Chapter 42: The Pain of Rising Prices

Upon returning home from the Junker's Guild, He Kui was pleased with the idea of forming a partnership with them. Once his skills improved, he could take on tasks from the quest wall to earn money, deepen his relationship with the Junker's Guild, and showcase his potential. This would also grant him access to more information and discounts.

Days passed, and a message from Carpentaria finally made its way to He Kui's computer.

"He Kui, as you read this, know that the situation is becoming increasingly tense due to rising harassment from the Earth Alliance. The guard's workload has intensified, and I will soon be departing as part of an advance team to scout the battlefield. Due to confidentiality, I cannot disclose the specifics. I apologize for not being able to tell my family in person; if I cannot return on schedule, please convey my apologies to them."

Listening to the recording, He Kui felt a mix of worry and helplessness as he pressed the reply button.

"This is a recording! Why do you say 'as you read this'? And can you drop the half-baked classical language? When you get back, I'll treat you to a meal."

After seeing the successful send notification, He Kui sighed. He couldn't change anything right now, not even his own fate. First, he needed to finalize the beam weapon development.

"Is that your roommate?" 

Shi He, who had been working on her thesis data, asked.

"Yes."

"The front lines on Earth should be concentrated in the Mediterranean. I heard that the GINNs are preparing to be officially deployed in underwater combat, and right now, they're just testing things out. It should be fine."

"Let's hope so. How's the paper coming along?"

He Kui shifted the heavy topic as he was anxious to ensure that the academic paper was submitted. Only once it was published could he claim ownership of the research, even if this classified project couldn't be patented. At least having his name on it would enhance his reputation.

"It's in the finishing stages. It should be officially published tomorrow."

"Don't overwork yourself."

"You're the one who's been sleeping only a few hours a day!"

"Make sure to rest early today!"

At the mention of rest, He Kui's expression turned awkward, but he nodded nonetheless.

He had already tried that route and knew it wouldn't increase his academic points. However, it could boost favorability, which mattered greatly.

After a night filled with warmth, the next day saw the official publishing of their paper. The five major design bureaus didn't react much; the forum was internal, and much of the data in their academic paper was classified, accessible only to personnel above the director level in the five major design bureaus, along with defense committee members and city representatives.

"You're quite capable, aren't you?" 

Sule remarked in the office, a hint of sarcasm in her voice.

"Thank you."

"I'm not complimenting you! How did you become a researcher in beam weapon miniaturization all of a sudden?"

"I just had a few ideas while talking with Shi He at home."

"Several directors are saying you're climbing the ranks."

"That's fine. Once I reach A-Level, those rumors will fade."

He Kui didn't pay much attention to it. He figured it was likely people from the Sara faction spreading the gossip since Shi He was part of that faction, and they were probably trying to inflate their own image. He set a new Haro down on Sule's desk.

[You gifted Sule a present, Information Engineering +40] 

[Sule's Favorability: 99] 

[Experience Bonus: 5] 

[Information Engineering Level B: (6308/10000)]

"So, are you planning to go to their side?"

After accepting the Haro, Sule shot He Kui a glare, her tone laced with a hint of jealousy that was subtle but unmistakable.

"No! It's just assisting with development."

He Kui pulled his gaze from the virtual panel and responded.

"Good, because that place is a gathering of war maniacs. The last time your fiancée applied for a mission, half of the research team applied too. If you're this timid, you'd be crying over there."

"Isn't it safer here with Director Sule?" 

"Of course!"

Sule replied proudly.

"By the way, your A-Level assessment has been approved, and the formal evaluation will begin next week. Besides your regular work, I'll be assigning additional 'tasks' for you to complete under my supervision, and everything will be recorded on video. Is that alright?"

"Of course not."

Although this would take an extra two hours out of his day and hinder his Haro production, passing the A-Level assessment was essential. It was better to not drag things out.

"Thanks for your hard work, Director Sule."

"Enough! I'm also here for research. If you really think it's tough, just cook a few extra dishes."

Originally, they were supposed to get off at six, but now it was extended to eight. Fortunately, the radar team had no pressing tasks lately; otherwise, they might have had to work until ten or nine after the previous project involving the warning-type MS.

"Alright."

Seeing that Sule's favorability had been stuck at 99 and his Information Engineering level was still short of A-Level, He Kui felt anxious. He hoped his upcoming culinary efforts would finally win her over.

"By the way, is your supply of materials still adequate?"

After He Kui's reply, Sule shrugged and continued.

"Still enough, why do you ask?"

"ZAFT is planning to construct a base in the Lorentz crater on the inner side of the Moon, so materials will become scarce. Additionally, some unrest is expected within the colonies."

With the establishment of three military bases in succession—Carpentaria, the reformation of Yakin Dui, and the lunar base—even PLANT was facing difficulties. It was limited in size, and even with several cities mobilizing capable civilians for production, the output wouldn't increase significantly. Furthermore, mobilizing too many people would strain the police force, worsening the public order situation. Although there were pro-PLANT countries, the land remained limited, and production was still reliant on PLANT itself.

"I understand."

He was glad he had bought supplies earlier, or he would really be in trouble.

However, he still needed to find a reliable source of information. Otherwise, even if he managed to dodge this round, he would eventually face trouble.

"Regarding the part-time partnership with the Junker's Guild, that's fine, but don't let it interfere with your main job."

"Got it!"

While he was still worried, receiving Sule's approval relieved some of his concerns.

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