Chapter 1644

"Okay, I'll leave it to you," Dr. Blanc finally said after a moment of silence.

"However, when can we expect an accurate result?"

"Today," she replied confidently. Her experience with the virus indicated that without stimulation or acceleration via drugs, it wouldn't survive long. Her mixture would prompt the body's immune system to fight back; they would know by evening if it worked.

Dr. Blanc looked intently at her, noting her determination, and said nothing more. One staff member remained hesitant.

"Dr. Blanc..." Although the doctor seemed confident, the staff member felt uneasy about bearing the consequences should something go wrong. Dr. Blanc waved a dismissive hand.

"Everyone dismissed. Check on the other patients. Pay close attention to prevent similar occurrences. Be prepared!"

He then left to disinfect himself and remove his protective suit.

Dr. Dashiell Stone, who had earlier argued with Lily, approached Dr. Blanc. "Dr. Blanc, I know you trust her, but I must say this! We're all virology experts. Our team includes internationally trained, award-winning researchers. What does Lily have? She lacks formal medical training. How can we simply follow her lead?"

"She studied traditional medicine," Dr. Blanc replied calmly, wiping his hands. "Besides, her proposal isn't unreasonable."

"It sounds utterly unreasonable to me!" Dashiell scoffed, turning to Dr. Morris, who had remained silent. "Moe, tell me! You and Dr. Blanc found her, but… why haven't I heard of such a young, capable woman in traditional medicine? I have friends in the field. You initially mentioned Mr. Fike. Instead, this woman appears. Yes, I've been abroad, but don't dismiss me for not understanding traditional medicine. It takes time; experience comes with age. Look at her! She's barely in her twenties. What experience could she possibly have?" Dashiell snapped. "If something goes wrong, we'll all share the responsibility! Moe, where did you find her?!"

Avoiding Dr. Blanc directly, Dashiell addressed Dr. Morris, whose cheeks flushed. He couldn't explain. The non-disclosure agreement bound them to secrecy regarding Lily's identity—her status as the miracle doctor's secret apprentice. Revealing this, especially at her age, would invite scrutiny. Her identity couldn't be disclosed now.

Dr. Morris shot a worried glance at Dr. Blanc before hesitantly saying, "Actually, Dr. Russell is highly experienced. Perhaps we should consider her perspective."

"What bullsh*t perspective is that?!" Dashiell exclaimed, dropping his politeness. "Did she… get in through connections? I heard her husband is powerful and wealthy. Could it be…"

"Dash! Enough of this nonsense!" Dr. Blanc turned, reprimanding him sternly. "Do you understand what department this is? How are people selected? What do you think this place is? What do you think of yourself and your colleagues?!"

Dashiell quickly apologized. "I'm sorry, Dr. Blanc. I didn't mean it that way. It's just that Dr. Russell…"

"You were assessed and selected, as was she. Our department operates fairly. You also signed a non-disclosure agreement. Why question it now? If this is your attitude, I doubt you can fulfill your duties!"

This broke Dashiell. "Dr. Blanc, I'm sorry! I understand. I'll focus on my work and stay out of this!"