Chapter 299

The Lucerne International Science Symposium, co-hosted by the prestigious Bellamy Foundation and several leading institutions, had commenced two days prior.

This month-long event featured nearly 200 specialized sessions, attracting top minds from academia and industry. Vertex Dynamics had received a coveted invitation.

That afternoon's keynote focused on Nanomaterials - a field of particular interest to both Camille and Gabriel.

After leaving the medical center, Camille accompanied Gabriel and a team of Vertex Dynamics researchers to the convention hall.

As Vertex Dynamics's official representative, Gabriel was seated in the VIP section near the stage.

Camille and the research team were directed to general seating toward the rear. They arrived early. Moments after settling in, Camille noticed Damien, Selene, and Arlo entering. Their eyes met. Neither Selene nor Arlo seemed surprised to see her - though their reactions differed markedly.

Arlo assumed she was merely attending as Gabriel's plus-one.

Selene barely glanced her way before dismissing her presence entirely.

Damien's gaze lingered briefly before he took his reserved seat in the front row.

Gabriel, spotting Damien, smirked and deliberately turned away.

Ever the politician, Damien greeted him with practiced charm. "Mr. Ashcroft."

Gabriel's jaw tightened. Hadn't he made his boundaries clear? They weren't acquaintances, let alone friends. Why did some people insist on forced pleasantries?

The symposium began precisely at 2:00 PM.

Professor Owen Rutherford from the Crown Academy of Sciences took the podium, delivering an insightful overview of cutting-edge nanomaterials, seamlessly blending theory with practical applications.

Graham Bellamy's protégé commanded significant respect in this field.

Both Camille and Gabriel had hands-on experience with most materials mentioned.

They could instantly recall molecular structures, manufacturing processes, and practical applications just hearing the compound names.

Their expertise surpassed most attendees, but the scientific frontier constantly expanded. Fresh perspectives often sparked innovation - hence their attentive presence.

Selene listened intently, taking copious notes. The nanomaterials field had exploded in complexity.

Half the terminology sounded like alien concepts to her. She resolved to research these unfamiliar terms later.

Damien appeared contemplative, though his focus seemed genuine.

When Professor Rutherford concluded, dozens of researchers rushed forward with questions.

The professor fielded each inquiry with patience.

Gabriel crossed the auditorium to exchange observations with Camille.

Among 200+ attendees, their technical discussion drew curious onlookers. Soon a crowd gathered.

"Mr. Ashcroft studied under Graham Bellamy," someone whispered. "No wonder he's so knowledgeable!"

The growing crowd overwhelmed Gabriel. Since this was an academic forum, he answered non-proprietary questions generously.

Eventually delegating, he suggested, "Ms. Hartwell's expertise rivals mine. She can address your inquiries."

Camille soon fielded equally complex questions. Within twenty minutes, their impromptu session drew nearly fifty attendees.

Meanwhile, Damien escorted Selene to meet Professor Rutherford.

Selene seized the opportunity to ask several technical questions.

"Ms. Lancaster demonstrates remarkable breadth for her age," Rutherford remarked to Damien. "You've chosen well."

Elliot Mercer joined them. "Selene graduated top of her class at Cambridge. Excellence comes naturally to her."

Selene had attended multiple sessions over two days. Yesterday, Dorian Hartwell had introduced her to several influential figures, including Elliot.

Elliot smiled knowingly at the pair. "So you're Mr. Harrington's fiancée? You modestly omitted that detail yesterday. Rare humility in someone so accomplished."

Selene demurred, "You flatter me."

Their group attracted considerable attention, engaging in lively debate.

Suddenly, nearby exclamations cut through:

"Mr. Ashcroft truly lives up to his mentor's legacy! His technical depth is astounding!"

"And Ms. Hartwell! I couldn't follow half her explanations - she's on another level entirely!"

Selene's smile stiffened imperceptibly.

Intrigued, Professor Rutherford excused himself. "I should greet Mr. Ashcroft."

Elliot expressed similar interest. After a calculated pause, Selene turned to Damien. "Shall we join them?"

Damien nodded. "Of course."

Arlo, disinterested but obligated, trailed behind.