Chapter 299

The Salzburg International Science Symposium, co-hosted by the prestigious Aldridge 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. InnovaTech had received a coveted invitation.

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

After leaving the medical center, Isabella accompanied Nathaniel and a team of InnovaTech researchers to the convention hall.

As InnovaTech's official representative, Nathaniel was seated in the VIP section near the stage.

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

Oliver assumed she was merely attending as Nathaniel's plus-one.

Victoria barely glanced her way before dismissing her presence entirely.

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

Nathaniel, spotting Alexander, smirked and deliberately turned away.

Ever the politician, Alexander greeted him with practiced charm. "Mr. Graves."

Nathaniel'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 Charles Montgomery from the Royal Academy of Sciences took the podium, delivering an insightful overview of cutting-edge nanomaterials, seamlessly blending theory with practical applications.

Frederick Aldridge's protégé commanded significant respect in this field.

Both Isabella and Nathaniel 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.

Victoria 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.

Alexander appeared contemplative, though his focus seemed genuine.

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

The professor fielded each inquiry with patience.

Nathaniel crossed the auditorium to exchange observations with Isabella.

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

"Mr. Graves studied under Frederick Aldridge," someone whispered. "No wonder he's so knowledgeable!"

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

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

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

Meanwhile, Alexander escorted Victoria to meet Professor Montgomery.

Victoria seized the opportunity to ask several technical questions.

"Ms. Kensington demonstrates remarkable breadth for her age," Montgomery remarked to Alexander. "You've chosen well."

Simon Fairchild joined them. "Victoria graduated top of her class at Cambridge. Excellence comes naturally to her."

Victoria had attended multiple sessions over two days. Yesterday, Theodore Sinclair had introduced her to several influential figures, including Simon.

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

Victoria demurred, "You flatter me."

Their group attracted considerable attention, engaging in lively debate.

Suddenly, nearby exclamations cut through:

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

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

Victoria's smile stiffened imperceptibly.

Intrigued, Professor Montgomery excused himself. "I should greet Mr. Graves."

Simon expressed similar interest. After a calculated pause, Victoria turned to Alexander. "Shall we join them?"

Alexander nodded. "Of course."

Oliver, disinterested but obligated, trailed behind.