[He leans back in his chair, sighing softly at her expression and rubbing a hand over his face. If only it was that simple. He's always been willing to cross lines, to bend and break the rules whenever he deemed it necessary. At least this time, he's trying to keep other people out of it, at least?]

Because it's too risky. And if we try the Admiral and he's not willing to do what needs to be done, then we've tipped him off about our plans. And I can't... [He shakes his head again.]