Star Trek The Next Generation: Discovered

Chapter 8

"So, you see, Ambassador Troi, the trade agreement will benefit both our worlds in both financial and political ways." Concluded Andrana.

Deanna Troi leaned forward in her seat for the first time since the meeting had started over two hours ago.

"Chancellor, I'm not interested in how this may improve our financial assets, you've evaded my question. Does your government, your whole government, agree with this treaty or not?"

'She's still good.' Thought Picard who sat at the head of the table along with Riker, Lepec, Crusher, LaForge and Data.

"Well, I..."

"Ambassador Troi," interrupted Kelic, "why should it matter if all the government officials agree or not, surely us having the backing of a few of the Chancellors counts for something?"

"No, I'm afraid it doesn't."

"May I asked why, Ambassador?" Came Picard's voice.

Was it his imagination or did Troi seem very cold and non-negotiable towards most people at the moment?

"I'm not willing to risk Betazed, just because a handful of Chancellors are in agreement about this treaty. The chancellors have no real power on Helikinus; it is a military-led government. Those military leaders are still very xenophobic when it comes to telepaths and empaths, which does not go down well with me, Captain."

"But surely, Ambassador, that it shows the willingness of the Helikin people to change their ways?" asked Riker.

"Unfortunately Commander Riker, it does not." She paused, looking suspiciously at the Starfleet officers. "I'm confused also by the presence of Starfleet during these negotiations. What exactly is Starfleet's purpose here, Captain?"

"We are to convince your party to agree to the Helikin treaty."

"It is not my party that you have to convince, Captain. I am the one who makes the ultimate decision, you must convince me."

"Very well." Said Picard after a few moments silence. "I believe a break is in order, we will adjourn until tomorrow."

With nods of agreement they rose from their seats with a collective sigh. San'nax tended to his charges and Ryla immediately helped Troi from her seat and brought her a glass of cool water. Picard noticed that Deanna was shaking slightly and that her face was slightly paler than it had been yesterday.

"Ambassador, are you well?

"Yes, Captain, I am fine." Picard again noticed, with an inward smile, that Deanna's stay on Betazed had brought back the slight accent in her voice that she had had when she had first begun to serve under him on the Enterprise-D.

"Well, please let us know if you do feel unwell."

Deanna inclined her head slightly.

"Why do you not tell them Deanna. It is obvious, even if I was not a telepath, that they care very much for you?" said Ryla, speaking out loud for the first time.

"Yes, they do, Ryla and I for them, which is why I cannot tell them for it would worry them so greatly."

From where they stood, Crusher and Riker, standing with Andrana and Kelic, heard the conversation between Deanna and Ryla.

"Doctor, may I have a private word with you?"

"Of course, Commander. Would you excuse us, Chancellor, Ambassador?"

"By all means." Answered Andrana, as she and Kelic moved away to speak with Triand and Bix.

"You heard what I heard I take it?" Asked Beverley.