While I was drawing her this story emerged in my head explaining her mindset:

(The prisoner gives the small fox woman little regard as she approaches him.)

“You don’t frighten me… you can’t hurt me. It’s against the rules!”

(IX’s voice is soft. But there’s a chill in its tone as her cold blue eyes focus on the instrument in her hand)

“Funny how we can kill people outright… but not torture prisoners of the war. Or in your case… torch a town of civilians. However, the rules actually state I can’t cause you pain… you see this scalpel?”

(IX’s eyes glimmer as she looks to the blade)

“If I insert it right here between your vertebrae I’ll sever the nerves, and you won’t feel anything. Which means I’m free to use the same blade to then cut the rest of you apart inch by in and you’ll never feel a bit of pain… but I’ll make you watch every moment of it.”

(IX’s points the blade to the captive's eyes. Her own gaze remains cold, but her lips perk up suppressing a smile.)

“And if you think you can just close your eyes I’ll cut your eyelids clean off first… now then… feel like talking. Or do I get to play?”