SPD: Moving on... the Ambassador

[LunarHunk]

"Before we get down to business, how are things going with all of that? �I
find
it hard to believe that Dr. Brennan would ever try and hurt anyone,
particularly
someone he has such a close *working* relationship with." �The tone in
Golan's
voice made it clear that he was sincere, but also that he knew something more
than what was being said.

� "Things are going as one would expect, Ambassador.� It is my hope that the
press will exercise restraint.� But I am not getting my hopes up." M'Rrenn
replied trying to be diplomatic with this topic.� It was a hot one at the
moment, and he realized there would be questions.�

The Cardassian nodded.  "In my experience, the press has never been knowned
to exercise restraint.  At the same time, I wish you and your doctor the best
of luck."  Golan realized that he was not going to get much out of the CinC's
assistant on this topic.

(response)

"I guess I should move along to the topic that I asked to speak with you
about.  I do not want to waste too much of your time, Commander."

(response)

"Well, I want to start with some of my official business.  I have been asked
to express my government's severe regret at the attack on Admiral Lasiter at
DS9.  We would still like to offer whatever assistance you might like in
bringing in the culprits."

(response)

"I understand, Commander."  Golan paused for a few moments. What he was about
to say next would put him in great danger.  He was cautious but knew that it
had to be done.  "Commander, what would you say if I told you that my people
may not be completely in the dark about the matter?"

(response)

"Well, I received an interesting communique a few days ago from an old...
'friend.'  I was not left feeling comfortable after the conversation."

(response)

"I can't put my finger on it.  It was not much more than an arrogant Gul
flexing his muscles, but it reminded me of some of the feelings I had when I
heard our government representatives speak prior and during the Dominion War."

(response)

"There has always been a power struggle on Cardassia Prime between the
civilian, military and intelligence leaders for control of Cardassia.  We are
at our darkest when the military and intelligence hold greater sway.  I think
we are moving into another period like that.  This is the reason why I have
worked so hard to formulate the Council."

(response)

"I think my people may have, in fact, been involved in the attack on Admiral
Lasiter ... and perhaps in even more that I feel is undesirable."

(response)

AJ