As everyone had anticipated, the outcome of this election was decided even before it began.
Without any surprises, under Patrick's announcement, He Kui received the appointment letter for city councilor from his hands.
Amidst the cheers of the crowd, He Kui became a councilor of PLANT.
This officially marked He Kui's entry into the center of power in PLANT.
The media would undoubtedly report it this way.
At this moment, He Kui, who had just stepped down from the stage, looked at Le Lu in front of him and offered a polite smile.
"Miss Le Lu, we meet again."
"Yes, but I didn't expect it to be in this capacity."
Le Lu also smiled, then, like the other reporters around her, took out her recorder.
"First of all, congratulations on becoming the youngest councilor in PLANT's history and the first Director-General of the Integrated Design Bureau. Could you share with us what has driven you to achieve such remarkable success in the field of scientific research?"
"Within PLANT's educational system, I was fortunate to be exposed to cutting-edge science and technology, which ignited my desire to explore the unknown. I firmly believe that technology is the key force driving societal progress."
In essence, what He Kui said was mostly platitudes. In PLANT, a nation built on science and technology, every Coordinator had access to some level of advanced science.
The reporters themselves were from PLANT, so they naturally wouldn't ask outrageous questions.
He Kui simply rephrased what he had said during his campaign.
"Now, for the final question, Mr. He Kui, when will you and Miss Hanifus be getting married?"
"..."
Hearing this unexpected question, He Kui was momentarily stunned.
But thinking about the recent online comments, He Kui understood why the reporter would ask this.
In the eyes of many Coordinators, excellent genes must be passed on.
As a genius among geniuses, many people were concerned about He Kui's genes.
Some even joked that he should have more children.
"Thank you for your concern. We will do so as soon as possible."
As He Kui spoke, he turned to look at the shy young woman beside him, and both of them smiled with happiness.
The media interview thus concluded amidst the knowing smiles of the onlookers.
"I apologize, there should have been a banquet."
In the grand hall of the City Council, Patrick's usually stern face showed a rare hint of apology.
This apology was due to He Kui's current value. An ordinary person, an ordinary councilor, would not have received such treatment.
"It's alright, Chairman. The situation in PLANT has been complicated recently."
Hearing He Kui's words, the Chairman's expression softened further.
Such a talent, who cared so deeply for PLANT, was hard to come by.
And most importantly, he was exceptionally capable.
"After the war ends, we will make it up to you."
In his joy, Patrick said.
"Thank you."
"Congratulations, Councilor He."
As they spoke, Siegel approached from the other side.
Looking at the two giants standing before him, He Kui felt a momentary sense of unreality.
Perhaps the He Kui who had just arrived here would never have imagined that one day he would be standing alongside these two titans.
"Thank you, Representative Clyne."
The moment of unreality passed quickly, and He Kui lowered his gaze as he spoke.
Although Siegel was also a councilor like him, he was the leader of the entire Clyne Faction and had once been the Chairman. Moreover, the Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman and a Legislative Committee member were also from the Clyne Faction.
"No need for formalities. Seeing young people like you achieve so much puts our minds at ease."
Clyne smiled and looked at Patrick.
"Don't you agree, Patrick?"
"Hmm."
Patrick gave his friend and political rival a stern look.
The introduction of the neutral faction was precisely because he disagreed with the Clyne Faction's soft approach.
And the Clyne Faction's attempt to assimilate He Kui was, to Patrick, like plucking hairs from a tiger's back—utterly intolerable.
Thinking this, Patrick continued.
"In many aspects, I believe Councilor He has his own ideas."
"We old folks shouldn't interfere."
"Of course."
Clyne took a step back, and at that moment, Lacus quietly entered the circle formed by the three men.
"Uncle Patrick~"
Lacus first greeted Patrick sweetly, then turned her gaze to He Kui.
"Congratulations, Councilor He."
"Thank you, Miss Lacus."
In the presence of Patrick and Siegel, Lacus did not show too much familiarity, but her bright eyes were still captivating.
Not lingering too long, He Kui quickly averted his gaze out of propriety.
Lacus's father and father-in-law were both present.
Although it seemed more like her father-in-law was a political rival.
"Then, without delay, Lacus, you and He Kui should head to the office and help Councilor He get settled."
"Yes, Father."
Lacus performed a flawless curtsy, then turned her beautiful eyes to the young man.
"Shall we go, Councilor He?"
"Of course."
Siegel clearly had something to discuss with Patrick.
It was better not to get involved. Spending time privately with Lacus was far more interesting than being with them.
Watching this scene, Patrick's lips twitched slightly.
He regretted not having had more daughters.
Look at Clyne, using the beauty tactic so smoothly.
But He Kui was a man of his own mind. Patrick wasn't worried that He Kui would be swayed by Lacus.
This young girl did have some peculiar abilities, but for those with strong wills, her ability to influence others wasn't very effective.
Moreover, he did have matters concerning South America to discuss with Clyne.
As the leaders of their respective factions, as long as the two of them reached an agreement privately, most decisions in the Supreme Council would pass.
Although with his current power, he didn't necessarily need Clyne, there would be some resistance.
And doing so too often would have consequences. What if the Zala Faction thought he, as a radical, wasn't radical enough?
This was something he had to consider.
And so, everyone dispersed.
Patrick and Siegel went to the office to talk.
Meanwhile, Lacus led He Kui to his new office.
The staff passing by in the hallway lowered their heads as the two walked past. The silent pair soon entered He Kui's European-style office, secured behind two heavy doors.
"Councilor He now holds significant power."
As she entered the room, Lacus's gentle expression remained unchanged, but her tone became more intimate.
"This isn't exactly significant power."
He Kui chuckled.
"Quite demanding, aren't you? Is Councilor He's next step to become the Chairman?"
Lacus teased lightly.
(End of Chapter)