Chapter 1470

Thompson stared at Austin in horror. "N-No, I c-can't!" he stammered, overwhelmed by fear.

Austin laughed. He knew Thompson wouldn't dare let him escape. Thompson had remained passive during Austin's previous attempts to flee and argue with Rhea. How could he possibly release Austin now? Even if he did, countless guards likely stood outside. Escape was virtually impossible.

It was absurd. Trapped, Austin reflected on the countless nights spent in the laboratory, diligently working, unaware of the sinister machinations unfolding behind closed doors. Now, escape was impossible. He wished he could fight like those on television, or scale walls. Then, a thought struck him: Lily's paralyzing touch. She knows how to fight!

Turning to the door, Austin straightened. "Professor Thompson, I understand this is difficult for you, and I know they're threatening you, but can you help me send a message?"

"Pass what message?" Thompson asked, then quickly shook his head. "No, no. I can't! I can't help you with anything! All I can do is feed you. I don't want you to die here, Austin. I'm sorry!"

He stood abruptly, then staggered and fell. Seizing the opportunity, Austin grabbed Thompson's clothing and pulled him back. He quickly encircled Thompson's neck. "Professor Thompson, I told you, I understand, but do you want to watch them kill me and everyone else?"

"I..."

"It doesn't matter if I die, but what about the others? What are they planning to do with the Wilford root?" Lowering his voice, Austin whispered, "If they succeed, how many will die? The entire Kingsland? Or the entire world?"

Stunned, Thompson ceased struggling, listening intently.

"Professor Thompson, you conceived this project. You built the prototype, organized everything, invested in it. If the world is destroyed because of this experiment, the blood will be on your hands!"

Each sentence pierced Thompson's heart. "N-no! It wasn't me! That's not what I want! I don't want that to happen!" He sobbed.

"I know. I know this wasn't your plan. You were working for the betterment of humankind. I know they're forcing you, but do you want to help them? If you're afraid, I'll take the blame. All you have to do is help me send a message. Tell Lily the real purpose of this research. She'll find a way to solve this."

Thompson was shocked to hear the name. "Lily Christian?!"

He'd expected Austin to request a message to his parents or the police. Not Lily.

"Yeah!" Austin nodded. Even he found it ironic. He'd once looked down on Lily, yet now, in danger, she was his only hope.