Chapter 235: Chapter 235: Company Bombed
After parting with the passionate team members, He Kui returned to the control room.
"Let's start the strength tests."
But just as he spoke, his wrist communicator began vibrating rapidly.
"He Kui, it's terrible!"
On the other end, Hoss's steady voice came through.
"Which company?"
"It's the branch in November City."
Hearing it wasn't the asteroid base, He Kui let out a small sigh of relief.
"What's the damage?"
"Two mining workers were killed, and ten others injured. We also lost three small MS units."
"Alright, stay on top of it. File the insurance claims, and make sure compensation is arranged for the injured and the families of the deceased."
"Any word on the attackers?"
"It was a human bomb. From the tactics, it looks like Blue Cosmos."
"Increase the security level. For now, keep everyone away from the asteroid base."
"Understood. Hawk is already on it."
"Good."
As He Kui turned back, Yuki noticed his expression. "Director He Kui, is everything alright?"
"Just some business to handle. I need to step out. Director Yuki, please supervise here. Contact me if anything comes up."
"Of course."
Though it was a bit unorthodox for He Kui to leave, Yuki still readily agreed, given He Kui's impressive technical abilities.
He Kui smiled but remained alert. Blue Cosmos targeting his company now of all times felt like a threat or a warning.
Without hesitation, He Kui returned to his office and contacted Councilor Zala. Now, with his growing position, he held contact information for several high-ranking officials, including some councilors and district heads. However, he rarely disturbed them without good reason.
"Councilor Zala, good evening."
"I heard about your company. Surveillance footage around the area has confirmed it was indeed Blue Cosmos."
"The Defense Committee will cover the funds for rebuilding. We'll also ensure your company receives necessary protection — you don't need to worry."
"I'm concerned my base on the asteroid may also be targeted."
"We'll have the orbital radar keep watch for any threats."
"We want you to stay focused, He Kui. Complete the mobile suit development as soon as possible. Also, we'll have a covert test of the Odin Spear in a few days — you should be there."
"I understand. I'll handle it."
He Kui ended the call and was about to return to the factory when he noticed an email notification on his computer.
[Reconsider?]
The short message included an image of the asteroid base, confirming He Kui's suspicions about who was behind this attack.
So, it was the Blue Cosmos faction again, using the same playbook. They seemed more interested in threatening him than controlling Eurasia.
There was no way he would collaborate with them. They were ruthless enough to cause deaths among his people without hesitation. Joining them would be like putting his own life on the line.
The PLANT radars should keep them safe. The Earth Alliance lacked anti-neutron technology at this stage, and even using Phantom Particles, they wouldn't have the power supply needed to sneak past with warships.
Of course, there could still be internal spies aiding them.
"I need to find ways to strengthen my base's defenses," He Kui thought. Relying on himself would be better than depending on others. His first priority would be to improve blast resistance around the base, reinforcing the vulnerable rock areas with layered armor.
According to Hoss, however, he was out of funds. His liquid assets had been drained, and while his insurance might cover some of the losses, it wouldn't be nearly enough for layered armor.
Ultimately, he needed more resources.
Fortunately, his Jin En squad was starting to shape up, so it was time to start recruiting pilots. Ordinary pilots wouldn't be hard to find; the issue was getting elite Red Suits.
Every Red Suit was a valuable asset to ZAFT, so convincing them to join him would be challenging. Money and connections could help, but most Red Suits were currently on the battlefield.
"For now, I'll hire some elite Green Suits," he decided. With his position, simply announcing recruitment would bring in plenty of applicants. If he asked Councilor Zala for some assistance, securing four or five skilled pilots shouldn't be an issue.
With a rough plan in mind, He Kui returned to the factory.
The next day.
The frame strength test failed — the arm joints lacked durability. While it allowed for better movement, the joints couldn't meet ZAFT's standards.
Fortunately, the modifications were simple enough, and this was the only issue. After revising the designs and submitting a new report, He Kui discreetly made his way to the Junker's Guild at the port.
"Good to see you again," the guild owner greeted him, recognizing He Kui's disguised appearance.
"Is our guest here?"
"Yes, he just arrived."
The owner gave him an approving look. If he hadn't been informed in advance, he never would have guessed the man in front of him was Director He Kui. Seeing how quickly He Kui had risen from a worker at the Hailan Design Bureau to a director was remarkable.
With a nod, He Kui stepped into the private room. The owner's friendly smile faded into his usual businesslike expression as he resumed his duties.
Inside, Matthias and Sitona were waiting, unchanged as always.
"Director He Kui. You're here again," Matthias greeted him warmly, pouring tea as Sitona handed He Kui a cup.
"He Kui, did you bring me a gift? The last little round robot was so fun!"
Sitona's eyes sparkled with anticipation.
"Yes, I did."
He Kui smiled and brought out a Haro.
"A Haro? Like Lacus's?"
Sitona's eyes gleamed as she poked the Haro's round body with delight, watching it roll around the table. Her laugh was lively, more spirited than Lacus's, but otherwise, the two were remarkably similar.
Satisfied with this advanced genetic technology, He Kui felt even more determined to bring Sitona over to his side someday.
"Ahem, Director He Kui, what brings you here today?" Matthias asked, noting He Kui's preoccupied gaze.
"Well…"
He Kui quickly explained the situation.
"I see. So, what's your plan?"
"To eliminate their agents here," He Kui replied, a move
that aligned perfectly with Matthias's own interests and would also help secure a solid alliance with him — a win-win outcome.
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