Chapter 39: Ambush of Shadows
Dmitri stood near the long, arched window of his fortress, swirling a glass of dark wine as lightning flashed outside. The wind whistled like a song of warning, but Dmitri only smirked.
A knock came at the door.
"Sir," a man whispered. "He's here. Luca. With backup."
Dmitri's eyes gleamed. "Perfect. Let the games begin."
He turned, tossing his coat over his shoulder and walking down the winding staircase like a king awaiting his enemy.
Outside the gates, Luca had already made it through the forest with his small force of loyal men. The wind lashed his face, but he pressed forward, eyes burning with purpose.
"Janet," he whispered. "I'm coming."
But Dmitri was ready.
As soon as Luca crossed the iron gates, the traps were triggered. Hidden turrets fired sleeping gas. Armed men in black dropped down from the trees, engaging Luca's team. It was chaos—fists, blades, screams.
Despite Luca's ferocity, he was outnumbered.
A dart pierced his neck.
His vision blurred. He staggered, reaching for his gun—too late.
Everything spiraled.
He collapsed to the ground, barely conscious, his last sight being Dmitri walking toward him with a cold grin.
"Welcome, Luca," Dmitri said. "Now let's make it fair."
.