My apologies for inadvertently forcing you to recall your brother.

[Okay, he's not actually being serious about that.]

Their way of "asking for help" is what I take issue with. They're hardly asking- none of this is voluntary.

That said, I don't fault you for wishing to stay calm. It's the rational thing to do. But you know, you can doubt and keep your wits about you at the same time. And there is still plenty that you can do if someone isn't willing to talk.