Betty said, "Don't forget, we are high-IQ individuals, once known globally for our intellect. With our superior genes, they view us as their strongest weapons.
"Every month, someone secretly spikes our food. It's almost impossible to protect against. Xavier and I have always secretly taken contraceptive pills, which kept us safe for years.
"But a few months ago, we let our guard down and didn't realize the medication had been swapped. That's how I ended up pregnant."
She gently caressed her belly, her eyes clouded with sorrow. "Perhaps it's destiny that this child will have to live in such a twisted world."
The longer one stayed imprisoned, the more any hope for a better life slipped away, leaving only a deep, all-consuming despair.
"That may not be the case," Helen said softly, trying to offer some reassurance. "Perhaps the birth of this child could bring something good to you."
Betty caught the hidden implication in her words. As their eyes met, her expression turned uncertain. "Who exactly are you?"
"I can't explain everything right now, but I need you to trust me. Mrs. Goodwin, please tell me where Professor Goodwin's lab is."
"I strongly advise against taking that risk," Betty warned, her voice full of concern. "The guards here are exceptionally skilled in both strength and speed. If you're caught, not only will your child be in danger, but you might not make it out alive."
For Helen, the guards were no serious threat. Everyone had their weaknesses, and no one was invincible. As long as she found the right opening, even the most powerful opponents wouldn't stand a chance.
Besides, she still had the medicine Kingsley had given her, and she hadn't used it yet.
"I can handle it. I'm not sure we'll get another chance to meet, so Mrs. Goodwin, I truly hope you take advantage of this moment."
Betty looked into Helen's clear eyes, torn by uncertainty. After a moment's hesitation, she decided to trust her.
"I don't know the exact location, but it's somewhere in the nearby waters. Before I got pregnant, I used to visit every day. I'd leave in the morning and return by evening, so it's definitely not far.
"I remember once having seaweed on the hem of my pants. It was a type of red algae that only grows in the ocean, so the lab must be underwater!"
"Of course," Isla replied, affirming her guess. "It's almost time, Mrs. Newton. Let's head back."
"Okay."
Helen followed without a word, but as they left the square, she stole a glance back at Betty.
Betty was watching her too. Their eyes met, and they exchanged a quiet, knowing nod.
That night, Helen removed her human skin gloves in the shadows and retrieved the sleeping drugs she had hidden.
The next evening arrived swiftly.
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