In less than ten minutes, Isla and Grover arrived at the pill alchemy lab.

“Miss, what do you need us for?"

They were really worried when they Learned on the way to the Laboratory that Maria had been appointed as Barbara's assistant.

They were concerned that she would be treated unfairly, and after they saw how filthy and disorganized the Laboratory was, they became even more furious.

"Grover, go out and guard the door. Stop anyone who will try to enter,” Maria instructed.

“Understood. I‘1l assure you no one will enter the lab without your permission as long as I'm here," Grover vowed through gritted teeth

He was seething with rage, and he would not hesitate to beat up anyone who tried to barge into the laboratory.

Once Grover had left the room and closed the door behind him, Maria turned to Isla.

"Isla, I'm going to teach you the fundamentals of pill alchemy now."

Isla nodded, blinked, and then blurted out, “What? Miss Maria, you.. You're going to teach me here? Is that even allowed?"

Maria shrugged nonchalantly. "Of course, it's allowed. This is the laboratory of a pill alchemist. Everything Linked to the manufacture of pills is allowed here. Or would you like to do this in the kitchen instead?"

Isla did not know what to make of Maria's twisted reasoning.

Had Maria always been like this? Her words made sense. However, she also sounded.. a bit insane.

“First, I'll teach you about the different kinds of alchemy tools, how to use them, and how to keep them in good shape..."

And so, Maria started her lecture.

Under her watchful eye, Isla began to collect each dirty tool and wash it thoroughly.

Half an hour later, Isla discovered she had cleaned all the tools.

“Now, I'm going to show you the ropes when it comes to medicines. Here, we have the dregs..."

Maria then instructed Isla to collect all the dregs and stack them neatly.

She sorted all the leftover medicine into categories and taught Isla about its effects and pharmacology.

Once Maria finished her explanation, she instructed Isla to dispose of the leftover medicine.

“Do you remember everything I've told you so far?" Maria asked.

“Yes! Don't worry, Miss Maria. I've kept everything in mind!" Isla nodded enthusiastically.

As a matter of fact, Isla was a lot smarter than Vivian. She remembered everything Maria had just told her, which was a lot! “Good.”