A shadow fell over Mrs. Jenkins' countenance, while the elders of the

Jenkins family harbored deep uncertainties. The onlookers in the square were left utterly flabbergasted.

Most among them had never even caught wind of these mythical pills Goodwin had just mentioned.

Rumors claimed that consuming the Secular Magic Pill would bestow demigod-like powers, granting a lifespan extended by a hundred years.

The Immortality Pill was hailed as the panacea of life itself. Once ingested, it could miraculously cure any ailment, restoring the sick to perfect health. Truly, it was a pill that held the power to resurrect.

As for the Divine Pill, it possessed the most mystical properties. Legend had it that one who consumed it a millennium ago ascended to the heavens, transcending mortal boundaries and becoming a deity.

"These three types of pills are merely figments of ancient folklore. What is it that you're trying to insinuate, Mr. Gregory?!"

Mrs. Jenkins muttered indignantly, her anger simmering beneath the surface, though she dared not lose her composure. Instead, she fixated her gaze upon Goodwin, concealing her true emotions behind a counterfeit smile.

At that moment, she deeply regretted extending an invitation to such a formidable individual as an esteemed guest in her own abode.

Maintaining his smile while studying Mrs. Jenkins intently, Goodwin inquired, “If Maria did not concoct these three mystical pills, why do you suspect her of foul play in the competition's semifinals?"

Mrs. Jenkins clenched her teeth and replied, “She created a Concentration Pill with a staggering efficacy of 99.99%, Mr. Gregory. Take heed of this fact-it boasts a 99.99% efficacy!"

“Oh... I see..."

Goodwin allowed a brief pause, his thoughts gathering momentum. "That's all?" he inquired, his words laced with subtle intrigue. A flicker of unease crossed Mrs. Jenkins’ visage, her face twitching involuntarily.

What did he imply with those words?

Even though the Concentration Pill was considered a rudimentary concoction, its efficacy soared to an astounding 99.99% of perfection. Was this a feat within the reach of an ordinary individual?

“Mr. Gregory, do you perceive Maria's actions as reasonable, believing her innocence in this matter?" Mrs. Jenkins inquired, her voice tinged with anticipation.

Yet, Goodwin maintained a stoic silence, withholding his response from Mrs. Jenkins and the entire Jenkins family.

Brandishing the microphone in his grasp, he rose to his feet, addressing the assembled crowd in an unusual tone.

“Maria, why, when crafting a mere Concentration Pill, did you commit an error? Why does its efficacy fall short at 99.99% of perfection? Has the remaining @.01% of its potency been stolen by your own hand?"

“Humph!"

On the square, Maria's countenance mirrored her displeasure.

She muttered under her breath, her expression serious as she retorted, “Can't I occasionally make mistakes? I am unaccustomed to the exacting standards upheld by the esteemed Jenkins family's furnace."

"Very well then," Goodwin acquiesced, acknowledging her statement. However, to the onlookers, the significance of their exchange bore vastly different implications.

She couldn't possibly be a genuine alchemist! She couldn't be! Such a notion was inconceivable!