As Jasper and Mingyu walked off, Aiden started walking towards the International House, Cadet-Major Montanillo and the four cadets followed, with Grace, Moira, Katrina, Angela, Aaron, Kobe, and Ball behind them, Cadet-Major Del Rosario stayed for a little bit, handing command of the Battalion outside the International House over to Cadet-Lieutenant Policarpio, instructing him to radio in should anything happen while they are in the meeting, before following the Student Council members.
As Aiden approached the entrance, the two cadets on the base of the steps clicked their heels and gave a salute. When Aiden started walking up the steps, the two cadets by the door clicked their heels before giving a salute, one of them immediately putting her arm down to swipe a keycard into the card reader to unlock the door, pulling it open, allowing Aiden to walk inside without stopping as his retinue followed closely behind. The cadets on the base of the steps ended their salute after Cadet-Major Del Rosario passed them, as did the cadets by the door. The cadet holding the door open, released her hold after Cadet-Major Del Rosario entered, allowing it to slowly close before returning to her initial post and assuming the "Parade Rest" stance like the other three cadets at the entrance.
There were a number of International Students in the lobby when they entered, all of which were looking at Aiden. Some even had their phones out as they took pictures of the group, mainly Aiden and Min for the guys and Moira and Katrina for the girls.
"I'll see you back in the room later Min, good luck with the meeting!" Ball said in Thai as he broke off from the group and walked towards their suite.
"We'll take two separate elevators. Cadet-Major Montanillo, you and your cadets take one, Kobe, and Angela with them. Amy and the rest of you with me" Aiden instructed as Alex pressed the "up" button on the left-hand side elevator, while Moira clicked the "up" button on the middle elevator.
"What floor?" Cadet-Major Montanillo asked as Kobe and Angela walked towards his group, while Amy walked towards Aiden's group.
"10th floor" Min responded as Cadet-Major Montanillo nodded his head in thanks and acknowledgement. The elevator in front of Aiden's group was the first one to open, allowing them to enter the elevator first. Cadet-Major Montanillo and his group waited close to a minute before the elevator arrived. Aiden's group waited until the other group reached the 10th floor before proceeding to the International Student Lounge. When the other group emerged from the other elevator, Aiden started walking towards the glass doors of the lounge. Before Aiden could get close to the doors, Amy gestured for two cadets to head to the door and open it for Aiden and the retinue before they reach it.
As the two cadets ran past by him, Aiden turned his head slightly towards Amy's direction, who was walking at his right-hand side, "Amy, have those two cadets stand guard outside, no one gets in other than the members of the International Student Council and Assistant Director Sarmiento" he ordered just as the two cadets reached the doors and opened it for Aiden and his retinue.
"Min!" Aiden called out as they neared the doors. Min jogged to the front of the group where Aiden was, walking on his left-hand side between him and Grace.
"Yes?" Min said as he caught up to Aiden.
"Wait outside with the two cadets, and only let in the members of the International Student Council and Assistant Director Sarmiento" Aiden instructed him to which Min nodded in acknowledgement of Aiden's instructions, "Join us inside once all of the International Student Council members have shown up", Aiden added as he entered through the doors, the cadets clicking their heels and saluting as he walked by. Min and Cadet-Major Del Rosario stayed behind as the group converged in the lobby of the lounge.
"You two, no one gets in except for the members of the International Student Council and International Exchange Program Assistant Director Sarmiento" Amy ordered her cadets as she stood in front of the glass doors that her cadets were holding open.
"Also, this is the International Student Representative and member of the Student Council, he will identify the members of the International Student Council" Amy continued, gesturing to Min as she introduced him to her cadets before giving a salute and walking inside the lounge. As Amy entered, the two cadets gave a salute before releasing their hold on the glass door handle, allowing it to slowly close.
"Hey! I'm Min. I'll let you guys know if any of the student who approaches the lounge is an International Student Council member, okay?" Min introduced himself with a smile. He didn't get any verbal response from the cadet, but he was responded to by the unison clicking of their heels and a salute, before assuming the "Parade Rest" stance, one cadet each side of the glass doors.
After entering the lounge's lobby, Moira and Grace immediately walked towards the front desk, now manned by three desk workers, one of them was the desk worker that Moira met that morning. All three seemed surprised by the sudden and early arrival of the Student Council members.
"Ms. Moira Sato, is that correct? Student Council Chief of Staff?" the desk worker from that morning greeted Moira.
"Yes, that is correct. You remembered" Moira replied as she and Grace stood on the other side of the desk where the desk worker was, now sitting at the center, her colleagues manning either end.
"This is Grace Manalo, Vice President of the Student Council" Moira continued as she introduced Grace to the desk worker.
"Nice to meet you Ms. Manalo" the desk worker looked at Grace to acknowledge her before turning her attention back towards Moira, "The members of the International Student Council are not here yet, you could wait here in the lounge until they arrive". Moira and Grace turned their heads towards Aiden who was standing a few feet behind them, seemingly awaiting instructions.
"Are there any International Students in the lounge right now?" Aiden asked the desk worker, his stoic expression and cold tone reinforced with decisiveness.
"Yes, sir, we do have a number of International Students in the lounge as we speak" the desk worker responded, recognizing the person who just spoke.
"Have all of them clear the area in preparation for our meeting with the International Student Council" Aiden instructed as Moira and Grace looked at each other first, then the desk worker, her two colleagues on either end of the desk also looking at her, awaiting whether she would comply with Aiden's order. After a minute, she nodded her head and picked up the phone and pressed "page" before making an announcement over the PA within the lounge.
"Attention all International Students currently in the lounge, due to a planned meeting that will be taking place here this afternoon, we kindly ask our International Students to please vacate the lounge immediately; I repeat, all International Students please vacate the lounge immediately" the desk worker paged before hanging up the phone. She then looked at Moira and gestured towards her left, where the couches and arm chairs were located and invited them to seat down while they wait for the International Students to vacate the lounge.
Grace and Moira then looked at Aiden again before he started walking towards the desk, prompting Moira and Grace to take a step on the left and right respectively to make room for Aiden. As Aiden stood between Moira and Grace, he looked at the desk worker, "Thank you, the Student Council appreciate your cooperation" before he walked towards where the armchairs and couches were located, followed by Moira and Grace, then the rest of his retinue. Aiden sat on one of the armchairs facing outside of the lounge's lobby. Grace then sat on the arm chair on Aiden's right-hand side.
Moira and Amy stood behind Aiden to his left-hand and right-hand side respectively, while Cadet-Major Montanillo stood at attention on Grace's right-hand side. Katrina and Angela sat on the couch to Aiden's left, while Kobe and Aaron sat on the couch to Grace's right. The two cadets that entered with them positioned themselves, on Cadet-Major Montanillo's order, on the opposite side of the two cadets, their backs facing each other, divided by the glass wall.
As they were waiting, Moira handed Aiden the binder that she was carrying, which contained a detailed version of the meeting agenda that were in the folders. Aiden was in the middle of reviewing the contents when something caught his eye, he slightly lifted his head up to adjust his line of sight, this caused him to do a double take when he saw what Min was doing outside.
"What the hell Min" Aiden exhaled, his voice sounding like he had just given up before facepalming, causing everyone to look at Aiden first, then outside, where they could see what Min was doing. Amy and Cadet-Major Montanillo looked with surprise and amazement when they saw what Min was doing, while the rest of the Student Council members chuckled at the sight.
Outside, Min was standing in front of the cadet standing at "Parade Rest" stance on the left, from the perspective of the people inside. Min has his face a few inches away from the cadet, doing a peek-a-boo in front of her, trying to get some reaction of some sort to no avail. He tried scaring the cadet, to see if she would flinch, also to no avail. He then started a random staring contest to see who would flinch fist, again to no avail. The immature and comedic antics Min was doing looked hilarious to the people inside, garnering some chuckles and muffled laughter, though it did not seem that Min was aware that everyone inside was watching as he was fully focused on what he was doing to even notice.
Aiden was about to order Amy to deal with Min when scattered chatters and laughter came from the corridor that led to the interior of the lounge. The chatters and laughter become louder as the International Students emerged from the corridor, prompting the two cadets posted in the interior to open the doors for the International Students walking out of the lounge. Some of the International Students thanked and nodded at the cadets that opened the door for them, while some looked at the direction where Aiden and his retinue were sitting. The sudden appearance of the International Students forced Min to stop what he was doing, greeting some of the students leaving the lounge.
As the International Students exited the lounge, Aiden took his phone out to check the time – 16:38. "Moira and Alexis, once the International Students have cleared the lobby, head inside the lounge and see if you can find an appropriate place where we can hold a large number of people" Aiden instructed before placing his phone back in his pocket and resumed looking at the binder that Moira handed him earlier. It took another minute or two before all the International Students was able to clear the lobby, once the glass doors closed again, Cadet-Major Montanillo and Moira started walking towards the direction of the corridor, the former gesturing to the two cadets inside to follow them, clicking their heels before walking towards the same direction.
As Cadet-Major Montanillo, Moira, and the two cadets scouted the interior of the lounge, two silhouettes emerged from the elevator. It was Feng Mian and Emily, the Secretary of the International Student Council and the International Student Council President's assistant. As they exited the elevator, they noticed Min and the two cadets standing outside the lounge's entrance. They briefly looked at each other, confused, before proceeding to walk in their direction.
"Feng Mian, Emily!" Min called out as the two girls got close to the lounge entrance.
"Hey Min, what's with the ROTC cadets?" Emily asked.
"Oh, Aiden posted them out here, he doesn't want anyone else entering the lounge except for the meeting participants, he already cleared the lounge of all the International Students" Min explained.
"The entirety of the Student Council is present for the meeting; they're waiting in the lobby" Min added as Feng Mian replied with an "Oh".
"Something wrong Feng Mian?" Emily asked.
"Nothing, it's just I was under the impression that only a select few members of the Student Council would be in attendance" Feng Mian responded looking confused.
"Wait. Did Monica not inform you guys?" Min reacted in surprise.
"Inform us about what?" Emily asked.
"I emailed Monica earlier, telling her that Aiden was going to bring the entire Student Council members to the meeting tonight" Min informed Feng Mian and Emily who looked like they weren't informed about it nor that they were aware of the change of plans.
"We haven't heard from Monica all day" Feng Mian said as Min scratched his forehead in frustration.
"You may have to explain that to Aiden and the other Student Council members" Min said before giving a thumbs up to the cadets, as they pulled the door open.
"Right. I'll leave that to Feng Mian, she is an officer of the International Student Council after all" Emily said as she gently placed her hand on Feng Mian's shoulder.
"I might as well" Feng Mian sighed at Emily's comment.
"You'll be fine, I don't think the Student Council President is anything like Monica. Come along now" Emily said as she grabbed on to Feng Mian's arm as she gently pulled the other girl towards the entrance. As they pass by the cadets, they clicked their heels and gave a salute, which startled both Emily and Feng Mian before entering the lobby. As they entered, Moira and her group emerged from the corridor. Upon seeing Moira, Emily released her hold from Feng Mian's arm and called out to Moira.
"Moira!" Emily called out, her British accent resonating within the lobby"
"Oh, hey! Emily, Feng Mian" Moira greeted back, "We're going to have to move our meeting to a larger room, I was just about to report back to Aiden".
"Oh, that's perfect. Feng Mian has something to tell Aiden as well. Maybe you could introduce us" Emily said as Feng Mian listened on.
"Right, follow me" Moira said as she walked towards where Aiden is, followed by Emily and Feng Mian.
"Aiden, we found a suitable location for the meeting that could hold the increased number of participants. I took it upon myself to go ahead and re-arrange the tables to a more suitable setup" Moira reported as Aiden skimmed through the pages of the binder he was holding. Moira continued as she introduced Feng Mian and Emily to Aiden, prompting the rest of the Student Council members and Amy to look at the two International Students.
Aiden didn't say a word, he just skimmed through the final pages of the binder that he was holding before closing it and passing it to Moira as he got up from the chair he was sitting on. He acknowledged Feng Mian and Emily, introducing himself and exchanging pleasantries with them before Feng Mian broke the news about the International Student Council members being unaware of the changes in the meeting attendees that was made.
"Excuse me?" Aiden reacted to what Feng Mian just told him, his face a little bit irked at the fact that Monica failed to inform his staff about the changes that he had made for the meeting.
"If Min didn't inform us about it, we wouldn't have known that there were any changes to the meeting" Feng Mian added as she apologized to Aiden.
"No need to apologize. What's done is done, we'll just have to deal with it" Aiden told Feng Mian, reassuring her that the Student Council doesn't blame her for Monica's incompetence.
"Moira, lead the way to our meeting room" Aiden ordered as Moira led their group to where they would be holding their meeting. Aiden gestured to Feng Mian and Emily to go with them.
The new meeting room that Moira has chosen was a room right next to Monica's office, accessible using the first hallway between the open area and the restrooms. It was also accessible through the glass door beside the couches in the waiting area in front of Monica's office. The room where they are moving their meeting to is an audio-visual room, the wall that faced the hallway is a glass wall where the door was also located, the other three sides of the room was an actual physical wall.
The room was equipped with a 75-inch flat screen television which was mounted on the wall across from the glass door, there are four long tables which were moved around by Moira and her scouting group to form a U-shaped conference table, placing the extra table against the physical wall on one side of the room. In front of the flat screen television was a table that was placed vertically, facing the door, the two other tables where placed horizontally on either side of the table in front of the television.
When Aiden's retinue entered the audio-visual room, he designated the table on the left as where the Student Council would be sitting and the table across from it, the International Student Council. The table in front of the television was reserved for the Assistant Director. After Aiden designated where each group would be sitting, he instructed his officer to start prepping the room. He then ordered Amy to post the other two cadets outside the audio-visual room.
Moira and Katrina started placing the folders on the tables, placing seven folders on the Student Council table, and five on the International Student Council table. The binder that Aiden was reviewing earlier was placed on the table where Assistant Director Sarmiento would be sitting. Aaron and Kobe started arranging the chairs on each table, the number of which corresponded to the number of folders placed on the tables. Feng Mian and Emily were at awe on the speed, efficiency and coordination of the Student Council members in converting the audio-visual room into an improvised conference room.
"Do you all happen to have water bottles here?" Grace asked Feng Mian and Emily while the other Student Council officers prepared the room for the meeting, with the exception of Aiden who was talking with Amy and Cadet-Major Montanillo on the side.
"I believe we have some in the pantry" Feng Mian replied.
"Do you mind showing me where it is?" Grace asked as Feng Mian and Emily showed her the way. Grace motioned to the two cadets outside the room to follow them as they exited the audio-visual room. As Grace and the two cadets went with Feng Mian and Emily to get bottled waters, Cadet-Lieutenant Policarpio radioed in to report that Assistant Director Sarmiento was on her way up, escorted by a cadet.
"Alexis, go ahead and meet them by the elevator and escort the Assistant Director here" Amy ordered as Cadet-Major Montanillo walked out of the room. Amy then turned to face Aiden who looked like he was in deep thought. "Something on your mind sir?" Amy asked.
"How do you think this meeting would go Amy? I want your honest opinion" Aiden asked as he looked at Amy who seemed surprised at Aiden's question.
"Permission to speak freely sir?" Amy requested who was standing at ease, Aiden nodded in response, granting Amy's request.
"I'll be honest sir, if we're going by Moira's report, you probably could expect some resistance from the International Student Council President. Personally sir, I don't like her attitude, based on what Moira has told us during her debrief" Amy responded bluntly.
"You think there's a chance this could go south?" Aiden further asked as Aaron and Kobe finished arranging the chairs they need before walking towards the unused table where Moira and Angela were.
"I'll put the probability at 95% at best, sir" Amy confidently replied.
"That's what I thought, I guess we'll see once we actually meet her face to face" Aiden said just as Grace, Feng Mian, Emily and the two cadets returned with bottles of water.
Grace instructed the cadets to place one bottle in front of each folder, which they promptly carried out. After they placed all the water bottle where they needed to be, Grace dismissed them, returning to their post outside the audio-visual room. Feng Mian and Emily just stood by the door as they received no instructions whatsoever from Monica, other than to show up to the meeting early.
"Grace, go ahead and grab the laptop over there" Aiden instructed as he pointed at the laptop charging station right behind the International Student Council table, "We may have to use visuals when we present the Gang of Eight. Also, let Min know where we are".
"Will do, Aiden" Grace replied as she made her way to the other side of the room to grab one of the charging laptops, messaging Min as she walked to her destination.
As Grace was walking towards the other side of the room, Aiden instructed his officers to take their seats. Angela sat at the very end of the table, close to the television, followed by Kobe, Moira, Aiden, Katrina and Aaron. Amy stood at ease behind Aiden's chair to his left-hand side. The seat between Aiden and Katrina was left empty for Grace, and the last chair to Aaron's right for Min.
Just as the members of the Student Council took their seats, Cadet-Major Montanillo entered the room with Assistant Director Sarmiento. Aiden immediately stood back up as the Assistant Director entered the room, Aiden's officer following his lead.
"Assistant Director Sarmiento, thank you for taking the time to attend this joint meeting between the Student Council and the International Student Council" Aiden greeted the Assistant Director as she walked to where Aiden was and shook his hand. After they exchanged pleasantries, Amy escorted the Assistant Director to her designated seat, before returning to where she was standing earlier, Cadet-Major Montanillo standing at ease beside Amy on her right-hand side. At this time, Grace just finished setting up the laptop, having already connected the HDMI cable from the laptop to the television, leaving Angela as the operator since she was closer to the television, before taking her seat next to Aiden.
You know, the two of you could sit down right?" Aiden told Feng Mian and Emily who was still standing next to the door.
"Would that be okay with you?" Feng Mian asked, hesitant to just take seat without the Student Council President's permission.
"Yes, it's fine. You don't need my permission to sit down" Aiden replied as Feng Mian and Emily sat across from the Student Council. Just as Feng Mian and Emily sat down, Aiden saw Min walking down the corridor, with four other people following him. When the cadets outside saw them approaching, they opened the door and clicked their heels and gave a salute as Min walked past them and entered the room.
Min was followed by Monica Sawyers, Emeline Marcelle Cailteux, Justin Rivington, and Shin Lee in that order. When Feng Mian and Emily saw Monica, they immediately got out of their chairs and walked towards her. As Feng Mian and Emily stood in front of Monica, she immediately removed her back pack, followed by her cardigan and dumped it on Feng Mian's hands.
As Monica threw her stuff on Feng Mian, Aaron gestured over to Min to let him know that the seat next to him was his. Min then walked over to where Aaron is seating and sat on the empty chair beside him. Monica's action slightly incensed Moira and caused Aiden to raise his left brow at Monica.
Feng Mian immediately left the audio-visual room to place the cardigan and backpack in Monica's office. "Tea, Emily" Monica ordered as she walked towards the empty seats, followed by Emeline, Justin, and Shin, as Emily left the room to fetch Monica a cup of tea. Monica took her seat first, three seats away from the television. Shin Lee sat on the chair closest to the television, followed by Justin Rivington, with Emeline sitting next to Monica to her right.
"Assistant Director" Monica said, nodding to acknowledge her presence.
"Monica" Assistant Director Sarmiento replied, giving her a nod.
"Right. Let's get started" Monica announced as she opened the folder in front of her, which irked Aiden.
"Ms. Sawyers, not all of your officers are here yet. You also seem to forget that the Mount Juliet Student Council members are sitting across from you" Aiden coldly remarked as Monica forgot to even greet or acknowledge them, she slightly tilted her head up, making eye contact with Aiden.
"That's President Sawyers to you, President Kobayashi" Monica scoffed.
"I've seen nothing so far to indicate that you deserve the title" Aiden hit back as tension between them started to fill the room. Assistant Director Sarmiento only watched as the two exchanged salvos.
"Really now? Considering this is our first meeting, I'm not sure how you can come to that conclusion" Monica responded, her Kiwi accent becoming more pronounced.
"The report that I received from my Chief of Staff provided sufficient substance to allow me to come up with that conclusion" Aiden responded his posture and tone of voice showing confidence and authority.
"Hardly any substance, if you ask me. If it came from your Chief of Staff, the possibility of biased and one-sided opinion can't be ruled out" Monica pushed back.
"True, there is that possibility. However, your own council secretary's statement earlier just provided more substance and credibility to the report my Chief of Staff gave" Aiden scoffed before continuing, "Your failure to even inform your own officers of the changes in regard to this meeting shows your inadequacies as President of the International Student Council".
"The changes that the International Student Representative sent by email earlier was hardly worth mentioning to my officers. It doesn't really affect the core agenda of this meeting now does it?" Monica shot back at Aiden, irked by the fact that Feng Mian mentioned something to Aiden.
The meeting hasn't even started, but Monica was already getting on Grace, Katrina, Amy, Angela, and Aaron's nerves. Moira has been mostly quiet, controlling her emotions as to not say anything that she couldn't take back, undermine Aiden's arguments, or worse, derail the entire meeting before it could even start. Assistant Director Sarmiento for her part was just observing the back and forth between Aiden and Monica, not daring to get involve in the argument – unless she absolutely needed to. Monica's officers looked like they're on edge. They've never seen nor met anyone who was able to openly talk back to Monica like Aiden has been doing, and it was making them nervous, given that Monica could lash out at them after the meeting has concluded.
"No, it doesn't. But as the head of the International Student Council, you have the duty to inform your officers of any changes not only as a form of courtesy, but also to provide them information that could prove critical in discharging their duties" Aiden responded as he observed Monica's officers.
"How I run the International Student Council is none of your concern. As long as my council discharges its duties and purpose, the way I run it has no bearing on anything" Monica replied, her right brow raised.
Before Aiden could reply, Feng Mian entered the room, followed by Emily who was carrying a teacup placed on top of a saucer. Feng Mian sat on the empty chair beside Monica as Emily walked behind Monica and placed the saucer in front of her. Monica immediately gestured for Emily to go away, without saying thanks or appreciation. Emily stepped a few feet backwards, standing behind where Monica was sitting.
Assistant Director Guerrero, Amy, Cadet-Major Montanillo and the rest of the Student Council with the exception of Min and Moira reacted to how Monica just treated Emily. This further irritated Aiden who could now understand why Moira was so incensed that morning. At that moment, Grace slightly leaned towards Aiden and whispered to him, "We should get the meeting started before things get out of hand". Aiden nodded his head as Grace returned to her previous position.
"All of my officers are here now President Kobayashi, I don't see any more reason we should continue to delay this meeting" Monica announced as she lifted the saucer, grabbing the teacup and taking a sip.
"We might as well, I rather not drag this meeting longer than it should be" Aiden concurred with Monica.
"Finally, we agree on something, for once" Monica said with an attitude before putting her teacup on the saucer and placing the saucer back on the table. Aiden turned his head slightly towards Grace's direction, signaling his Vice President to officially start the meeting in regards with the Gang of Eight, Outcast System, the itinerary for the International Student Outing, and Music selection for the Student Organization Fair.
Grace officially started the meeting before she handed it over to Moira who explained the agenda and topics of discussion for the night. Katrina, like with Min, was placed in charge of explaining the Gang of Eight and the Outcast System of Mount Juliet University. This was also a great opportunity for Assistant Director Sarmiento, as she only started working for Mount Juliet prior to the beginning of the semester, and so, Katrina's detailed explanation, coupled with visuals greatly helped her understand the student body culture at the university and gave her more insight that would prove beneficial in doing her job properly and more effectively.
After Katrina concluded her presentation, Aiden opened the floor for questions, surprisingly, Assistant Director Sarmiento and Monica's officers asked a lot of questions and clarifications on certain parts of the presentation, which was gladly answered by members of the Student Council. Monica on the other hand, didn't ask anything and looked like she was bored and uninterested with the matter they were all discussing, preferring to continue sipping on her tea as the Student Council provided critical knowledge to everyone who wasn't familiar with the topic.
Prior to ending the agenda in regard to the Gang of Eight and the Outcast System, Aiden asked everyone in the room if there were any more questions or if anyone wants to bring anything up that pertains to their topic. When no one raised anything else, he concluded the current topic, and moved on to their next topic - the International Student Outing.
Min was placed in charge of explaining the topic, supported by Moira who initially proposed the locations for the outing. During this discussion, Assistant Director Guerrero, being part of the International Exchange Program Office, offered her feedbacks and advice in regard to the draft proposal, which resulted in the amendment of one of the proposed locations, from Tagaytay to Batangas. Assistant Director Sarmiento volunteered her office to provide the informative materials and visuals that the International Student Council will use when they present the proposal to the entirety of the International Students, this was to sufficiently inform the International Students about the proposed locations, what those places have to offer, and to take some pressure off from the Student Council, which was appreciated and welcomed by its officers.
Aiden tasked Moira and Min to closely coordinate with Assistant Director Sarmiento and the International Exchange Program Office in regard to the outing and start working on the draft itinerary and other details once the International Students approves the said proposal. Everyone in the International Student Council, except for Monica, seemed to be excited and keen about the proposal for the outing.
Notwithstanding the heated exchange between Monica and Aiden before the meeting started, the entirety of the meeting went smoothly and extremely well, that is until they moved on to the last topic of discussion – the music selection for the Student Organization Fair.
"If there's nothing else in regards with the proposal for the International Student Outing, we'll move on to our last topic for the night, the music selection for the Student Organization Fair" Aiden announced.
"Has the International Student Council prepared a list of international songs that will be used for the Student Organization Fair on Friday?" Aiden asked as the International Student Council members looked at each other, confused as to what Aiden was talking about.
"I'm sorry, but we have no idea that we were supposed to compile international songs" Emeline replied, her French accent resonating, "We thought we were going to go over the songs, but we didn't know we were supposed to choose the music".
"Min?" Aiden called out, his focus still towards the International Student Council as Min looked at him, "Did you not inform them about the music selection for the Student Organization Fair?"
"I mentioned this to Monica-" Min explained before Monica interrupted him.
"With respect Min, you only mentioned talking about the music for the organization fair, I wasn't informed that the International Student Council was supposed to provide a list of music" Monica said in a condescending tone. Min wasn't able to responded, he felt bothered and guilty by the fact that he had messed up.
"Well, you would know if you took the time this morning" Moira spoke sarcastically as everyone in the room turned their attention to Moira, Aiden only shifted his eyes to Moira's direction.
"What was that!?" Monica asked, irritated by Moira's sarcasm.
"If you actually let me speak this morning, I could have informed you about that. That's the whole reason for me going to your office, so I can go over the topics of this meeting, including about compiling the music list" Moira shot back, trying to control her emotions, as she defended Min from Monica.
"It's funny you said that I could go over it with you before the start of the meeting, but you were the one who arrived barely on time, and you have the audacity to blame your incompetence to the International Student Representative. It's ironic that someone who claimed this morning that they were 'very much aware of what the topics that are to be discussed…" seems so clueless right now" Moira continued.
This infuriated Monica who was basically humiliated by Moira in front of everyone. As Grace, Katrina, Angela, Aaron, Min, and Amy bit their lips to avoid smiling at how Moira just burned Monica in front of everyone, including her own officers.
"You never mentioned that this morning!" Monica raised her voice as she slammed her hand on the table, startling the International Student Council officers.
"I tried to, on multiple occasions, but every single time you interrupted and dismissed me. Also, if you took the time in reading the paper in the folder I left you, you would know as well, obviously since you're sitting there looking incompetent and clueless, you didn't read the summary I left you" Moira responded, "That's all" she added, imitating the way Monica says it. Emily gave Moira a discreet smile and thumbs up.
"Mind your tongue, you're only a Chief of Staff, keep in mind I outrank you!" Monica furiously replied.
"I suggest you mind yours, it's true that within the Student Council, the President outranks the Chief of Staff. But between the Student Council and the International Student Council, the former has a higher rank than the latter. Regardless whether you are the President of the International Student Council or any other officer, all of you are subordinate to any members of the Student Council" Aiden interjected as he explained the difference in rank between the Student Council and International Student Council.
"That's stupid, my title and rank is equal to yours no matter what you say" Monica responded, insistent on the equality of hers and Aiden's rank, "Who do you think you are to make that differentiation? You're just the Student Council President!"
Assistant Director Sarmiento cleared her throat, causing everyone, except for Aiden, Amy, and Cadet-Major Montanillo, to look at her direction, "Well, Aiden Kobayashi is one of the founding members of the International Exchange Program, it was also under his direction that created the International Student Organization, and the International Student Council".
"The International Student Council, under the provisions which created the body, states that during the first two years since its inception, it would be a subordinate body to the Student Council under the supervision of the Student Council President, although the International Student Council has some independence and autonomy to handle the affairs of the International Students, they still fall under the purview of the Student Council" Assistant Director Sarmiento continued. The revelation came as a shock and surprise to everyone in the room, even Aiden's closest associates were caught off guard.
"So technically Ms. Sawyers, you report to Mr. Kobayashi" Assistant Director Sarmiento added.
This silenced Monica for a bit, having been further humiliated and embarrassed by her own actions, "Still, it doesn't give the Chief of Staff the right to talk to me in the manner that she did!" Monica said, breaking her small moment of silence.
"Ms. Sawyers, the way my Chief of Staff spoke to you was equal and proportionate to the manner in which you speak to your own officers. I imagine you do the same to other International Student as well. If you want to be talked to with proper decency and respect, I highly recommend you do the same to the people under your leadership and guidance" Aiden responded.
"I don't have to change my personality to suit the needs of others!" Monica replied.
"Let me share a little something to you Ms. Sawyers. Personally, I'm not too keen on serving as the Student Council President, nor did I have the intention of running for office. The democratic process of this university basically placed me in this role, although I'm not too keen on serving in this capacity, I had to adjust and do things I usually don't do, or even things that I'm not particularly fond of in order to properly discharge my responsibilities and duties as the Student Council President. Yes, I admit, when I interact with everyone, I do so with a cold and uninterested attitude, but not once have I talked anyone down or treated them with disrespect. If I did, my officers and ROTC cadets would not be serving me like they do nor would I generate such a large fanbase" Aiden said as everyone on Aiden's side of the table were staring at Monica who looked cornered and humiliated.
"Furthermore, in accordance to the same provision that Assistant Director Sarmiento mentioned, I have the authority to remove you as International Student Council President at my discretion, all of you in the International Student Council serve at my pleasure and can be replaced. While I'm not considering it, as I would like to avoid perverting the voice of the International Students and the sanctity of the democratic process, the option is not off the table, and I will not hesitate to invoke that if necessary. Your actions and attitude so far, Ms. Sawyers are not particularly pleasing and up to the standards of the position and title you are so proud of. Tread lightly Ms. Sawyers" Aiden continued.
"To that end, the International Student Council will compile a list of international songs and will submit that list no later than 12:00 PM tomorrow. Min will be the point person on this, given that he is the International Student Representative" Aiden added.
"Don't act so superior because of your position, I find it distasteful. So long as I'm the International Student Council President, my officers will answer to no one except me!" Monica declared, "Isn't that right?" she added as she looked at her officers, who remained quiet, their positions unchanged.
"Say something! Am I talking to a wall here!?" Monica added, her voice infuriated. Her officers were hesitant to answer, since they were in a dilemma; agree to Monica's claim, and they would be going against the Student Council President, who they've just learned is their superior, or break with Monica and suffer the consequences and her ire later.
"If all of you can't answer because you fear any repercussions from Monica later, don't be. Ms. Cailteux was it?" Aiden asked as she looked at Emeline.
"Yes, that's correct" Emeline answered nervously.
"Starting today, any and all retaliatory actions taken against any officers by Monica will be reported to the Student Council. Moira will be your contact person for this. Not just any retaliatory actions, any actions, whatever form it may be, of harassment or inhumane treatments carried out by Monica will be reported as well" Aiden announced, reassuring Monica's officers and giving them a sense of relief and security.
"Yes sir, we will have the list completed before the deadline tomorrow" Emeline replied as the other officers on their table nodded in agreement. Monica was taken aback; she didn't think that her officers would openly support Aiden over her. It was an open rebellion against her leadership and found it offensive and insulting.
"Ms. Sawyers, I'm placing you under a 30-day probation period, if I sense, or even hear that you're making the lives of the International Student's stay here miserable, I will immediately remove you from your current post. All affairs and activities of the International Student Council will now be reported to the Student Council for oversight and approval" Aiden ordered as Monica was left speechless. She moved her mouth, about to respond, when Aiden interrupted her before she could speak.
"I would ask you to consider your response, in light of the respect that my rank and my office deserve, not that which my personality nor my individuality might suggest" Aiden continued as Monica glared at him.
"Fine, it's not like I have a say on anything anyways" Monica scoffed.
"On the contrary, a lot of unpleasant things have been said by you, no?" Aiden responded.
"Be grateful that I'm even acquiescing to your draconian demands!" Monica shot back.
"I'm on my knees with gratitude" Aiden sarcastically responded, to Monica's further annoyance, "Before we end this meeting, I would like to inform everyone that the Student Council and the ISO will hold a welcome party to all of the International Students on Saturday, details will be sent out soon".
After making his final announcement, the joint meeting was finally ended, allowing everyone to breathe a sigh of relief. Monica was the first to leave the room, heading to her office to grab her cardigan and backpack before returning to her room. The next one to leave was Assistant Director Sarmiento who thanked Aiden for the somewhat productive meeting before being escorted by Cadet-Major Montanillo out of the International House. The members of the Student Council and the International Student Council stayed and returned the tables and chairs to their original place, Monica's officers thanking and showing their appreciation to Aiden for giving them reassurances and practically protecting them, even though they are not directly his constituents, and Moira for her Monica takedown. Everyone walked together until they exited the International Student Lounge, before everyone went home for the night. Aiden, however, returned to his office in the Student Council room to grab the binders he needed for the Executive Council meeting the next day, before heading home.
When Min returned to their suite, he found Ball sitting on the couch in the living area, eating some snacks as he watched some YouTube videos on his laptop.
"Hey Min! How did the meeting go?" Ball greeted Min in Thai as he entered their room, chewing the chips he just placed in his mouth.
"It went good actually. Aiden and Monica really got into it" Min replied in Thai as he sat next to Ball, grabbing some chips from the bowl on the coffee table.
"Really!? Who won!?" Ball asked, surprised at what Min just said.
"Who do you think?" Min responded after he swallowed the chips he was chewing, grabbing Ball's drink before taking a quick sip.
"Aiden!?" Ball smiled as Min nodded his head, causing Ball to start laughing and clapping his hand due to excitement.
"Where's Bank at?" Min asked as he placed the drink on top of the coffee table.
"He's sleeping in his room; did you want to wake him up again?" Ball grinned before Min slapped the back of his head, already guessing what he had in mind.
"No, actually, it's perfect. I want to talk to you alone" Min said, his face looking serious, as if something was in his mind, "Let's not talk here though".
"Alright, what is it about though?" Ball asked as Min got up from the couch and walked towards the door.
"I'll tell you in a bit" Min said before he opened the door, as Ball got up from the couch, putting his shoes on before cantering towards where Min is standing.
Min and Ball decided to talk at the Mount Juliet Student Center Fountain, which was located on the east side of the student center. The fountain had a large basin with jet nozzles continuously shooting water to the center of the fountain, where the 4-level tiers where the water fell down was located, the fountain also has a jet nozzle that continuously shoots the water high up. The fountain was also equipped with underwater lights that illuminates the central tier of the fountain.
Min sat on the side of the large fountain, as Ball sat next to him, the sound of water falling reverberated around them. "So what did you want to talk about?" Ball asked in Thai, looking at Min who looked serious and conflicted about something.
Min was silent for a couple of seconds, thinking on how to say what he wanted to tell Ball. He lifted his head up and looked Ball straight in the eye, "I like Aiden". There was silence between them, Min and Ball did not break eye contact, the only sound that could be heard was the sound of falling water.
Ball gave out a sigh, "You finally admit it. Took you long enough" Ball said with a smile on his face, placing his hand on Min's shoulder, "Just go for it. I'll support you with whatever you want to do".
"Yeah, but, I'm still conflicted. I want to, but I'm hesitating for some reason" Min admitted.
"Is it your first love?" Ball asked, already knowing the reason for Min's hesitation, "It's been what? 10 -11 years? You need to move on Min".
Min gave a deep sigh, he reached for his back pocket, taking his wallet out, and pulling a small photograph. It was a picture taken almost 10 years ago, the summer of 2012 in a park near Min's house. In the picture were two kids sitting on a park bench, one of the kids was eating a lollipop. The other one, which was a younger Min, giving the kid with a lollipop a hug from the side, Min's head resting on the other kid's shoulder as they both were looking at the camera.
"This is the only picture of Yu-Yu and I together" Min said, holding the picture in front of him as he reminisced the past, "I don't even know Yu-Yu's real name" he smiled as Ball gently grabbed the picture out of Min's hand.
"You told me the story before, but it still surprises me even to this day, that your first love is a boy" Ball smiled as he looked at the picture, "Is he the reason why you haven't fallen in love all these years?".
"For the most part, yeah" Min responded, looking at the picture that Ball was holding.
"I guess that's also the reason why you only crush on people every time" Ball added as he looked at Min, "So this thing with Aiden, is this another one of those temporary feelings or is this for real?".
"I don't know. Every time I remember Yu-Yu, I lose interest" Min admitted.
"You said it yourself Min, Yu-Yu died because of an illness or something. You need to move on, I'm sure Yu-Yu would want you to be happy too. You have to at least realize that" Ball said as he tried to convince his friend to move on from the past.
"Maybe it's time to finally let go. It's been almost a decade since I last saw him" Min told Ball, as he looked at the photo again.
"But you know" Ball said as Min looked at him, "There's one thing about your story that still doesn't make sense to me, even now".
"Which is?" Min responded as Ball looked at him.
"You said you only saw Yu-Yu once a year for 2 – 3 weeks, and it's usually in the same month" Ball said as Min looked at him confused, "But, the last time you saw him, it was only for a week. I find that weird".
"I do too, the shortest time that I ever saw him, and it would turn out to be our last" Min responded, "But, his parent's probably do a lot of traveling because of work, that could be why. I'm not really sure".
"Yu-Yu could have probably stayed with relatives or something. I mean, I live with my grandparents" Ball replied, "If you're going to Bangkok for that period of time, surely you must have relatives in the area".
"Now that you mentioned it, I think I forgot to include the fact that Yu-Yu isn't Thai" Min replied to the surprise of Ball.
"Wait. What!?" Ball exclaimed, reacting to Min's revelation, "You think Yu-Yu's parents are tourists? Or could they be visiting relatives in Bangkok? You must've asked him?"
"I couldn't speak English back then, my nanny was pretty much translating for us, besides, we were kids, all we did was play. We never really talked about our family or anything else" Min replied as he returned the picture in his wallet, "But, I think you're right. I should move on"
"Yeah, you should! Now let's head back, I'm hungry again, plus I need to study for tomorrow's quiz!" Ball said as he and Min started walking back to the International House.
The next morning, Aiden got up early after falling asleep on his couch, staying up all night going over his talking points and the proposals he's going to present to the Executive Council later in the morning. Looking at his phone, he saw the time – 5:57 AM. He had barely gotten two hours of sleep, but he was already up and started getting ready for school. It was about 6:25 when he finished getting dressed, he went back to the living area to collect the binders he was going to need for the meeting, placing them in his bag before leaving his condominium.
On his way to the train station, Aiden made a quick stop at a nearby Café he always frequent. When he entered the café, the barista called out to him, "You want the usual Aiden?", his only response was a thumbs up as he walked towards the counter to pay. As he got his wallet out, his phone started ringing, he took it out of his pocket and saw the caller ID "Aurea Gutierrez", Aiden sighed, not wanting to talk to anyone before he got his cappuccino. But knowing Vice Chancellor Gutierrez, she would keep calling until he answered his phone. He reluctantly answered the call as the barista prepared his cappuccino order.
"What is it, Old hag?" Aiden greeted as he answered his phone.
"You're up early? Vice Chancellor Gutierrez said over the phone, "In any case, don't forget the meeting this morning okay?"
"I appreciate the heads up" Aiden responded sarcastically, "Just don't forget that favor I asked you"
Vice Chancellor Gutierrez laughed, "It sounds like you haven't had caffeine yet, you sound grouchy. Go and get yourself some cappuccino".
"That's what I was doing before you called" Aiden replied, annoyed at the prospect of being laughed at.
"Right. I'll see you later" Vice Chancellor Gutierrez said before hanging up. Just as the call ended, the barista finished the cappuccino. Aiden returned his phone in his pocket before opening his wallet which he laid on top of the counter, in front of the cash register.
"It's good Aiden. It's on the house. Enjoy your cappuccino" the barista said to the surprise of Aiden.
"You sure?" Aiden asked for confirmation.
"Yeah. You're probably our most loyal customer around this area, it's natural we give you a reward" the barista replied as Aiden grabbed the coffee cup.
"Thank you. Have a good day" Aiden said, his face looked so satisfied, albeit remaining stoic as he left the café, making his way to the train station.
Meanwhile, in the International House, Min actually woke up early even though he and Ball stayed up all night studying for their World History quiz. As he sat on the side of his bed, he realized that Ball fell asleep on the floor, beside his bed. Min teasingly poked Ball's face with his toe, trying to wake his friend up.
"Hey, Ball. Wake up, I need to get ready" Min said as he kept on poking Ball's face with his toe. Ball groaned, pushing Min's foot aside as he turned on the opposite direction. Min reluctantly gave up as he got up from his bed, walking over Ball to grab his towel, before going to the bathroom to take a shower. As Min was in the shower, Ball's phone started blaring as his alarm went off, he pressed the snooze button before going back to sleep.
After a little while, Min came back to his room, wearing only a towel around his waist. He grabbed an underwear from his closet, before removing the towel around his waist, and throwing it on his shoulder. Just then, Ball's alarm went off again, this time, Ball opened his eyes, and was shocked to see Min standing in front of him naked.
"Shiaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!" Ball screamed out loud, startling Min, who dropped his underwear on the floor, his scream reverberating inside Min's room.
"What the hell Ball? Why are you shouting so loud early in the morning?" Min complained as he picked up his underwear.
"Why are you naked!?" Ball asked as he looked at Min.
"Why are you acting so surprised? We used to get naked in front of each other in the locker room when we played football in middle school" Min said as his door suddenly opened.
"What's with that scream!?" Bank said as Min turned around, shocking Bank when he saw Min's elephant trunk, Bank immediately closed the door without saying a word.
"What the hell Bank" Min commented as he put his underwear on.
"Anyways, as I was going to say. It's different back in middle school, at least I was aware you were going to be naked! I wasn't expecting to see your dick after waking up, and so early in the morning!" Ball explained as he got up from the floor, scratching his forehead, "Save that for Aiden" Ball added jokingly, as Min grabbed the towel from his shoulder and slapped it on Ball's face.
"Shiaaa!" Ball cried in response, Min laughing at his response, "Anyways, I'm going to take a shower, I want to go to class early, so I could study a little bit more" Ball added as he left Min's room.
Min, Ball, and Bank arrived at their classroom 20 minutes early. When they got there, Professor Chua was already setting her things up, and the room only has a handful of students. After taking their attendance, the trio walked towards where they sat the last time. To their surprise, Aiden was already there, his cheek laying on his left fist and facing the window. There were three binders piled up on the table in front of him, and a large coffee cup beside it. When they got close to their seats, Bank pulled his backpack in front of him and took Aiden's binder out, he passed it to Ball, who then passed it to Min, before sliding it next to Aiden's coffee cup. He didn't move or react when Min slid the binder, leading him to deduce that Aiden was sleeping. Min then placed his index finger on his lips, signaling Ball and Bank to be quiet. The trio then took their seats and started studying again, this time, Bank used his e-book to review.
When class was about to begin, Min slightly elbowed Aiden, who immediately woke up. A few moments later, Professor Chua instructed the people on the front row to pass the quiz to the back. When the last student received the quiz, Professor Chua informed everyone that they could begin the quiz, and that they have a 30-minute limit to complete the 4-page quiz, which was mostly multiple choice, true or false, and essay questions. Aiden was the first to finish the quiz, and it only took him at least 12 – 13 minutes as he breezed through everything and took most of his time doing the essay portion of the quiz. As Aiden walked up to Professor Chua, she said "I've heard stories from my colleagues, and it turns out to be true".
"What stories would that be Professor?" Aiden responded as he handed his quiz over.
"That you're always the first one in class to finish the quiz and exams, and still manage to get the highest grade. But we'll find out the latter part after I grade the papers" Professor Chua responded as Aiden walked back to his seat. Min was the second to finish the quiz, followed by Ball; Bank was among those who finished at the 20-minutes mark. Close to the time limit, Aiden opened his bag, placing all the binders in front of him in his bag, zipping it close and putting it on. He then took his phone out and placed it on his thigh, looking at the time – 8:29 AM. "Min, put your stuff in your bag and put your backpack on" Aiden whispered to Min as he followed Aiden's instructions without question. When the time limit was up, Professor Chua told the remaining students still taking the quiz to bring their papers to her, just then three chimes rang out, indicating that an announcement through the PA system was about to be announced.
"Aiden Kobayashi and Thapthim Nontanakorn from CGS3. Report to Vice Chancellor Gutierrez's Office immediately; repeat, Aiden Kobayashi and Thapthim Nontanakorn from CGS3. Report to Vice Chancellor Gutierrez's Office immediately" the announcement said as another three chimes rang, indicating the end of the announcement. Aiden immediately got up, Min following behind him as they left the classroom.