Nevertheless, starting today, Maria shall be entitled to privileges and treatment second only to Jadiel, the head examiner of this evaluation."

As the young man concluded his speech, his voice resonated throughout the hall.

Within the hall, a hush descended upon everyone.

The room's ambiance bore a hint of discomfort, verging on the absurd.

Following a significant pause, Canaan was the first to respond.

Canaan exclaimed, "Maria performed that exceptionally well in the exam?"

The Jenkins family members also grasped the situation.

They abruptly comprehended that this celebration initially meant for Barbara, had taken on an absurd twist.

When compared to Maria, Barbara didn't warrant a celebration.

“Fine! Maria is Maria, and Barbara is Barbara. Since you're here to manage Barbara's matters, concentrate on your task and don't bring unrelated individuals into this!"

Undoubtedly, Mrs. Jenkins had suffered a loss of prestige today.

Yet, no one dared to openly challenge her. After all, she held the position of family head.

As anticipated, once Mrs. Jenkins voiced her opinion, silence descended upon the room once more, as individuals held back their emotions.

Although the young man found Mrs. Jenkins’ demeanor perplexing, he had no intention of engaging in a dispute with a woman in her late nineties.

He simply shrugged and remarked, "This wouldn't be proper. The association has its protocols. Mentors hold great significance for newcomers, who are expected to express their gratitude with a respectful salute. Since Maria isn't present, I believe it would be inappropriate for me to announce this unilaterally, wouldn't you agree?"

The young man's words left the Jenkins family members perplexed.

How did the announcement of Barbara's assigned mentor by the association become intertwined with Maria's presence?

Canaan had his guess, but he still found it incredibly surprising.

He asked, filled with excitement, "You require Maria's presence? Are you suggesting..."

"Indeed!" The young man nodded.

“Due to a recent shortage of senior alchemists within the association, and considering Maria's being Mr. Gregory's apprentice, coupled with Jadiel's strong endorsement, the association has made a unique arrangement. ALL the newcomers from this year's examination will be placed under Maria's mentorship."

Canaan was left utterly stunned, and the Jenkins family members were left in a state of disbelief.

Barbara began to doubt whether she was hearing things or perhaps still half-asleep.

"What? Is that even possible?"