The man recoiled in disgust, touching his mask before shoving Mike's face back. "Think bigger," he said casually. "Don't just dwell on your son. Seriously, Mike, you're making this a waste of my time and effort. You're not worth it!" His scornful voice enraged Mike. "Then let my son go!" Mike shouted, the pressure finally breaking him.

"I will release your son, but not yet," the man said indifferently. "Did I say anything had happened to him? Would killing your son accomplish anything great? Don't overestimate yourself."

He turned to Lily. "Don't bother refuting me. I know you and the Russells are intelligent, wealthy, and skilled fighters. But you're insignificant compared to our experiment. No matter your skills, the virus will overcome you."

He paused, a sneer playing on his lips. "I also know you've contacted the outside world. Go ahead, try to find out what's happening...before you try to bargain with me." His confident tone and unwavering gaze chilled her.

Perhaps he's bluffing, but his confidence and knowledge of Alex and my background...he even knows about my secret contacts. Could he have found out everything through surveillance?

Rhea, eager to inform them, said smugly, "Why do you think I faked my death and reappeared? Do you really believe rescuing someone from here, under our constant surveillance, is easy? Or that you can easily find a cure for a virus we've researched for years?" The barrage of questions stunned them.

"What do you mean?" Mike asked, his suspicions piqued by Rhea's words.

"Take a guess," Rhea smiled, relishing their uncertainty.

Lily held up a hand to stop Mike. "Stop playing games," she said coldly. "We don't trust each other, and we're all here for different reasons. Whatever your threat, remember: you need me to complete this experiment. I hold the power, not you."

She cut off Rhea's retort, pointing at the man. "I don't care what's happening outside! People die every day. I can't save them all. I'm not that altruistic. I'll help if I can, but I won't risk my life for anyone I can't. So consider my terms: I'm leaving in five days, and I want to meet whoever's funding this."