Mrs. Jenkins displayed clear agitation, as though she had been deeply offended.

“Maria will mentor Barbara? Allowing her to receive Barbara's salute?

Absolutely not!"

If the salute were to take place, Barbara would forever remain in a junior position compared to Maria.

From that day forward, Barbara would never be able to hold her head high in front of Maria.

Hearing Mrs. Jenkins' response, the young man couldn't help but ponder, "No wonder the Jenkins family has been on a downward trajectory over the past two decades. Allowing this senile old woman to oversee family matters, it's astonishing they haven't deteriorated further."

If other families possessed a prodigy like Maria, a once-in-a-century talent, they would undoubtedly be on cloud nine, expressing their joy for having such a genius within their household.

Nevertheless, the young man couldn't discern even a trace of joy on Mrs. Jenkins' countenance. It was as if Maria were not her cherished grandchild but rather an arch-nemesis harboring deep-seated resentments.

"The association's regulations must not be flouted, and the protocol between mentor and student must be honored! Quickly, proceed to the Lemna Yard and extend an invitation to Maria, I mean, bring her here!"

At this juncture, Canaan held the authority to order.

In prominent families, those who raised matters about etiquette and tradition were seldom in the wrong.

Within the Jenkins family, undoubtedly, numerous individuals secretly sided with Canaan.

Without delay, those who were swift to react, without awaiting Mrs. Jenkins' instructions, hurried toward the Lemna Yard...

"Canaan!" Mrs. Jenkins, at last, came back to her senses, her frustration evident in her clenched teeth and piercing glare aimed at Canaan.

Yet, Canaan remained unwavering, exuding confidence and sporting a wide grin as he returned Mrs. Jenkins’ gaze.

He felt immensely gratified after defeating this experienced woman on this matter.

It didn't take long before Maria made her entrance.

Maria had prior knowledge of the situation, so nothing caught her off guard.

With confidence and ease, she walked into the hall, with all eyes fixed on her.

Mrs. Jenkins had been mulling over ways to establish her dominance over Maria and prevent any signs of arrogance in Maria from happening.

But before she could make a move, the young man from the Pill Alchemist Association approached Maria with utmost respect.

"Maria, I'm sorry for any inconvenience had caused. The association is short-staffed, and the newcomers who passed the exam will require your guidance.

The association is in the process of creating a unique senior mentor card for you. You'll receive it during your next visit."

Maria nodded gracefully.