"The estimated construction period is three months. During this time, we will use screening fabric to enclose the central hub, with the official reason being renovations."
"To avoid complications, the schedule must be accelerated—it can only be moved forward, not delayed."
As Yuri spoke, his gaze swept around the room. Satisfied with everyone's serious expressions, he continued.
"If this central hub renovation project proceeds smoothly, we may consider gradually expanding it to other cities in the future. I hope everyone will work diligently."
This was precisely why the older man had been so concerned earlier.
If performed well, this deputy director position could potentially lead to overseeing renovations of all central hubs in the future.
It represented both significant merit and an excellent promotion opportunity.
However, it was clear that if even the design plans belonged to Freed, he would have no chance to compete.
"Director Yuri, I have a small request."
Fred raised his hand during a pause in Yuri's speech.
His words immediately drew everyone's attention.
Particularly from the older man, whose gaze burned with intensity—after already claiming such credit, he still had requests?
"What is it?"
"I'd like to pilot a work pod and participate in the external operations."
As researchers and designers, unless absolutely necessary, they would typically only provide guidance from the sidelines.
While this approach allowed for progress, for his own advancement, operating a mobile suit directly would be preferable.
Though it was only a Mobile Armor, in this world where everything was either MS or MA, mastering both was the safest choice.
He hadn't had recent opportunities to pilot MA, so this rare chance shouldn't be wasted.
Moreover, he hoped to use this opportunity to normalize MA piloting.
"Hmm..."
Yuri remained silent for a moment before quickly nodding.
"No problem."
Though he didn't understand why Fred wanted to participate directly, this request wasn't worth refusing.
Recalling Fred's previous activities at Copernicus, Yuri assumed Fred simply enjoyed piloting Mobile Armors.
Boys his age—it was understandable. Not everyone could be as quiet as his own son.
They were all at that playful age.
The others showed no change in their expressions upon hearing this.
Wanting to both command and work personally?
It sounded impressive, but if it just meant piloting a work pod outside to observe, they could do that too.
Probably just showing off.
Unaware of others' thoughts, Yuri continued.
"That's all I have to say. Next, I'll ask Fred to explain some important considerations during the renovation."
"If you have any questions during the process, you can also ask Freed."
"Now, please welcome him."
After speaking, Yuri yielded the podium.
"Thank you for the introduction, City Representative Yuri."
Amid the applause, Fred stood up and naturally took position at the central speaking platform.
Though his massive mask concealed his facial expressions above the mouth, his body language genuinely conveyed composure.
He carried himself as if facing a large group of Coordinators wasn't extraordinary, and being a thirteen-year-old Natural was irrelevant—instead appearing completely at ease, as if born for such moments.
The briefing proceeded smoothly, as everyone present was an experienced researcher, and Fred's modifications weren't particularly complex. The technologies employed weren't innovative either.
However, as had been consistent throughout his journey, the modifications incorporated numerous technical details.
These included reinforcement plans for weapon mounts, the impact of weapon recoil on overall rotational balance, and designing independent power supply circuits for the weapon system to ensure safer and more stable operation.
As for systems like the IFF, existing ones could be modified for use.
"I've covered everything I needed to. Does anyone have any questions?"
Fred operated the main computer in front of him, retracting the screens before the attendees and turning on the meeting room lights.
"Um... Mr. Freed, did you design all of this yourself?"
It was no surprise that person was astonished. The design appeared thoroughly meticulous with a broad scope, and upon closer inspection, numerous details were flawlessly executed.
It hardly seemed like something one person could accomplish alone.
If Fred had a team behind him, it would be understandable—but just one person?
"That's correct."
Fred didn't deny it.
Meanwhile, after his explanation, a line of small text appeared before Fred's eyes:
[Structural Engineering +0.02]
[Structural Engineering (Beginner) 93.25/100]
His Structural Engineering skill was about to level up.
However, relying solely on beginner-level knowledge to complete the modification plan was indeed quite challenging.
But through interdisciplinary learning, his extensive research on engines—particularly regarding rotational angular momentum and recoil calculations—blended with this field. Combined with long-term simultaneous study and planning, he managed to accomplish it.
If this discipline leveled up, it would bring countless benefits to both MS and battleship research.
From the structural design of mobile suits and battleships down to minute circuit modifications.
In short, he looked forward to the day after his evolution.
At this thought, Fred's heart burned with renewed fervor.
"Does anyone else have questions?"
Fred asked again.
This time, he was met with unanimous head shakes from the group.
Facing such a seemingly young boy, asking questions would be too embarrassing.
Even if they didn't understand something, they could just study later—asking was absolutely out of the question. This was their final pride.
"If there are no more questions, let's begin preparations. I'll handle the covert improvements to the launch bay personally."
"As for the rest..."
Fred quickly assigned tasks based on each person's expertise.
The others' eyes widened in shock.
This modification work wasn't something a theoretical researcher could handle.
Even if one knew how to modify, practical operation was another matter entirely.
Otherwise, they wouldn't just be instructors instead of handling it themselves.
They were only guides—actual operations required technicians.
So they had assumed Fred was just boasting and would merely observe from the sidelines.
But now, what was Fred saying?
He would handle the entire modification himself?
Was this arrogance or genuine confidence?
The man who felt his spot had been taken couldn't help but twitch the corner of his mouth.
Although he had been quite convinced by the other's explanation earlier, he now felt that perhaps the other had been carried away by his own arrogance.