The intrigue deepens in Duke #3. A battle of wits and cerebral games commence between Duke and The Baroness, engaging in an antagonistic discussion about the American loyalty and the drive and purpose of a soldier — all the while Duke counters with insight into her background of subterfuge and manipulation to achieve her means. The interesting moment takes place when Baroness asks directly why Duke opts to continue this one-man crusade.
His answer to her? “It’s Classified.”
This is either because he’s starting to have doubts himself, or perhaps he still does not trust Baroness, despite being adamant of her good intentions.
The debate is suddenly interrupted by an attack, which we learn may have been ordered by the kingpin of M.A.R.S., Destro. This attack is led by none other than Major Bludd. This is no simple infiltrate and extract mission, but a search-and-kill-anyone-present mission. The aptly-named Blood Hounds, an elite squad selected by Major Bludd himself are out to do one thing. 
Kill Duke.
The other Joes return to battle, Clutch, Staker, and Rock ‘n’ Roll attempt to push back, but the forces are too overwhelming. Baroness plead with them to let her out in order to help. Duke reluctantly does exactly that, and for a brief moment it seems the tide turns, until Bludd gains the upper hand and has Duke dead-to-rights.
Hey, I just noticed something! Bludd isn’t sporting his trademark pat… Oh wait! Blam!
Baroness shoots Bludd in the back of the head. Holy crap folks. Major Bludd appears very dead. That rhymes!
However, things don’t look any better as Baroness, zipping up her signature bodysuit, points her weapon directly as Duke, keenly interest in this bounty on his head.
Baroness is the one character, regardless of medium, you simply never, ever trust.
Fantastic storytelling and the transition from intense verbal dialogue into an equally intense battle where I felt my heart race wondering if another character was not coming out alive.
