Mike shrugged, indicating he didn't know either.

Truthfully, were it not for Lily, he wouldn't have been directly involved in the experiment. He'd visited many times, but mostly in a supervisory role, knowing little about the procedures or the nature of the research.

The "boss" likely placed few restrictions on Mike, considering him a layman unlikely to cause trouble, especially given Mike's role in Nick's hostage situation. Furthermore, the boss needed a Hylander like Mike to assist with the project, and the organization required Mike's financial investment and cooperation; hence his iris and fingerprints were registered for facility access. However, ask Mike about the plants or their purpose, and he'd be at a loss for an answer.

Lily, unsatisfied, strolled over to carefully observe the abnormally large poisonous plant behind the glass enclosure. She reached out, but—

"Be careful!" Mike pulled her hand back, exclaiming, "That's highly poisonous! You can't touch it!"

He didn't know the specific plant, but he knew it was toxic; the organization had extracted its substance for experimentation.

Despite being pulled back, Lily remained calm. Gazing at the plant, she said casually, "Of course, I know it's highly poisonous."

It's wilfordi root, but not entirely. A mutated version, I suspect. I wonder where they obtained it, or what modifications produced its grotesque size. Whatever the case, the mutation has undoubtedly increased its toxicity.

Suddenly, she understood the difficulty in combating the organization's viruses, and the existence of so many unknown ones.

These people have been conducting inhumane experiments.

The plant's size suggested the experiment had begun long ago. The research institute, or organization, had existed far longer than she'd initially thought.

Just what kind of evil lair is this?

Lily's hands clenched; she yearned to set the wilfordi root ablaze, but it wasn't yet the right time. Patience was required.

Turning to Mike, she said, "I want all the data, recent and older. The more complete, the better."

Apparently prepared, Mike gestured to nearby workers. Someone approached and handed Lily documents. "Mrs. Russell, this is the lab data and information you requested. It's highly classified; do not reveal it to anyone."

Lily grunted an affirmation, giving the person a sharp look. Despite the heavy hazmat suit obscuring the individual's face, Lily discerned a woman wearing a mask and goggles. The voice was unusual.

Concluding the boss and his subordinate were birds of a feather—both possessing unpleasant voices—she tried to take the documents, but the worker seemed reluctant, forcing Lily to exert strength to retrieve them. The interaction prompted another sharp look from Lily, to which the worker merely turned and walked away.