The emergency board meeting was in the administration building's formal conference room. Kofi arrived at one-thirty with Nina, both dressed more formally than usual.
"You clean up nice," Nina said, adjusting his tie.
"Feel like I'm going to a funeral."
"Don't be morbid."
The hallway outside the conference room was crowded. Other martial arts program leaders, Tanaka-sensei and visiting senseis, even some competitors from yesterday's tournament.
"Word spread," Alex explained. "People wanted to be here."
Dean Morrison appeared. "The board is deliberating. They'll call you in when ready."
"Any hints about which way they're leaning?"
"Several members were impressed by yesterday's tournament. Others remain focused on financial benefits of Brennan's proposal."
"So it could go either way."
"It could."
They waited. One forty-five. One fifty. One fifty-five.
At exactly two PM, the conference room door opened.
"Mr. Dameire, please come in. You may bring two others."
