CHAPTER SIXTY–NINE–A Moment of Truth
She launched into a detailed explanation of their scalable architecture and novel error correction protocols, her thorough preparation evident in her confident responses. As she spoke, Laura noticed Ryan nodding along, occasionally chiming in to reinforce key points:
As the presentation progressed, Rothschild became visibly more engaged. He leaned forward, his fingers steepled under his chin as he asked increasingly specific questions about Sivarra Tech’s plans and projections.
“Your performance estimates are quite ambitious,” Rothschild noted, his tone neutral, “How do you justify these numbers given the current state of quantum technology?”
Laura and Asden exchanged a quick glance before Laura responded. “Our projections are based on a comprehensive analysis of our current prototypes and extrapolations of our scaling capabilities,” she explained, bringing up a series of graphs. “Alden, would you like to walk us through the data?”
Aiden nodded, seeming to have regained his composure. He deftly navigated through the slides, explaining their methodology and the tactors that supported their optimistic outlook. Laura watched with pride as Aiden’s earlier nervousness melted away, replaced by the confidence that came from truly understanding his subject matter.
As they neared the end of their presentation, one of Rothschild’s advisors a sharp–eyed woman with salt–and–pepper hair – raised her hand. “Mr. O’Connor, could you elaborate on how your system handles quantum entanglement across distant qubits? Particularly in scenarios with noisy intermediate–scale quantum (NISQ) devices?”
Laura felt a moment of panic, knowing this was venturing into some of the most complex aspects of their technology. But to her surprise, Aiden stepped forward, a look of determination on his face.
“Certainly,” he began, his voice steady. “Our approach to maintaining quantum entanglement over distance utilizes a novel technique we call ‘coberent state transfer…
Aiden launched into a detailed explanation, his words flowing smoothly as he broke down the intricate processes at work Laura watched in amazement as he fielded follow–up questions with ease, his earlier nerves completely forgotten in the face of a challenge he was uniquely equipped to handle.
As Aiden finished, Laura could see a newfound respect in the eyes of Rothschild and his team. She stepped forward to deliver the
conclusion, riding the wave of positive energy in the room.
As she finished, there was a moment of silence. Rothschild leaned back in his chair, a thoughtful expression on his face as he conferred quietly with his team. Laura held her breath, her heart pounding in her chest.
Ryan stepped forward, breaking the tension as he extended his hand to Rothschild. “Thank you for your time and attention,” he said, his easy charm evident in Rothschild’s relaxed smile. “We appreciate the opportunity to share our vision with you.”
Rothschild stood, shaking Ryan’s hand firmly. “It’s been… illuminating,” he said, his tone giving nothing away. “We’ll be in touch soon to discuss next steps. ”
As Rothschild and his team filed out of the room, there was a moment of tense silence. Laura and Aiden exchanged uncertain glances, the weight of the past hour hanging heavy in the air.
Suddenly, Ryan broke into a broad grin. “That,” he announced, clapping his hands together, “was excellent work. Both of you should. be incredibly proud.”
Laura felt a wave of relief wash over her, a smile breaking across her face. Aiden let out a shaky laugh, the tension visibly draining
from his shoulders
Julia stepped forward, her heels clicking on the polished floor. “Yes, congratulations,” she said, her tone sweet but her eyes cold as she watched Ryan. “You both did… surprisingly well.”
Ryan either didn’t notice or chose to ignore Julia’s backhanded compliment. “Come on,” he said, gesturing towards the door. “I think this calls for a celebration. There’s champagne walling on the upper deck.”
As they made their way through the yacht, Laura felt as if she were floating. The stress and anxiety of the past few days seemed to melt away with each step.
The upper deck was bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun, the sky a canvas of oranges and pinks. A table had been set up with. Hlutes of golden champagne, the bubbles catching the light as Ryan handed them out.
“To Sivarra Tech,” Ryan said, raising his glass. “And to the brilliant minds that are going to take quantum computing into the future.”
As they sipped their drinks, Laura noticed Rothschild approaching Ryan, engaging him in what appeared to be an animated and positive conversation. She felt a flutter of hope in her chest.
CHAITEIT EXTY–NINE – A Moment of Truth
Aiden sidled up to her, his face flushed with excitement and champagne. “We did it,” he said, his voice filled with wonder. “We actually did it.”
