“I’ll never let you go!” Fred roared.

Lily clapped, walking aside to pour herself a glass of water while giving him a thumbs-up. “Bravo! So be it then, tough guy. I don’t care anyway. No one can save me but myself.”

“Of course, I’m no match for you, and it would be best if you set me free. If you won’t, we’ll just die together, right?” She gulped the water, affecting an air of indifference. “What about your children? Don’t you care about them?”

Feeling slightly better, Fred steadied himself against the table and staggered to his feet.

“So what if I do? Will you let them go?” Lily asked, shrugging helplessly.

“I will!”

Lily was so surprised she spilled her water. Fred, noting her reaction, knew her children were her greatest concern. After a deep breath, he struggled to stand, saying, “I’ll never let you go. You know how much we’ve invested in R10. Besides, you’re irreplaceable.”

Lily remained quiet. She understood her irreplaceability was why she remained unharmed, even after threatening Fred. After a moment’s thought, she asked, “You’re saying you will release my children if I cure you? Both of them?”

“Yes!” Fred nodded firmly. “As long as you cure me, I promise to deliver them to your husband safely.”

His words and firm gaze were tempting, as she knew they would never release her. However, if Fred readily agreed to free her, she would doubt his sincerity. Nonetheless, she suspected he might release her children. After all, they were merely infants, useless to the organization, unsuitable even as experimental subjects. He would likely use them as bargaining chips rather than killing them.

After considering this, Lily didn't immediately accept. “That sounds tempting, but I think you’re being unfair. After all, your life is valuable, Your Grace. Even Her Majesty listens to you now. On the other hand, my children are just ordinary citizens of Hyderland. You’re getting the better end of the deal if we trade your life for theirs, don’t you think?”

Though it sounded like flattery, her message was clear: he had to offer more.

Fred gritted his teeth. “What else do you want? You know I can’t let you go!”

Lily nodded. “I know, but I hope you can free one more child besides my babies.”

“Huh?” Fred stared at her, confused. “One more… child?”