"Well..." Julie stated, lost in thought for a moment. She sensed a newfound calm in Maria.

“Maria, this isn't going to interfere with your exams, right?" Julie finally said, breaking her reverie.

Maria shook her head.

"No, not in the slightest."

A realization dawned on Julie.

Was this how top students exuded confidence when facing an approaching exam?

Reflecting on her misplaced concerns, Julie gave Maria a light tap on the leg.

"Stop crossing your legs like that. It's impolite!"

“Mom... Maria began, a hint of amusement in her voice, yet she complied, uncrossing her legs.

If Anthony ever knew about this, he'd tease Maria endlessly.

Three days rolled by swiftly.

Mrs. Jenkins got wind from Doris that Maria had been in Lemna Yard for the entire three days.

During that time, no one had visited, and no supplies were sent for Maria's exam preparations.

Mrs. Jenkins inquired, "Has Barbara set out?

Doris, with a sycophantic smile, replied, "Yes, Reuben is escorting her personally to the examination site."

"Good," Mrs. Jenkins responded, her thoughts shifting.

"And Maria?"

Doris quickly said, “She's also left. Today's the day of the exam.

There's no stopping her."

“The day of the exam..."

Mrs. Jenkins sneered, thinking that her schemes against Maria worked out.

Looking at her sneer, even Doris could not help shivering in her heart.

In a contemplative voice, Mrs. Jenkins said, "Without any preparation, Maria won't succeed. Even if she once knew the Peony Pill formula, I doubt she'll pass this time."

Doris eagerly chimed in, “Exactly! In the Jenkins family, it's enough to have Barbara in the Pill Alchemist Association. What's more, it is likely that Maria won't pass the exam this time!"