Pretending to Lose a Child

The constable turned pale with fright at these words and hurriedly waved his hands, saying, "Oh, don't say such things! If the magistrate hears this, you'll lose your heads! Princess Lily Hayes is the legitimate wife of Prince Alexander, the highest-ranked noblewoman, and even Empress Bella was once her apprentice. If you talk nonsense like this, it's defying those above you—and that's a capital offense!"

Hearing the constable's warning, the group of women felt a chill run down their spines. After all, commoners shouldn't go up against officials, and Princess Lily Hayes was such a high-status figure. If anyone pursued this matter, not only would they fail to get justice for their children, but their whole family might be dragged off for execution—that would be a truly unjust death.

Seeing that no one dared discuss it any further, the constable quickly hurried off to continue his investigation.

Lily Evans had originally wanted to get out of the carriage, but after overhearing the women's conversation, she paused and lifted the curtain, staring blankly outside.

Alexander Hayes worriedly grasped Lily's hand. "Darling, those women are just ignorant and spouting nonsense. Don't let it get to you. Once the real culprit is caught, your name will be cleared."

"I hope so," Lily sighed, then took a deep breath, got out of the carriage, and walked toward the women. Alexander, worried for Lily's safety, immediately tried to follow, but Lily stopped him.

Lily looked at Alexander and said, "Your Highness, these women are all relatives of the victims. What they say is far more detailed and reliable than the official records. I'll go ask around for information. You'd better stay here—if people recognize you, they'll know who I am too."

Alexander thought for a moment and nodded. "Alright, I'll watch over you from the carriage. Go ahead, don't worry."

Alexander then got back into the carriage, lowered the curtain, and quietly watched Lily through the window.

Lily quickly walked toward the magistrate's office. As soon as she appeared at the entrance, all the women turned to look at her.