In the conference room of Sandao'ou University, over a hundred professors and researchers took their seats.
"Colleagues, I've called you here today to evaluate a plan proposed by an undergraduate student," Jiang Yongxing stated gravely into the microphone.
Chaos erupted.
"An undergraduate's plan? Worth a graduate conference?!"
"More overtime... my experiment's on hold!"
Jiang's cough cut through the din.
"This concerns controlled nuclear fusion. Dean Tian Zhixuan and I reviewed it but lack full confidence. To avoid missing a breakthrough, we convene this meeting. Your understanding is appreciated."
Shock rippled through the room. Even Tian and Jiang are uncertain? Curiosity replaced skepticism.
Bang!
The door flew open. A dozen lab-coated professors entered, led by Fang Xu—a square-jawed man with eager eyes.
"Jiang! Where's this fusion plan?!" he demanded.
Gasps echoed.
"Professor Fang Xu?! The fusion lab director..."
Jiang greeted him warmly.
"Fang Xu, long time no see!"
Fang scowled playfully. "Spare me! We interrupted experiments for this. You'd better deliver."
Jiang clapped his shoulder. "Trust me—if this works, Xia will leapfrog the world."
Fang's eyes widened. Jiang never exaggerates.
"Proceed," Fang said.
Jiang activated the projector, displaying Lv's calculations.
Silence—only the ticking clock and scribbling pens.
Fang Xu's shock deepened.
"How is this possible?" he muttered.
"Fang, your verdict?" Jiang whispered.
Fang turned, incredulous.
"A sophomore... created this?"
Jiang nodded. "Caught daydreaming in class, he stormed the podium."
Fang struggled to speak.
"Jiang, this plan is more advanced than ours. I found three flaws in our design."
Jiang staggered. A student outperforms a science professor?
"Xia's fortune!" Jiang slammed the table, jolting the room.
Fang's excitement matched his.
"I request immediate report to Parliament. Material synthesis must begin at once!"
Before celebration:
"No! I object!"
A lone voice cut through the fervor.