[Conference Room - Deck One - USS Chimera NCC96899-C]
<snip>
Rojac stood and glanced at his chronometer. "The Rapier, Magellan, and Eagle are scheduled to meet us here in half an hour for a quick CO briefing. After that, I want all alpha shift personnel on duty at 0500 tomorrow morning for departure to the Grand Banks for rendezvous at 1100." He pulled down at the edge of his jacket for a moment. "You are dismissed."
Athena let the other file out and when only the CO and XO were left; she approached the duo and firmly requested, "I'd like to be part of the delegation that does the negotiating?"
<snip>
Captain Rojac turned toward the advancing commander, and adopted a sullen visage. "I'm afraid I must deny your request, Commander Wellington. Being the General's fiance you are too personally attached to the situation for Starfleet Command to be confident in your ability to remain objective."
"I understand your point and disagree. I think I could be an asset," Athena replied generally to see what kind of leeway she might be awarded.
Natalia was surprised at the sudden exchange between the Captain and the Counselor. For a moment she'd forgotten about Athena's involvement with Ivanov, something that was a bit of a sore point for SSF, and then scolded herself for not factoring it into her strategic planning.
"I will allow you to beam aboard with us, to allow you visitation with Ivanov. But when the official negotiations take place I will have to ask you not to participate." Roajc said. "I assure you Athena, there are no hard feelings."
"Thank you, Sir, but..." Athena started.
"Yes, counselor?" He asked.
"But," Athena Started again with a little more force, "I believe my presence could be beneficial ... I might have insights that others wouldn't recognize ... and if need be I can be silent ... an observer if you will."
"Sir... she may have a point," Natalia interjected. "While I don't think her being an active part of the negotiations is a good plan, her presence could help. Her presence could 'improve' Ivanov's mood." Natalia smiled slightly as she said it, hoping Rojac would catch her drift. "He's more likely to be complacent with her there."
"Actually... I'll admit to a bit of a personal agenda... I want these negotiations to go.... well," Athena added.
"What kind of personal agenda?" Natalia asked.
The Captain crossed his arms as he eyed the Counselor in contemplation. "Very well Counselor, I will allow you to participate in the negotiations - but only as a silent observer. You will be there to council me on their motives and strategy and shall not actively participate in the proceedings. Is that acceptable? Because that is all I'm willing to concede." He said.
"Yes quite acceptable," Athena answered and turned to leave. She took two steps and turned back saying, "Viktor will probably assume your using me to get to him and will be on guard." She turned again to continue her retreat thinking {And not very happy about it.}
