Mariel and her advisor sat across from each other at the small table, sipping their coffee in silence. Finally, Mariel broke the quiet.

"I'm starting to think the climate change narrative is all just a way to control people," she said.

Her advisor's eyes widened. "What makes you say that?"

Mariel took a deep breath. "The more I research, the less evidence I find to support the idea that human activity is causing a climate crisis. It seems like a convenient excuse to implement policies that would otherwise be unpopular."

Her advisor leaned back in her chair, looking thoughtful. "I see your point, but I think you're overlooking some important data. Have you considered the melting polar ice caps, or the increasing frequency of natural disasters?"

Mariel shook her head. "I have, but there are other factors at play. I just don't think we can blame everything on human activity."

Her advisor sighed. "Mariel, I support your curiosity and desire to question assumptions, but I worry that this thesis could be damaging to your academic career. Perhaps you should consider a different topic?"

Mariel leaned forward, her eyes shining with determination. "I can't ignore what I believe to be the truth. I have to follow where the evidence leads, even if it's uncomfortable."

Her advisor nodded slowly, conceding the point. "Alright, I understand. Just be careful, Mariel. Don't let your convictions blind you to the truth."