CHAPTER 1414: CHAPTER 1409: THIS SHOULDER CANNOT BE TAPPED

A complete lack of preparation contrasted with not only thorough preparation but also intervention that saved the situation and created a favorable outcome—there’s nothing more to be said.

"Very well, I’ll entrust this task to you at the CIA. Other departments will fully cooperate with your work. Report any progress to me promptly. Is there any problem?"

Curiously, the President wasn’t speaking to Porter but rather to a man in a black suit sitting second to his right.

"No problem, Mr. President."

With a serious expression, the man in the black suit nodded at the President and immediately looked at Porter, saying: "Continue to handle this case, you’re in charge throughout."

Alright, it was then that Yang Yi realized the man in the black suit was his top superior, the CIA Director.

Yang Yi had a great memory, yet even he didn’t recognize his own boss instantly, which shows how much of an unnoticed mascot the CIA Director had become.

This case is a mix of risk and opportunity. As far as the CIA is concerned, the risks can be disregarded because, after a string of failures and the exposure of Aaron, the biggest mole in CIA history, the agency is left with nothing but scandals. Handling a major case well is a lifeline.

The President hadn’t finished speaking yet; he looked at the person who had been nitpicking without gaining much and said, "Minister Schiller, the Department of Homeland Security must cooperate with the CIA to do this right. I have only one request: unity. Only unity can achieve victory. At this critical moment, I do not wish to see your efforts wasted on meaningless issues."

The implication was not to create internal strife; focus all your energy on the right matters; I’ve made myself clear, whoever messes up will answer to me.

So Schiller was the Minister of Homeland Security, no wonder Walter remained silent.

Yang Yi was pondering when the President finally looked at him, speaking gravely, "You deserve credit this time. I heard Aaron... ahem, was due to your efforts?"

This credit wasn’t sarcasm; the President didn’t elaborate because Aaron’s situation was a major scandal for both the CIA and the United States. At this moment, it’s inappropriate to mention such a disgrace in front of many senior officials.

As for Yang Yi, still young but already having accomplished extraordinary feats, the President specifically acknowledging his contributions indicates that it’s time to reward him for his achievements.

Yang Yi slightly bowed and said, "Yes, Mr. President."

This wasn’t the time for humility, and Porter promptly added, "Sea God may be young, but there’s absolutely no doubt about his capabilities!"

The President spread his hands and said, "Sea God, is that a name or a codename? I think it’s a codename, right? So what’s your real name?"

With an apologetic look, Yang Yi replied, "Sorry, Mr. President, as per regulations, I only have a codename, not a name. If you ask for my real name, it... requires authorization from a Deputy Director and above."

The President gave a gracious smile, just as Porter was about to speak; the President waved his hand and said, "No need to tell me now. I think perhaps in a different setting, a formal setting to reveal it to me would be more appropriate. Sea God, I greatly appreciate your adherence to protocol under all circumstances. I greatly appreciate it!"

That remark was quite interesting. What constitutes a formal setting? When the President personally confers an award to Yang Yi it surely will be a formal setting, and certainly, Yang Yi’s real name should be disclosed to the President on such occasions.

Another formal setting? That’s when Yang Yi is promoted to a high rank within the CIA, and thus, his name needs to be known to the President.

A dual implication, certainly expressing the intention to reward Yang Yi for his accomplishments; the President then said to the two CIA bigwigs, "Our country needs young people like Sea God who dedicate themselves to serving the nation! Having such young and outstanding agents is the solid foundation for our nation’s strength and continued prosperity!"

Yang Yi’s promotion is certain.

The President didn’t directly mention rewarding Yang Yi, as intervening in CIA matters is beyond his mandate, but his few words suffice.

Standing up, checking his watch, the President solemnly said, "I have some matters to handle, I’m leaving this to you. You heads of intelligence departments also need to sit down and seriously discuss cooperation issues; any significant progress should be reported promptly. I wish you all the best, and myself as well. It’s in your hands."

After speaking, the President walked over to Yang Yi and extended his hand. Yang Yi quickly stood up and shook hands with the President, who warmly said, "I look forward to your good news. Work hard."

Releasing his hand, the President tapped Yang Yi’s shoulder twice and nodded towards Walter, before turning and leaving the small meeting room.

Everyone left, leaving only Yang Yi and Walter.

When the room cleared, Walter slumped into a chair, looked despondently, and sighed deeply, "Did I mess up?"

Saying he performed well would be an obvious lie. Yang Yi shrugged and softly said, "Well, it wasn’t a complete mess; I assumed you’d speak a few words."

Walter sighed, "I wanted to, but I was too nervous. I knew I’d stutter while speaking. It was better not to say anything. Sea God, clearly, you’re more suited to such big occasions than I am."

Yang Yi softly replied, "Maybe I’m... more reckless. I didn’t know Schiller was a minister just now."

Walter chuckled, "I knew, so I didn’t dare to refute him. Sea God, you performed so well this time. I must congratulate you and thank you. At my level, I can only be promoted one more rank, and frankly, if it weren’t for you... hmm, I might never have moved up, but now I’m definitely going to be promoted."

Porter is the Deputy Director and the Head of Management; Walter’s promotion should be the Deputy Head of Management. Though not an overnight success, he indeed crossed a significant divide.

These words shouldn’t be said here. Walter patted Yang Yi’s shoulder, realizing it was inappropriate, as this gesture was more senior to junior, or higher-ranked to lower-ranked personnel.

Yang Yi’s shoulder had just been patted by the President, now Walter follows suit?

Walter’s hand slipped from Yang Yi’s shoulder; he grasped Yang Yi’s hand, shaking it vigorously, and whispered, "Congratulations to you, and to me, buddy. We’ve... made it!"