Who is Playing the Love Development Game in Gundam

Kladis handed the intricately crafted model to his son, a warm expression softening his usually stern demeanor. If previous encounters had been marked by a certain authority, today's meeting felt more relaxed, a shift evident as they all gathered at the dinner table.

"He Kui, I heard the Mobile Defense Shields are still missing some critical data?" Kladis asked.

"Yes, there's still some final optimization required," He Kui replied.

"Make it a priority. The situation is getting more intense by the day. With the Alliance now fielding mobile suits, we need to maintain our advantage, especially in scenarios where we're outnumbered," Kladis advised, his tone carrying a sense of urgency.

He Kui nodded, understanding the gravity of the situation. They all had seen the tense atmosphere outside—a stark contrast to the bustling, carefree PLANT they once knew. The streets were quieter, markets nearly empty, and people's expressions weighed down by the looming threat of war.

Long years of conflict, though they hadn't directly touched PLANT's soil, had left a lasting mark. People harbored a quiet fear, wondering if or when the Alliance would invade. This constant worry was eroding public morale, cultivating a longing for peace rather than sustained war. Without a deep-rooted cultural unity, these fragmented communities, bound loosely by survival, lacked the cohesion to endure long-term struggle.

"It's time to act decisively, to avoid further delays," Kladis remarked. "Your defense projects, though limited in material, could still be invaluable. We're pooling every available resource to reinforce our capabilities."

"Are we still proceeding with the Enhanced Operation plan?" He Kui asked.

Kladis nodded. "Yes, exactly as scheduled. But it's likely we'll see some new experimental weapons involved as well."

He didn't elaborate, shifting instead to discussions about the recent merger of the five major design bureaus. Not once did Kladis question why He Kui had requested this visit; he seemed to assume it was for the sake of strengthening ties with Zala's faction. The model He Kui had gifted him reinforced that notion, fostering a sense of mutual trust.

During a pause in the conversation, as Erlin and Kladis chatted, He Kui and Shi He slipped into the kitchen to assist with cleaning up. There, they found Talia, calmly organizing the dishes with a quiet grace that belied her future role as a ship captain.

"Talia, let us help you with this," He Kui offered.

"Thank you, that's very thoughtful of you," Talia replied, a gentle smile on her face.

As they worked, Shi He, following He Kui's cue, asked, "By the way, Talia, do you know anyone skilled in genetic research?"

". . . Why do you ask?" Talia looked up, a trace of concern in her eyes.

"It's a friend of mine," He Kui explained. "They've recently been diagnosed with a rare genetic condition."

"Genetic . . . ?"

"Yes, it's quite serious. Even the doctors in February City couldn't offer much hope," He Kui added, subtly setting the stage.

Talia seemed conflicted. She had taken a liking to He Kui, admiring his humility and kindness despite his intelligence and high status. After a moment, she sighed, then raised her wrist communicator.

"Here, contact this person. They might be able to help," she said, sharing a contact number.

"Thank you, Talia. I really appreciate this."

He Kui maintained a composed exterior, concealing the excitement he felt. He now had a legitimate reason to contact Durandal without arousing suspicion, thanks to Talia's intermediary role. The "friend" he mentioned would be Lica, whose genetic condition he had already discussed with her. It served as a convenient excuse, allowing him to approach Durandal under the pretense of seeking medical help.

Back at home, He Kui saved the contact information on his wrist communicator. Shi He, observing his serious expression, asked, "Is this the person you were hoping to reach?"

"Yes, he's quite influential," He Kui replied, choosing his words carefully.

"A dangerous person?" Shi He asked, her tone concerned.

"I'm not sure yet," he answered, giving her a reassuring smile. "But I'll be cautious."

Setting aside the communicator, he handed Shi He a newly assembled Haro unit. Watching her delighted expression as she examined it, He Kui felt a sense of progress.

"By the way, how's the foundation coming along?" he asked.

"It's operational now, especially with the funding your company provided. There was even a news feature, calling you the 'Model of the New Generation,'" Shi He teased.

He Kui chuckled. "I don't know about all that."

"Neither do I," she quipped, flashing him a playful grin. The banter lightened the room, and they shared a laugh.

"You worry too much, Kui," Shi He said, gently pinching his cheeks to coax a smile.

"I'll try to relax," he replied, his tone softened.

After a quiet evening together, He Kui contacted the number Talia had given him the next morning.

"Hello, am I speaking with Durandal?"

"This is he. And you are?"

"Introduced by Talia—my name is He Kui," he replied.

". . . Ah, from the Hailan Design Bureau?" Durandal's voice carried a hint of surprise.

"Yes, I'm the one. I have a friend dealing with a genetic disorder," He Kui explained, offering a brief account of Lica's condition.

"I understand," Durandal replied. "But we'll need an in-person evaluation. Can you visit in two days?"

"Certainly, I'll be there," He Kui confirmed. He intended to bring a portion of his research on nanobots, enough to pique Durandal's interest while keeping his own intentions hidden.

As Durandal hung up, a subtle look of calculation crossed his face. Seated across from him, Rau Le Creuset placed a chess piece thoughtfully, watching him.

"Who was that?"

"A scientist named He Kui," Durandal replied. "He says he's seeking my help with a genetic condition."

"Interesting timing," Creuset muttered, placing his piece. "With the conflict nearing a critical point, he just happens to reach out now, looking for a doctor."

Durandal's eyes narrowed, recognizing Creuset's underlying suspicion. "Indeed, it's curious. But wouldn't it be prudent to establish a connection? He Kui has substantial influence in PLANT, and with the way things are moving, he could prove valuable."

Creuset shrugged, a cynical smile on his lips. "Perhaps. But if he harbors other motives, a visit may reveal them."

Durandal nodded in agreement, mentally preparing for the upcoming meeting. He Kui's value as an ally was undeniable, but any hint of deception or hidden agenda would be swiftly addressed.

"Let's proceed with caution," Durandal said. "And if there's any sign of duplicity . . ."

Creuset's smile widened, understanding the implications. "I'll handle it," he said simply.

As He Kui prepared for the meeting, he was aware of the delicate balance he was about to engage in. With his reputation and the future of PLANT at stake, this encounter with Durandal could be his most significant move yet.

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