The man winced at the intense light and groaned in agony. He looked filthy, his body marred by bloodstains and wounds.

Fred clicked his tongue, waving a handkerchief. He mocked, "How could they do this to you? You're a doctor, after all. They shouldn't have been so harsh."

The prisoner, the doctor who had examined Lily, had refused to leave with his family, choosing instead to return as Alexander's spy. He had been caught and imprisoned in the underground chamber. Two days of torture had left him a horrifying sight.

Fred sat on a stool a guard had provided. "So, what did they offer you to betray me?" He crossed his legs, the handkerchief still held to his nose. The stool offered some welcome relief.

The doctor knew the organization would kill him regardless. He remained silent, his gaze fixed elsewhere.

"Talk!" Fred's glance at a guard prompted another lashing. The whip's sharp crack echoed terrifyingly.

The doctor grunted, suppressing a cry of pain.

"Tough guy, huh?" Fred sneered, then sighed. "Why are you acting this way? I'm not a cruel man. Tell me. Why betray me? Did I treat you poorly?" The doctor, seemingly unconscious, remained silent, blood trickling from his mouth.

Fred's menacing smile vanished, replaced by a glare. "I know your wife and child have fled. Is that why you defied me? Do you feel like a hero now?!"

The doctor's head remained bowed.

Fred continued, "Too bad you're naive! Do you think they're safe? Do you honestly believe I can't find them? Don't forget who I am!" The doctor shifted slightly.

"You don't believe me?" Fred chuckled, then sighed. "Fine. I don't need you. Once you see their bodies, you'll know I'm telling the truth! Do you believe a Hyderland businessman over me, a duke? What a joke!"

Fred rose, seemingly ready to leave.

"W-Wait..." The doctor's weak voice stopped him.

"Please...I beg you. Leave my family alone. T-They're... innocent," the doctor murmured.