Capítulo 213: Chapter 213: Honored for PLANT
After successfully managing to maintain a stable rapport with Durandal and Rau Le Creuset, the award ceremony took place the next day. As customary, it was held outside the Supreme Council building in April City, the capital of PLANT.
One notable absence, however, was Athrun Zala, who had previously issued a warning to He Kui. It was rumored he had left on a long-term covert mission—likely ordered by Patrick Zala himself, who perhaps could no longer tolerate someone as headstrong and resistant to commands as Athrun. The exact details, though, remained unclear to He Kui.
Beside He Kui stood Shi He, who, due to her recent service alongside him on Earth, would also be receiving honors. Though they weren't yet married, the media had already labeled them as ZAFT's model couple—loving, devoted, and mutually supportive. Together, they dedicated themselves to PLANT with unwavering commitment and loyalty, willing to sacrifice everything to protect their people, or so the media portrayed them.
In reality? The love and companionship were genuine, but He Kui held certain reservations about the rest.
"No need to be nervous. Just a short walk, that's all," He Kui murmured into Shi He's ear, his voice a comforting whisper in the otherwise solemn atmosphere.
"Mhm…"
"He Kui is right. Just a formality," came a familiar voice as Andrew Waltfeld, who had recently been reassigned to December City, approached them.
"How's the training going, Captain Waltfeld?" He Kui asked.
"The young ones are tougher than I thought. Makes me feel my age!" Andrew chuckled, exchanging a few more words with He Kui before the ceremony officially began.
As the cameras focused in, He Kui approached the new Chairman, his list of achievements being narrated in the background. The crowd, growing ever more enthused, watched He Kui with admiration, many seeing him as their protector, their hero.
"Looks like my popularity might get eclipsed soon," remarked Lacus Clyne from the VIP seating area, her usual elegance and serene smile captivating even her bodyguards, who couldn't help but blush at her playful comment.
On stage, He Kui remained composed, his expression a mix of humility and confidence, as he awaited his honors. This was not his first meeting with Patrick Zala—the last encounter had been during a visit to the Hailan Design Bureau. But this time, Patrick seemed much warmer toward him, even smiling, a stark contrast to his previous stern demeanor.
"Chairman Zala!" He Kui saluted with a firm voice.
"Director He, well done," Zala replied, returning the salute. Then he carefully pinned both the Second-Class Merit Medal and the highest-ranked Future Medal onto He Kui's uniform. Under the spotlights, the medals glistened brilliantly.
He Kui, standing before the flags of PLANT and ZAFT, looked every bit the rising star of PLANT. In a clear, resonant voice, Zala addressed the assembly:
"Ladies and gentlemen, today, we're not here for a mere ceremony! We gather to honor each and every hero, to salute those who step forward bravely for ZAFT and for PLANT!"
He gestured toward He Kui, whose achievements were well-known to all in attendance. "Standing here with us is the brilliant head of our design bureau, Director He Kui. His courage and dedication have led him to the frontlines time and time again, contributing not only to the creation of new Mobile Suits and weapons systems but also setting an example for us all—an embodiment of true courage, integrity, and the essence of a true Coordinator!"
As Zala's voice rang out, the crowd's excitement rose to a fever pitch. Many looked at He Kui as though he were a guardian of PLANT itself. The Supreme Council building behind him, the flags fluttering above, and Zala's impassioned words had ignited a fierce pride and resolve among the onlookers.
Even He Kui, usually reserved, felt a small spark of pride. He knew ZAFT and PLANT needed this morale boost for the battles ahead.
Taking a step forward, He Kui addressed the audience. "My fellow citizens, I accept this honor, but I must say it belongs to every one of us fighting for PLANT. Every victory on the battlefield is built on the courageous sacrifices of countless comrades."
He continued, "Our journey is far from over. We will face more trials ahead, but I believe that if we stand united, nothing can halt our progress. For PLANT, for ZAFT, and for our future as Coordinators, let us charge forward!"
"For PLANT! For ZAFT!" His words surged through the crowd, amplifying the fervor sparked by Zala's speech.
"For PLANT! For ZAFT!"
"For PLANT! For ZAFT!"
The chants echoed across the square before the Supreme Council, creating a wave of powerful, unified voices reverberating in the air, filled with strength and conviction.
"You were amazing, He Kui!" Shi He exclaimed, throwing her arms around him as soon as he stepped down from the stage. Her pride was evident, her excitement uncontained.
"Thank you, Shi He," He Kui replied, his voice carrying traces of the same energy that had filled the ceremony.
His reputation within PLANT, especially among the pro-war faction, was now at its peak. But He Kui had been careful with his words, avoiding anything that might antagonize the Clyne faction. Every line was carefully crafted to promote progress without directly calling for conflict. It was a middle path, but it was the one he had chosen to follow.
As the ceremony concluded, he knew it was time to return to his research. He had to protect those dear to him and PLANT's future.
"Congratulations, He Kui."
Su Lei approached, her elegant white attire emphasizing her beauty. He Kui couldn't help but admire her poise.
"Thank you," he replied warmly, just as Shi He took a step closer, introducing herself with a smile that hid a hint of challenge.
"Director Hanivus."
"Director Hanivus."
The air between Shi He and Su Lei grew tense, both subtly sizing up the other. He Kui quickly stepped between them.
"Well… time for the group photo."
"Oh!" Shi He exclaimed cheerfully, grasping his hand while Su Lei's gaze shifted slightly, but she said nothing, following them to the photo area.
Later that evening, after shedding the
refined attire of the ceremony, He Kui and Shi He returned to their hotel.
-Support me in Patreon for more chapters 35+ chapters in there
patreon.com/LegendaryTL
Thanks!
Status de energia semanal
-- Ranking de
Poder 
-- Pedra de
Poder