James stated, “Regarding Siren's identity, unless she consents, neither the National Physics Lab nor I will publicly announce it. There are two reasons: first, she prefers anonymity; second, as of yesterday, her file was approved, and she is officially a First-Class Researcher in Clusia, entitled to national protection.”
The Clusian media erupted. The title of First-Class Researcher was prestigious; only three individuals at the National Physics Lab—James, Marcus, and Jay—held it. Now, there was a fourth: Siren.
A Clusian reporter, smirking, asked, “Mr. Owens, isn't it premature to grant Siren this title based on a single project?”
James remained calm. “A single project? The new energy project's rapid completion and implementation are entirely due to Siren's efforts. I've submitted a detailed report to the World Physics Organization in Mysonna. Their website now details Siren's contributions. Any doubts can be verified there.”
His well-reasoned response silenced the reporter. Reporters immediately checked the World Physics Organization's website. Seeing the updated information and James's composure, other journalists who intended to create trouble fell silent. The World Physics Organization's endorsement left them with no legitimate grounds for further questioning.
The male reporter, upon seeing the official First-Class Researcher certification on his colleague's phone, looked grim. A whisper rippled through the room: “Oh my God, Siren is a woman? And she’s only 22? That’s unbelievable.”
Exclamations followed: “Really? She's only 22! The youngest First-Class Researcher in Clusia?” “A woman? A 22-year-old genius?” “She must be the youngest participant in the project!” “She even broke Marcus's record! A miracle!”
These details—Siren's age and gender—had been disclosed to secure certification from the World Physics Organization; James had discussed this with Yvette the previous night.
James politely addressed a frustrated Mysonna journalist: “Any further questions, sir?” He inwardly mused, Let’s see how these Mysonna journalists will dispute their own country’s organization’s recognition.
This outcome surprised James. The World Physics Organization's swift approval and website update were unusual. Certification typically involved a lengthy process.
The reporter, embarrassed, ceased questioning, followed by the other journalists. The press conference concluded smoothly within the hour.
James addressed the assembled media: “Five thousand years ago, we stood with the Nileians against floods. Four thousand years ago, like the Babylonians, we cast bronze. Three thousand years ago, we philosophized with the Aegeans. Two thousand years ago, we fought with the Veronians. A thousand years ago, we shared the Saracens’ prosperity. And now, we stand among the world's nations, unwavering. Clusian researchers strive for innovation. I hope more young talents like Siren will return to build our nation's future.”
Thunderous applause erupted. Only the Mysonna reporter and his crew remained, watching James with resentment. The reporter, having called Mysonna for more information, received a stern warning against further pursuit of the matter. He booked the earliest flight back, defeated.
At the Chavez residence, the press conference aired live. Jeremiah had brought Yvette at Aurora's request. They watched together. Aurora peeled an orange for Yvette. “It’s sweet. Try it. I had someone bring it specially from the south.”
Yvette ate it, nodding. “Delicious.”
Aurora beamed. Clifford grumbled, “Sweet? It’s just an orange.”
Jeremiah, smirking, tried an orange. “Sour.”
Aurora sighed, watching James on TV. “Who would have guessed Siren is a 22-year-old woman?”
Clifford lowered his newspaper. “Indeed, a genius. Mr. Owens's recommendation speaks volumes.”
Jeremiah observed Yvette, eating her orange. His eyes darkened. Siren and Yvette are both 22, both women… a connection?
Yvette, meeting his gaze, frowned. “Why are you looking at me like that?”
Aurora, noticing their intense exchange, shielded Yvette from Jeremiah's view. Only I get to admire Yvette’s beauty, she thought possessively.
Clifford, feeling jealous, thought, Does Aurora not love me anymore?