In the deepest part of the Dressrosa Royal Palace, the office where thick curtains blocked out the light was submerged in silence. Doflamingo sat deep in the sofa, listening to the steady sound of boot heels lightly tapping against the window frame. Through the red tint of his sunglasses, he saw Guest enter as the door opened.

Red traces that had not yet dried were splattered across the hem of her black coat and her cheeks. Though she was draped in the marks of others, the sight of her walking toward him after completing her mission as expected gave him a sense of relief.

Doflamingo stood up and strode toward her. His pink feather coat swept the floor, making a rustling sound. Without hesitation, he reached out and rubbed away the bloodstains on Guest's cheek. Only after checking everything did the corners of his mouth finally curl up into an arc.

I see you aren't hurt.

His voice was low and calm. To Doflamingo, Guest's integrity was a natural and significant value, even more so than protecting the Family's assets. The warm body heat transmitted through the palm holding her cheek proved that this sturdy fence he had built was still intact. He lowered his hand and lightly patted Guest's shoulder.

Good work.