Barbara had confirmed it repeatedly and wouldn't get it wrong.

Refining these specific, lower-tier pills was something she had mastered, thanks to numerous practice sessions at the Jenkins' residence. This acing bolstered her confidence in the exam.

"Jadiel must have identified the distinct alchemical formula I've been working with. That must be it!"

Lost in her contemplations, Barbara stole a quick glance at Jadiel.

To her chagrin, she noticed that Jadiel's attention was unwaveringly on Maria.

His expression conveyed a mix of fascination, astonishment, and uncertainty.

And at that moment, Barbara felt as if she had faded into the background and become invisible to him.

The furnace fire started as a vibrant orange-red hue.

Over time, its color deepened, shifting from orange-red to a rich deep red, then from deep red to a blackish-red shade, and eventually settling into an intense black!

"A black flame? What kind of alchemical technique is this?"

"It's clearly a rare formula! She must have concocted a rare pill formula!"

While listening to the chatter of those around her, Barbara grinned.

They were all correct.

She basked in the admiration and validation she gained from others.

Creating Something from Nothing?

Not only could she master the art of refining pills, but she could also conjure fire seemingly out of thin air!

Only a select few had witnessed such jet-black yet incredibly scorching flames!

Barbara cast a glance at Maria, who stood nearby.

Huh?

Maria's furnace fire appeared normal, perhaps even a bit feeble, as if it might extinguish at any moment.

As the examination time slowly elapsed, Barbara had already completed over half of the refining process, and everything proceeded smoothly.

“You, I'll grant you ten more minutes," Jadiel suddenly said to Barbara.

"Understood, sir. Thank you!"

Barbara remained composed, and her excitement was growing with each passing second.