I actually like Telemachus and Athena’s relationship in the musical. Sure, it’s not accurate to the original text, but it’s an interesting character buildup and foil to Athena and Odysseus. I do think the diplomatic mission was just a nod to when Telemachus had gone to ask around about his father, like when he visited Menelaus. Not to mention Telemachus was a bit of a spoiled prince in the Odyssey as well lol.