Chapter 319
The Tech Symposium, co–hosted by the Starfall Science Association and other organizations, had kicked off two days ago and was now in full swing. This event would stretch over a month, featuring nearly two hundred sessions, drawing in academicians and industry experts from all over,
PrimeStar had received an invite, and it was perfect timing for Charlene and Stewart, who were both keen on the “Advanced Materials” segment scheduled for the afternoon, Charlene, fresh from a stint at the hospital, joined Stewart and a few PrimeStar techies as they headed to the symposium venue.
Stewart, representing PrimeStar, had a reserved seat right at the front. Charlene, however, was seated further back with some of the company’s staff, as arranged by the organizers,
Arriving early, Charlene soon spotted Thorne, Vesta, and Moran. They noticed her too. Vesta and Moran seemed unfazed by her presence; Moran assumed she was just there for the experience, while Vesta barely gave her a glance before looking away. Thorne, after a brief glance at Charlene, settled into a front–row seat.
Stewart saw him but just pursed his lips, pretending not to notice. Thorne, always friendly, greeted him cheerfully with, “Mr. Ferguson.”
Stewart thought to himself, “We’re not close, but he just can’t seem to take a hint, can he?”
The symposium kicked off fifteen minutes later. An esteemed engineer took the stage, delving into the realm of advanced materials, engaging in a lively exchange with the audience.
Kenton was a name that carried weight. Charlene and Stewart had delved deep into the world of advanced materials, having researched and handled a myriad of them. The materials mentioned on stage were ones they knew inside out, from properties to raw materials and production conditions. They were well–versed and had insights into sophisticated technologies that others might not.
However, the vastness of the world meant there was always more to learn. They listened intently, knowing that diverse perspectives could spark new ideas.
Vesta too was all ears. The rapid pace of technological advancement meant there was much she hadn’t encountered before. As she noted key points for future study, she realized how much there still was to learn.
Thorne appeared contemplative, yet attentive.
After Hamilton, the distinguished engineer, finished his speech, many in the audience eagerly approached him with questions. Hamilton responded patiently.
Stewart left his seat to join Charlene, exchanging ideas. The hall, brimming with over two hundred people, saw many unfamiliar with Charlene and Stewart gravitate toward their conversation, intrigued by the depth of their discussion.
As the crowd around them grew, someone recognized Stewart. “That’s Stewart, Kenton’s student! No wonder he knows so much!”
This recognition drew even more people, eager to pick their brains. As questions poured in, Stewart graciously answered, sharing his knowledge on non–confidential topics. But overwhelmed by the sheer volume, he pointed to Charlene, “Feel free to ask Charlene too. She’s got quite the breadth of knowledge.”
Soon enough, people were approaching Charlene with questions, and in no time, they were surrounded by an even larger crowd.
Thorne, recognizing Hamilton, approached him with Vesta. Vesta seized the opportunity to ask Hamilton a few questions, to which he responded with a smile, “Ms. Hawkins, you’re remarkably well–versed for someone so young. Thorne, you’ve got a great eye.”
“Ah, but you should know, Vesta graduated with a PhD from one of the world’s top universities. Excellence is a given,” chimed in Professor Zimmerman.
Vesta had attended a few sessions in the past couple of days, and her impressive background didn’t go
14.2
unnoticed. Professor Hancock had even introduced her to several key figures, including Professor
Zimmerman.
With a smile, Professor Zimmerman continued, “I didn’t know you’re Mr. Henderson’s girlfriend, Vesta. We talked quite a bit yesterday, and you never mentioned it. So humble at such a young age, truly commendable.”
Vesta responded with a modest smile, “Thank you, sir.”
Their small group continued exchanging ideas for a while. Nearby, someone complimented, “Stewart, being Kenton’s student, has such a vast knowledge base. Nothing seems to stump him!”
“Absolutely! And who would’ve thought that the lovely Ms. Ross beside him would be just as brilliant? Listening to them feels almost like deciphering a foreign language!”
Hearing this, Vesta’s brow furrowed slightly.
Hamilton, intrigued by the conversation, decided to investigate. Familiar with Stewart, he turned to Thorne and Professor Zimmerman, “I’ll join them for a bit.”
Professor Zimmerman, equally curious, nodded, while Vesta hesitated but decided to tag along.
She glanced at Thorne, suggesting, “Shall we check it out?”
Thorne grinned, “Sure thing.”
Though Moran wasn’t particularly interested, he followed suit.
