“. . . slits where this inserts are small and had previously been assumed to be ventilation ports. Next question.” A group of reporters was then shown on screen holding up hands or fingers, waiting for a nod or other indication to speak.
“Nin, I’m glad that I’m not part of the attention.”
“Don’t be.”
“Why now, you ask? The team from Australia presented a fresh approach. We are indebted to Mr. Quan Wong here,”—the camera panned to show Quan in a new form-fitting pale green outfit—“and Dr. Aulaaona, who has been in contact via satellite during the process. Next question.”
“What is going to happen as a result of this amazing discovery?”
“Amazing is an understatement. When you think that our ancestors in the dawn of space exploration found a habitable planet after an eight-thousand-year journey, it is both humbling and awe-inspiring. Now as we approach and enter the era of exploration with ships that bend space-time, this gives us a target that could be reached in days of travel. Our brothers and sisters, descendants from our common ancestors may be living in another world, one that we could also potentially share if our planet is threatened. The possibilities and promises are immense. I am humbled, indeed, to be the discoverer. Fortune smiles on the prepared mind.”
“He just took credit for my work,” Porliche said. “He left both of us out.”
“He’ll pay,” Nin said. “The academic community, including Aulaaona, will expose the bastard.”
Porliche continued to stare at the spectacle until the image blurred behind a layer of anger and awe. Wiping her eyes, she sent Bhat a brief text message.