Star Trek The Next Generation: Discovered

Chapter 10

"How else can we convince you, Ambassador Troi, that the Helikin people are ready for an alliance with Betazed?" came Kelic's frustrated voice.

"By showing me the evidence for your entire military government's approval of this treaty. I already explained to you, Kelic, that I will not put Betazed at the mercy of xenophobic military leaders!"

"Ambassador Troi, what about those names that Kelic has shown you, of the military leaders that do agree with this?" asked Picard.

"That's less than three percent of the whole government and those officials are of the lowest ranks and have absolutely no power in the government. These just aren't good enough, I'm sorry."

"Very well. We'll adjourn for now." Said Picard.

As the three parties stood from the table and began separating into smaller groups, Kitana Lepec spoke to Picard.

"Please, excuse me, Captain, I have to leave the negotiations for a while."

"Of course, Counsellor Lepec. Don't let us keep you from your duties."

"Thank you, sir." Kitana left the conference room.

Picard turned back to Riker, Crusher, Data and LaForge.

At the other end of the room, Deanna spoke to the Helikin delegates.

"Please, Kelic, Andrana, don't think my rejection of your proposal is anything personal."

"Oh no, Deanna. We know it's nothing personal against us." Assured Andrana.

"I actually think that what you're suggesting is a very good idea, but you can see my point of view, can't you?"

"Yes, Ambassador, we do understand. Of course at the negotiation table we must put aside our understanding and concentrate on our tasks." Answered Kelic.

"I agree, Kelic. I did have an idea about your suggestions. If you cannot convince me during these negotiations then we could start up a programme, either on Betazed or Helikinus, which would convince others of your ideas. It might be a slower process, but it would be better in the long run. It's just an idea, mind you."

"It's a marvellous idea, Deanna."

"Sorry to interrupt." Came a voice.

They turned to face Jean-Luc Picard.

"Shall we begin again?"

"Computer, open a secure channel to the head offices for the Helikin government."

"Access code needed for opening of secure channel."

"Code; Troi, zero, zero, alpha, beta, four."

"Code authorised, channel open."

"This is General Bek'Lax, leader of Helikinus. How may I be of assistance?"

"General, I'm from Starfleet. I thought I should inform you of the activities of two of your people..."

Beverley sat with Riker and Picard in the conference lounge. The negotiations had finished two hours before.

"We're failing this mission, Number One."

"I know, Captain, but you can see the point that Ambassador Troi is making can't you?"

"Of course, but our mission is to get her to agree to this trade agreement."

"What about the other Betazoid Ambassadors, don't they have a say?" asked Beverley.

"Of course they do, Doctor. I seem to remember Deanna explaining how Betazoid negotiations take place. The representative with the highest social status -in this case, Deanna- will have the overall say, but the other representatives will give their opinions to the 'leader'. In the end the Betazed council trusts the decision of the higher-ranking representative. It's not a complicated procedure, but it works well."