[ Wash closes his eyes briefly as he listens, mostly quiet, nodding. By his own assessment Byerly won't be in immediate danger the same way York and Ratchet weren't in any after being captured -- but well, they won't have any use for him for very long. Except as a lab rat. Which might keep him alive, at least, but.

Blackmail, then. She's relying on blackmail. Pressuring Diya as a means of protecting herself. It does seem sound, but making use of something like that in enemy territory when she's on thin ice as it is . . . The sooner he can get her out of there, the better. He nods, though, opening his eyes again, leaning back against her slightly. A simple, friendly gesture. ]

We'll get him out before that happens. [ No ifs or buts about it. He'll find a way. Moving on from there, though. ] That all seems sound, in terms of leaning on her . . . It'll buy you some leeway. A bit of time. Maybe you'll be able to dig up some more dirt to use, maybe even something on Sei, but.

[ A sigh, nudging her lightly with his elbow. ]

Remember when I asked you for an exit strategy? [ How's that coming along. He sure hopes it isn't nothing. ]