Chapter 175: Chapter 175: Return to the Military Academy
The Mirage Colloid magnetic shield for the auxiliary flight system was nearly complete. However, testing on the standard GAT-X model revealed a major limitation: its power supply was insufficient to sustain the shield for more than a minute.
"What's the point of a defense that only lasts a minute in combat?" Su Lei remarked in exasperation from He Kui's office. "Might as well wrap up the stress tests and call it a day."
"As if I wanted it this way," He Kui replied, smirking slightly. He'd rather go home and relax with Shi He, but the Defense Council insisted on field testing.
"No choice, then. Is the quantum communication ready?"
"Should be good to go, and it can operate independently of the main body. Shall I contact our test pilot?"
"Yes, let's go with him."
With his spatial awareness now at level B thanks to Lacus's growing trust, He Kui could technically manage the Dragoon system on a powerful Gundam, but direct combat tests weren't exactly appealing to him.
"You're in charge, after all," Su Lei commented with a hint of amusement. "Where do you want to test it?"
"They suggested Boaz. I heard there's been increased activity from the lunar side."
"They must want to test our shield response." After their performance with the Artemis Umbrella, everyone knew the light shield wasn't invincible—and that there were multiple ways to counter it.
"Word is they're sending warships with similar shields to harass us."
After finalizing their travel plans to Boaz, the two fell into a comfortable silence.
"Want to come over? I'll show you something nice," He Kui invited, glancing at Su Lei across the desk.
"Like I haven't seen it before." Despite her words, Su Lei crossed the room and, with practiced ease, sat on his lap, resting her head against his neck. A hint of his familiar scent filled her senses.
"Seems you showered."
"Usually a daily habit, you know."
"Hmm. Who'd know with you?"
Feeling the warmth beneath her, Su Lei's cheeks turned redder.
"Is the door locked?"
"Locked it when you walked in and even put up an 'Out of Office' sign."
Smiling, He Kui gently nibbled her ear, his embrace becoming more intimate.
"You actually want to do this here?" Su Lei gasped, her hands pressed against his chest.
"Why not?"
In the shared silence, only their whispered breaths filled the room.
[New scene unlocked with Su Lei]
[Su Lei Affection Level: 160]
[EXP Boost: 8]
[Information Engineering: Level A (59,125/100,000)]
[Skill Unlocked: Multi-Lock System (9,863/10,000)]
[New Skill Unlocked: Quantum Firewall (0/20,000)]
The quantum firewall, designed to counter quantum-based viruses, was ready to be tested. Satisfied with his progress, He Kui felt even more content seeing Su Lei button up her shirt afterward.
"Good thing you don't have a secretary; otherwise, you'd hardly get any work done," Su Lei teased, now calm but with a sly smirk.
"True."
"Hmph. Anyway, I'm coming to Boaz too."
"Sounds good."
Before leaving for Boaz, He Kui had one last task: a speech at the December City military academy. As an alumnus and a representative from the Hailan Design Bureau, he was invited to present on new Mobile Suit technologies and possible tactics for future MS combat.
This was a valuable opportunity to build rapport with the academy's cadets, usually dominated by Zala's faction. It was clear that Zala approved of He Kui's recent work, potentially an effort to bring him into the fold.
"Director He, welcome back."
The academy's vice-principal greeted him warmly—a stark contrast to the stern expressions he remembered from his student days.
"Thank you, Principal Martin. Just He Kui is fine."
He Kui saluted. Martin had once served in the Zodiac Alliance and was a prominent figure in Zala's inner circle. Though technically peers, Martin still held the senior position.
"Seeing one of our own achieve so much is a great honor for me as an educator," Martin replied, his smile widening.
"Shall we walk and talk?"
"Of course."
As they entered the academy grounds, a flood of nostalgia washed over He Kui. It had been just over a year, and yet he was returning as a director of a design bureau. Reflecting on the likes of Kira and Athrun, he felt there was still much more he needed to achieve.
To ensure his safety, the academy had closed off the main paths, and all students were gathered in the auditorium where he would be speaking. Security personnel were stationed everywhere, and five of He Kui's Owls discreetly patrolled nearby.
"The students are all assembled. Once you're ready, we can start."
"Right on time."
In a military academy, precision was everything, and Martin nodded approvingly at He Kui's reply.
As night fell, He Kui concluded his lecture amid thunderous applause. Later, after a meal of synthetic meat with the academy's upper staff, he got into his car, only to spot a familiar red-haired girl approaching with a younger girl who looked like her.
"Director He, should we intercept them?" the driver, who doubled as his bodyguard, asked.
"No need."
"Understood. Best to keep the conversation private, though. We've secured the area, and no one's watching nearby."
"Got it."
He Kui rolled down the window.
"Luna, is something the matter?"
"You're leaving already?"
She and her younger sister had waited long, skipping dinner to catch him. Luna's gaze held a mix of hunger and feigned innocence.
"I am. Got work to get back to."
"Oh, this is my sister, Meiling."
Luna stepped aside, revealing a timid girl with the same deep-red hair, though her figure was a bit more delicate.
"She's always wanted to meet you but never found the chance."
"D-Director He, it's an honor to meet you!" Meiling stammered, her bashful manner reminiscent of a shy little flower.
"Nice to meet you
, Meiling."
"Would you like to join me? I can give you a ride home," He Kui said, flashing a gentle smile at the sisters.
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