Who is Playing the Love Development Game in Gundam

He Kui quickly confirmed the arrangement with Shi He, who happily agreed. After all, living in Area A was certainly safer than Area B, and being close to the director would provide her with more opportunities to ask academic questions.

However, on the following day after work, he found himself once again confronted by the personnel manager he had only seen twice, blocking his way outside the researchers' office.

"He Kui, Director Sule's application has been denied."

"…"

Without needing to ask for details, He Kui could see the indifferent, arrogant look in the manager's eyes, so different from when they had discussed his promotion. He understood the message behind those eyes—this was likely the manager's true nature.

This manager had a relative in a high position, making him well-known in the department. His authority was significant enough to overshadow others. He Kui had thought he had made progress, but he was still being held back, a stark reminder that reality remained harsh, and he had no power to change it.

He Kui clenched his fists, exhaling sharply before slightly lowering his head.

"Okay, I understand. Thank you for the information."

Regardless of whether Sule had connections with this manager, He Kui couldn't let her lose face. She had already helped him a lot.

"Mm, at least you're smart enough."

The manager nodded arrogantly and walked away, leaving He Kui with only his back to look at.

The manager had used his connections to suppress Sule because of his desires, and he certainly wouldn't allow anyone else to cut in.

This was a disappointment. Thinking back to the previous day when he and Shi He had happily talked about buying meat, He Kui felt a surge of guilt.

His strength was still too weak. Continuing to endure meant not only making things difficult for Sule but also jeopardizing his job.

Strength was the only true currency.

If he could reach A-level sooner, he could secure a dormitory spot, and even this manager wouldn't have a reason to dismiss him at will.

Facing the compromises and concessions of reality had already happened many times over the past two years. He understood the necessity of bowing his head, but each time, it felt uncomfortable.

After sending a message to Shi He, He Kui didn't head home immediately. He had more items to sell, and his previous small shop could no longer accommodate them. Thus, he came to a large commercial complex near the plant area, which was much safer than the port. This store, called "Mechanical Maze," had branches throughout the colonies and employed several bodyguards.

"Hello!"

A bright young woman in the store greeted He Kui with an enthusiastic smile.

"Hello, I'd like to sell some machinery."

"I understand."

The young woman showed no surprise, still smiling as she revealed her wristband.

The two lightly touched their wristbands, transferring the detailed data of the twenty Haros and fifteen transport robots He Kui had made.

"With your B-level skills, you've reached a proficient level. We can offer a buyback price of 481 for the Haros and 751 for the transport robots."

"I heard the market might fluctuate soon?"

"You are quite well-informed, sir! However, our buyback prices will remain unchanged, regardless of any rises or drops."

"I see."

Since the store was large and could distribute products throughout PLANT, its internal prices were less affected by market fluctuations.

"May I ask, did you complete all of these by yourself?"

"Yes."

He Kui replied, slightly puzzled.

"Actually, our company has just launched a talent cultivation protection plan. If you're willing to deepen your cooperation with us, you could gain the right to use a two-bedroom apartment on the 15th to 20th floors for three years. This offer is only available for those who have achieved B-level micro-manipulation and B-level information engineering within the past year."

Hearing this, He Kui's heart raced as he struggled to contain his excitement and calmly asked, "How does the cooperation work?"

He needed to be cautious; although the store was large, he didn't want to be taken advantage of.

"You would need to reach A-level within one year. Regardless of whether you achieve A-level or not, you must generate a monthly transaction volume of 10,000 with our company over three years. However, our buyback prices are absolutely fair."

The pricing here didn't seem problematic, but…

"What if I don't reach A-level or can't meet that transaction volume?"

"If you don't achieve A-level, that's acceptable. We would reclaim the apartment, but the contract would remain valid and extended for five years. You could also make up for the transaction volume within one year. However, if you fail to meet the requirements within that year, a penalty will apply. If it's due to unforeseen circumstances like war, the deadline can be extended to two years, and it won't affect your primary job."

Listening to the salesperson's patient explanation, He Kui began to understand.

This arrangement seemed mutually beneficial. The proof of potential from a B-level rating within a year was promising; they would likely generate enough profit from a B-level output to cover the housing costs for a year. If He Kui reached A-level, the transaction volume would easily exceed 10,000, making it even easier for them to profit.

He had a system, so it was almost guaranteed he could reach A-level; it was just a matter of time.

"But if I become a chief engineer at Sea Lan Design Bureau, wouldn't I be restricted from going out?"

He would only be living there for a few months. If it weren't for the explosion incident and the concerns about the spy, he wouldn't be so eager to move. However, achieving Sule's position required more than just being A-level; he needed to reach a more elite A-level classification and ensure his research capabilities kept up. So, he wouldn't be restricted from going out anytime soon—better safe than sorry.

"At that time, we will refund you the cost of the rent in technical currency."

"Alright, but is it safe here?"

"As you can see, it's absolutely secure."

The salesperson smiled as she nodded toward the fully armed guards outside the door.

Hearing this, He Kui finally relaxed, slowly replying, "I can agree to that."

Upon hearing his agreement, the salesperson's smile grew even brighter. Signing a talent contract would earn her a substantial commission.

"Please wait a moment."

Before long, the salesperson returned, this time accompanied by a well-built middle-aged man in a fitted suit.

"I'm the manager here. Thank you for your willingness to join our talent plan. On behalf of our company, I sincerely appreciate it."

"Not at all."

He Kui quickly replied, feeling flattered by the manager's warm words.

The signing process was straightforward; their wristbands touched, and a document was sent to He Kui's phone.

After confirming the specific details on his phone, He Kui copied his identification information into the document, effectively signing the contract.

Then, "Here's your access card. You can choose any apartment on the 15th to 20th floors."

As He Kui watched the new program appear on his wristband, he felt as if the dark clouds that had been hanging over him had finally dispersed.