Chapter 8: Torture as a Message
Lucas stared at the system notification with a smile that chilled the air around him. SS-Rank Threat—a classification that should have made any Lord fearful. But to Lucas, this was simply a more interesting challenge.
"Change of strategy," Lucas ordered through a mental link to his entire force. "I want him alive. Kill everyone else, but let that elite scout breathe. I have a more... entertaining plan."
Shadow Stalker responded with a wave of dark acknowledgment. The Ghoul Footmen began to move in a more tactical formation, while the Bone Dogs spread out to cut off all escape routes. The Death Knights took up positions at strategic points, their black armor blending into the darkness.
[System Alert]
Elite Scout has entered kill zone
Multiple hostiles detected alongside target
Enemy composition: 1 SS-Rank Elite, 4 A-Rank Soldiers, 2 B-Rank Supports
Recommendation: Retreat and request reinforcements
Lucas laughed—a sound that resonated with pure madness. "Reinforcements? They’re the ones who’ll need reinforcements."
Selena stood beside Lucas, her red eyes gleaming with fearful anticipation. "My King, should I come down and play?"
"Not yet," Lucas replied, raising his hand. "Let our children play first. I want to see how well they’ve trained."
The battle began with a boom that shook the entire Night Crypt. Through Shadow Stalker’s eyes, Lucas could see an elite scout moving at inhuman speed, his blade gleaming with powerful enchantments. But he wasn’t alone—four heavily armored soldiers flanked him, while two support casters began casting barrier spells.