"Is our controllable nuclear fusion experiment a state-supported project?"

Chloe Sinclair did a quick mental calculation of the lab’s liquid assets.

If her calculations were correct, the lab didn’t have much cash on hand.

The materials were almost all consumables, meaning they had to purchase a new batch for every experiment.

Even though Jasper Shaw had provided a lot of funding, it couldn’t sustain this rate of spending.

However, it would be a different story if they were designated as a key state-supported project.

Then, any applications for funding or equipment would be approved quickly.

But she couldn’t recall controllable nuclear fusion ever being selected as a key state-supported project in her past life.

Sure enough, Nathan Trenton shook his head, a look of regret on his face. "Nuclear fusion has always been a global challenge. While it gets public support, securing a steady stream of funding is basically impossible unless you’re one of the top academicians."

Chloe Sinclair understood what Nathan Trenton meant.

It would be a lie to say she wasn’t disappointed.

’After all, with enough money, what experiments couldn’t they run? What equipment couldn’t they buy?’

"The higher-ups have their own considerations. Besides, we have President Shaw’s support now. I’m sure it won’t be long before our experiments succeed."

Nathan Trenton trailed off, suddenly falling silent.

Chloe Sinclair asked, "What’s wrong?"

"Meridia has been putting pressure on us lately. Everyone’s been working around the clock, but the good news is the flux-fusion reactor is almost complete."

If it weren’t for Chloe Sinclair, he couldn’t imagine what kind of situation they would be facing.

Chloe Sinclair knew exactly what Nathan Trenton meant.

But she didn’t dare take the credit.

A large part of her success was due to the System’s help.

She had a clear understanding of her own role from the very beginning.

Compared to a group of scientific experts with decades of experience, Chloe Sinclair was truly out of her league.

Chloe Sinclair was silent for a moment before saying, "I believe in the professor’s ability to get us through this challenge."

Nathan Trenton’s respect for her grew instantly.

He asked, "The flux-fusion reactor will be finished soon. What’s your next move?"

Meridia was still in the dark about the nature of their reactor.

But Nathan Trenton knew that once the flux-fusion reactor was unveiled, it would send shockwaves across the globe.

And for that very reason, he knew Chloe wouldn’t stop there.

Nathan Trenton’s eyes were dark and calm, yet a subtle light seemed to ripple within them.

Finally, he spoke slowly, "Do you have a plan?"

Though phrased as a question, Nathan Trenton’s tone was completely certain.

Chloe Sinclair didn’t hold back.

"The professor’s theory is correct. Once the flux-fusion reactor is complete, we can push forward with his theory. Our progress will be at least ten times faster than before."

Chloe Sinclair recalled when Meridia’s press conference was. "Knowing Meridia’s MO," she said, "they should make a move by the end of next month."

"When the time comes, we’ll see who ends up with egg on their face." A cold smile touched Chloe Sinclair’s lips.

Nathan Trenton said, "We still need to discuss this with the professor."

On a small scale, this was just a feud between two labs.

But on a larger scale, it was a matter of national honor.

Chloe Sinclair was certain that her professor wanted to complete this experiment more than anyone.

"I’ll go to the lab this afternoon to talk to the professor."

Just as Chloe Sinclair was about to go talk to Joel Quincy, Nathan Trenton informed her of something.

Due to her frequent absences from class, if she didn’t go back for the monthly exam this time, she would automatically get a zero!

Chloe Sinclair didn’t care about her grades anymore, but she didn’t want to come in dead last.

So, without even having time to go back to the lab, she ran off to take the exam.