Mr. Barnes showed a disdainful expression, with no intention to say anything more.

Since making Maria Mr. Barnes' apprentice was not done yet, Mrs. Jenkins would step in for Mr. Barnes.

Knowing Mr. Barnes was arrogant, Mrs. Jenkins knew she had to play along.

“Maria, I believe you heard what Mr. Barnes just said, didn't you?"

Mrs. Jenkins asked with a sweet smile. Her tone was unusually friendly since there were several people around. She looked like a kind lady.

Hearing Mrs. Jenkins' remark, Maria didn't say anything and just nodded expressionlessly.

Mrs. Jenkins smiled and continued, "You are still young and there are many things you cannot yet understand. You need elders like us to guide you in your choices. You know we will always consider your best interest first in our decisions. So, I will tell you my opinion on this matter."

"I'm all ears," Maria said curtly with a cold smile.

Mrs. Jenkins caught Maria's fleeting smirk. Yet, her smirk disappeared soon. Mrs. Jenkins was wondering whether she was imagining things.

Ignoring these thoughts, she continued, "Maria, you've made some progress in your alchemy studies. Just like Canaan said, Goodwin can give you some advice that will help you seriously improve your skills.

Unfortunately, Godwin is not getting any younger. He has poor eyesight and his body is just too weak for him to do anything. He is nowhere near as powerful as he used to be. The reputation he enjoys these days is undeserved.

But as you can see for yourself, Mr. Barnes is different! He is in his prime with enormous potential. There are no limits to what he can accomplish at this age, especially given his skills. Chances are that he can break through to a higher realm in the future.

While Godwin is getting older and weaker, Mr. Barnes is relatively young and energetic. Mr. Barnes can teach you with words and in a practical way. You just need to stay around Mr. Barnes all day long and study hard. What you can learn from Mr. Barnes is far better than what Goodwin can teach you!"

After talking for a while, Mrs. Jenkins paused to let her words sink.

She picked up the cup in front of her and took a sip.

She felt her words had the intended effect, and she was truly happy about it. With a smile, Mrs. Jenkins added, "Maria, I'm doing this for your own good."

As expected, Mr. Barnes was pleased with Mrs. Jenkins' words.

Goodwin was a prominent figure in the Pill Alchemist Association, while Mr. Barnes was a respected medical master in the medical field.

Although the two enjoyed similar status, Mr. Barnes built his reputation well after Godwin.

For this reason, Mr. Barnes's achievements in the world couldn't be compared with those of Godwin. Mr. Barnes was well aware of this.

Yet, things changed. Because of an incident two decades ago, Godwin had fallen into disgrace, and his reputation had suffered greatly. Mr. Barnes supposed Godwin was likely inferior to him now.

Mr. Barnes long resented Godwin because the latter outshined him in status.

With Mrs. Jenkins' words of belittling Godwin and praising him, Mr. Barnes was elated.

“Maria, have you made your decision?" Mrs. Jenkins asked in an urging tone.