EX-istential Crisis

Chapter 5: The Cursed Member

Inside the pristine student council meeting room at Cyberton University, Amadeus, the serious and focused president, sat at the head of the table, organizing documents with a meticulous hand. His sharp gaze swept over his fellow council members, ensuring everything was in order for today's meeting.

Beside him, Hiroto, the sleep-deprived vice president, slumped in his chair, cradling his fourth cup of coffee. His dark circles and half-hearted attempts at staying awake were a testament to his late-night study sessions and endless meetings. He let out a long sigh, muttering, "Another day in paradise..."

At the far end of the table sat Annika, the student council secretary, her expression cold and serious. She tapped her fingers against the table, radiating an air of calm authority. Her sharp eyes flicked toward the others, unamused by their antics.

Across from her was Gatto, the treasurer, who had a twinkle in her eye that suggested a love for spending money that rivaled her dedication to the council. She was busily scrolling through her phone, likely browsing the latest sales while pretending to pay attention.

"Alright, let's get started," Amadeus said, his tone leaving no room for disagreement. "We need to discuss who will handle General Affairs for the upcoming semester. Any suggestions?"

Hiroto perked up slightly, remembering the perfect candidate. "I think we all know who would excel at that," he said, a hint of a smirk playing at the corners of his mouth.

Flashbacks of their high school days flooded his mind, recalling how Nelly had helped them when they were ganged up on by delinquents. Nelly wasn't the strongest, but his combat IQ and situational awareness had outsmarted their bullies, leaving them flat on their backs without so much as a bruise.

"Yeah, that's right," Amadeus continued, launching into the story. "Nelly knocked them out without breaking a sweat, but not because he wanted to hurt anyone. He simply reasoned with them and redirected their energy toward something positive."

Annika's expression remained unreadable as she listened, but she couldn't help but murmur, "So he was like that before? I bet he has a bunch of enemies."

Hiroto shook his head. "Actually, it's the opposite. He took care of those who ganged up on us and told them they should do community service near a kindergarten school zone instead. He said, 'If you have little siblings, why not support them?'"

Gatto's eyes widened in surprise. "Whoa, that's so... noble! How much would it take to get him on our side? We could use someone like him."

Hiro sighed, the weight of his exhaustion settling in. "That's the thing. He's strong but weak when it comes to heartbreak."

Amadeus nodded in agreement. "I share your sentiment, Hiro. He needs to see that he has the power to change things—not just in the council, but in his own life as well."

"Then why not convince him?" Hiroto suggested, a bit of energy returning to his voice. "I mean, there's nothing to lose, right?"

The council members exchanged glances, the idea settling in. Annika remained calm, but there was a glimmer of intrigue in her eyes. "Let's see if we can schedule a meeting with him," she stated coolly. "But I expect you both to keep this professional."

"Right, no weirdos allowed," Hiroto agreed, leaning back in his chair with a sly grin. "Just the usual chaos."

After their meeting, Amadeus decided to reach out to Nelly through the group chat. He typed quickly, eager to see if his friend was available.