Read Vendetta Nation (Enigma Black Trilogy #2) for Free Online Page A

the country watches it from home. Viewing of the address will be mandatory.”
    “Oh, really,” I stated. “And how exactly does President Brooks intend on forcing everyone into watching his little stint at reality television?” This time I could feel Ian’s eyes boring holes into my skull.
    “Are you done?” Victor asked, arms crossed.
    “I suppose. Carry on.”
    “Your existence is vital. Not only were you engineered to combat one of the most prolific threats our country has ever known, but your presence has also helped to maintain a sense of order. You’ve been vital to the Brooks’ administration.” My stomach turned at the expectation of what our new assignment would hold. “As such, President Brooks has personally requested your attendance at the address.”
    “So,” Ian began, “are we really working for the Brooks administration?”
    “Our cause is funded by governmental grants, but you are not technically employed by President Brooks’ administration, per se. We’re just both working toward a common goal.”
    What, oppression ? I kept my latest comment to myself. “What will our purpose be at this address…rally…whatever it is?”
    “Based upon knowledge we retrieved from the vigilantes’ internet dealings, and from the moles we have planted within their ranks, there’s a good chance there will be a riot at the rally. President Brooks will be exceptionally vulnerable given the sheer fire power these individuals are said to possess.”
    “We’re acting as bodyguards, then?” Ian asked. “Surely, he has plenty of them already.”
    “Yes, but none quite like you,” Victor mused. “Besides, you’re not only going to be acting as security for the event. You’re also going to be standing with the President as he addresses the nation. Standing in uniform with him, showing that you’ve aligned yourself with his ideals will hopefully reduce the violence from the protests that have sprouted up across the country.”
    Anger overtook me, and I barely felt my body as I lifted myself up from the chair. “This isn’t at all what I signed up for,” I protested. “Our mission is to find and destroy The Man in Black, not play yes-men to President Brooks’ agenda.”
    “Ms. Stevens, you will sit down now before you irritate me any further,” Victor admonished.
    With a scowl, I lowered myself back into my chair, purposely avoiding Ian’s gaze.
    “I know this isn’t exactly what you had in mind when you joined us here. Nevertheless, it is what it is, and your missions are whatever we tell you they are. Besides, with the number of people expected to be present as well as the presence of the media, it would be a perfect time for The Man in Black to show himself.”
    “Fine,” I said, staring Victor directly in the eyes. “If he shows up, this mission may be worth it, after all.”
    “Glad to have you on board with us,” Victor said condescendingly. “You and Mr. Grant will take leave the day before the event. Two rooms have been booked for you at a local hotel, and you will also attend a pre-rally soiree for the other VIPs in attendance at the address. Attire will be provided to you as well as a vehicle to transport you safely to and from the event in complete anonymity.”
    “Can’t we just skip the little pre-rally soiree?” I asked, immediately catching Victor’s glare. “Well, I guess that’s a ‘no’.”
    “You’re excused,” Victor commanded, rubbing his temples.
    “Thank you, sir,” Ian said, standing up. Together, we both left Victor’s office and made our way back out into the hallway.
    “‘Thank you, sir’,” I said, mocking Ian’s tone. “Seriously, what was that back there? I could have used a little backup from my partner .”
    “You know, Victor probably wouldn’t despise you so much if you would quit with the attitude towards him every now and then.”
    “My attitude has nothing to do with any ill feelings that man has towards me. I think he’s hated