an older brother to them?”

“Exactly. Now after the royal plateau, where would you like to stop by?” Penny asked as she and Maria stepped into an elevator.

“Do we have money on us? I’d love to have a good shopping spree.” It sure had been a long time since she could freely roam a market.

“Of course, would you like me to request for a toy to help carry your things?”

“A toy?” Maria raised an eyebrow, how would a toy help?

“Oh yes you are new, my apologizes my lady. Dressrosa is a very wonderful place where we have walking, talking toys.”

“Then absolutely, and one for when my feet get tired.” Maria wiggled her toes in excitement at the idea of such large toys. Penny nodded and made a call on a small transponder snail from her apron. 

The market of Dressrosa was certainly lively, people and toys both intermingling, dancing, playing music, the streets were certainly packed but wherever Maria stepped the space always cleared up, much to her delight, she couldn’t imagine having to shove her way through. Her shopping started off slow as she was unsure just how deep her coffers were but when Penny assured her it was all taken care of by Doflamingo she simply couldn’t help herself, whether the item was something for her or something she thought Doflamingo might enjoy on her. She was having a grand time, this is what it meant to be alive, what she wanted when she wanted. Once she had her fill of shopping, the toys were sent off to the royal plateau where castle servants would receive Maria’s bounty.

“The colosseum should be nearing the end, I think it’d be wonderful for you to go watch. You should be able to go watch in Doflamingo’s personal observation deck.” Penny offered to keep her lady busy till dinner.

“Ohh, let’s make haste!” The two quickly made their way to the colosseum where video transponder snails were projecting the action inside between gladiators. A woman was working the reception as Maria and Penny approached.

“I’m sorry but seats are all-” The woman was cut off by Maria butting in.

“Excuse me?” This was her moment, the first instance of disrespect by someone below her that she could tell off. “Do you have any idea who I am?” The receptionist clued into Penny standing beside Maria, properly intaking the sheer amount of pink on the woman in front of her.

“Have more respect for the young master’s mistress.” Penny advocated while Maria had her chest lightened at the comment of being Doflamingo’s mistress.

“I-I’m so terribly sorry, please right this way.” The receptionist led the way to Doflamingo’s private nest.

“That’s better.” Maria huffed as she followed. “You are lucky I’m in a good mood this afternoon.”

“T-thank you for your forgiveness, everything you’ll need is in here.” The receptionist stopped at a door which Penny opened for Maria. The room was simple, it had a large chair that overlooked the entire colosseum, a pair of hanging candles and a carpet from the door to the chair. Maria leaned over the balcony deciding it’d be best not to sit in the chair, she was simply going to struggle to view over the railing. The roaring crowd over the sounds of blades clashing and blood splattering on the ground sent a small shiver up Maria’s back. This was beautiful, people fighting and dying for her entertainment, oh how she missed it.

“My lady, may I fetch anything for you?” Penny asked from behind the chair.

“Guard the door. I don't want to be disturbed unless it’s someone important.” Penny nodded and stood by the door while Maria felt her stomach twist in sadistic pleasure, it was slowly but surely coming back to her, while she had to remind herself to stay aware of the family, this was exactly what she needed. “Penny, there is one thing you could do for me actually.”

“What is it my lady?” Penny quickly sprang to attention.

“I need a chair, Doflamingo’s is simply too big for me, I'd struggle to see over the railing.”

“Right away.” Penny was gone in a flash while Maria continued to contently watch as the gladiators below dwindled down faster and faster. She heard a knock and turned her head, her ponytail slipping over her shoulder. “Who is it?”

“Penny and I have an important guest with me.” Was slightly muffled behind the door.

“You may enter.” Maria fully turned and tossed her hair behind her as Penny and a very tall Brunette with a long cape and fancier pirate attire themed like diamonds entered.

“This is master Diamante, he’s in charge of the colosseum and like you know from this morning a top executive.”

“So you’re Doffy’s Dove.” Diamante approached extending a hand. “A pleasure, does today’s entertainment suffice?”

“It’s exceptional.” She gently took his hand giving a shake. He seemed rather pleasant, Penny hadn’t warned her about any odd quirks which was a relief judging by the other Family she had heard off and seen. “You have an eye for proper entertainment.”

“No no, it’s nothing.” He insisted, Maria walked to the railing again and Diamante followed.

“You do, this is spectacular, I haven’t felt this much of a rush in forever.” Maria protested as she gazed out.

“Really there’s no need, it's nothing.” He continued to fight off her compliments.

“If you say so.” Maria then flinched as Diamante raised his voice in acceptance.

“Okay fine fine! It is spectacular, I have an eye for good entertainment!” Maria shook her head before sneaking a glance to Penny who shrugged like oops I forgot about that, warranting a small glare from her master.

“So.” Maria went to change the subject, getting a hm from Diamante. “You called him Doffy, do you think I could call him that too.” She placed her hands on her cheeks at the idea of getting to call him such an adorable nickname. Diamante snickered a little before commenting.

“You are his Dove aren’t you? You hold almost as much power as the top executives, I don’t think he’d give a crap what you called him.” Maria swung one of her legs up and down in joy as she leaned over the railing. Her mind starts to get lost at the idea of sitting in her Doffy’s large lap watching the violence below, her hair being stroked. She gently cooed Doffy as she stroked her own hair completely entranced.

“My lady, do not get lost in daydream mid conversation.” Penny’s voice jolted Maria back to reality where she pulled her hair over her face in utter embarrassment only warranting more taunting laughter from Diamante.

“And the battle is over!” The announcer’s voice concluded the entertainment at the colosseum.

“I suppose I shall make my way back to the palace.” Diamante’s laughter had subsided. “I look forward to you joining the family at dinner.” He informed her before departing. Maria silently screamed as Penny approached.

“We should return as well, I’m sure the young master will be there as well as the entire family.” Maria simply nodded, stuffing her hands into her coat pockets as the two left.

Once outside the already packed dining hall Maria heard a familiar voice behind her. One that had shoved any other embarrassment that lingered away.

“How was my Dove’s first day in Dressrosa?” Doflamingo’s question was superficial, after all he dared not let his Dove walk Dressrosa with a slave. Regardless of where she was, he was always watching. Maria quickly spun, her hair twirling behind. Her eyes light up brightly, it had simply been too long without him.

“Doffy!” She shouted happily, clasping her hands together excitedly. “It was good, I missed you though, she’s fine company but it would have been better with you there.” She gestured towards Penny before back to Doflamingo he chuckled lightly, his large hand gently tracing a finger along her delicate cheek.

“Can’t even go a few hours without me can you?” Maria’s cheeks flared up a vibrant pink, only more amusing to Doflamingo. “I figured you’d enjoy a day like you used to have.”

“A-and I did, I just would've much preferred spending the day with you.” Maria looked away twirling her fingers in her hair to cope with her overwhelming flusteredness, her rapidly beating heart, her body temperature rising, it was all so much around him. “Perhaps after dinner I could spend some time with you?” That was a beautiful sign of her mindset, she needed him.

“Let’s focus on dinner first.” He leaned close, his warm breath tickled her ears. He waved to dismiss Penny from duty, having already decided he would spend the evening with his Dove. As the two entered the dining hall, the table was set and only two seats sat unfilled, the head seat for Doflamingo and the seat to his left. Servants quickly pulled out the chairs and had the two sit before silver platters were brought in and set on the table. Most of the family was already mid conversation in anticipation for the meal. Maria simply watched, scanning quickly to find who she recognized. At the far end she saw Dellinger, Baby 5 and Buffalo. To her left immediate left was Diamante, across from her sat a rather oozy looking fellow with a club staff and on his right sat a man in armor with spades on his shoulder plates.

The other two top executives, Trebol and Pica. She put the pieces together as a plate was placed in front of her as well as a wine glass filled with a ruby red wine. Before she could get too enamored by the food she felt Diamante’s elbow nudge her and she jumped slightly.

“Stole my spot I see.” He playfully remarked. Maria hadn’t clued in that where she sat one of the other executives would have sat, with that sudden realization.

“I-” She was cut off by Doflamingo who had his usual grin across his face.

“Can’t have her sit too far now can I?” With one hidden flick of his finger under the table, a string tugged her chair along the floor closer to his, he rested his hand on her shoulder, once more increasing the heat in her face. With two more simplistic twitches, her food and wine was pulled beside his, not a spill in sight. Diamante couldn’t help but laugh at the situation and reaction this girl was in. Doflamingo rose from his chair for a moment tapping his glass to get the attention of the table.

Is he going to give a toast?! How do you expect me to keep composure after that!? Maria panicked desperately trying to collect her poor beating heart.

“Members of my family, tonight is a very special occasion. I am honored to be welcoming my little Dove here.” He extended his left hand as if he was presenting Maria. She rose with the gesture. “As the newest member of the Donquixote family.” The other members raised their glasses and Maria joined in. “To Maria, my Dove.” With that the family recited to Maria before taking a sip of all the drinks. “Now feast!” He commanded before falling into his chair, Maria being pulled down by his left hand into hers. 

One thing was for certain, with all the hustle and bustle of the family at dinner, there was no lack of entertainment, Maria often found herself busy watching conversations rather than consuming the food before her, she was however not shy about drinking.

“Is the food not to your liking?” Doflamingo asked while he stole a spoonful of Maria’s feast.

“It’s amazing, I just love people watching. I enjoy good finger food for moments like this.” Maria mentioned, not thinking anything of it, she would eat properly, she just wanted to get accustomed to meal times. That however did not fly with Doflamingo. He snapped his fingers, summoning a servant.

“Prepare her something she can absentmindedly eat.” He ordered, the servant darted off to the kitchen.

“Doffy, you didn’t have to do that, I'll be alright. I used to sit and watch people all the time before…” Her voice trailed off, some times when she was stealing food, she had no choice but to hide out and watch for fear of getting caught. She had spent hours one night sitting in a rather full trash can, before she could eat. While not pleasant it was a carry over. During festivities she’d sit and watch from the barren rooftops longing to be home in Mariejois. Doflamingo watched her for a minute as she collected her brain from its crash course of unpleasantry. “I’m used to waiting out for my food. Let’s just say that.” Had her brain not yet understood she was no longer in fight or flight, the food in front of her was not something she was stealing, it was a gift. Doflamingo used the stolen spoon, scooping up some food from her plate and holding the spoon to her face.

“Open up.” His deep voice was quieter, Maria couldn’t understand why for a moment before it clicked and she parted her lips slightly. “Good girl.” He cooed, causing a chill to run up her hips and spark in her brain.

“D-Doffy, I can feed myself.” Maria stammered out, he fed her. It was an act of care, during the trip to Dressrosa, he had the slave and crew tend to her unless he was helping her adjust to formal life. Yes he had done smaller and larger acts, like the wardrobe, the note and all the money she could ever spend. But this was tender, it was direct. In Maria’s short time with him, she had heard many tales that he could be cruel and sadistic. That was her first experience as she watched him blow the brains out of a noble. This however confirmed above all else in her mind that she was occupying some space in that brain of his and not just to be an object. She had value to him.

“Can you?” He teased getting another spoonful ready, Maria decided to enjoy this, her mind forgot about the table, the family. Her only focus was him. Before he even needed to speak her mouth was open. The two continued this little routine, occasionally taking a break to sip wine or allow Doflamingo to eat himself.

This was home. This was everything she had ever wanted. He was her radiant god, her king, her flamingo and she was his sweet little self indulgence, his queen, his dove.

Chapter Text

It'd only been a week since Maria had arrived on Dressrosa but one thing had already stood out to Doflamingo. The people’s word of mouth was not sufficient, Maria had on multiple occasions used Penny to advocate for her position as Doflamingo’s mistress and get her rightful needs met. So naturally it was time to create an event where they simply couldn’t ignore her.

“A dance?” Maria shook her head, she had never been taught to dance and now she was expected to perform in front of all Dressrosa, her stomach twisted as nerves settled in.

“Indeed my lady, the young master, thinks it’d be a great idea for the two of you to display your affection publicly.” He certainly has not been kind to those who have flirted with you, how it goes over your head when it’s not him I will never understand.

“I have no idea how to dance, I’m really unsure if this is the best idea.” While embarrassing herself was bad enough she would hate to embarrass him with her stunted movements.

“The young master will teach you how. So please come this way.” Penny led the way to the large ballroom. It had grand windows with red curtains drawn back letting in the afternoon light. Standing by one of the windows with his arms folded was Doflamingo, his pink feathered coat hanging off a chair. “I shall allow you two privacy now. Good luck my lady.” Penny then left to take care of her master's bedroom.

“Doffy, are we sure I’ll be ready by tonight?” Maria worried as she approached him. “I wouldn’t dare want to embarrass you.” He turned to face her, for once his shirt buttoned, not fully but mostly.

“You would never embarrass me Dove.” With a snap, music began to play and he extended his hand for hers. “Simply follow my lead.” She took his hand. While intensive it certainly was a speedy full course lesson, every little detail Maria got wrong was instantly corrected. Before long he simply stood back watching her form, changing the pace of the music with his strings while she learned to mindlessly match and perform without his lead. She managed to catch on quickly and before long knew her role in a tango and ballroom. 

Near the end she was sweating, having taken off her coat and rolled up her sleeves. With a single clap of his hands Maria had stopped and collected her breath.

“Well done.” He approached from behind, running his hands down her sides.

“Y-you sure Doffy. It’s a big night.” She reached up with her right hand caressing his sharp jawline, generating that smile she adored.

“If you can keep your head on when I touch you.” His left hand squeezed her hip, generating a small mphm from her while chuckling himself.

“I-I can try, I just love when you touch me.” While nothing had explicitly happened between the two within the first week, the heat of their relationship was rapidly approaching a boil over where one would break, odds on Maria crying to him about how she needed him so so badly. That gave him a devilish idea, his smile changing to a smirk as he let out an ominous laugh that filled the ballroom. “Now what's got you chuckling?” Maria knew something was a foot in his mind but couldn’t pinpoint it.

“Nothing for you to concern yourself with.” Oh but it certainly was, with a few simple pulls of his strings, tonight would break her stubbornness and not just in the privacy of their own rooms or in his office but in front of the whole kingdom. “Why don’t you go along and get ready, Dove.” He lightly planted his open palm on her rear, sending her off clutching her coat muttering. Tonight was going to be electric. He could feel it.

The ballroom was rapidly given a tidy and prepared for the entourage of guests as well as room for a few special video transponder snails that would project the events of tonight all over Dressrosa, no one would be able to miss this. No more excuses for disrespect and more importantly a message to the kingdom on who belonged to who.

“Penny, are you sure it’s okay I wear something like this in front of the kingdom?” Maria stood before a mirror, she wore a dark dress tight to her body, every curve was shown, more than she was currently comfortable with amount of cleavage and openings to show her legs, just barely not exposing her panties.

“This is per the young master's request. I think you look wonderful.” Penny said, doing a few touch ups to the slightly sparkling fabric of the dress. “How would you like your hair for tonight?” Maria had found a bun the most useful for dancing so with quick work her hair was wrapped into an elegant bun on the back of her head. Maria stared herself in the mirror, she felt radiant and then her room door opened and in came Doflamingo, He still had his signature glasses on but lacked his coat, in fact he cleaned up a little. He fully did his white dress shirt up, one injection of pink with his tie, his dark dress pants and dress shoes in contrast to his usually pointy almost elf like shoes had taken Maria aback.

“Don’t you clean up nice Doffy.” Maria had stepped over, her eyes noticed the tie was ever so slight off and swiftly adjusted it. She then took his hand which was greeted with a squeeze.

“Can’t have you be the only one looking good tonight now can I Dove?” His deep voice at this point was rapidly growing into an addiction, the way it hung in her ears, the reverberations it left, why if she wasn’t well aware of Penny being in the room she may have thrown herself at him there.

“Have a lovely evening, young master and my lady.” Penny called out as the two left. Oh it was going to be a lovely evening.

The ballroom was already packed by the time the two birds arrived, they took their spot on a couple chairs where the other top executives sat.

“The king has arrived!” One servant announced and everyone turned to the chairs as Doflamingo took his place and Maria to his left, this time not a smaller chair on his side like dinners. But a proper throne like his.

“A-are you sure it’s alright I'm sitting here Doffy?” Maria worried, she may have been part of the family but unlike him she wasn’t officially royalty.

“I had that made specifically for you Dove, it’s all yours.” He flashed her a smile and what surely must have been a wink hidden behind those lenses, generating warmth in his little Dove’s cheeks. Music began to play after the two were seated and the audience below began to dance. Doflamingo and Maria as well as the top executives were brought champagne to sip while they watched. While Maria slowly chipped away at her one glass watching the crowd below, Doflamingo had already gone through a few and was making conversation not even paying attention to the entertainment down below. He was once again only interested in his main event. Before too long the two birds were called to the dance floor. Once in the middle all eyes upon them, Doflamingo took Maria’s hand. A dangerous smirk on his face leaves Maria slightly confused. 

Music erupted and she was pulled right up against him. Before he took charge and led their tango at a furious pace, Maria was barely able to keep up, he had given her just enough practice that she could keep pace but just by a hair. His pace continued viciously, all the while she began to lose her breath and hold him a little tighter. The crowd witnessed as Doflamingo was proudly showing off what belonged to him. He pressed her chest and body right against him for a moment, allowing her to feel an intense firmness in his pants, her already starting to flush face was beat red. Maria had finally caught on to the flamingo’s plan, but it was far too late. His movements became much less subtle, his hands taking extra time gliding along her sides, ‘accidentally’ brushing her chest or rear, a few times his knee would brush Maria’s legs causing her to lose pace only for him to whisper in her ear about how sloppy she was getting, had she had the opportunity to breath she’d apologize, but all her breath needed to go towards any attempt at keeping pace. The music was soon winding down and with one flick of his fingers, a string had tossed a rose into the air that he caught in his mouth, with one arm he lowered and held her in a dip. While he may have been breathing a little heavier through his teeth. Maria had been ravaged, her face red, hair a mess, chest heaving to get any air. The crowd applauded before music began again and they moved in to dance. The two birds stayed where they were, Doflamingo pulling Maria up and holding her against his chest.

“D-Doffy…” She managed through her heavy breaths. He had begun to lead her in a much slower dance, as he looked at her with his shit-eating grin, knowing exactly what he had done.

“What is it, My Dove? ” He knew already, but he needed to hear it from her. With one free hand he loosened his tie. Maria gave in, she couldn’t handle it any more, she wanted more from him, from them. She needed him, in her short few weeks of knowing him she…

“I love you Doflamingo.” Her gentle brown eyes stared into his lenses, so purely, so wanting, so vulnerable. For him it was mission accomplished and he leaned right into her ear, she deserved the truth from him too, no one else was allowed this side of him, she can have it all.

“I.” One hand held her left hip. “Love.” His voice still deep, now carried intimacy she had never known. “You.” His other hand held her cheek. “My Dove.” His warm breath dancing on her lips made her chest pine. She leaned closer and he obliged. The two embraced, her arms on his shoulders, his around her rear as he pulled her up. His lips were surprisingly soft but they were so warm, it was heavenly. Her lips were delicate and sweet just like he expected, but they were so intoxicating. What felt like eternity in bliss to the two was only a handful of seconds in reality as they pulled away, one a large grin plastered to his face the other a gentle and shy smile on hers. Doflamingo, still holding her up and without evening needing to look, weaved through the dancing crowd to a windows door. He slid through it before closing it with his heel. Out in the moonlit sky, the two lovers continued their slow dance to the faint music. With gentle finger work, Doflamingo had Maria’s bun undone, her hair spiraling and falling to her calves. The gentle light of the moon, playfully dancing on her skin and hair made her shine, the stars sparkling in her eyes, she was divine, she was his. She gently took his tie with her left hand, and with a light pull he complied leaning close.

“I’m all yours forever and always Doflamingo.” She placed her forehead against his as the two swayed. His normally deep chuckle was softer. “I love you.” She pulled his tie once more, trapping him in a short kiss. They both were well aware they had become entangled with each other it no longer mattered the risk of infatuation, all that mattered was the need the two shared for the other. Doflamingo pulled from the kiss every so slight, his lips pressing on her chin, then her jaw, then under her jaw, down her neck to her collar bone. His tongue tracing along the edge between her neck, collar and shoulder. She felt her knees wobble slightly and she held tighter to him, one hand clutching the collar of his shirt, the other tangled in the back of his hair.

“That’s a good girl.” He rumbled, getting a hitch in her breath. He may be vulnerable for his standard with her but he still held the reins. His left hand squeezed her hip gently while the other had lost itself in her silken brown waterfall. He grazed his teeth on her collar for a moment before sinking in.

“D-Doffy!” She whined out. “P-people will notice that.” He bit down harder in response, what did he care, he may as well have stripped her nude and dominated her with the tango they had just performed, a little bite wouldn’t even get a rouse from them. Maria quickly stopped her complaining while he licked his bite before continuing to mark what was his. Her eyelashes fluttered, her breath continued to hitch, her whole body trembled. She gave in to him, no matter how embarrassing it may be, she wanted everyone to stare at that mark and know she was his. He finally pulled away smirking at his handy work.

“Shall we return to the party?” He undid a few buttons of his shirt and held her to his side by her hip. She nodded and pulled some hair over her shoulder opposite of the one marked to fiddle with. He chuckled knowing tonight was flawless and oh so soon would he be beyond cloud 9.

Chapter Text

The dance had definitely sent the message intended, Maria no longer needed to even speak and she was granted whatever she pleased, the trash that was debating trying to woo her had silenced itself in fear of their king. One thing however had slowed and that was the two’s relationship.

Ironically the most heated things got between the birds the night of the dance was the dance itself. The two birds had begun drinking and while Maria had stayed attached to Doflamingo’s hip her drinking was excessive to say the least and by the time guests left she could hardly stand straight and was escorted to her quarters where she ejected bile off her balcony. By morning her head had been pounding and her memory after the serenade was fuzzy. To make matters worse, Doflamingo had quickly become swamped with work as his black market empire was booming with business and opportunities, particularly in the devil fruit trade. The only time the two had managed to see each other was pacing glances, otherwise Doflamingo was locked away in his office.

“I wish Doffy wasn’t so busy.” Maria huffed to Penny while laying in a chair by the pool with the comfort of a one piece swimsuit that to no surprise was a shade of pink.

“I understand my lady.” Penny sympathized, it hurt to see her master so lonely. The other family, while they did keep her company, were also busy and being dispatched to various locations along the Grand Line, making Maria even more alone in the large palace. “Would you like me to grab you a novel from the library and refill your lemonade?”

“Sure, maybe if I get caught up in a good book, he’ll pull away from his desk.” Maria placed a hand above her head to only heighten her woes. Penny quickly went to work, first refilling her master's drink before getting stuck in the library, she was unsure what her master enjoyed reading. Come to think of it, she didn’t think anyone really knew much about her master, Doflamingo and Penny knew she was a celestial dragon and she had consumed a devil fruit but other than that, they were in the dark on the young lady's past and many of her preferences.

Penny took a leap of faith based on how her master had behaved, grabbing a fairytale about a maiden trapped in a tower with extraordinarily long hair, rather befitting her master. By the time she had returned to the poolside Maria was laying on her stomach watching the grass in agony.

“Forgive me, my lady. I have returned.” She placed the fairytale on the table beside her master’s lemonade. Maria rolled over and gasped, a small smile crept to her face.

“This is it! This is the fairytale that made me long for my devil fruit!” She swiped the book up and had rapidly become absorbed by the story, unconsciously letting her hair grow as she read the words. Penny, noticing the sun's position, snuck into the palace to get a tray for her masters lunch.

The rest of the day sailed by as Maria had simply stayed by the pool reading the thick fairytale until it was time to rest. As she laid her head down for the night she sighed, no matter how comfortable this bed was it was lonely and for a maiden like her she wanted to hold onto her prince’s arm, or wrap around him for comfort while she slept.

Breakfast was lonely as Penny had been summoned by the young master for reasons unknown only leaving a note with Maria’s breakfast stating ‘keep yourself busy my lady I have urgent matters to take care of.’ Maria had occupied herself in the library for the day reading and daydreaming.

Penny on the other hand was busy with assistance of a few other castle servants moving things from Maria’s room into Doflamingo’s. It was a peculiar request since the young master never dared sleep with someone around. Once the rooms had been set up Penny went to retrieve her lady who at this point had a finished fairytale on her chest and was duly looking towards the ceiling.

“My lady, I have something I must show you.” Penny’s voice is cheerful to try and change the mood of her master. Maria looked over, she clearly could not handle being alone this long as she hopped up realizing she hadn’t just made up hearing Penny.

“Penny oh thank goodness!” She stood beside her servant. “What do you have to show me?” Her eyes were shining with childish wonder and she stood on her tiptoes.

“Come this way!” Penny almost had to run a few times due to Maria skipping along, overjoyed to finally have company.

The two arrived at a large and fancy wooden door after climbing a couple flights of stairs in one of the towers of the castle.

“Here you are, this will be your new room.” Penny opened the doors showing a bed that must have been twice the size of her previous one, a chair that was also rather large and an even bigger balcony doorway. Furniture from her old room was beside furniture larger variants of her own. Despite the grandness of it all Maria had felt a little disappointed, she didn’t need a larger room, she needed company. “Oh and one other thing. This room is shared with the young master.” Maria looked at Penny overjoyed that she’d finally get to spend some time with her lover even if it was just sleeping, it was something. “I take it this pleases you my lady?” Penny couldn’t help but giggle, her master when joyous was so sweet.

“It’s amazing, I can’t wait to cuddle up with him.” She lightly sang. “I bet his heart beat when resting is deep like his voice.” She shivered at the thought of laying on his tanned chest, one ear pressed to his left side, a simple ba-dump, ba-dump in her ear, sending her to rest.

After what seemed like the longest day of her life in luxury, it had finally come time for bed, she had already been in the room and was just finishing her hair by the time Doflamingo had stepped in.

“Doffy there you are.” Her voice was gentle as she heard his footsteps approach from behind, her eyes closed. She felt his coat tickle her back as it was hung on the chair she sat in.

“Good evening my Dove.” Once Maria had finished her hair she pulled the large man into an embrace which he returned. She sighed in contentment, she needed this so much and now she had it. “You miss me that bad, it’s only been a few days.” He chuckled, he wouldn’t dare admit it, not now at least. But he had missed the girl's gentle handling of him, the fireworks that shot off in her eyes when he addressed her.

“You’ve had the luxury of being busy the whole time.” Maria’s sass did not go unnoticed as she feigned falling over, only to be swiftly caught. “I’ve had to keep myself entertained while you send the whole family away and even take my slave from me.” A small smirk formed on her lips as Doflamingo picked her up. That sass she had developed since the dance had certainly intrigued him, just how long could she manage that charade of minor defiance before it collapsed into helplessness.

“Luxury?” He sat down on the bed, kicking his shoes off. “Boring calls on transponder snails, charting delivery routes and negotiating sound like luxury to you?” One hand rested on her hip as she sat in his lap, the other gently in her hair and pressing against her neck just so slightly. Maria then played innocent, giving a little pout.

“What can I say I missed you, I can’t help but wish you’d set some time for me.” She grabbed at his open shirt, placing a kiss on his cheek. Doflamingo then fell back and pulled her with him so she was against his chest.

“Does that pretty little brain have no clue why I put you in my room?” He squeezed her neck every so slightly, a new wave of electricity darted through Maria who tried to play it off with a little giggle.

“I do, I just think I deserve more than just you at the end of the day.” She still challenged him playfully, sitting up ever so slightly on his chest, staring into his crimson lenses. His hand stiffened on her neck.

“Isn’t someone being greedy?” He grinned, this game of chicken would end with him being a winner, he would break her just like the dance. Maria shivered and let her eyelashes dance a little, only to be greeted with a deep chuckle. Maria had decided while she could continue this game, tonight was not the night for it and layed down kissing his chin.

“I can’t help that I miss my Doffy.” Sensing her submit, he let his hand on her neck slide down her hip, resting on her back. She placed her ear on his chest listening to the deep beats of his heart. Her eyes shut with a yawn.

“You can rest easy Dove, I'll watch over you.” His deep voice quiet, still sent rumblings through her body.

“You rest too, You need it with how busy you are.” She lightly patted his face only to be greeted with a small chuckle. That innocent care was adorable. “Goodnight Doffy, I love you…” Maria’s tired voice managed before she entered the realm of sleep. Doflamingo rubbed her back mumbling the same to her before staring at the ceiling, while this was nice he dared not sleep, not in front of her.

This game continued every night, one entered to win the other to entertain herself and her lover. Doflamingo finally started to have time for her once more and had noticed a few oddities. She dared not change in front of him and she never exposed her midsection. Maybe there was nothing to it but still, it began to bother him. Why wouldn’t she do him that honor. Finally after a few weeks the game had reached a new point, while Maria’s goal had stayed the same, Doflamingo had a new one. Figure out what she was hiding from him, he should know everything about her, even if it was hard to fit into the schedule as she managed to deflect anything past what he’d already known. Tonight was different.

“I’ll be right back Doffy, I just want to change before bed.” She grabbed her nightgown and headed to the private restroom that was off their bedroom. After she had opened the door, before she could step through a string had shut it.

“Why don’t you change in front of me?” He hunched over while sitting in bed, a smirk on his face. Maria felt her face flare up. She wanted to, but she couldn’t. He couldn’t see her that way, not yet.

“A-another time Doffy. I’m tired and can’t really give you a show.” She went to move the doorknob only for it to not move.

“I don’t need a show when I have you.” She bit her lip, he was saying all the right things, they had been resting together for a few weeks, no he couldn’t see that .

“I-I can't, I'm sorry.” It was scary, this was the first proper disagreement the two had gotten into, she never wanted to upset him but she couldn’t show him. He was growing annoyed, a vein popping on his forehead, what could she not show him.

“Dove, I’m not asking.” His voice was laced with frustration. Maria shuttered and began shaking. She was not ready to confront that, not ready for him to realize she was not as perfect as she seemed. 

“P-please another time.” She was trembling, her voice quiet and shaken, it sounded like… she was crying. She heard him stand and begin to step over. She had done it, she made him angry. She fell to her knees with a thud before curling up. She then felt his strings attached and no matter how hard she fought to stay down she rose to her feet. His silence was scaring her the most. She could barely make him out through her teary eyes. She felt his strings disappear and her heart stopped as she felt his embrace. Her voice was barely audible. “D-Doffy…” She could hear and feel each of his breaths, while obviously frustrated he had been denied this was something she didn’t know even she had with him. The ability to say no sometimes.

“I’ll drop it for tonight.” He grumbled. He squeezed her a little tighter before letting go and turning to the bed. “I’ll wait for you in bed.” His pouting like a spoiled child not getting the toy he wanted not going unnoticed by Maria.

“Doffy wait.” Maria, seeing she could trust her partner regardless, decided she’d grant his request. “I’ll give you what you want, just I’m sorry.” He turned with an eyebrow raised. Why was she sorry? She took a deep breath as she took off her coat, then undid her top and slid it off. Immediately above her right hip he saw something. A small scar, no bigger than the head of an arrow stood out from her otherwise spotless skin. This is what she was hiding from him? “I’m sorry I’m not perfect, I’m sorry I was stuck in the trash. I’m sorry-” She was cut off by a string yanking her into his arms. She began to sob into his shoulder. Her biggest worry was him seeing the effect of her living among the trash, the mark they had left. What broke her from her sobs was a simple question.

“Who?”

“A small island near Sabaody Archipelago… I slipped up while trying to get myself something to eat and they caught me…” She felt him clutch her tighter to him. “I didn’t want you to be ashamed of me, for being beaten by trash… I felt like if you ever found out you’d throw me away…” Hearing this talk from her felt so strange, she was divine, she was beautiful, she was so loving to him in such a way, that made him cave from his divinity, that made him indulge in temptation.

“My Dove, I’d never throw you away.” He pulled her away, wiping the tears from her eyes, she needed him to return this gentle love she so often blessed him with. “You are radiant, you are beauty.” His right hand stays on her cheek, while his left glides down and caresses her scar. She never expected him to return her love in this way. Even behind those crimson lenses she felt his eyes locked in on her, genuine attraction, gentle affection, love. “You are my heaven just as I am yours.” Maria placed her forehead against his. At that moment, they both knew destiny, fate, true love. Whatever it was had brought them together and neither had planned on leaving. One tender moment leads to another, a sweet embrace of both arms and lips. Both indulging themselves in what could only be known as heaven.

Maria had laid upon his chest, in only her under garments listening to his heart beat as she drifted off to sleep. Doflamingo stared once more at the ceiling before deciding he needed a little rest and his Dove was safe in his arms. It had been the first time since he himself was a child he let himself rest in front of someone else and it was the first time in a long long time he had been granted a peaceful night's rest.

Chapter Text

3 Years before Dressrosa is overthrown by the Straw hats and Law.

“You want to go to a restaurant in the East Blue?” Doflamingo sat comfortably by the poolside, one arm around his dove who held a newspaper in her hand.

“It’s making a lot of news, the chefs can battle!” Maria kicked her feet absentmindedly while looking at the paper. He owed her, after all it’s not easy being forced from luxury to learn Haki. “You owe me Doffy, our anniversary is around the bend and you are working me to the bone.” Maria during the 7 years since being saved had rarely left Dressrosa and when she did Doflamingo was always with her. Within the past year Doflamingo had been extraordinarily busy setting up a very lucrative deal with one of the four emperors of the sea Kaidou of the beasts and mad scientist Caesar Clown. While this was wonderful for the pockets as well as influence, having to answer to an emperor of the sea changed Doflamingo’s attitude of Maria being completely helpless in a fight. The idea he could swoop in and save her used to be the plan but he couldn’t take a risk like that now with his new business partner.

“I owe you?” He chuckled, she had gotten more bold with him too, the comfort of luxury spoiling her once more, of course by design. “Pretty sure you still owe me sweetheart.” He lifted her chin from the paper to be greeted with gentle flushed cheeks and a cheeky little smile.

“Well how about this.” She put the paper down, crawling into his lap, her hands on his chest. “You take me to the East Blue for this restaurant.” She let her delicate fingers slide downwards and effortlessly remove his belt. “And I’ll do you a few favors.” Her hand snaked under his pants. His typical shit-eating grin on his face. While from her perspective he understood the bargain, at the end of the day she was his and would do as he would say, bribing him with what he already had was hopeless.

“Behave Dove, we have the family around.” Maria scoffed slightly, that never stopped them before, it was awkward and embarrassing at first but by now Maria was his plaything when he wanted no matter what.

“That never stopped us before.” She lightly nipped his neck before his hand firmly grabbed her face to look at him. Her gentle love was still there, sometimes he had to work it out of her bratty exterior other times it was like their first time all over.

“Dove.” His voice hovered in her ears causing her to shutter and drool ever so slightly. “How about you ask nicely for the things you want, or do I have to teach you that lesson again?” He squeezed her neck slightly, hitching her breath. She shook her head, she knew her place. His hand released as she fixed his belt. “Good girl, now what did you want to do?”

“I-I’d like to go on a date with you at the Baratie in the East Blue Doffy.” She wrapped her arms around his neck nuzzling him. That’s what he needed from her, that sweet little bird that she was.

“I’ll make arrangements but.” She hated the sound of that. “You owe me for letting you off Dressrosa, we’re going so far too you owe me big.” He had a large smirk plastered to his face as she puffed her cheeks.

“Fineeee.” She caved, even when she owed him it felt so good to repay him.

The trip to the East Blue was a bit of a long one, the crew had to sail from the New World, under the Red Line and then past the Calm Belt in Paradise. Of course Doflamingo made a few business stops along the way, whether it be Punk Hazard to check in with Caesar or Sabaody for the auction house; much to the dismay of Maria. By the time the two had arrived in the East Blue it’d had been nearly a month of sailing and Maria had certainly missed the comforts of Dressrosa much to Doflamingo’s amusement as she requested this trip, he used this often as ammunition during their little games of chicken. Finally they saw their destination, a decently sized ship with a large sign labeled Baratie. Once anchored along the ship’s extendable dock the two made their way aboard.

“Doffy come onnnn! It’s been far too long on that ship!” Maria was quick to hop off the ship before Doflamingo used his strings to yoink her back to his side.

“I told you to get off at Sabaody didn’t I?” He then leaned into her ear. “Do I need to use your leash again, Dove?” He entangled his fingers in her hair as he spoke, giving a small tug causing Maria to have her face turn red and bite her lip.

“N-No I’ll behave Doffy.” She mumbled garnering a chuckle. He let her go and she stayed by him as the two made their way into the main entrance where a host was waiting.

“Reservation?” The host looked up at Doflamingo staring at him in the lenses, they were used to pirates and top navy coming in, a warlord didn’t scare him.

“Donquixote Doflamingo and Donquixote Maria.” It sent a special shiver when he used her name like that, even if they had been together for so long, it still pinged in her chest like she was a little girl.

“Right this way.” The host may have been used to this kind of company but the guest oh goodness no. These two pink birds very much garnered stares as they sat down. “Your server will be with you shortly.” The simple candle light, the round booth. It was very comfortable.

“One of everything, right?” Maria already knew, when they went out to eat, especially this far the whole menu had to be sampled, she and him had the appetite.

“You aren’t dragging me out all this way for one serving.” He leaned back, spreading his legs under the table and arms along the booth, while she sat rather conservatively waiting for their server.

“You brat! Serving duty!” A middle aged man shouted from the kitchen and a plate smashing into pieces accompanied a young blond man with hair over his left eye leaving the kitchen. He huffed before spotting a rather beautiful young lady sitting at a booth with a large rather tacky fellow, he may as well have teleported to them with how fast he made his way over to them.

“Well what’s a beautiful woman like yourself doing here?” He swooned. “Can I get you anything started?” Maria simply giggled, noticing a vein pop out in her lover's forehead.

“ We will have one of everything.” Doflamingo, using his strings, pulled Maria to his side. Glaring from beneath his glasses.

“Is that so big bird?” The blond remarked snarkily as he wrote that down on a notepad. Doflamingo was ready to pounce as Maria placed a hand on his leg.

“It is.” Maria jumped in to tame the rapidly growing sparks.

“Whatever you say beautiful.” With that he was off to the kitchen. Doflamingo snapped his fingers while another server approached them.

“Who is that irritating pest serving us?” Doflamingo was gritting his teeth in annoyance while Maria did her best to calm him down.

“That is our sous-chef Sanji. He’s a handful when it comes to women, you’re not the only married guy he’s tried to swoop in and out do.”

“Sounds like a rather profound fellow.” Maria spoke before Doflamingo could create some sort of trouble.

“He’ll likely be preparing your food since he noticed you.” The server pointed to Maria. “An attempt to impress you I’m sure.” Doflamingo began to tap his finger, sending the server away.

“You know I’m yours right Doffy?” She crawled into his lap once more caressing his face, just like her he had his moments. “Forever and always at the service of my god.” She began planting little kisses on him. “You are my everything. I wouldn't dare leave you for trash.” She was pulled forcefully into a kiss, Doflamingo's tongue and lips taking control. By the time Maria managed to pull away Sanji had brought out their food.

“Lunch is served.-” His jaw dropped as he saw the two separate, a smirk plastered on Doflamingo’s face as if he was flaunting and challenging Sanji. Meanwhile Maria’s face was beat red and she was panting desperately for any sort of air.

“Why don’t you thank the kind sous-chef Dove?” He chuckled under his breath as Maria looked over, swallowing air the best she could.

“T-thanks sous-chef Sanji.” She managed through her struggling breathing. While hearing his name come from such a lovely woman sent Sanji firing off to the kitchen with a nose bleed, Doflamingo began to feed Maria much to her embarrassment. “Doffy what are you doing?”

“Why don’t we play a little game.” Doflamingo undid his belt and slipped down his bottoms allowing Maria to press against his primed and ready body. “You better not let anyone know my Dove or else we won’t finish our meal.” Maria couldn’t get any redder or wetter if she tried, with a little struggle she managed to expose herself down below for him. She slowly pressed up and down as much as she could without giving away her real actions. “Stop biting that lip, how else are you gonna eat?” Her teeth let go of her bottom lip and quickly bit down on the fork as he thrust up, muffling her noise just in time. 

Maria could hardly stand that she had to control herself here. In Dressrosa it didn’t matter when or where if he wanted her he got her. She could let the whole kingdom know who was pleasing her but here she couldn’t do a damn thing but stifle her moans and whine.

“Poor helpless Dove.” He knew what he was doing, nothing drove her more wild, his smugness, he knew all her buttons and just when to play them to make her break every time. Maria continued her best to eat the first round of food while staying quiet, Doflamingo was doing just fine, relaxing as he consumed food and the pleasure of her grinding on him. “Here comes the next round Dove hold on.” He then put a large serving of food in her mouth as he snuck himself inside. He hissed a little as she squeezed around him and gripped onto his wrist. Sanji looked a little concerned as he set their next helping on the table taking away the dirties.

“Is she alright?” He could never let a lady be in distress, but little did he know just how opposite of that she was.

“She’s a real foodie, she must adore your cooking.” He waved Sanji off who was practically ready to fire off to the moon at that idea. Maria managed to swallow and attempted to reach for her water only to shift him inside causing her to cup her mouth. “You thirsty girl?” He did a few small thrusts while she turned her head nodding. “What’s the magic word?”

Oh you ass. Maria let out a minor whine begging to not have to uncover her mouth as he continued his small pumps into her.

“I can’t help you if you don’t use your manners.” 

“P-pleaseee Doffy, I-I need water.” He pins her down with his left hand while his right grabs her glass for her, his shifting grazing her bud, making her squeeze her thighs together on him. She took the glass once he stopped moving, having a few sips before setting it down without shifting him. She then opened her mouth signaling she was ready for more food. He fed her and with every bite she took he gave a small thrust, while he managed through clenched teeth, she struggled to conceal her pleasure as she continued eating what was some of if not the best food of her life all while being stuffed full in more than one way.

Her right knee twitching signaled to Doflamingo her oncoming orgasm. He bit the lobe of her ear to grab her attention.

“Once the chef comes back I’ll check how many more rounds we have.” Maria nodded as she had her face stuffed to muffle the waves of pleasure that were rising and crashing down. He wouldn’t dare let her just sit it out, so every crash was accompanied with a special thrust from him. She was sweating a little from having to eat and contain her noises, her face redder than any pasta sauce as Sanji returned.

“Just this and dessert are left…” His voice trailed off as he saw her face, something felt off but Doflamingo swooped in to save his Dove the embarrassment of having to ratted out for needing her Doffy in a eatery.

“You’re just a spectacular chef.” Maria nodded rapidly as she shakily grabbed her water. “We look forward to dessert.” Sanji darted back into the kitchen to prepare dessert for this lady, no woman had reacted this way when he cooked, perhaps she’d be proof to Zeff he was ready to be head chef.

“D-Doffy…” She muttered and he knew exactly what she wanted with that. “P-please fill me.” She yipped slightly as he sneaked his hand under her shirt gripping her softer and plush tummy from years of being spoiled.

“Are you not gonna be so full of food?” She whined and pouted until he thrusted causing her to eat once more. “That doesn’t answer my question Dove.” His hips pulled out making her whine again this time much more pathetically.

“Doffy you know what I mean!” Her voice raised, causing him to half stifle a laugh much to her embarrassment.

“Keep your voice down, you do want me to stuff you don’t you?” He inserted himself once more watching as Maria’s eyes rolled back and she nodded. “I’ll fill you nice and full but.” Not the dreaded but again. “You need to wait to finish till I’m ready.” Maria whined this was unfair, the way he could stretch and fill her needing body was almost like cheating. “I thought you could handle it, you are a big girl aren’t you Dove?” His hand slid down out of her shirt and trailed to her heat, lightly tapping her bud, getting little trembles and whines.

“I-I can… I can handle it, Doffy.” That was his girl and he lifted his other hand to feed her once more as his finger circled her tender bud, enlisting little jolts and twitches and high pitched muffled moans of pleasure along with his name; much to his delight as she warmed him, clenching tightly around him. They made quick work of the final course, Maria having to come down from incredible highs multiple times reminding herself of her reward had she behaved.

“Here is dessert beautiful.” Sanji set dessert and looked at the woman across from him. She was an utter mess, her hair was in disarray and spread over the booth and her lover behind her, chest was heaving, she was dripping with sweat and this was all in reaction to his food. He couldn’t believe his food did this to a woman, his nose poured blood as he darted to the bathroom to clean up.

“Look at that, you’re finally at the end, just a few more treats and then you’ll be nice and full.” She felt him twitch inside her, sending a ripple up her body. Dessert was much less focused on eating as it was only a few slices. Maria had to do most of the work this round, moving up and down slowly to start. “Faster now.” Maria looked over, hair in her face.

“I-I’ll make noise if I go how you want Doffy.” She felt her hair tug as he pulled her ear close to his mouth, eliciting a light moan to finally escape properly.

“I don’t care, dessert is right there waiting for you. Go on and take it.” Maria felt her heart pounding out of her chest as she did as told, gentle plaps began to come from the two’s booth which if you only listened would be precarious but if you were watching, Doflamingo was tapping a dessert jello to her rhythm inconspicuously as he fed her another dessert, just don’t look to closely at Maria’s rapid rising and sinking in his lap. Each journey down sent sparks through Maria’s throbbing cunt, so desperate for the end, her body shivered as she felt a dribble of his pre-cum, both so close.

“Doffy may I?” She barely managed out through her muffled moans and heavy breaths, all that was left on the table was the jello.

“Go on Dove, I’m right here.” He quickly took some of her hair and held it up to his mouth as she stopped caring about being in public and just slammed herself onto him like her life depended on it. He felt her desperate squeezes trying to milk him, her twitching as she began to surf the waves of pleasure he had sent her on. She nearly falls forward onto the table as she feels his warm ropes shoot into her, luckily he stops her with a tug of her hair making her fall back onto his rising chest. 

The two sat catching their breath as Sanji approached once more.

“We’ll need to take that jello to go chef.” Doflamingo’s breathy voice stated from behind Maria’s hair.

“Yeah? And as for the payment.” Sanji looked a little pale in the face as he only looked with the corner of his eye, one more sight at that woman and he may die of blood loss.

“Don’t worry I have the money.” Doflamingo tossed a sizable pouch of berries on the table. “Keep the change, we’ll be back sometime.” Sanji left temporarily, granting Maria time to wobble off Doflamingo and fix her shorts, while he buckled his pants back up.

“D-Doffy I don’t know if I can walk…” Maria whined looking towards her love. He chuckled once more, petting her hair.

“I’ll carry you Dove, don’t worry.” He cooed while picking her up and planting a kiss on her forehead. She had earned it for finding such a wonderful restaurant for their anniversary.

Chapter Text

Just under 4 years before Dressrosa is thrown into chaos.

Doflamingo had begun a rather promising business venture in the creation of artificial devil fruits. While it would be a very worthwhile venture the cost of time was vast. He rarely left his office as he ironed out all the little wrinkles between mad scientist and Punk Hazard resident Caesar Clown and one of the four emperors Kaidou. The lack of attention had begun to drain on a spoiled Maria who was no longer used to her lover being busy all hours of the day. The rare before bed chat was often nothing more than a game of chicken that often led to nothing.

It was time to take action and Maria had prepared a little plan. It was time to prepare. Maria had a schedule she’d used for years at this point every Wednesday and Saturday were her dedicated spa days where she took care of every little detail, starting with her hair as that was the most time consuming. She stepped into the shower, making sure the water was cool before drenching her tight curls. Since rejoining luxury and being able to take proper care of her hair it had gone from wavy to her natural puffed curls. Once properly wet, she massaged her scalp with a sweet and floral shampoo based on the flora in Dressrosa. With a steady rinse she began to lather her length with a similar scented conditioner, her fingers heavily working it in before allowing it to sit for a few minutes. Once positive her hair was clear of conditioner she scrubbed her body down so she was squeaky clean. Stepping out of the shower she dried her body with a towel before throwing on a night gown, the long process of letting her hair dry had begun, she hung it up on a clothesline inside the bathroom while sitting on a rather comfortable waterproof chair. This of course was all set up at her request within the week of moving into Doflamingo’s room.

Once dried, she pulled her hair into her lap and gently ran the brush through, the bristles small tugs and light rustling a soothing ambience as she worked out in caring for her pride. Deciding it would be best to keep her hair down once brushed she allowed her bountiful curls to bounce and unfurl before springing back to normal just dancing above the ground. What to wear was an easy question. Very rarely did Doflamingo request for her to wear something but any time he did it may as well have been nothing. She threw on a simple lacy pink lingerie before hiding it under an over the top yet extremely comfortable pink fluffy house coat that reminded her of Doflamingo’s coat that constantly danced on his shoulders mysteriously never falling off unless willed by its master. 

The journey to Doflamingo’s office was short and sweet. Maria pressed her ear to the door listening to the best of her ability to tell what her partner was up to. She could make out muffled voices, one her Doffy’s the other two his business partners over transponder snails. As she silently opened the door, Doflamingo raised his head from the snails, maps, blueprints and other miscellaneous papers littering his desk. Maria gave a soft yet mischievous smile, what was she up to? She shut the door behind her before strutting over to the desk, gazing upon her lover’s venture, not that she cared all too much. As she began to lean down over the desk slightly, her chest began to show from the top of her house coat. Ah that’s what his little bird was up to. He stifled a small chuckle watching as Maria allowed her fingers to run across the blueprints before she stood. Her finger trailed the desk’s edge as she made her way around, she lifted the cord to one of the snails sneaking under now between Doflamingo and the desk. It was always a pleasure when she tried to take control. Maria’s voice broke the silence between the two birds as she was just audible to him but not the snails.

“You look like you need a little break.” She wasn’t wrong, these calls were exhausting and daily despite any need. She began to trace his abdomen up to his chest, ending on his shoulders as she crawled onto his lap. “Let me help with that.” Her delicate fingers pinpointed each bundle of stressing building in his shoulders, rubbing them away. As his shoulders began to hang lower, she brought her hands down along his chest once more, continuing her pressure work, eliciting a relaxed sigh. She slid down out of his lap gracefully and without a sound letting her hands work away at his hips. Her face rubbing his pants hidden inner thighs, her warm breath dancing on his crotch, tightening his pants.

“Oh look I missed a spot.” She condescended as she nuzzled against his trapped member. The little nuzzle forces the man before her to ever so slightly twitch his knee, her cue that she’s allowed to press on. “Let’s fix that shall we?” With muscle memory while staring up into his crimson lenses she unbuckled and lowered his pants freeing him. As she took the frankly massive helping of her lover in both hands around the base, she gently kissed the sides. Little wiggles from him as she works closer to the base then the tip filling her with glee. She removed one hand, collecting some of her hair, wrapping it around him watching as his breath stifled for just a brief moment as it tickled him. He never cared for hair before her, but hers, hers was special. It was like an angel's, soft and plush like a blanket but silky and smooth, it’d run through his hands and tangle in his fingers at his command, it was like she had her own strings built in, it was beautiful. As she began to move her hair up and down the shaft, he began to catch whiffs of flora, he knew it was her sweet silk. Carefully he placed down the receivers to the snails and stole some of Maria’s hair to twirl in his fingers in one hand and rest his head on the other. The gentle yet fast strokes quickly caught up to him as he clenched his teeth, leaning back in his chair to muffle any sound.

“I’m sorry Doffy but my hand is getting tired.” She pulled her hand away, placing her lips near his tip as she pulled down on his shaft. He gave a small tug eliciting a sweet hum from her as she received her command. Her mouth warmed his head as she took him in. Her tongue swirled slowly around his ever sensitive tip, she felt him twitch and wrap his legs around her much to her delight. As she moved her mouth down stuffing him into the corner of her mouth she felt him tug once more, as she received her new command she pulled off smirking much to his dismay. She saw his small huff and watched as he let his hand go deeper into her hair closer and closer to her scalp before tugging once more forcing her mouth around him. She dragged her teeth along him as she lowered, hearing him groan ever so slightly. One thing that he had trained her for was taking him all in wherever she could and when he wanted. Gaglessly she managed to slide down his length a little more, his tip hitting the back of her throat before she went a little lower and lower reaching the halfway mark she looked up to him as he smirked down at her.

“Did my Dove bite off more than she can chew?” His whisper taunted her, she could handle him and with that she took a deep breath before plunging the rest of his length down to his delight. She whimpered for a moment as she got accustomed to being so full, the vibrations tingling his core. He carefully bucked his hips a few times setting the pace he wanted her to take him and she quickly followed his lead and took over once he stopped so he could focus on stifling his sounds of pleasure. While she enjoyed watching and listening to him silence himself she so desperately wanted his praise, she needed his affirmation she was doing good. Her gentle whines against him only riled him more, making each plunge more difficult as he twitched. Doflamingo had shut his eyes, relaxing as things couldn’t possibly get better until he heard an obnoxious voice coming from one of his snails.

“Joker, is the SMILE factory going to be done this month?” Caesar’s snail interrupted his bliss. Doflamingo leaned forward grabbing the receiver, he knew unless he strung Maria up she wouldn’t stop and he didn’t want her to. It was time to walk the line.

“Like I told you before.” He hissed as he felt himself jam inside of Maria’s warm mouth, her tongue licking up around his impressive shaft. “It’ll be done, you just focus on the SAD tanker.” Caesar was a needy individual, he demanded attention and yes he was a genius and the best way to get new weapons on the black market, he was also obnoxious and a thorn in his side.

“I just wanted to make sure, My first shipment will be sent as soon as the tanker is ready.” Of course it would be, he had the little people and the toys finishing the factory. It'd be ready within the week if he wanted.

“Are we done here?” He attempted to at least remove one of his problems.

“I guess so, I’ll reach out once the tanker is ready shi-or-or-or.” His stupid laugh came from the snail before Doflamingo put the receiver down ending one call. Maria had one of her hands stroke his side and do her best to hum good boy, Doflamingo using the back of his hand wiped away some drool and began to lean back before a deep voice interrupted his pleasure this time, Kaidou.

“Joker. You understand your quota?” They’d been over this countless times if this damn emperor didn’t drink so much during business he wouldn’t have to pointlessly ask. Maria, feeling her partner’s frustration continued to hum, causing Doflamingo to fall back into his chair as he went to grab the receiver for the other snail. He clenched his fist in her hair pulling it only to be greeted with another heavier vibration, this one a moan. “Joker, are you ignoring me?” He used a string to grab the receiver and pushed Maria’s head down to control her movement. Maria attempted to fight him but it was hopeless, when he wanted control he had it.

“I’m aware of my end Kaidou.” Doflamingo began staring little daggers at Maria, she had gotten him into shit with an emperor, was she in for it. He felt a tingle rush through him from his core up to the nape of his neck before another as Maria had found a way around no longer being able to move. With some simple humming she could still please him. An awkward silence was left on the snail before there was a ca-lick and Kaidou had hung up. With a flick of his wrist Doflamingo tossed the receiver back to its snail. He pulled his hand away from her head and out her hair, resting both hands above his head. Maria whined against him, she wanted stimulation too. She pulled off to catch her breath pouting as best she could.

“Now that we’re no longer on call with those two, relax and let me hear you Doffy.” Maria gently pleaded as she kissed his pulsing shaft, exactly where she knew she could pull noises from. To her displeasure he held them in, robbing her. He chuckled seeing her grow frustrated. Poor thing hasn’t had to work for something in so long.

“Dove, does a naughty girl like you even deserve to finish what you started?” Maria shivered slightly if she could get past her pride she’d admit she loved when he degraded her.

“You’ve been stuck in here and tired every night. Doffy please I need a treat.” A treat? He treated her all the time, especially when he knew he was about to get busy he’d shower her in every little indulgence she had before he’d become locked away with work.

“Aren’t you greedy, haven’t worked for anything in so long and yet you need a treat?” Maria nodded, she was fully aware of her greed but when it was him, it wasn’t a want it was a need.

“I want to give you a reward, you do so much for me, let me please you.” Her eyes seemed softer as she begged for the chance to take care of him, a smirk crawling onto his face as he chuckled.

“That’s more like it, now get to work.” His voice harshened as he commanded her, she quickly stuffed him down her through, gliding up and down. As he stretched her mouth and jaw she couldn't help but moan just a little. As he continued to stunt his noises she felt him twitch more before a little bit of pre-cum tickled her tongue on the way up. It sent off fireworks and she hastened her pace, she needed his essence. She felt him pet the back of her head only causing her to wiggle her hips slightly as if she was wagging a tail. Her hair was tugged harshly as she felt warmth explode into her mouth. She dared not waste a single drop swallowing all of his goodness up and licking him clean.

“Did I do good?” Her large brown eyes stared up at him, hoping for praise and that maybe soon she’d hear him moan her name again, tell her she was a good girl, even degrade her, she just needed to hear him.

“Very good Dove.” She saw him orchestrate something with his fingers, hearing papers swoosh behind her. “Get up.” He took charge once more after giving her just a spoonful of praise, it would only feed her more. As she stood she saw the desk had been cleared off. “You know what to do.” He saw her look at him helplessly before she huffed slightly turning. He firmly slapped his hand across her ass getting a yip as she jumped over the desk. She felt a string wrap around her neck, tightening slightly. “Don’t give me any more attitude understood?” Maria nodded, now was not the time for her to be a brat, it was time for love, begging and to work it.

First she untied the house coat and let it fall down her shoulders as she turned, just enough so he could now see she had chosen his favorite garments for her, that was his good girl. With a delicate slide and toss the house coat fluttered behind her until it laid upon the ground, she was now opposite his desk leaning over it, he may have gotten to gawk at her but that didn’t mean she wasn’t allowed to admire him. Maria crawled onto the desk before sitting back on her calves, pulling hair over her shoulder to feign innocence like it was her first time and she suddenly lost her confidence. Doflamingo sat up and with one finger movement that had become natural popped Maria’s bra off causing her face to flare up, now she was his innocent little thing.

“D-Doffy, I-I wasn’t done.” She weakly protested which he promptly stamped out, standing up, his pointer finger and thumb raising her chin to meet his lenses.

“And? I can’t have fun with my little bird?” His voice made Maria tremble, that intoxicating arrogance with just one sprinkle of love. She nodded, turning so her back was towards him as she slid off her drenched bottoms. He slammed his hand onto her ass again, this time gripping onto it after. His nails digging in rewarded him with a whimper. He brushed her hair away from her shoulder and neck.

“Please mark me Doffy…” Maria’s voice was gentle and submissive as it should be. She felt his warm breath where; he cleared her hair she wiggled her leg slightly before he sunk his teeth into her. She yelped and covered her mouth with one hand as her eyes began to sting. As his teeth sunk deeper and deeper he gained more and more whimpers. The nails of his other hand carved up her side before he roughly grabbed her tit, perky nipple between two fingers ready for him. She whined as tears trickled down her face feeling him chuckle against her before he began to pinch and twist. Maria began to slump from the mixture of pain and pleasure; it didn't take long for Doflamingo to swoop in with his other hand and hold her up against him, Maria soon clutched onto him. He flicked away at her nipple as he released her neck from his mouth, watching for a moment as little points of blood grew on the surface for him to lick away.

He pulled her along, having her lay on her back legs around his waist as his tip grazed her slit. Her lip trembled at the feeling. She attempted to move her hips before he pinned them down tsking like you would when disappointed with a child. He watched as her eyebrows furrowed, her brown eyes begging for him.

“Doffy Please-!” Maria went to beg before being cut off as she felt her lover's tongue infiltrate her mouth. Her own greeted him before the two tongues began their desperate dance of desire, one fierce and dominating the other needing and submissive. Anytime Doflamingo attempted to pull away he was pulled back in by a whine or lick just before he was out of reach, it was amusing how pathetic she became all for him. Her arms wrapped around his neck to hold him close and not let him escape, as if it would really do anything.

He finally forced himself away, cleaning a little drool from his own face watching her chest heave for any air. He had it calculated just how many breaths she needed to recover before she could speak, seven. Once he saw her draw her sixth he slammed himself into her, watching as she was caught off guard and her breath hitched with a gentle moan. His condescending chuckle made her wiggle ever so slightly.

“Don’t hold anything back for me, I want to see you become a mess.” Before she managed to catch her breath once more he started his ferocious thrusting, his arms pinning her to the desk while he crashed into her over and over. Maria couldn’t stifle a thing, the embarrassing noises playing from below when he jammed himself in, her pathetic attempts to breath, her desperate lewd moans. It was like a fucking symphony all for him. “My Dove.” He growled out, Maria’s legs squeezed around his waist as she desperately nodded her head, her hair sprawling into a mess.

“A-All yours!” She managed through her moans. “All yours forever Doffy I promise!” She knew her place well and she loved it. “F-fuckkkkkk!” She cried out as he continued his domination of her cunt. He stared down at the site below him, what a gorgeous painting on display, how flushed her skin was, how it glistened with sweat, how her hair danced with him, how her lips always stayed apart, how her eyes tried to look at him but kept rolling back. 

She was like puddy in his hands, whatever he wanted she became. His Dove, his heaven, his self indulgence. This woman had consumed him, every action he did now had just a little more oomf all because of her.

“Doflamingo I love you!” She cried out for him, she was in the holy garden and continued to indulge in all its treasures. He was her everything, her entire being was devoted to him, he was her god. That cry was a calling, a prayer to him. His Dove was solely focused on him, he felt her clench around him signaling she was going to be faster than usual.

“Already close, are you now Dove?” He couldn’t help but taunt her, she simply twitched and whined in embarrassment. “Hold it until I’m ready, understood?” She nodded before her hips began to tremble. She was right there, right at the precipice and he slid out.

“P-Please hurry Doffy… I need you to fill me up. I hate being so empty…” God was she ever helpless without him. He leaned down kissing her chin and then her chest, his voice deep and slightly breathy.

“You do?” He thrust into her once more, this time staying firm. “Is this better?” She whined loudly before grabbing his face, he allowed her to pull him close, their lips almost touching.

“Doffy, you know damn well what I mean.” She pressed her delicate lips to his, grabbing the short blond hair on the back of his head. He groaned into the kiss as she gave a little tug before he began moving his hips once more.

Once Maria needed to breathe she fell back, her eyes longing for him, as if she didn’t have him stuffing one hole and caressing her hips with his hands. His thrusts began to slow in pace but raise in power as he watched her body jiggle from him, her messy moans now consistent. Maria whined as she tightened around him again, her core begging to burn, pressure building in her hips. He couldn’t help but indulge himself in moaning, the way she would squeeze around him as his own pressure began to build was suffocating in the best way.

“Doffy, I love you, please don’t leave me.” Her mind was going blank as she felt it all building, all charging up, only raw desire left.

“I’m not going anywhere Maria.” Hearing her name from him was special, it was her sign that there weren't any strings attached, not that there often was with Dove.

“You’re amazing, you’re spectacular, you’re generous, handsome, brilliant, radiant.” She began to babble praise before she reached for him to lean close and he obliged, letting her cling to him. “I’m gonna!” She held onto him for dear life as everything exploded over, her nerves fired off rapidly, she felt everything and numb. As she rode her high he fired off more seed into her only eliciting more whining and moaning before all went quiet as she laid back twitching slightly a calm silence filled the air as the two birds gathered their breath.

“Doffy?” Maria broke the silence, her eyes half lidded a tired smile on her lips. He hummed in acknowledgement. Her hand cupped his face. Her voice was as soft and gentle as it could go. “I love you Doflamingo.” He couldn’t help but shiver, that right there. That was what drove him wild the most, she simply loved him for him. He leaned down resting his forehead on hers. A subtle gentleness in his own voice.

“I love you too Maria.” The tender moment was interrupted by a knock at the door. With swift movements Doflamingo had his coat wrapped around the nude Maria and sat down with her facing him in his lap, laying against his chest. His voice returned to its normal arrogance as he acknowledged the door. “Come in.”

“Sorry sir.” Penny entered with her hands full of folders. Before she could continue he took a deep breath.

“Just leave it on my desk and scram.” Penny quickly dropped the documents on the desk and left without another word.

Chapter Text

The four seasons in Dressrosa were all pleasant but as the outlook headed towards Maria’s second summer and first full one, things had settled. She felt at home in the nation of passion, romance and fantasy. One thing had started to plague her however and that was her lover's struggle to rest at least around her. Only a handful of times every month Doflamingo would sleep through a night undisturbed, most often he’d either force himself awake watching the little bird rise and fall with his breathing or wake up in a cold sweat. The odd time Maria would wake up and attempt to comfort him, whether it was while he was asleep or awake. It then became a coin toss that he’d either be soothed or wake up and Maria would be denied finding what haunted him.

“My lady, what are you doing?” Penny had walked in on Maria still in bed despite finishing her breakfast, her lady never stayed in bed but here she was staring off into the distance, her hand propping her chin up, you could see the gears turning in her brain. Penny’s voice had broken her focus as she looked up.

“Thinking about how to help Doffy sleep.” Penny had served the young master for many years. She understood that he struggled to rest to some degree but since he had Maria glued to his side she had noticed an improvement. “He still wakes up so often. He’s let me find comfort in him, let me break down and then rebuild my confidence. I want to get through that thick shell.”

“You already have, I’ve never seen the young master so dedicated to a person.” Penny was correct, the way he looked at her behind those crimson lenses, she wasn’t just another plaything. He had actually fallen in love, something she thought impossible. Her time directly under him he was nothing short of a playboy, he’d use whatever woman he found interesting, whether it be a slave or citizen of Dressrosa, for the short time he was king before getting tangled up with Maria. Before her, he had no proper interest in romancing a lady and sex wasn’t something he found full spiritual fulfillment. Penny had heard both her masters pleasure countless times and while not much she had noticed the subtle change in his voice, she even stole a peak one time, the way he treated her, yes he could be rough but every action had something behind it that just couldn’t be put into another woman, Penny knew very well how the young master was in bed, why else would she go with him to Sabaody nearly a year ago.

“He knows every detail about me, from my first memory to my current status, give or take minor details. I think it’s only fair that I get the same.” For any normal couple to Penny’s understanding at least that seemed normal but getting the young master to face whatever demons managed to haunt him, that didn’t feel possible.

“I understand, perhaps a stroll through the garden would help, fresh air, a change of scenery. Might spark something.” Maria pulled herself out of the comfort of bed. She should get up, she had no idea how long she had laid in bed.

The early summer sun beamed down upon the garden, dancing and creating a rainbow in the fountain. A few gardeners were present as they took care of the newly growing summer flora. Maria kicked off her shoes, she needed to feel the grass between her toes. The gentle tickle as she stepped around the garden, the warm sun bathed stones for the garden path. While nothing had sparked yet it was nice to get out, breathing in the warm air, it was better than how stale her room had gotten in the comfort of bed. Maria stared at the hedges that had formed a flamingo and dove, they in turn made a little heart going beak to beak, the wings of the dove open and flying to meet the tall flamingo’s beak. As she made her way under a fruit tree and laid against it she watched the gardeners work, as birds landed and took off in a hurry. Her thoughts on how to get through to Doflamingo began to stop as she took notice of the birds more and more. Dressrosa’s birds had the common seagull, flamingos to no surprise and plenty of small colorful ones but one bird stood out to her and she only ever saw it by the palace. A large black and particularly clumsy swan. No other birds dared cross its path and it wasn’t particularly mean either, it often would land in the fountain, or pool or even just waddle around. It would trip or wander into servants which would then ensue domino effects of chaos. While she couldn’t help but giggle at its antics and any unaffected servant would as well, Doflamingo would be quiet, normally something like that would absolutely be entertaining to him. Such a mundane task getting off railed and no matter how hard anyone tried the chaos left in the swans wake was a hearty mess.

“M’Lady.” A gardener approached as the sun had crept its way onto Maria’s legs, worried she would burn.

“Hm?” She looked up from her train of thoughts once more, this time she wasn’t planning on venting about how to help her lover.

“The sun has started to hit your legs, if you plan on staying out I can fetch you some sunscreen.” Maria nodded, yes not having sunburn would be nice. She had her fair skin burned once before and it was not pleasant. 

“Send someone else, however, I have something I wish to ask you.” The gardener, while confused, did as told. “That black swan, why doesn’t Doffy like it?” The gardener looked around before approaching and speaking under his breath.

“It’d be best to ask a member of the family that question. I’m afraid I’m unsure myself.” Maria, while confused, accepted this and decided she’d wait for dinner. However it became a debate on who to ask. Pica and her were friendly but he was the one she saw the least and sometimes it was hard to control herself with his voice. Diamante, while one of the more common executives was still an asshole when it came to serious matters at least in her eyes, he was more appropriate to be a drinking buddy at the colosseum or parties in her mind. That only left Trebol who’s lack of personal space and constant guarding of sugar made it difficult to properly bond, he was however the one with Doflamingo the most, He wasn’t the executive who had to move from Doflamingo’s side at every instance where the family was together. How would she be able to entice him however, He knew she was a dragon like Doflamingo, would her former status help her? Unlikely he always found her too soft which was a fair assessment, anytime Doflamingo had offered a gun to her she would freeze up much to his dismay. However her positive effect on Doflamingo’s mood and sleep was a bonus but then again if word got out of Dressrosa that Doflamingo was in a proper relationship, Trebol wasn’t keen on his king having a weakness to be exposed. She had no choice but to gamble that the sticky man would respect her birthright authority and position in the family, after all she could give orders to the family if she chose.

Dinner was busy as ever as everyone had taken their seats and food was brought out. As the small talk broke out at one end of the table so did the other end Maria and Doflamingo had their typically catch up at the end of the day banter, Doflamingo would throw a few curveballs causing Maria to end up flushed in the face much to his amusement. As dinner droned on and on, Maria realized she’d have to quit avoiding her request as even Trebol had become aware of her constant side glances checking what he was doing. The biggest factor was tripping a red flag with Doflamingo, she had never before requested one on one time with another member of the family, all her interactions came at get togethers or spur of the moment cross paths. Doflamingo stood from his chair and placed his hand on the crown of Maria’s head.

“I’ll be right back, Dove.” He soothed her nervous soul and once she no longer heard his footsteps she looked to the man sitting across from her in all his oozy-ness.

“Trebol, I know you’re a busy man but would I be able to talk with you after dinner?” The half a second she had to wait for his response was agonizing before his obnoxious laughter caused her anxiety to spark harsher.

“Nyeh? That’s what all those glances were for?” His nasally voice grained on her ears. “Diamante, would you watch Sugar?”

“But of course.” Diamante happily took on the responsibility as Trebol made his way around the table.

“C’mon Dove .” Maria followed along, the way he stated her name causing an ick to crawl on her back. Maria then led them to the garden which had become quiet and peaceful. Trebol’s voice broke the somewhat awkward silence between the two.

“So.” His body nearly oozing onto Maria, his lack of any personal space was definitely making this uncomfortable situation even more so. “Why did you request me to talk to?” It was intriguing, She had been here nearly a year and had pretty much clung to his king as much as she could.

“Do you know why Doffy doesn’t like the black swan?” Her question certainly gained an eyebrow raise.

“Nyeh? That dumb bird is why you pulled me away from dinner?” Maria quickly snapped back as her anxiety had her on edge.

“I did kindly offer after but you chose in the middle.” She had started to gain a bit of a bite even around Doflamingo, some of those mannerisms a dragon should have re-emerging in spoiled paradise. “The antics that sawn get up to are something I feel he’d take simple pleasure in or a small chuckle, he goes cold instead.” Maria took a few steps towards the fountain to buy herself some space. “It’s been almost a year and he knows every detail about me and I know nothing about what haunts him, what keeps him awake, unable to rest. I’m failing my duty to him.” Maria rambled as Trebol simply stood there, calculating the best approach.

“Perhaps he just doesn’t like black.” Trebol’s smart ass answer had done something to Maria, it didn’t matter who, she would be heard, never again would she be ignored.

“Excuse me?” The gentle and timid woman had suddenly disappeared as she looked over her shoulder. “Want to run that by me again Trebol?” This wasn’t a game with Doffy, this wasn’t peasantry at the table or a party. This wasn’t small talk while crossing paths. This was her trying to contribute to the family by taking care of its most important member. The sudden change had Trebol silent for a minute, he wasn’t sure what to expect, this woman had never dared raise her voice to anyone in the family before, only Doflamingo had stood up for her, yet here she was standing up to arguably the most important executive. “Answer me Trebol.” She had fully turned, staring down the right hand man of the Donquixote family. Trebol once again calculated his answer, it was time to push and see what exactly this dragon had in her.

“Perhaps he just doesn’t like black.” His voice is slow and dripping much like his nose with sarcasm. Maria had stood as tall as she could, which was still only just about half Trebols height before allowing a demanding voice echo from her lungs.

“Is there too much gunk in your brain to understand me? When someone above you asks a question you answer with respect, need I remind you what blood flows through my veins?” The dragon bared its fangs, Trebol would mop the floor with this woman in a fight. It was the first instance of fight and disrespect she had shown since entering the family and it had intrigued him. This little dragon could prove useful to him. It was time for a test. Trebol approached and placed a pistol in Maria’s hand before backing away.

“I’ll make you a deal little dragon.” Maria grit her teeth at that name, while the black swan had landed in front of them, as if on cue for some role in a play. “Shoot the swan and I’ll tell you what you want to know.”

“Just information? I want your respect if you want me to pull the trigger, I’m not below you, I only answer to Doffy.” Yes that was it, continue to fight, it wasn’t going to be another Doflamingo but perhaps he could groom this dragon to be a problem as well, one that was no longer a weakness but asset.

“You little dragon have a deal.” Trebol patiently watched as Maria pointed the gun to the swan who simply stood there staring her down. The gentle night breeze, running water and dancing grass was a beautiful and tranquil environment.

One desperate honk, flash of light and ear piercing bang broke the tranquility. A smile crept onto Maria’s lips, oh how she forgot how good it felt to fire a pistol. The idea had horrified her for years after her fathers death but this oozing bastard had made her forget all that and pull the trigger. The swan fell over with a thud while Trebol let out one of his signature laughs once more.

“Now Trebol, it’s your turn.” She approached him and handed him back the pistol. He stared at the swan making sure Maria watched as it bled out into the garden.

“That swan is a lot like the late Corazon.” Corazon, that name sounded familiar, it was the name given to whoever held the heart throne. It had been held by Vergo who was in the navy right now and one other man who she had not yet learned about. “That Corazon happened to be Doffy’s little brother, a man who he loved and benevolently took into the family. Before he stabbed us in the back.” Trebol's laugh lowered in tone at the irony of his situation. “And just like you did right now, Doffy shot him for betrayal.” It began to click but to Maria, but her lover wasn’t the type to get hung up by just one death. “Why don’t we return to dinner.” Trebol ushered Maria ahead who carried herself higher than before but still concerned about her lover, she’d ask about Corazon tonight.

“Ah, there’s my Dove.” Doflamingo’s wide grin welcomed the two back into the dinning hall as dessert was brought out. “Where have you been?” Maria wasn’t a good liar; he was well aware of that.

“She asked how she could help out more.” Trebol had butted in before taking his seat once more, saving Maria from having to lie.

“She could have simply asked me that.” Doflamingo countered while taking a bite of the sweet pastry before him.

“And you would have said nothing Doffy.” Maria winked and smiled while she took a bite herself, before she felt a string around her neck pull her into his shamelessly spread lap.

“But of course my Dove.” Maria leaned against his exposed chest ignoring that he was getting crumbs into her hair with his messy eating. For the rest of dessert, that string never left her neck and Doflamingo had taken it upon himself to feed Maria her dessert before he took her and retreated to their quarters.

Once in their room the string finally left her neck and that smile had left Doflamingo’s face. He set her down and walked to the balcony staring out.

“You alright Doffy?” Maria worried, it was certainly a silent walk to their room. Not the silence they were accustomed to. His lack of a response only worsened her worry. She approached him cautiously. “Did I upset you?” Yes she had, he was aware of her looks to Trebol, she watched from afar as she stood her ground as she shot the black swan. He acted unknowingly when they returned to the dinning hall, of course never letting her leave his side after that. Fine he’d indulge her since she was so curious she’d go behind his back, while yes he adored that kindness in her for him, how dare she snoop, that would be something he dished out a punishment for later.

“Did you enjoy pulling that trigger?” His voice was monotone yet blunt, Maria struggled to read off how she should reply but she was taken aback. She was rather clueless when it came to his stalking. But she knew one thing, don’t play dumb.

“A little.” He knew what she was after she had no point in being coy or dancing around for the answer to her question now. “Is Corazon the only demon that keeps you up at night?” Doflamingo laughed off her question a little before he ‘calmly’ answered.

“Not in the slightest, Corazon is just one of many. I am grateful you got rid of that damned swan.” She heard a hint of frustration, was it at himself for having a lingering miss for his brother? “I’ve taken countless lives that doesn’t haunt me.” He squatted into a hammock that lay on the balcony. Maria walked over placing a hand on his face, gently brushing her thumb on his cheek, her brows furrowed slightly.

“Then what does haunt you, let me take that burden from you. Or bear it with you.” How cute and how ironic, she already was bearing a similar demon, the one on her hip, she wouldn’t dare admit it because she never awoke but he’d seen her have nightmares of that night she had once told him about, the one where the day after he found out every little detail about that retched island and the trash that marked her, he sent an few members of the family to leave nothing behind but a pebble. He stared from behind his crimson lenses into those soft brown eyes, the ones that would entice him to ignore his duties, the ones that softened him, the ones that drove him wild. He began taking deep breaths as if he was preparing himself for something.

“Doffy?” Maria’s gentle voice worried before she was left silent as she watched his hand pull down his shades, flashing a pair of soft ember red colored eyes, the left one just a few shades duller than the right. Before Doflamingo could say anything he had to close his eyes as Maria approached and gently kissed each one. “You have some beautiful eyes under those shades Doflamingo.” He felt himself choke and bit his lip for a moment before he pulled Maria tightly against his chest. Not another word was said as the two cuddled in the hammock for hours, gazing upon both the stars and the others' eyes, enjoying the warmth of each others bodies.

Doflamingo had placed his shades back over his eyes before he spoke once more, allowing himself to be vulnerable like this for what was hopefully the last time he ever needed to.

“You already have an idea of what my demons are.” It clicked in her mind finally and she held him tight. It was ironic to him, they both went through a similar chain of events at the start but she still had love in her heart, at the very least for him. And now he found himself reciprocating that love to her, something he thought impossible, when was the world ever going to offer him something to love. But now it had, a soft brunette haired girl.

“I’m sorry for going behind your back. I was just worried, you are my world. If we have to, I'll burn down Dressrosa, Any one or thing that gets in your way.” Her voice was all he needed to bring him down from his emotional high, one that had almost brought him to tears for the first time since being just a boy. “Donquixote Doflamingo I love you, I’ll stay by your side as long as you’ll have me.” Her affirmation was sweet and while he never wanted to continually have to admit this to himself, he loved it. He needed it.

“Maria, my Dove.” His voice was nearly a whisper and sent chills up her spine. “I’ll have you forever.” Her heart started to pick up its pace. “However, I don’t want you going behind my back again.” His hand had met her neck, his fingers squeezing just enough for her airflow to be interrupted. “Naughty little birds like you need to be reminded of their cage.” Maria’s heart began pounding as she felt his breath in her ear.

That night was one of the best the two had shared in their short stint but it would stand the test of time and from that night on the nightmares that plague Doflamingo had subsided little by little until it was only a handful of times a month did he need his dove to guide him through the realm of the resting to peace.

Chapter Text

One way to signify if a day would be good or great was by how Maria was woken up. It would be a good day if it was her typical tray of breakfast had pulled her from her rest, it would be a great day if she rolled over and still felt her lover in the bed. It wasn’t too often as he was a busy man but those mornings were the best. Those mornings had often left Maria in bed far later than she would normally like, whether it was a simple and quiet cuddle or perhaps serving her lover it always resulted in her receiving something that was a blessing. This morning was no different, the gentle summer breeze, the sun dancing through the windows and veils on the bed frame, the large blonde with crimson shades beside her partially dressed as if he had debated starting his day. She couldn’t help but watch his bronze chest slowly rise and fall, a slow and steady rhythm that she subconsciously begins to mimic. Before falling completely into his trance she shuffles out from her covers and snuggles into his side, his large left hand resting upon her back.

“Morning Doffy.” Maria hummed contently as she felt him radiating a gentle heat, one that made her forget any troubles that she miraculously had lingering in her mind if any.

“Morning my Dove.” His palm pressing on her back and rubbing circles rewarding himself with a few groans and grunts. Maria gently planted little kisses along his sides as thank yous for the back rubs before she had to stop as he shifted, now sitting up.

“I just got comfy why’d you have to move?” She whined out as if she’d never get comfortable again, all the while rolling over one of his legs and laying in his lap.

“Oh? Looks like you’ve already gotten comfortable again.” His voice now entangled with a slight teasing. “From how you sounded I thought you’d never have that luxury again.” Maria let out a small huff as her acknowledgement, was she really trying to play this game so early? His ever concocting fingers glided along her neck and collar bone, tracing its outline. She let out a minor grumble in embarrassment before relaxing to his touch. However as soon as he felt her relax he pulled away gaining another whine making him chuckle slightly.

“Stop movinggg.” That bratty undertone as she expected of him to comply, first going behind his back, now getting spoiled and expecting. It was time to remind her just who was in charge. Doflamingo clicked his tongue while shifting his legs to wrap around her midsection.

“Now is that anyway to ask for something. I already so graciously stayed in bed with you this morning.” What a generous thing for him to do, however Maria couldn’t see it that way, it had become routine, they’d wake up and she’d cuddle him before they both got up. He’d stay how she wanted him, not moving unless it was to remove whatever stress she had managed to accumulate in paradise.

“As you should.” How daring, her tone continued with that spoiled expectancy, splendid she wasn’t going to cave, this morning would be wonderful.

“Oh really now?” His fingers danced along her neck, every step applying slightly more pressure than the last. His steps began working upwards and drawing her gaze to him. “If that’s the game you’d like to play.” He felt her heartbeat picking up as his tone became more strict and in control. “Who went behind my back just a few nights ago? Who’s been getting everything under the sun since she was saved from slavery?” Maria swallowed, a pink hue growing on her cheeks. However he needed an answer and she did not give it, his fingers gripped her neck, her breath stunted for a second as she became accustomed to the force.

“M-Me. I-I am.” That timidness rapidly took over her voice, it felt so good to hear it again, no longer was it just what she would do, now he had to simply tug on just the right places and she’d be puddy for him.

“So you can listen.” Maria, too prideful now wouldn’t dare admit just how much she loved when he broke her down, while she loved when he made her feel special, that feeling of being nothing to him was also intoxicating. “I think you need a reminder on who is in control.” With a few twists of his fingers Maria had been stripped of her most clothing, excluding her underwear, the minimal effort he needed to put into it always skyrocketed Maria’s embarrassment. She weakly pushed her thighs together and covered her chest with her arms crossed over. She felt him chuckle to himself before a tug from a string forced her up and into his lap properly. “Move your hands Dove.” Maria shook her head in defiance which was greeted with another pull from his strings that pulled her hands away and onto his abdomen. “Look at you.” His tongue’s tip snuck out for a moment as he licked his teeth. Maria let out another whine, while delectable he wanted more out of her now. “Speak.” He commanded.

“I-I…” Her voice trembled as she let her brown eyes try and do the talking for her, she looked to his lenses before shyly looking down. Only for him to repeat his command. She rubbed her thighs together on his leg, of course he knew what she wanted she knew that, it drove her off the wall she had to spell it out to him. “Doffy please.”

“Please what Dove? I’m clueless as to what you need.” His smile only grew larger as his voice dripped with false innocents. This is how she’d learn.

“I need you.” He raised an eyebrow, oh she needed him but for what? What on earth could she need him for? As she grumbled he couldn’t suppress a small giggle at her attempts to have him once more do most if not all the work. His hand groping one of her plump tits. “M-more than that.” He removed his hand and her pathetic whine only making his wicked grin larger.

“Was that really not enough? I don’t know if I can do more than that.” Of course he could, he’d drive her through their mattress with ease if he wanted. Maria began to feel his underwear pressing against her moistening underwear. As if on instinct he noticed her hips moving, rocking back and forth slightly, just enough to try and give her something through the fabric which he firmly put a stop to. “Oh, is that what you need? Why didn’t you just say so?” That sarcasm as if he hadn’t known the whole time, as if it wasn’t the most obvious thing in the world.

“Come on please give me something Doffy!” That was it, become unruly, forget those manners he’d drilled into, he was happy to re-drill them as many times as he needed when rewarded with a mess like this. She yelped as he clawed onto her tit, shifting it around in his hand like it was just a stress ball. Her whimpers and sharp breaths as he felt her now drenching his own underwear, what a good little bird she was for him.

“Already through your own underwear, what a slut you are.” She jolted her shoulders and clenched her thighs around him, maybe she was but he was just so damn good. “Take them off.” She followed her orders swiftly even if it was awkward with him still roughing up her chest. As she went to throw them away he snagged them, holding them to his face and inhaling deeply. “Fuck, that’s good.” His teeth shut around the crotch and his lips pursed as he sucked whatever juices he could from them. That sweet slick of hers was divine. With one firm smack on her ass that began pulsing and stinging afterwards she knew it was time to move. Her little whines, the tiny moans she could manage as she moved her hips against his contained cock, he couldn’t help but give her at least a little something for that obedience.

“Ahhh~” Her knees jerked as under his underwear he began twitching in a simple beat. That beat only drove her more desperate to have the real thing out. “Doffy please let it out.” He tossed her underwear away, licking his lips once satisfied.

“What, this thing?” With one string Maria had been pulled up and hovered in the air as he removed his underwear, freeing his member which sprung up, just out of reach. Maria desperately wiggled her hips, she needed it inside her or just against her just something. “Look at you. A pathetic little slut. What would you do without me?”

“I-I don’t know, you are my everything, p-please let me grind against it.” He dropped her from the string and she quickly raised herself up and down against him, coating him in her slick.

“You don’t want it inside?” She quickly went to move onto it before he grabbed her throat. “You asked to grind. Do I need to take it away?” Her eyes shot open, that was a terrifying thought.

“Nonononono.” He dropped her against him. She began pressing her slit against him once more. “T-Thank you Doffy.” She cooed, he was nice enough to not make her beg to grind once more. Her body was warming rapidly, it was so hard to stop herself every time she climbed to the top to not fill herself up and slide down, to not rearrange her insides at his massiveness. What a beautiful sight, he watched as she climbed and had to force herself to not just take him, how she bit her lip in debate, how she forced her eyes closed on the way down in frustration.

“That’s enough.” His command caused Maria to cling to him, pushing herself against him whining as if she had just lost a toy. “I’ve got work to do unlike someone here.” His hand snuck its way down to her dripping cunt, sliding a finger in. Her leg muscles vibrated for a moment before he took away the pressure, his finger going into his mouth as he sucked it clean before having it pop out of his mouth.

“Don’t leave me here. I need to be full.” Full eh? He could fill her if she earned it. He made her sit up and she began grinding once more. “P-Please stuff me full with your cock Doffy.” That was a start, he rolled his hips, making her climb that much higher. “I need to leak from you, I need to struggle to walk because of you.”

“Are you not already leaking from me?” His taunt did not go unnoticed by the pitiful brunette in his lap. She picked up her pace which only caused her more whines.

“Fill me up with your cock, cum deep inside until it’s spilling out of me!” She felt him raise her once more before she fell onto his cock. The way it shoved in and stretched her walls, how it took her breath away, how it would twitch in her warmth. His favorite part of the little show she’d give him was when he looked at her belly, he could see himself, this innocent little thing stuffed like she wanted. It didn’t take her long anymore to get used to the feeling of fullness before she could start moving. She’d rise halfway up before coming down and slapping against his crotch. The wet and lewd plaps from her landings only turned both of them on more. She couldn’t stifle her moans as he pierced her spot and beyond, it bordered on too much but that's what made it so good. She watched as he relaxed his shoulders, laying his head back slightly, hissing and groaning as she took him so well like she was trained to.

“T-thank you Doffy. You feels-so gooood.” She purred out and clenched around him as she managed to move her hips as fast as she could, her praise had bought her just a little more time at this mediocre pace before it was time to take over and obliterate her to his liking. She’d barely manage out praise and thank yous for him right now, soon she’d be nothing but moans. Drool dribbled down her chin and her tongue rolled out as she began panting for air. He lunged for her tongue and began sucking on it much to her surprise before he forced his tongue into her mouth, feeling every inch of her teeth and lapping her tongue a few times before pulling away leaving a strand of saliva connecting them as her eyes became half lidded. That was his cue.

He forced her hips against his and rolled them over so she laid staring up at him, so small below him, so frail. Her surprised little squeak as she was pinned he couldn’t help but chuckle.

“D-Doffy!-” Her thought was cut off as he pulled out before slamming back in. Her body trembled after and whatever she was going to say was gone as all that filled her mind was that emptiness being replaced by fullness. He repeated the action over and over, Maria bucking with him, he’d watch as her body would bounce, how his cock would twitch once in fully, how her braid was sprawled behind her. However he had to finish his lesson before he could remove her mind entirely from this realm.

“Who do you belong to?” How his voice had grown lower and rumbled through her body forcing her to salivate more.

“You! Doflamingo!” That was a good girl and she earned another fierce thrust, moaning in delight.

“What are you no longer going to do?” Maria was still catching her breath from his reward that she didn’t process what he said before a sharp pain struck her outer thigh.

“G-go behind your back!” The lack of a reward made her realize she had forgotten she had been spoiled so much lately. “A-and be ungrateful for your time.” He rewarded her once more to her delight, a satisfied smile laid on his face.

“That’s a good girl.” His cooing only caused her to clench around him, her walls practically clung to him as if they would die without him. Without another moment to waste he set a demanding pace that had knocked what little presents Maria had away as she was being sent to heaven by her god. “Fuck, how are you still so tight after all this time.” He hissed through his teeth, sometimes her clenching would make it feel like she’d rip him right off but did it feel so damn good. What was unsurprising was after all that grinding and riding here she was already twitching as she was rapidly approaching her peak. If he had any patients left he would make her beg but the idea of overstimulating her into oblivion was far more entertaining to his cock right now. She babbled something that sounded like his name as she fluttered around him in ecstasy, tears welling in her eyes as he didn’t grant her a moment of slowing down throughout her crushing stimulation, the firing of just woken nerves, that explosion of pressure in her core.

“What a mess you’re making of the bed.” His taunt was registered as she wriggled under him but couldn’t find a single word to respond. “Is there a thought at all in that pretty little head of yours?” He slowed down just enough for her to begin to find a counter only to shut her up with her own moans as a finger circled her swollen and needing clit. She was pathetic and he loved it.

By now the bed had been creaking, both birds losing composure one far more than the other and becoming moaning messes, the squelching as he came out before the wet slaps as he re-entered. If a single servant had walked by they’d know every detail just by the sound.

“Fuck Maria, you are just the perfect little whore.” He watched as her eyelashes fluttered and she began clutching the bed sheets to stay slightly more present as despite her overstimulation she was a little more aware. “You take me so well.” He curled down and bit hard on her chest, her arms and legs wrapped around him for all that was holy as his teeth sunk in and he began to suck upon her skin. Her sweat soaked body from having to take him, her fair and delicate skin was fucking scrumptious. Her desperate clutching and tugging on his unbuttoned shirt only fueling his hunger for her. 

Pulling away from her chest he was greeted with her flushed face that was desperately trying to focus on him. He managed a chuckle through his moans as her brown eyes were begging for more.

“D-Doflamingo, fuck.” She grunted as he thrusted with a little more oomf just to throw her off her praise only getting him to chuckle more.

“Can’t think can you my Dove?” His thrusts managed to find another level as he changed his angle just enough so he would rub against her needing clit. She fell backwards onto the bed barely managing a thought. “That's it, I don’t need you to think. Just take me and be a mess for me!” His orders managed to hold into her mind and she had already begun feeling a pressure build once more in her hips. He was well all too aware of her second approaching orgasm and had no intention of denying her the euphoria. Once more she had rapidly attained a glimpse into heaven and what she saw was him, that sweaty and short blond hair, those crimson lenses that stared into her very being, that wide grin that almost never left. Fuck was he a gracious god for everything he had done for her. His deep groans and flexing leg muscles as she grabbed hold of his cock buried inside not letting him move. As she came down she heard him speaking as he picked up his thrusting once more.

“You better get to three quick or you’ll miss out on going with me.” Her hips could barely buck or help but she tried before he pinned her down. “Don’t you fucking dare. Stay there and take it.” Her eyes rolled into the back of her head as he moved his hand up playing with her perky nipple in one hand the other nipple being nipped at by his panting mouth.

Her already shot nerves were desperately wailing for it to stop but at the same time couldn’t shut up for more. If she couldn’t find her climax with him, that would be a fate worse than death right now. She needed to clench around, milk him dry. Then just as soon as it had all settled it was rising rapidly once more.

“Doffy!” She cried out as she felt him leaking against her. It was so warm, it made her feel whole. “I-I’m right there!” The speed of her third orgasm stunned him. She was simply leaking like a broken glass, the pressure couldn’t build properly and she was already about to suffocate him once more, this time he was more than ready. As she clamped down on him screaming his name as loud as she could from the intense overstimulation sending her away. He erupted deep inside of her, his seed painting her walls white and squeaking out from how tightly she clung to him. The two collapsed into one being on the bed both exhausted, one far more than the other. Sweat, slick and cum staining the sheets while warm breath and heavy panting was the only sound and other stimuli. The two had no interest in untangling from their mess and stayed there for a little while to rejuvenate.

“Doffy…” Maria’s voice is rough from her cries, screams and moans.

“What is it Dove?” Doflamingo’s voice came from her chest as he didn’t bother moving.

“You aren’t that busy right?” He looked up with an eyebrow raised. “Could we go again?”

The two birds never left the bed that morning, sending off breakfast and only getting up late into the afternoon. Much like the previous pattern, that was a wonderful morning and one she would not forget

Chapter Text

3 years before disaster strikes in Dressrosa and a few months after the incident at the Baratie between the two love birds.

Maria had sunk her claws into understanding all the work her husband did in the underworld. After all she used to be a consumer but understood nothing, but with all of the additional power and finances from the success of the SMILEs Maria had grown curious. She’d overheard a few meetings for various reasons. She knew Doflamingo had lost interest in the slave trade sometime after he acquired her; only checking in once every few months, there was the SMILEs of course, weapon dealing and if a devil fruit caught his eye he was typically the man who sold it. However what was most interesting to her was who they sold too. They had Kaidou an emperor and plenty of kingdoms and miscellaneous pirate crews who were regulars but one name had caught her attention as an irregular customer. The Big Mom pirates. Being with the family and joining Doflamingo at a few warlord meetings she understood a little about the four emperors of the sea. There was Kaidou of the Beast pirates who she had overheard during SMILE meetings. Whitebeard of the Whitebeard pirates who was the man closest to the fabled one piece. Shanks of the Red Hair pirates who she had very little information on other than he tended to party. Lastly was Big Mom of the Big Mom pirates who had a rather insane family size.

The one time she had glimpsed a Big Mom ship while sailing, what stood out was the massive cake in the middle of the ship’s deck. Plenty of pirate ships had unique quirks but a cake? That stood out in her mind. This sparked her deep dive into the Big Mom pirates and that their captain would host tea parties with sweets from all over the seas. Maria loved what Dressrosa cuisine offered but since eating the food at the Baratie she had found at least when it came to desserts she was disappointed. The bar was set so high she needed to see if there was somewhere she could obtain something more.

A pair of gentle knocks on his office door grabbed Doflamingo’s attention. With a muffled enter Maria had already prepared her large brown eyes for begging. Doflamingo looked down slightly, his eyebrows raised curious as to what his Dove had found herself needing so so badly this time.

“Doffy my love.” Maria leaned on his desk with a cute little smile on her face. “Are you busy right now?” Technically yes he was, he was simply looking over a few reports that didn’t interest him, but fuck was he bored and this girl always found a way to drag him away from whatever he was supposed to be doing.

“That depends on what you want, my Dove.” If her request was simply to sit with him like she had done countless times then he would be busy. Maria let out a little huff at the non answer before continuing with her plan.

“You know I adore the food here, it's just.” Oh was she going to drag him to the East Blue again? “I’ve been really craving something sweet.” Sweets? Were the bakers not up to her new standard? “And I’ve heard of a place where we could get some positively perfect and new delicacies.” Seeing as he didn’t pick up on her hinting at all she sat herself upon his desk. “I know of an event we could go to.”

“You want to go to a tea party for Big Mom.” He finished her sentence, leaning back into his chair thinking. It wasn’t impossible to get an invitation. He was Joker of the Underworld, He'd find a way. The problem was not upsetting his business partner Kaidou. Kaidou was mostly a simple man to work around, keep up quota and all was happy. However anytime the man caught wind of even a rumor that Doflamingo had supplied a crew he particularly disliked it became a massive pain in his ass that left him listening to a drunken man wail on one end the transponder snail. The easiest way to appease him was to use whatever excess SMILE he had saved in case of emergency. But he had a feeling it didn’t matter how many SMILEs he sent, if he had gone into Big Mom’s territory and paid her for that access it’d be a major problem. Perhaps his status as one of if not the most important person in the Underworld would be enough, plenty of lesser underworlders were given invitations. 

“If that’s possible. I understand with our current business partner if it isn’t.” Maria sighed looking off to the walls of the office. While she had full confidence in her lover when it came to combat she would rather not put him or their country at risk of an emperor's wrath.

“Let me see what I can do.” He had already begun running through countless scenarios of how to approach every interaction, every detail to avoid unnecessary headaches. Maria pounced off the desk into his chest, hugging him and becoming giddy.

“You’re the best!” That excitement was adorable, surely this was worth it.

A few weeks had passed since that conversation. Maria lay absorbing the sun in a pink bikini and large sunhat by the pool when a news coos had landed on her side table.

“Oh hello little one, is it paper time already?” She handed the bird a few berries while it handed her a newspaper squawking in joy at another sale before taking off into the blue sky. “What do we have today?” Maria cut herself off as she opened the paper and an odd looking letter fell into her lap. After picking it up and flipping it she saw a jolly roger embedded into it. A skull with a large pink hat and red lips, the Big Mom pirates. Allowing curiosity to take the best of her Maria had opened the envelope pulling out an invitation. She squealed with glee knowing exactly what she was about to read.

‘To Joker and his Mistress,

You are cordially invited to join Big Mom at her Tea Party xx/xx/xxxx on Whole Cake Island in Totto Land. Dress your best and show up on time.

Look forward to hosting you,

The Big Mom Pirates.’

“Oh, did that thing finally arrive?” Doflamingo’s shadow and voice loomed from behind Maria who jumped off her chair in shock before looking to her lover a large smile stuck on her face.

“Yes! Thank you thank you thank you Doffy!” She hugged him tight, still clutching the invitation. Doflamingo picked her up with one of his arms, snatching the invitation out of her hand with a string reading it over. “We should get going soon, the tea party is only a few weeks away! What should I wear?” Putting the invitation in his pocket Doflamingo carried his happily chirping dove to their room.

“We have a special ground rule to go over before we can get too excited.” It was certainly a unique outing and one he could not afford a single mistake by him or her. Maria blew a raspberry in defiance huffing. “Would you rather I puppeteer you the whole time?” He couldn’t simply no show or even decline; they were in the lion's den now, if she wouldn’t listen he’d make her. She pursed her lips before accepting that there had to be rules.

“Fine, what is it?” Her voice annoyed as he deflated her enthusiasm like a balloon.

“You cannot leave my sight once we enter her territory.” She furrowed her brows, she was used to being stuck at his hip but she couldn’t leave his sight that was new. “Big Mom’s tea parties have a special crowd, whether it’s her crew, powerful forces she intends to merge with or top underworlders, your air headedness can get me in a lot of trouble.” Right because it was entirely her fault, not like he was eccentric in his own way.

“I’ll make do, I suppose.” That was a good girl. “Can I get excited now?” He snorted ever so slightly at her little tantrum and unnecessary sass. Such a pathetic little thing would be useless without him and yet here she was upset despite getting what she wanted.

“What? Is my little bird upset that she has to be caged when we go out?” His taunting only fueled a now growing embarrassment. She folded her arms averting her gaze. His voice now low in its condescension. “Oh Maria.” He felt her wiggle in his arms, rubbing her thighs together as she heard her name from his heavenly lips. “I only do this for your safety.” He wasn’t entirely wrong, it’d pain him to see any harm to come to her and the easiest way to manage her while in this situation was for her to stay in his sight at all times. Her warming cheeks and wiggling toes made it hard to keep up her huffing and puffing, she adored being his little bird no matter what came attached with it; which for her wasn’t a lot. He set her slightly wobbly legs down, making her stand. She slowly got her way to packing while he watched, occasionally letting his fingers delicately stroke her figure, every touch making it harder to stand and her mind wouldn’t let go of how he said her name moments ago. He’d squeeze her hips or sides, hearing her little squeaks from the pressure of his fingers.

“D-Doffy…” She whispered under her breath as her concentration was nearly all being used on staying present and trying to pack. Her arm’s shakily folding away a few articles of clothing. He hummed so she knew she had his attention, he already knew what she would say, your being an ass, you’re making this difficult, something along those lines and before she could complain with a flick of his fingers the clothes flew out of the suitcase Maria had been packing and landed sporadically around their room. She groaned, turning to him. “You’re being a big ass here Doflamingo!-” He swiftly shut her up by pressing his lips to hers. It was a joy to watch her lose her temper before he’d soothe her as if he wasn’t the one to do that to her.

“I’d watch that pretty mouth of yours Dove.” He lightly pinched her bottom lip between his thumb and pointer finger. Watching as any frustration melted away back into flusteredness. She could only manage a nod in response. “Why don’t I have our servants take care of packing?” He hunched right into her ear. His warm breath danced along her neck and shoulder as he spoke. “I’m getting hungry.”

After Doflamingo had finished his meal, the servants had finished packing away their clothing for the journey and sent them on their way to Totto Land. This sailing escapade was nowhere near as long as the one to the East Blue thankfully. By the time the two arrived at the edge of the nation's borders the ship’s transponder snails began ringing like wildfire all while cotton candy fluttered from the sky. Maria was busy gathering as much of the fluffy goodness as she could while Doflamingo rubbed his forehead in frustration with the incessant ringing. If he didn’t need them he would have silenced them all by force, what a headache this was turning into.

“Captain, we have a ship due north east at 2 o’clock!” A crew member shouted from the crows nest.

“What's it look like!?” Maria shouted up to the nest while Doflamingo leaned over the railing watching as the ship came closer and closer into view. A three layered tart cake, fittingly labeled Tarte 22. Maria popped up beside him still stuffing her face with whatever cotton candy she had gathered.

“M’Lady, I suggest you retreat below deck or the captain's quarters.” Another crew member worried about the safety of what they were used to as the local damsel in distress.

“I’m a big girl, I’ll be fine.” She waved the crew member aside before a voice rang out over a megaphone snail.

“Donquioxote Pirates halt!” A cartoonish voice that sounded like an old-timey sales person boomed. “You have entered the territory of Emperor Big Mom. State your business.” Doflamingo rolled his eyes under his glasses before skipping through the air on his strings landing on the Tarte and right in front of a living chess piece.

“We’re here on Big Mom’s invite.” He managed through grit teeth a few veins popping in his forehead. Had she not informed her crew of that? How irritating. He pulled out the invitation, sticking it in the face of the pawn. “Now I suggest you shut off that warning signal blaring on my ship.” The pawn took the invitation to verify it before handing it back, snapping his fingers. The noise on the Donquixote ship had gone quiet.

“Of course Mr. Joker. Tarte 22 will be honored to take you and your misses to the Whole Cake Chateau.” Doflamingo raised an eyebrow, what did this pawn mean ‘him and his misses’. As if it read his mind the pawn had answered his question. “Well Mama didn’t invite your underlings. Just skip along and get your fair lady and we shall handle the rest.” While it only aggravated him more that he had no choice but to take orders here, he complied collecting his darling dove and their luggage before the two sailed off on the Tarte. Maria holding his large hand tightly with one of hers and stroking his arm with her other. This would be more tasking then she had thought it would be on him.

“Tarte 22, state your business so far from the border!” An order came from another pawn on top of a tower as the Tarte sailed into the port of Whole Cake Island.

“Dropping off a couple Tea Party guests. Joker and his lady.” The pawn from earlier replied. Inside a spare room Maria and Doflamingo were finishing freshening up for the tea party. Maria in a body tight pink dress that showed off all her curves, a bracelet donned her right wrist while a gold ring with a pink diamond on her left ring finger. A simple pearl necklace on her neck while a smaller variant of Doflamingo’s jacket was hanging from her shoulders.

“Are you sure the jacket isn’t too much?” Maria worried while adjusting her lover's pink suit and tie. He dared not shed his shades or jacket here.

“Not at all my Dove. Helps signify you are mine.” He said while with a few quick movements from his fingers he had done Maria’s hair up in an elegant bun. “You have it on hand I assume?” Maria nodded, pulling the coat aside just slightly to show a pistol.

“Never leave home without it.” She kissed his chin as he bent down for a moment before the two left the Tarte and were promptly escorted to the top of the Chateau.

“Security check, we’ll take good care of any weapons.” A pawn held out a tray while Maria and Doflamingo placed their respective pistols on it. Neither enjoyed the idea of Maria not being armed but they once again had no choice.

“Don’t lose either of those.” Maria furrowed her brow at the pawn who simply smiled under its large comical mustache nodding before ushering the two along.

“Is that you Joker, I never thought I’d see you attend one of these.” A voice squawked from behind as Doflamingo turned his head slightly, it was the newspaper's very own lead and one of the underworld's most important figures, Morgans. “And who is this little lady with you, is she the one who has been tipping my news coos at Dressrosa oh so well.” Under his shades he fired daggers at the stupid albatross who was now walking with them as if they were old buddies.

“Morgans.” He threw on his signature smile while putting his arm around Maria. “My little Dove here drags me around me to all sorts of places.” Maria knew a little about this man and knew it’d be best if she kept her mouth shut, he was a poet who knew how to spin whatever you said into deadly ammunition.

“Well it’s good for you to get out of that cage once and a while isn’t it, Dove?” Morgan's condescension towards Maria as if she was unhappy with her home only pissed her off. She bit the inside of her cheek for a moment, the pain calming her for a enough time to compose a response.

“Speak ill of my country in front of me again and you’ll be the front page headline, understood?” Morgans chortled at the threat, what would a helpless, frail and weak woman like her do to him.

“My beak is sealed.” He sneered at her while entering the main venue. Maria squeezed Doflamingo’s hand around her for a moment of reassurance, it was so alien to once again feel like she was in danger.

“Welcome to Mama’s tea party Joker and you must be the lovely lady who convinced him to finally join us.” A tall woman with long white hair greeted the two birds. One Four Sweet General Commanders, Smoothie. She held an empty glass in one hand and the other hovered by two hanging creatures and a rock. “What can I get started for you, we have a rare primeape from the South Blue.” The medium sized primeape dangled helplessly gabbing away loudly all while dressed in clown attire. “A sample of the mountains from Drum Island in Paradise.” A somehow still frozen rock drifted every so slightly in the wind. “And lastly a world noble who stupidly entered Mama’s territory last week.” The noble almost beggingly looked to the two feathered figures for help.

“Help me from-” The noble went quiet as it registered who he was looking at, the woman in front of him was, no it couldn’t be, was it the celestial dragon from the auction nearly 7 years ago. “S-saint Maria…” He muttered while Maria recognized his voice, the one who offered a bag of seed for her. A twisted smile formed on her lips as opportunity had come knocking.

“Goodness what a mess you are in.” As if it was effortless she feigned generosity towards the noble. “Let me help you, you poor poor man.” For just a moment his eye’s light up before any light that was left faded as he felt Smoothie grab hold of him. “A bag of seed; was it?” Maria recalled to the noble. “Miss Smoothie, I’d like a hearty glass of that idiotic nobody.” The noble cried out as Smoothie began to drain the man into a glass. Maria snorted attempting to stifle her joy before giggling to herself, what an odd form of revenge she was being granted in a place she never expected. Maria graciously took the glass, having a sip; not knowing what to expect she was nervous but as the sweetness of the cool liquid coated then slid down her tongue and throat, she was overjoyed. Revenge is a dish best served as a smoothie.

“And for you Joker?” Smoothie inquired while Doflamingo took second hand pleasure in watching his little dove relish in sadism. He pointed towards the noble as well. Soaking up the screams and helpless expression on the noble's face. After receiving their drinks the two began to mingle all while Maria taste tested any snack insight much to her delight. She’d offer anything she found particularly tasty to Doflamingo who would indulge himself in both sweet confections and conversation among some of the more interesting folks at the tea party.

“Ladies and Gentlemen!” A pawns voice came from over a megaphone snail, gathering the attention of the guests. “Please give a warm welcome to Mama herself!” The pawn gestured to the sky as a cloud swooshed downwards before parking in front of a large white table. As the skyscraper of a pirate stepped off the cloud with thunderous steps the guests applauded in honor of their oh so gracious host. Big Mom smiled and laughed giddily at the applause before sitting at her table and that was everyone's cue to sit at their assigned seat. Doflamingo and Maria joined Mama at her table along with the emperors of the underworld. Once the portrait of Mother Carmel was set opposite of Mama, it was time to eat, refreshments and desserts were brought forth and conversation had broken out at many tables filling the air with laughter.

“Big Mom.” Maria’s gentle voice caught the attention of the emperor whose mouth was already stuffed full of sweet fluffy goodness. “On behalf of myself and Joker.” It always felt weird to use his business name and it felt no less weird when he had to hear it from her. “I’d like to thank you for inviting us to your tea party.” With a loud swallow that was something only a woman of her stature could manage she happily accepted the appreciation.

“Well of course my dear. I’m surprised Joker here actually requested to attend one of these.”  Despite the joy present in her voice and body language Maria couldn’t help but feel intimidated and like she was being loomed over. “How a playboy like him settled down with an elegant little lady like yourself is just as shocking.” Maria did her best to laugh off the compliment?

“Playboy? You think too lowly of me.” Doflamingo leaned back in his chair, a drink in one hand, his other around his dove’s shoulder and moving around as he spoke as if it was talking too. “She was the one who requested to come here and a gentleman such as myself couldn’t let her just go alone.” Even if she could handle herself on the seas, a woman like the pirate before him would completely crush her and likely use her as a slave or some marriage arrangement for one of her sons. Mama laughed at the provado of the man before her, a man with bite was always entertaining.

“A king eventually needs a queen.” Maria lightly kicked her feet under the table as she watched Doflamingo stand his ground. However one thing did begin to feel off, she felt this presence that she couldn’t see but it was like two eyes hovered behind her, always watching.

“That would make a great headline, King of Dressrosa and Warlord of the sea; Donquixote Doflamingo - Married! I’m sure a man like you who adores flaunting his feathers wouldn’t mind if I wrote that up would you?” Morgans squawked from the other end of the table. While more laughter had broken out at the table it was becoming clear there was only so much disrespect the man could bite his tongue on. Doflamingo was always in control of all his relationships, whether it was the government, the family, the underworld or even Kaidou. Everyone would dance along their respective stages all while from above Doflamingo conducted the performance. If this was anywhere else Doflamingo could have simply removed this gargantuan pain. But perhaps he could have a little fun . While leaning on the table with his left hand, he lazily extended his right pointer finger in the direction of Morgans who was rocking back in his chair. Like clockwork; a near invisible string attached to the chair and with a flick of his finger the chair was pulled out from under the albatross, ungracefully falling with a loud thud against the ground.

“Careful now, you wouldn’t want to go and become the one on the front page now do you?” Doflamingo’s sinister chuckle had joined in with the table’s laughter. As Morgans went to fix his chair, Doflamingo pulled it away just an inch, then a foot before letting Morgans bring the chair back to the table and just as he was about to sit, he pulled it out from under him once more. “It’s like it has a mind of its own.” Morgans, feathers thoroughly ruffled from the flamingo’s childish antics decided he was above the need to push the issue any further, he’d write the best damn expose on the soft side of this pink bitch across from him, it would simply wait until a better date. One where that arrogant blond flew too close to the sun .

“Now now boys, let’s settle down.” Big Mom’s order sounded like a disciplinary parent. The rest of the tea party went much smoother after that and far less proding into unnecessary matters for Doflamingo’s taste. Maria had found that plenty of sweets from the rest of the world had been hidden gems and was taking little notes on where what came from to later set up some sort of arrangement to acquire the sweet treats. One thing remained unchanged that no one seemed to acknowledge other than Maria’s gut and that was the constant feeling of being watched.

Unfortunately all parties do come to an end and Maria had no choice but to listen to her stomach and lay back in her chair, rubbing her tight tummy as it was full to the brim with confectionaries.

“For such a little thing you sure can eat.” Big Mom teased the full and swollen bird who nodded, taking a deep breath before speaking.

“It was all so wonderful, thank you again.” Maria extended her fullest gratitude to the gracious host of this wonderland of sweets.

“Mamamama! You are very welcome, not too often do we get such a hungry individual.” Big Mom couldn’t help but be joyous. The tea party was perfect and it was starting to wind down.

“Doffy…” Maria had scooted her chair against her large partners and leaned on him whilst gently speaking. “I’m ready to go when you are.” As if on cue guests had started to prepare to leave.

“What perfect timing Dove.” He himself had a pleasant time, it was certainly no event he would attend again and it paled in comparison to anything he’d host in Dressrosa but it was acceptable. “Thank you for your hospitality.” Doflamingo rose while assisting his tired little bird.

“Thank you Joker for finally attending, I only hope we see you at this table once more.” Big Mom’s voice came from behind as the two birds made their way for the exit. The feeling of being watched only intensified once Big Mom finished speaking.

“Perhaps one day.” He would never return here again, he’d find a way to skip out any invitation next time if there even was a next time. After retrieving their weapons and the long journey to the main port of the Whole Cake Chateau. The feeling of those ever watching eyes had finally subsided as she and Doflamingo boarded the Tarte one more, heading to their room to change.

“Was that worth it Dove?” Doflamingo asked while leaning back in a chair that was far too small for him but somehow supported him.

“Yes, I wrote a few things down as to what I’d like the bakers to start preparing just to spice things up.” Maria had changed back into her usual attire however she kept her variant of Doflamingo’s signature feathered coat as if it were a shield or safety blanket. “Did you feel like we were being watched?” Doflamingo emanated a low cackle at the nervousness in his little bird's voice.

“Oh, is that observation haki of yours finally starting to work subconsciously?” Doflamingo gestured for Maria to sit on the floor in front of him. He began to take her hair down from the bun confining it away. Letting the delicate silk soften his fingers as he intertwined himself with her. “I had noticed yes, did you focus on where it was coming from?” How far along had she managed in the nearing year and a half of training was lingering upon his mind.

“A tall man behind me stood on the wall. I caught a glimpse of him on our way out and until we boarded this ship his gaze never left us.” Maria shuddered until a gentle pull on her scalp soothed her. “I didn’t recognize our stalker did you?”

“One of Big Mom’s kids, Katakuri, is a billion bounty man.” Maria choked on her own spit for a second, she was so accustomed to the might of the warlords and having rather benign bounties in comparison to their strength she had forgotten pirates not affiliated with the government and would-be rivals had colossal bounties. “Oh right, you poor thing, you're so used to my measly little bounty you forgot how big they could get.” He gently stroked her hair as if he was petting her, the slow strokes calming her down. “Don’t let his number intimidate you, if I wasn’t a warlord I’d trump his bounty with ease.” If he left the warlords and all his crimes were revealed it was a possibility but you could never be too confident with how the government values crime and association with emperors; Why inflate an artificial number anyway when they both knew he was the supreme king of the seas. He had managed to strike a deal with two of the four emperors, he was all over the black market, he was in the government not only as a warlord but a king, no matter where you went you’d always find something that led back to him.

“Now Maria my darling.” He began kissing the ends of her hair, along the length to her scalp. His deep voice near a whisper rumbling through her. She shuddered as her whole body quickly tensed before her own voice barely managed a response.

“What is it, Doflamingo my love?” His soft laughter in her hair only warmed her face and neck. It was always reassuring to be so close to her lover.

“Where's that list of sweets you want our servants to make, I’ll get orders sent so they are prepared to greet us with something special.” She pulled a notepad from her pocket handing it to him as he took it in one hand, the other still busy in her hair. “Now just sit and relax, let me take care of everything.” No more convincing was needed than that as Maria crawled into his lap before listening to his breath and reacting to her notes. She had left little reviews on every baked good and stared at the ones she needed once again.

“Joker!” A pawn called from the other side of the door, rousing the birds from a small nap. “We have arrived at your ship. Please gather your things and depart!” It wasn’t hard as Maria had everything in one little suitcase while Doflamingo held her and hopped aboard his own ship. With one final wave the Tarte was gone and Maria handed the luggage to a crewmate who brought it to the captains quarters.

“Any funny business while we were away?” Doflamingo inquired, you could never trust an emperor.

“Not a thing captain, our course is set to return home to Dressrosa.” A crewmate responded while standing at attention to his captain.

“Then get to it.” The ship’s sails unfurled and the anchor raised allowing the crew to return home. “Come Dove, we have some unfinished business we must attend to.” Doflamingo was absolutely jovial at the idea of finishing his ever so rudely interrupted nap. Maria agreed, that nap did sound nice.

She froze falling to her knees and gripping her head tight as a piercing pain shot through it like a spark. Everything turned shades of blue as Maria looked in slow motion as on the port side of the ship a colossal centipede rocketed from the sea and through the deck and hull of the ship.

“Hard to starboard now!” She commanded as she caught her breath. The helmsmen confused did as told only to be shocked as a monstrous bug shot out of the water.

“How’d you know about that M’Lady!?” The helmsman said in shock as he made sure to steer clear for when the bug came crashing down. Doflamingo couldn’t help but be pleased with his little dove, a large grin on his face. Oh her observation haki was working wonderfully. Before letting himself celebrate this wonderful achievement he did however have an insect to exterminate. With one leap he was in the air alongside the beast. Strings firing out of his fingers and between every crevice the bug's armor had, finding its tender flesh.

With a tight squeeze the strings sliced through the flesh, dicing the bug into large sloppy steaks, with some flicks of his wrist he guided the remains safely away from his ship before landing beside Maria, his face threatening to break with the size of his grin.

“W-was that my haki?” Maria knew observation haki had held something beyond what she had previously tapped into but she didn’t believe she’d ever tap into its secrets, let alone so soon. She looked at Doflamingo with a proud smile and light in her eyes. She was adorable when she felt useful to him.

“My little Dove is so smart.” He pinched her cheek before helping her up and taking her to their quarters. Where he praised her over and over, feeling her wiggle with glee and kiss his chest and neck before flopping onto the couch in the quarters and finally finishing their well deserved nap.

Chapter Text

Just a little over 2 years before chaos rips through Dressrosa. Soaking in the rays of sun the family rested by the poolside. Doflamingo proudly spread in his large chair while Maria rested in his lap; admiring how the sun soaked into his tanned chest, how his teeth shined in that devilish grin of his. However, that grin quickly disappeared upon hearing a transponder snail grow louder from behind.

“Can’t you see we’re busy here?” He jarred as Penny came around presenting the ringing snail on a tray.

“I’m sorry young master, it’s the world government.” She bowed her head in respect, growing nervous as she heard shuffling from her masters.

“Don’t they normally send us a bat?” Maria’s voice now coming from the left. She fiddled with the sleeve of her feathered coat staring the snail down for interrupting her afternoon. With a drawn out movement Doflamingo set the snail in his lap and picked up the receiver. He remained silent, allowing the caller to introduce themselves and see if they were worth his time. He hears a male voice clear its throat before it begins to speak.

“Donquixote Doflamingo of the seven warlords. Your presence is required at Marineford.” He didn’t recognize the voice, just an errand boy, a lowly marine. How irritating, they couldn’t bother getting someone interesting; Might as well have sent a letter. But their calling meant they wanted him, this wasn’t just something he could ignore. He twirled the cord of the snail in his finger while he composed his response.

“I take it you all didn’t appreciate me skipping the last one.” He allowed himself to relax, after all there was nothing to fear. He’d attend but first things had to be on his terms.

“If you want to keep your title you can’t ignore our summons.” The marine on the other line firmly put his foot down being picked up by the snail only causing the feathered warlord to stifle a laugh at the pathetic display of authority.

“I’m pretty sure our agreement was to not bore me and I’ll entertain your requests.” The marine on the line certainly did not appreciate the attitude of the warlord having already reached out to a few others, these eccentric characters were exhausting. “I’ll come to your sad little meeting don’t you worry but I’m bringing a plus one, so let the navy know they’ll have to meet that request if they’d like me to play nice with the other dogs at their beck and call.” The sound of pen to paper scratching down a note came from the snail before the marine hung up. “How rude.” He placed the responder down and dismissed Penny.

“I’m sorry you have to go Doffy.” Maria had crawled back into his lap as he rested his hands on her hips.

“Why do you think I’m bringing a plus one? You and I are going to have a little fun to keep it interesting.” His chuckle as he gripped her hips watching her squirm in an instant. “You think I’m going to just leave you here?” His hands snaked their way up her shirt, scratching her sides.

“W-well you always have before.” Maria cooed, it was a rare ordeal when she’d attend a warlord meeting. Only having been a handful of times and never once had she seen all the warlords present let alone seen all of them period.

“Always?” He raised an eyebrow, his nails digging deeper, granting him a whimper.

“M-most of the time.” He felt her small hands in comparison to his clutch onto his shirt to prevent more whines. “And even rarer would you leave a snail to call you with.” Ah yes, the snail. When he was feeling particularly cruel he’d control himself and hold off on pleasing her, often making her watch as he pleased himself or he’d rile her up only to leave her be or restrain her until it subsided. Then during the little meeting breaks he’d force with disruptive behavior; he’d sneak off and call her on the snail only to reignite her flame, letting her please herself shortly before ripping it away. Repeating this process a few times during a meeting before ultimately telling her to wait and if she behaved she’d get a great reward when he returned. Goodness was the reward wonderful. Despite all the frustration and self control once he returned her god would play her like a flute and send her into an ecstatic symphony only he could.

“I figured a well behaved Dove can stretch her wings a little.” He withdrew his hand from her shirt, cupping her face as she smiled at his half condescending praise. “Do you wanna come with me to a boring meeting, my little bird?” She nodded quickly, he was satisfied with just how much he had groomed her to need him. Even if he had instilled strength and confidence back into the divine little dragon, her entire being revolved around him. Remove him and she’d surely fall apart into something spectacular .

The journey to Paradise was smooth. With a few little stops to pay Caesar Clown and Monet a visit on Punk Hazard, a half interested check in at the auction house on Sabaody before they both decided if all the warlords would be there it’d be wise to bring snacks to watch the fireworks. Once sufficiently sure they would have enough to last whatever chaos would ensue they returned to the final stretch of their journey and that was entering Marineford.

“Donquixote Doflamingo.” A voice echoed over a megaphone snail. “Anchor in the main bay promptly!” Doflamingo rolled his eyes under his shades as his ship anchored along the extendable dock sticking out of the main bay.

“Still don’t trust me after all my years of service?” His snark not being appreciated as he heard cannons change their angle for his ship. “Come along Dove, the Marines are clearly so eager to host us.” Maria quickly joined his side as they walked along the elaborate dock and up into Marine HQ to the meeting room, skipping the waiting room as it was ‘too full of warlords for the marines to securely handle’.

Doflamingo fell back into his chair while pulling out Maria’s simultaneously. She sat down while pulling out a small snack bag from her coat, the sound of it opening pulling Doflamingo from his recline to hover over his little bird.

“Just some gummies for now, they’ll bring in the good stuff once everyone’s here.” Maria said before stuffing her mouth with a handful of multi-colored gummies and handing the bag to Doflamingo who poured the rest into his mouth, such a small snack would keep him held over until the meeting began. “I wanted a few more of those Doffy.” Maria complained only for him to chew louder before sticking his tongue out offering a small cluster of half chewed gummies. Maria placed her mouth around his tongue giving a small nip before taking the wad of sugar and finishing the job.

“Don’t bite the hand that feeds you.” He reclined once more pulling her chair right up to his. For the few times he had met with all the warlords in one room, he was near the last to arrive so he knew the sound of thundering footsteps meant the meeting would soon commence.

Maria had met two warlords other than her lover, Sir Crocodile and Bartholomew Kuma. The smell of his expensive cigar and the trace hint of sand that never left was Crocodile’s cue as he sat next to Maria while Doflamingo peered effortlessly over with a gleeful smile.

“Aw did Croc misbehave and get sent to the fun end of the table?” Doflamingo taunted the more serious warlord who wrinkled his nose as he met the feathered bastard's gaze.

“I see you brought an offering for us to share.” The way he was able to speak with a cigar in his mouth like it was not even there was always stunning to her. She then flinched feeling cold gold hook prod against her throat as she queued into him calling her an offering .

“And I see you still haven’t earned the ‘Sir’ title you enjoy going by with how you treat a lady.” Maria grabbed hold of the hook staring down the sandy warlord, it had been at least a year since they had crossed paths and she was not as helpless as he still thought.

“Your brat still isn’t trained Flamingo.” He pressed the hook against her neck more slowly, cutting off her airway. “What do you do all day if you're not teaching your little bird how to behave?”

“She’s trained just fine, she knows when someone is below her.” His looming figure began to cackle behind his bird whilst the hooked man joined in, finding it hilarious that a little wannabe bird would look down upon him. Crocodile tilted his hook up, so instead of laying horizontal to her chin and just the peak of its curve against her neck it was running along her neck and chin.

“You have a pretty face but other than that sweetheart you’re worthless, so why don’t you just bite your tongue while the adults talk.” Maria watched as from his elbow to inside the hook transformed into sand that pressed harder and harder. At this point other warlords as well as marines had begun settling in watching the scene unfold. Maria, no longer waiting for her lover's approval, took the matter of demanding respect into her own hands.

“So why exactly are you making me learn Haki Doffy? I’ve got a good shot with a pistol and I’ll have you or the family to protect me in case of danger.” Maria questioned while Doflamingo had taken her outside to a courtyard of the castle in Dressrosa.

“Will a pistol bring down someone on Kaidou’s crew? What about someone with Logia powers?” Oh that’s what this was about, while wonderful; this deal with Kaidou had added so many damn little nuisances and now Maria could no longer just rely on her handy gun, she needed to learn to fight. “You will at least become able to match me in my skill of observation and armament.” Unfortunately she didn’t seem to have that all powerful conquerors Haki he was hoping for. Maria accepted and everyday began meeting with a member of the family in the courtyard. Where she was either blindfolded and had to work on observation Haki or due battle against a much weaker crew member until she finally was able to use her armament Haki consistently. Then Doflamingo took over her armament training with the added bonus of teaching her how to imbue her clothing with it. This along with her constantly stealing his coat for comfort lead to him getting her made a replica of his coat suited for her size.

Maria’s hands became coated in a black shine, one firmly gripping Crocodile’s hook and the other grabbing onto his sanding arm. Crocodile attempted to retract his arm to no avail before Maria drove his hook through the table. The stone table cracking to the force of the hook leaving small bits of rubble below. She dusted her hands off, staring down the now slightly taken aback warlord. Doflamingo rocked in his chair impossibly managing to not tip it over and fall all while laughing maniacally.

“No rough housing!” One marine shouted who both Maria and Crocodile both looked over to and without saying a word the Marine shut up. Crocodile removed his hook from the table, no longer having a remark about the woman beside him.

“Aw Croc don’t be such a sour puss, maybe one day you’ll get a woman half as good as mine. Now gimme one of those shitty cigars of yours and a light.” Crocodile slid a pair of cigars and a lighter over to the two birds. “Look at that, he even got you one.” Doflamingo lit both of the cigars in his mouth before handing one to Maria who attempted to take a puff from the massive cigar. It was nowhere near as good as the ones Doffy would pull out every now and then but it would suffice for this meeting as well as her ego.

She scanned the table and saw Kuma sitting at the other end and a whole row leading to Doflamingo of people she had never seen.

“Oh yeah this is the first time you get to see the whole gang of warlords isn’t it Dove. While the old timers prepare our meeting, let me introduce them to you.” Doflamingo also had that talent Crocodile had where he could speak like nothing was in his mouth. “That pretty thing by Kuma, is Miss Boa Hancock.” The long black hair, the perfect figure, if Maria was not divine this woman might give her a run for her money in terms of beauty; the reason she got her damn devil fruit was across this very table. “The guy with the big sword is Dracule Mihawk, you’ll never guess what his claim to fame is.” The brooding figure with a large sword on his back didn’t even acknowledge the flamboyant warlord's comment. “Big guy beside him is Gecko Moria.” Moria grabbed his large wine glass he’d brought with him taking a sip, it would be a long meeting and he was sure Doflamingo would interrupt plenty more. “And lastly we got Jinbe.” Jinbe looked at Maria and waved, giving her a small smile.

“A pleasure to make your acquaintance.” His gruff voice contrasted his respectful demeanor. Maria returned the wave; finally a warlord other than Doffy who didn’t seem all that bad.

“A pleasure to make yours as well.” Maria then turned her attention to Doflamingo. “I’ll be able to stay for the full meeting right? Getting kicked out halfway through last time and having to idle around a bunch of Marines was no fun.”

“I won’t let them kick you out don’t worry, I’m sure Croc and Jinbe here would happily also keep you at the meeting with me.” The other two warlords not keen on being roped into the flamingo’s antics. “Hey you.” Doflamingo pointed to a marine who pointed to himself in confusion. “Yes you. When's the food?” The marine panicked until sighing in relief as large platters of meat, fresh fruit and alcohol were set on the table and in walked a marine with a seagull on his hat, a goat at his side and a whole whack load of papers in his hand.

“All 7 scums of the sea are here, let’s get this started.” His stern voice took command of the room while Doflamingo whispered into Maria’s ear.

“That’s Fleet Admiral Sengoku, he’s a bit of a bore.” Maria held back her giggle and relaxed into her husband as papers were handed out. A couple wanted posters and a meeting checklist. As Sengoku began some dull and unimportant speech Maria scanned through the wanted posters, mostly rookies first bounties and a couple big time risers but the cigar dropped from her mouth as one rookie’s poster caught her attention. Sure the bounty was high for a first ever bounty and the pirate himself seemed unremarkable but what caught her off guard was the name.

Monkey D. Luffy. Back when she was a little girl, which feels like a different lifetime, her father was always careful to warn her about those who bore the name D. Had she ever misbehaved he’d threaten the D. would eat her. In her short time of sailing with Doflamingo she had never encountered anyone with D. in their name and it became less and less of a fear. But now here it was rearing its ugly head in the form of a pirate with a straw hat.

The sound of the cigar sizzling out as it bounced on the floor caught the two warlords she was stuck between attention. Doflamingo watches her hands tremble before shaking. Crocodile, not one to waste a perfectly fine cigar, set it back on the table beside Maria while Doflamingo gripped her wrist to stop her shaking, before the fluttering of the poster took over the meeting.

As he took the poster from her hand, he replaced it with his own under the table, his thumb circling in her palm with a firm pressure while looking over the poster in his other hand. He didn’t understand what had frightened his little dove so badly until his fifth re-examination. He’d been such a powerful pirate for so long that he’d mostly forgotten about those who bear the name D. But it made sense he had never spent decades grooming her to no longer fear this letter like he had himself. He scanned through her half-looked pile of posters removing one other that bore the name D. Portgus D. Ace. Orchestrating his fingers under the table; strings attached to her coat and closed it around her while he re-ignited her cigar and handed it to her. She seemed to calm down after that or at the very least contain her anxiety and stayed extra snug to him from that moment on.

After the first item on the check-list was done Sengoku called a break to allow everyone to stretch their legs, Doflamingo took Maria out onto a more secluded balcony and once he was positive there weren’t any unwanted attendees checked in with his sweet little bird.

“You’re still scared of those who bear D.?” He asked while leaning back onto the railing of the balcony. Maria clutched onto her coat looking to the ground, frankly embarrassed something so child-ish still scared her.

“Yes… You were raised like I was to some degree. You remember what they’d say about those who bore that initial. Even if we no longer reside in Mariejois, We still are gods. How does the enemy of us not terrify you?” Doflamingo chuckled lowly with his grin growing, it was time to remind her that they weren’t helpless to the whims of others. As gods they can and will squash whoever stands in their way.

“Maria.” He stood proud and tall, extending his arms outward to fan his coat as it caught wind as if he was presenting himself, the sun itself giving him a radiant spotlight. “You and I have nothing to fear when it comes to those who bear D. We are above those swine in Mariejois! And above any scum who sail our seas! Hold that head high.” He instructed and she followed his order as she always did. “Repeat after me, I.”

“I.” What a silly exercise she was being forced to do.

“Donquixote Maria.”

“Donquixote Maria.” Her stomach doing a little flip as if it hadn’t been a few years of this name already.

“Will not fear those who bear D.”

“Will not fear those who bear D.” It helped but how could she undo so much mental mind warp over one repeat exercise. Doflamingo pulled her tight to him which she quickly grabbed hold of him like her life depended on it.

“Never lower your head for someone less than you. Those who bear D. are like the rest of the filth wandering this world. Below us.” With a quick turn the two looked over the balcony where Doflamingo saw a pair of marines sparing, a devilish idea sparking in his head to cheer his little dove up. Strings attached to the marines, halting their spare before with one flick; one had rammed their blade through the other's gut. Maria giggled a little stroking his abdomen.

“Doffy, you didn’t have to do that.” Her gentle voice as she always appreciated his antics only added to the content feeling settling in his chest. He gave a small laugh before feigning innocence.

“Fuffuffuffuffu. Wasn’t me my Dove. Just a happy little accident.” With that the two returned to the meeting room, one far more relaxed then she was previously.

The meeting was long, dull and could have simply been a letter. As the warlords left, Sengoku stopped the two birds from leaving.

“Doflamingo, You are required to stay in Paradise until further notice.” He ordered the feathered man who crooked his head at the audacity to deny him a return home.

“Some forced vacation time I presume for all my hard work.” He remarked while Sengoku remained unphased by the quip. “But seriously give me one reason why I have to stay put but everyone else gets to wander off.”

“You are the only warlord who resides regularly in the New World. The Navy requires you to be closer for the time being.” Doflamingo shoved his way past with a small laugh that soon echoed down the halls of Marineford.

“Sounds like the Navy can’t handle its own mess and needs me to come clean it up for them.” And without another word the two birds left ignoring whatever went on behind them in the warlord meeting room from the irritation of dealing with such exuberant individuals for hours. “Since we’re stuck here for a while, shall we go check in?” Maria knew exactly what check in meant and nodded.

About halfway through Paradise rested a small island with a beach house and a small town on the other side. This beach house was always on heavy duty security unless its owner was residing there and he just so happened to weigh anchor today.

“Doffy want me to get you a little drink?” Maria asked as she entered the clean and comfortable beach home that didn’t lack that characteristic pink.

“How considerate.” He patted her on the head while setting down their luggage in the doorway. “Go get on it and I’ll grab a good spot to soak up the sun.” Maria excitedly went to work in the kitchen while the warlord shed his coat on top of their luggage, kicking his shoes off to the side before heading out once more to lounge in the sun with his precious little dove.

As he got comfortable in sun lounger that rested within the sand a newspaper gently landed on his chest which he opened and saw a face he hadn’t in quite some time in the wanted section. Trafalgar Law . He laughed to himself as Maria came to his side with their drinks in hand and already changed into a skimpy little outfit for him.

“Oh did something catch your eye?” Doflamingo took his drink, folding the paper to show Maria the bounties and pointing to Law. “Trafalgar Law, yeah he’s a rookie pirate what of it?” Another thing to slip his mind, she knew he had one more child in his crew when Baby 5 and Buffalo were young but not who it was.

“That brat right there is the other kid I had taken under my wing.” Maria Oh's as it clicked before Doflamingo took amusement in the information section about this rookie pirate. “The Heart pirates huh? And would you look at his jolly roger, it seems familiar no?” Oh how his little rebellious Law was turning into a fine young pirate, he’d be a perfect successor to the heart throne and role of Corazon.

“The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree it seems.” Maria was unaware of how important Law would become and just how much Doflamingo had planned for his Ope Ope fruit.