Since Barbara's fifth-grade Reverse Pill just met the standard level of efficacy, Barbara's chances of winning were nonexistent. The champion of the final had already been secured by Maria.

“Come here, Maria. I would like to have a chat with you."

With a gentle wave of her hand, Mrs. Jenkins beckoned Maria, exuding the warmth of a benevolent grandmother.

In fact, as the wife of the late master of the Jenkins family, she shared no blood ties with anyone in the family, including Maria and her peers.

Observing Maria's reluctance to respond, Reuben offered a reminder,