The universe (or multiverse) owes them at least one very stiff drink.

"I'm not sure yet, sir." This is what is known as 'a lie'. She knows exactly where her heart is set. There is just the tiny problem of cultural conditioning of being raised as an asset who had always had to have an eye on the easily applicable and financially viable i.e. not to bury herself in design and pushing the edges of theory. She's made progress; there's still a long way to go.

"But it's the best basis for understanding how things actually work before you start breaking all the rules. And it's a hell of an adrenaline kick."