Seeing another beautiful girl mock Maria seemed to create a bond among the young pill alchemists, who formed a favorable opinion of Barbara.

"Hey, isn't that Maria? The celebrated actress and writer?"

A few in the crowd recognized Maria and couldn't hide their disappointment.

Had movie magic enhanced her image too much?

They had seen her film "Female Military Counsellor," and even if they weren't devout fans, they felt some level of fondness toward her.

Hearing her ask such uninformed questions now dampened their enthusiasm.

“Well, you know what they say about pretty faces lacking brains..."

Amid the crowd's derision and disappointment, Maria's expression remained largely unchanged.

She looked somewhat disheartened as she turned back to the staff.

"So, you're absolutely certain you don't have them?"

Although the staff was only a few years older than Maria, he already managed to become a third-grade pill alchemist last year.

He thought that Maria might've come from a small family and didn't have enough life experience, causing her to spout such nonsensical things.

Yet, considering Maria's striking appearance and composure, the staff held back from making any disparaging comments.

"The items you're asking for don't actually exist. The exam hasn't started yet. I'd recommend going through to the ‘Pharmacopoeia’ and familiarizing yourself with herbs that you'll actually need for the test..."

As the staff was prattling on, someone from behind him tapped him on the shoulder.

“Who is it?"

Turning around, he was met with the grizzled face of a middle-aged man.

“Mr. Lawrence!" he exclaimed in surprise.

Standing before him was Jadiel Lawrence, a six-grade pill alchemist within the Pill Alchemist Association.

Six-grade pill alchemists held significant clout, serving as the backbone of the association and residing just below the ranks of renowned figures.

Furthermore, Jadiel was the lone examiner for today's major exam.

For all candidates present, his word would be the line between passing and failing.

Jadiel's gaze was piercing. He first looked at the staff, his face tinged with disappointment, and then directed his attention toward Maria.

"Miss, the herbs you've listed are accessible only through certain privileges. Today's exam only requires adherence to the given prompt, without dictating the grade of the refined pill. So, let me ask you again. Are you absolutely certain you need those three rare herbs?"