Chapter 1885 - 1404: Reaching a Compromise_2

Every president has sat here, facing dilemmas only visible from this position, and making choices only possible from this office.

And today, he has just persuaded a former Secretary of State, a likely future president, to set aside her pride and compromise with a Lord Dong for the sake of election victory and party continuation.

This is simply a disgrace for the Angsa Nobles, but there's no other choice at this moment.

"For greater interests."

He whispered, barely audible in the spacious office.

Interests.

That's what matters most to politicians.

The clock above the fireplace ticks away, time flowing by.

Four minutes passed.

Obama sat upright at the sleek surface of the Kennedy desk.

Then he pressed the internal communication button: "Send Lucas in."

5:42 PM, White House Roosevelt Hall.

Press Secretary Lucas stood at the doorway, holding three folders.

There were a dozen people in the room: the Chief of Staff, Legal Advisor, National Security Advisor, Communications Director, all standing, silent.

The air carried the scent of coffee and sweat, mixed with a unique, static-like tension only present in moments of crisis.

Obama entered the room, everyone straightened up.

"Is the speech ready?" he asked, voice steady, gaze scanning every face.

Lucas stepped forward: "Three versions to choose from, Mr. President. Hardline version, condemning the leaks, vowing to pursue until the end, emphasizing national security is non-negotiable; appeasement version, expressing concern for those involved, promising a transparent investigation, calling for unity; balanced version, between the two, showing determination and empathy."

"Give me the briefest one."

Obama's gaze fell on the Theodore Roosevelt portrait above the fireplace.

The leader who established the modern presidency, famous for "speaking softly and carrying a big stick."

"No excuses, no details. Just three points."

He raised his fingers:

"We will tell the public. First, we are investigating the truth of the incident with the utmost seriousness, all facts will be processed appropriately."

"Second, the United States protects all overseas personnel, whether military, diplomats or contractors, this commitment is unwavering."

"Third, any attack or endangerment to the safety of US military and intelligence personnel will bear consequences accordingly."

Silence enveloped the room.

The legal advisor opened his mouth, seemingly wanting to speak, but ultimately stayed silent.

Lucas swiftly recorded on his tablet.

"Is that it? Mr. President, wouldn't this be too... concise? The media will probe for details, the opposition will accuse us of hiding - "

"Write as I said."

Obama adjusted the cuffs of his dark blue suit, signaling the end of the discussion.

"In five minutes, I will deliver a national address here. Ensure all three major news networks can broadcast live. Contact Horizon News Group, inform them the White House will release an important statement in an hour, suggest they 'reconsider' tonight's coverage plan."

"Yes, Mr. President."

Lucas turned and left the room, others quickly moved into action, leaving only National Security Advisor Susan Rice.

Rice stepped closer, lowering her voice: "With Angel, are you sure you want to contact personally? We could let the Attorney General or FBI Director - "

"No, this matter requires top-level handling," Obama said. "Get the call through. This must be resolved before I speak."

Rice nodded, a hint of concern flashed in her eyes, quickly masked by professional discipline.

"Do you need me present?"

"No. Let me speak to him alone."

After Rice left, Roosevelt Hall returned to silence.

Obama walked to the window, gazing at the South Lawn.

The dusk deepened, the White House's outline lights just flickering on, casting this neoclassical building as solemn and solitary.

The Washington Monument stood in the distance, its top red light blinking, like the nation's unquenchable ambition.

The red phone on the desk rang.

5:47 PM.

"Angel."

Obama answered, the tone balanced between friendliness and authority.

"Mr. President."

Angel's voice came through the receiver, the background noise somewhat chaotic, typical newsroom bustle.

Keyboard clattering, phone ringing, distant television broadcasting sound.

"This is quite an unexpected honor. I guess it's not about discussing my tax returns?"

Humor, but with probing.

Typical Angel style.

The Horizon News Group CEO known for daring and audacity, her media empire built on the motto "always pursuing truth."

Of course, this "truth" must yield astonishing ratings and clicks.

"We need to discuss your report scheduled for tonight."

Obama cut straight to the point, skipping pleasantries.

The background noise on the other end suddenly diminished, clearly Angel had moved to a more private space.

"Ah, that. 'Game-changing material,' our promo words are quite effective, huh? The social media discussion heat has already broken records."

"Angel, I know you are renowned for speaking boldly. I also respect freedom of the press, you know I've never sued or investigated any journalist or media during my tenure, despite some reports being based on illegally obtained materials."

Obama paused, letting the subtext sink in.

"But there are boundaries, even the most resolute journalists should tread cautiously."