"You're crazy! Even if you rescue Nicky, you'll be arrested!" Austin exclaimed. "Or do you plan never to return to Hyderland?"

"Why not?" Mike replied, unhesitant. "It doesn't matter where I go, as long as my son is safe."

"I'll go with you," Lily interjected.

Everyone was shocked, Mike included.

"You?" Mike shook his head. "No, I don't need you. This has nothing to do with you. Just pretend you heard nothing."

He knew many would be implicated if he failed, but saving his son was paramount. Feigning ignorance was the only way to protect them.

"Don't be silly!" Lily approached, patting his shoulder. "How can you shoulder this alone? You all helped Alex rescue me and my children. Besides, even with firearms and knowledge of the embassy's layout, do you know where Nicky is? Are you aware of secret passages? Do you know the number of guards and their firepower?"

Mike was stumped. "I..." he began.

He'd considered sending someone to scout, but it was too risky. If it were easy, he would have rescued Lily and Nicky long ago. The embassy's security was already tight, and with the VIPs and the secret experiment, it was even more heavily guarded. His firearm purchases were based on estimations; he wasn't sure he had enough firepower.

Lily continued, "You mustn't do this alone. Do you think any of us would be free from the consequences?"

Her words resonated. He knew she was right—he would implicate everyone. A simple investigation would reveal his connections to the others, and Cameron already knew. Even though Alexander was friendly with Cameron, Cameron wouldn't show bias. They were all in this together. Austin nodded in agreement. "Lily's right. We're your friends. Do you think we'd worry about being implicated? We're better than that."

Alexander said gently, "I'm sorry I can't do more, but I hope I can help you rescue Nicky."