Skepticism and Dismissal

The fluorescent lights of the Kansas Geological Survey buzzed with an irritating insistence, a counterpoint to the drone of the air conditioning. Dr. Aris Thorne, usually a creature of quiet contemplation within these hallowed, if slightly dusty, halls, felt a surge of nervous energy thrumming beneath his skin. He clutched the worn manila folder, its contents a distillation of months of frantic research, sleepless nights, and the gnawing certainty of impending doom.

He’d chosen this meeting carefully. Dr. Lena Hanson, head of the department, was known for her sharp intellect and, crucially, her openness to unconventional ideas. Or so Aris had hoped. He’d presented his preliminary findings to her last week in a hurried, late-afternoon conversation, a conversation that had ended with her polite but firm suggestion that he re-examine his data. Now, he had more. Much more.

The door to Hanson’s office, a space usually cluttered with maps and rock samples, was surprisingly tidy. Hanson herself sat behind her polished oak desk, her gaze direct and intelligent. She offered a small, professional smile. “Aris. Come in. Have a seat.”