The question wasn't casual curiosity. It was specific. Technical. It demonstrated an understanding of the fundamental problem that had stumped their research team for months when they'd first begun this work.
"We..." she started, then had to clear her throat. "We use a harmonic frequency matrix to stabilize cellular integrity during exposure. It's one of Dr. Stellan's breakthrough designs. The matrix resonates at the same frequency as the cells' natural electromagnetic field, creating a kind of... protective envelope."
"Ah," Zaeryn nodded, a fond smile touching his lips. "Sage's work. That makes sense. She has a way of making impossible things look easy."
There was genuine affection in his voice, admiration that went beyond physical attraction. It made Sasha pause, reassessing.
Around them, a few nearby researchers had slowed their work, ears clearly tuned to the conversation.
