Who is Playing the Love Development Game in Gundam

As Amphy had said, the position was mostly nominal, but it gave He Kui access to extensive intelligence. The PLANT leadership felt comfortable allowing him such clearance not only because of his neutral stance but also because they never planned on letting him leave PLANT. Even those close to him would be under surveillance, and any attempt to leave would mean risking his life.

For the Zala faction, this was a reassurance. What they didn't realize was that He Kui's quantum communication abilities had surpassed ordinary initial-level technology, allowing him to control Aegis on Earth from afar, thanks to Tashu's radar acting as an intermediary. Since it wasn't in the primary battleground, He Kui could operate Aegis without detection.

"Congratulations, Technical Advisor," Eileen greeted him as she entered the lab after he'd finished organizing his data.

"So fast?" he replied, surprised.

"Amphy works efficiently," she replied, showing him the official internal notification on her wrist communicator.

It made sense now. With Patrick Zala holding both military and governmental power, things moved quickly. He Kui's appointment likely went through without a hitch as soon as Amphy mentioned it. Patrick Zala was known for his emphasis on efficiency.

"Want to celebrate with dinner? Councilor Cradius will be joining us," Eileen offered.

He Kui's reputation had now surpassed hers, though she bore no resentment; his skills made him invaluable. Unlike her expertise in structural mechanics, He Kui seemed to excel in any field he set his mind to. Strengthening their relationship while they still had a good rapport was crucial, especially as the Zala faction had been pushing her to draw him closer to their cause.

"Sounds good."

"Oh, and I received the funds you sent—thank you. I guess I'll be relying on you for retirement," Eileen joked.

He Kui returned the smile, replying, "In that case, I'll have to stay safe to ensure your future."

Eileen's expression softened. "You won't need to worry about that," she whispered, half in jest and half as a subtle warning.

He Kui's eyes sharpened momentarily. Surveillance was inevitable, but he was prepared. The surveillance birds he'd crafted were part of his plan, ensuring his dealings with groups like the Junk Guild stayed aboveboard and discreet.

They soon met up with Cradius at a high-end restaurant in the central elevator district. Unlike the restaurants in the plant district with their eco-centric decor, this one was filled with metallic furnishings, starship models, and Gundam replicas, and through reinforced glass walls, they could see cargo and military ships moving through the docks.

"Is this place new?" He Kui asked, glancing around.

"Recently popular," Cradius replied with a chuckle. "Some of the higher-ups like a change from the plant district's nature-themed spots now and then."

He Kui could guess the implied criticism toward the more passive Klein faction. But the truth was that PLANT had its fair share of wealthy individuals, many attracted to this industrial, war-inspired ambiance.

"Plus, this place is closer to your work," Eileen remarked with a smile.

"It's really no trouble. Your achievements are worth celebrating," Cradius added, noting how much He Kui had accomplished since he'd first joined.

"By the way, I heard your field modulation tech can upgrade nuclear units. What did Amphy say about that?" Cradius asked.

"He wants me to take on an apprentice and send them to Earth," He Kui replied with a half-smile.

Cradius and Eileen exchanged glances, both looking pleased.

"It's about time. You could use a team to support you," Cradius suggested.

"But I'm only seventeen," He Kui replied with a straight face.

The two seniors stifled their irritation. That might be true, but no need to rub it in.

"I meant that you're more than ready to train others," Cradius clarified, managing a smile.

"Have you thought about who you'll choose as your apprentice?" Eileen asked, steering the conversation back on track.

"Not yet. Amphy mentioned he'd send a list for me to review," He Kui replied. His advanced understanding of these technologies meant he was more than capable of teaching someone else, though he knew the Zala faction likely hoped this would prevent him from gaining too much influence.

Having an apprentice would mean sharing his knowledge, but he didn't plan on revealing everything.