Fifth Story: Two Sides of The Same Coin

Chapter 7

3 February 2022

The tranquillity of the chilly morning has put everyone in an extremely good mood today, despite the recent events that shook the student body to the core. However, only one person does not share the same sentiment with the rest: Mrs Ngọc. Even though she is wearing that trademark frown that would reveal her inner state of mind, the principal seems to be even more jittery than usual. The rustling of the paper is the only sound that fills the heavy air in the principal's office, while Ms Nga is sitting on the sofa with her hands perfectly on her lap like a good child, occasionally stealing glances at her superior.

"Is something the matter, Mrs Principal?" asks Ms Nga innocently.

"Indeed, there is," the grumpy principal replies. "Today, there will be two inspectors sent from the Politburo to our school for an annual inspection. The Director of Hanoi Department of Education and Training and the Minister themselves will be here! Of course, I am worried sick."

"Just be natural, and you'll do fine."

A set of three evenly timed knocks interrupts their conversation, prompting Ms Nga to open the door of the entrance. Two men wearing suits and carrying leather briefcases enter and quickly seat themselves. Mrs Ngọc immediately smiles in the face of the important guests and offers to make coffee for them.

"Let us dive right into business, Mrs Nguyễn Như Ngọc. We heard a rumour that there are cases of embezzlement and corruption happening at 'A' High School, at this very moment," the grey-haired man in an equally stylish grey suit takes out some documents. "We would greatly appreciate it if you, and Ms Nga, the vice-principal, would cooperate with us to ensure a smooth and painless audit."

"We understand," the principal nervously replies. "What can we do for you today?"

"May we visit the classrooms now?" the other man asks. "We would like to start with the Grade 12 classrooms, if possible."

"Naturally, please follow me."

Morning dew settles on the windows of the class 12A2 and the students are paying attention to the French lesson taught by their homeroom teacher, who is also their French teacher. Suddenly, a knock can be heard; all eyes turn to the entrance, where the school leaders and the inspectors are standing.

"Mrs Ngọc, Ms Nga, how may I help you?" the homeroom teacher tilts her head.

"We've got two inspectors from the Ministry of Education and Training who want to observe today's lesson."

"Is that so? Please take a seat at the back."

"No need," the man in the grey suit puts up his hand. "I'd like to see how good the students of 'A' High School are... Your school has foreign expatriates? Quite a rare sight in this country."

François and Thérèse only manage to force an awkward smile as they learn that they are the subject of interest of the inspectors.

"We are proud to proclaim that we offer the best education in Vietnam which attracts even foreigners. Only a few schools can see themselves as equal to 'A' High School."

"Is that so? Right, you over there, yes, you."

"Yes, sir?" a boy meekly replies.

"I've got a question to ask you. Conjugate (8) the verb prêter (9) in the simple present form and indicative mood."

The guy seems to relax for a bit, then replies, "Je prête, tu prêtes, il prête, elle prête, vous prêtez, nous prêtons, ils prêtent, ells prêtent." (10)

"Correct," the men seem satisfied with his answer. "Mrs Ngọc, we would like to continue going around."

"Certainly, please follow me."