Alexander turned and asked, "Have you talked to Dr. Blanc?"

"Dr. Blanc?" Mike's eyes widened. Though unaware of his previous captors' identities, he recognized Dr. Blanc as their leader. "Are you sending me back to them? No, I'm not going! Didn't they test me? I'm not infected! Why should they contain me?"

"No one is trying to contain you," Edward said impatiently, shooting Mike a look before addressing Alexander. "I've informed Dr. Blanc, and he says they need a day to prepare. He'll update us soon."

Alexander nodded.

"What's this all about?" Mike asked, puzzled.

Alexander took a deep breath. "Mike, I know you're anxious, but I'm in the same boat. Lily and the twins are in their hands, and they plan to experiment on her. No matter what we think, even if we prepare for the worst…"

He paused, veins bulging on his forehead. He clenched his fists, eyes shut, seemingly struggling to control his emotions.

"No, we shouldn't prepare for the worst; they'll be fine! But before we rescue them…" He opened his eyes, gazing firmly at Mike. "We must remain calm—both of us. Panic will play into their hands!"

Alexander's intensity unnerved Mike, or perhaps he had simply calmed since his earlier outburst. He nodded. "Okay. Sorry, I shouldn't have—"

Alexander interrupted. "It doesn't matter. What matters is devising a rescue plan as soon as possible!"

Mike narrowed his eyes thoughtfully. 'We must rescue them, but how?' he mused. He regretted his earlier outburst, recognizing the enemy's influence. 'Even the government might not help. Worse, we can't even locate this organization. This is the trickiest situation I've ever faced!'

After hesitating, he asked, "But how do we rescue them?"

"Since they use their official positions as a shield, we'll do the same," Alexander said pensively. "Remember, however powerful, they're still in our country and subject to our laws!" He knew Mike didn't fully understand, but a thorough explanation wasn't necessary. The plan's success was paramount.

"We'll return to the embassy soon. Be ready."

Mike was surprised.