The Scientific and Technological Academic Exchange Conference had officially commenced two days ago, co-hosted by the prestigious Porter Association for Science and Technology and several partner organizations. The month-long event would feature nearly 200 individual sessions, attracting the brightest minds from scientific and industrial communities across the nation. DataPulse stood among the invited companies, their presence marking their significance in the technological landscape.

That afternoon's agenda centered on Advanced Materials, a field that particularly captivated both Veronica and Dario. Fresh from their hospital visit, they arrived at the conference venue alongside several technical staff members from DataPulse. As the company's official representative, Dario had secured a seat near the front of the auditorium, while Veronica and the other staff members took their places toward the back, following the organizer's seating arrangement.

Having arrived early, Veronica soon noticed Cullen, Niall, and Nate entering the venue. The recognition was mutual, though their reactions varied significantly. Nate barely registered her presence, assuming she was merely another face in the crowd. Niall, characteristically indifferent, offered only a fleeting glance before turning away. Cullen acknowledged Veronica with a brief look before claiming his seat in the front row.

When Dario spotted Cullen, he curled his lips in visible annoyance and pretended not to notice him. Cullen, ever direct, greeted him with a smile nonetheless. "Mr. Reid."

Dario pressed his lips into a thin line, silently questioning his life choices. Hadn't he made it abundantly clear that they weren't friends? That future greetings were unnecessary? Why couldn't some people take such obvious hints?

Approximately ten minutes later, the conference officially commenced. An esteemed academician from the Academy of Engineering took the podium and launched into a comprehensive discussion on Advanced Materials, blending theoretical concepts with interactive dialogue that engaged the entire audience.

Malcolm Blair's influence had granted both Veronica and Dario a privileged position in this field. Throughout their careers, they had encountered and studied countless types of Advanced Materials. Many materials mentioned by the presenter were instantly recognizable to them—they could immediately recall properties, raw material requirements, and manufacturing conditions without effort.

Despite their extensive knowledge base and deeper understanding of advanced technologies than most attendees, they remained humble learners. The world of science was vast, and they couldn't possibly know everything. Diverse perspectives often sparked innovative ideas, so they listened with genuine interest and attention.

Niall also listened intently. The rapid evolution of technology had expanded the field of Advanced Materials exponentially. Many terms and materials being discussed were completely unfamiliar to her—concepts she'd never encountered, let alone experienced firsthand.

As discussions flowed between the speaker and audience, Niall became acutely aware of her knowledge gaps. Diligently, she noted key points for further study, determined to expand her understanding later.

Cullen sat quietly, seemingly lost in thought, though his attention never wavered from the presentation.

When Wilson Kent, the academician from the Academy of Engineering, concluded his presentation, science and technology professionals eagerly approached him with questions. Wilson addressed each inquiry with remarkable patience and clarity.

Dario left his seat and joined Veronica to exchange observations and insights. With over 200 attendees in the hall, their animated discussion caught the attention of nearby professionals who didn't know them personally. Curious listeners gathered around, forming an impromptu audience to their exchange.

Before long, a small crowd had assembled around them. Someone recognized Dario and exclaimed, "That's Dario Reid—Malcolm Blair's student! No wonder his knowledge is so extensive!"

The crowd continued to grow as more attendees approached with questions. Embracing the conference's spirit of academic exchange, Dario generously answered inquiries that didn't involve confidential information.

As the crowd swelled beyond his capacity to address everyone, Dario redirected some attention toward Veronica. "Veronica has an equally impressive knowledge base. You can direct your questions to her as well."

Several attendees immediately pivoted toward Veronica with their technical inquiries. Within twenty minutes, the gathering around them had grown even larger.

Meanwhile, Cullen, who knew Wilson personally, brought Niall over to make introductions. Niall seized the opportunity to ask Wilson several questions that had been occupying her thoughts.

Impressed by her inquiries, Wilson smiled at Cullen. "Ms. Crystal is remarkably knowledgeable for someone so young. Quite impressive. You've got excellent taste, Cullen."

"You might not be aware," interjected Paul Pearson, who had joined their conversation, "but Niall holds a PhD from a top-ranked university. Her impressive knowledge comes naturally."

Niall had already participated in several sessions over the previous two days, distinguishing herself through her insightful contributions. During yesterday morning's session, Gareth had been present—impressed by her intellect, he had introduced her to several influential figures, including Paul.

Paul regarded Niall and Cullen with a knowing smile. "So Niall, you're Mr. Dennis's girlfriend? Despite our extensive conversation yesterday, you never mentioned that. Such modesty at your age is truly remarkable."

Niall offered a polite smile. "You flatter me."

Their group had attracted its own audience, engaging in vibrant discussion for some time.

Suddenly, someone nearby exclaimed, "Dario truly embodies Mr. Blair's legacy—his knowledge seems limitless! Ask him anything, and he provides a comprehensive answer!"

"Indeed! And not just Dario—that beautiful Ms. Murray beside him is equally brilliant. Standing there listening to them felt like hearing a foreign language, their expertise is so advanced."

Niall's expression tightened subtly at these comments.

Wilson, overhearing the praise, displayed immediate interest. While he was certainly familiar with Dario's reputation, this new information piqued his curiosity. He turned to Cullen and Paul. "I think I'll investigate this discussion."

Paul nodded with similar interest. Niall hesitated momentarily before deciding she wanted to observe as well.

She turned to Cullen. "Shall we join them?"

Cullen smiled warmly. "Of course."

Nate, though uninterested in the technical exchange, followed along nonetheless, trailing behind the group as they moved toward the growing crowd surrounding Veronica and Dario.