STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Past Prologue"
#40511-404
Story by
Kathryn Powers
Teleplay by
Peter Allan Fields
Directed by
Rick Kolbe
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
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WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.
Copyright 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights
Reserved. This script is not for publication or
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If
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Return to Script Department FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
OCTOBER 5, 1992
STAR TREK: DS9 "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Past Prologue"
CAST
BENJAMIN SISKO GARAK
MILES O'BRIEN TAHNA
KIRA GUL DANAR,
ODO ADMIRAL
BASHIR B'ETOR
DAX LURSA
BAJORAN DEPUTY
GUL DUKAT
NORIC
RAKA
Non-speaking
BAJORAN N.D. MEDICAL ASSISTANTS
N.D. SUPERNUMARIES
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Past Prologue" - 10/05/92 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Past Prologue"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
PROMENADE (REPLIMAT)
OPS RUNABOUT YANGTZEE
TRANSPORTER PAD
MAIN VIEWSCREEN RUNABOUT GANGES
(CARDASSIAN BRIDGE)
INFIRMARY WORMHOLE
KIRA'S QUARTERS
COMMANDER'S OFFICE
SISKO'S OFFICE
SECURITY OFFICE
QUARK'S
CARGO BAY
GARAK'S SHOP
FITTING ROOM
TURBOLIFT
AIRLOCK
RUNABOUT GANGES
RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG
RUNABOUT RIO GRANDE
TAHNA'S QUARTERS
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Past Prologue"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - DS9 (OPTICAL)
Establishing.
2 INT. PROMENADE REPLIMAT
DOCTOR JULIAN BASHIR sits enjoying a tea-like beverage,
reading a medical journal PADD... as the large, ever-pleasant
Cardassian, GARAK, interposes himself between Bashir and the
latter's view, with:
GARAK
It's Doctor Bashir, isn't it? Of
course it is. May I introduce myself?
Bashir looks up and reacts... and if this were a poker game...
and in a way, it is... Bashir would be at a severe
disadvantage. His heart's just started thumping - he's been
alerted about this man, never thought he'd come face to face
with him like this...
BASHIR
Uh... yes, yes of course.
GARAK
(sits)
My name is Garak; Cardassian by birth,
obviously. The only one of us left
on the station, as a matter of fact.
So I do appreciate making new friends
when I can. You are new to the
station, I believe.
BASHIR
(obviously cautious)
I am, yes...
A beat as Garak studies him, smiles, waits as a good poker
player waits. Finally, Bashir fills the silence...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
Though... though I understand you've
been here quite a while.
GARAK
Ah, you know of me, then.
Bashir avoids replying.
BASHIR
Would you care for some of this
Tarkalean tea? It's very good.
GARAK
What a thoughtful young man. How
nice that we've met.
Bashir tries tentatively to take the offensive...
BASHIR
You know... there are some who say
you've remained on DS Nine as the...
eyes and ears of your fellow
Cardassians...
GARAK
You don't say. Doctor, you're not
intimating that I'm considered some
sort of... "spy," are you?
BASHIR
(too quick)
I wouldn't know, Sir.
GARAK
Ah! An open mind. The essence of
intellect.
(rising)
As you may also know, I have a
clothing shop nearby, so... If you
should require any apparel, or merely
wish, as I do, for a bit of enjoyable
company now and then, I'm at your
disposal, Doctor.
BASHIR
You're very kind, Mister Garak.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
GARAK
Oh, it's just Garak. Plain, simple
Garak. And now, good day to you,
Doctor... I'm so glad to have made
such an interesting new friend today.
As he watches Garak depart, HOLD on Bashir -- his face
reflecting an enthusiasm which will carry over into:
3 INT. OPS
Bashir ENTERS from the Turbolift at the same time SISKO is
ENTERING from his (o.s.) office to oversee operations. (KIRA,
DAX and O'BRIEN at stations; Supernumeraries as needed).
BASHIR
(trying to suppress
excitement)
You'll never believe who just sat
down next to me at the replimat...
O'Brien doesn't have time for this kid... continuing his
work - to Kira --
O'BRIEN
Major, upper pylon three will be
shut down for maintenance for forty-
eight hours...
As she acknowledges...
BASHIR
The spy!
That brings heads turning...
BASHIR
Garak... the Cardassian...
SISKO
We don't know for a fact that Garak's
a spy, Doctor...
BASHIR
He's a spy... you should have heard
him... introduced himself and struck
up a conversation, just like that...
he was making contact with me...
with me of all people...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 4.
DAX
(seriously)
What do you think he might want from
you, Julian?
BASHIR
I don't know. Federation medical
secrets...
(turning to Sisko)
... rest assured they're safe with
me, Commander.
SISKO
I'm sure they are, Doctor Bashir...
BASHIR
In fact... Chief O'Brien, I think
you should place a monitoring device
on me...
O'Brien gives him a long, silent look... it's more telling
about O'Brien's attitude toward him than any line of dialogue
could be...
BASHIR
(off the look)
Just in case... he is... up to
something.
SISKO
I don't think that'll be necessary,
Doctor... just be very cautious when
you're around...
KIRA
(interrupting)
Commander? We've got a small craft
taking evasive action... Cardassian
war vessel in pursuit.
SISKO
On screen.
3A INCLUDING MAIN VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
We see a small Bajoran scout ship... being pursued by a
Cardassian war vessel. The Cardassian fires...
KIRA
That's Bajoran! That damned
Cardassian's firing at a Bajoran
scout ship in Bajoran space!
SISKO
Mister O'Brien?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 5.
3A CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Confirmed, Sir. They've crossed
into Bajoran space.
SISKO
Open a hailing frequency to the
Cardassians...
O'BRIEN
Channel open...
SISKO
Cardassian vessel: you are violating
Bajoran space. Break off your
pursuit. Repeat: Break off now.
O'BRIEN
No reply from the Cardassians. The
Bajoran vessel is hailing us...
SISKO
Open the channel...
The viewscreen fills completely with static. No image is
visible.
TAHNA'S VOICE
(filtered; thru STATIC)
... Space station... Do you read?...
Space station...
O'BRIEN
We can only get audio, Commander.
SISKO
This is Benjamin Sisko, Starfleet
Commander of this station. Who are
you? Why are they pursuing?
TAHNA'S VOICE
(filtered; thru STATIC)
...Please!... Repeating request for
emergency docking!... Please!
His communications fail... the viewscreen returns to the
Bajoran ship...
SISKO
The Bajoran scout ship is badly
damaged. Structural integrity is
failing.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - TEASER 6.
3A CONTINUED: (2)
On screen, the ship is hit by a phaser blast again -- rocking
the tiny craft.
DAX
He's breaking up.
SISKO
Get him out, Mister O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
Aye, Sir...
On viewscreen, the little vessel EXPLODES.
4 AT TRANSPORTER PAD (OPTICAL)
The scout ship pilot, TAHNA, a Bajoran... MATERIALIZES,
bloodied and weak. As Sisko, Kira and Bashir move into the
area, Tahna looks up at them, and:
BASHIR
(to Com)
Medical assistance to Ops.
5 REACTION - KIRA
As she registers a jolt of recognition.
6 RESUME - SHOT
TAHNA
(semi-conscious)
My name is Tahna... Request...
political... asylum...
(recognizes Kira;
stunned)
...Kira?...
And he blacks out, crumpling in their arms.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 7.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
7 INT. OPS - AT TRANSPORTER PADD
as in Teaser -- except that Bashir and two Bajoran N/D Medical
Assistants are now EXITING with Tahna. Kira looks after the
latter, as:
KIRA
(to Sisko)
His name is Tahna Los. We fought
together in the underground.
8 FULL SHOT
O'BRIEN
Commander, the Cardassians are hailing
us.
KIRA
Now they want to talk...
O'BRIEN
They're hopping mad.
SISKO
Open the channel, Mister O'Brien.
9 INCLUDING MAIN VIEWSCREEN - INT. CARDASSIAN BRIDGE
(OPTICAL)
We see GUL DANAR on the bridge of his warship. Not
happy.
GUL DANAR
Federation Commander, you've taken
aboard a known criminal. You will
turn him over to us.
SISKO
He has requested asylum.
GUL DANAR
(with concern)
You have not granted it...
(have you? implied)
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 8.
9 CONTINUED:
SISKO
To be honest, I haven't decided yet...
Kira reacts at hearing this, her face reflects surprised
shock... and the beginnings of outrage.
GUL DANAR
He is Kohn-Ma! Even the Bajorans
would not grant his kind asylum...
Sisko raises an eyebrow, glances at Kira...
GUL DANAR
(continuing)
He has committed heinous crimes
against the Cardassian people... and
I demand you release him to our
custody... if you do not...
SISKO
(interrupting)
I'll investigate the matter
immediately. In the interim, if
you'd care to dock your vessel, I'll
be glad to hear your explanation for
having violated Bajoran space and
threatened a Federation facility.
GUL DANAR
(beat)
We have made no threat to your
facility.
SISKO
(small smile)
I stand corrected. Sisko out.
Viewscreen blanks.
SISKO
The Major and I will be in the
Infirmary.
(to O'Brien)
I'd like some time to talk with this
fellow Tahna. When Gul Danar comes
in, it'd be nice if we had a few
docking regulations that keep him
outside a while.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 9.
9 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
(smiles)
Understood.
Sisko Nods his "Thanks," and enters a Turbolift, followed
closely by Kira... as it leaves...
9A INT. TURBOLIFT
KIRA
(controlled upset)
You're not seriously considering
handing Tahna over to the
Cardassians...
SISKO
Were you part of this Kohn-Ma, Major?
KIRA
If I had been, I wouldn't be working
with the provisional government now...
SISKO
No, you'd still be out murdering
Cardassians... or even some Bajorans
that the Kohn-Ma hold in contempt...
didn't they claim responsibility for
the assassination of one of your
First Ministers last month... ?
9B INT. PROMENADE - CONTINUOUS
as they exit the Turbolift...
KIRA
Look, I know Tahna...
SISKO
Is he Kohn-Ma?
KIRA
(beat)
Yes... but...
Sisko stops...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 10.
9B CONTINUED:
SISKO
I suggest you get your priorities
straight, Major... because I have no
room for divided loyalties in this
command. And I won't have a Kohn-Ma
terrorist using this station as a
protective shield for continuing
violence.
Undaunted, she's right back in his face...
KIRA
My priorities are straight, Commander;
let's not be confused here -- my
loyalties are to Bajor. And Bajor
needs men like Tahna Los.
SISKO
His war with the Cardassians
apparently isn't over...
KIRA
If Bajor is ever going to rebuild a
strong and independent society, it
will require the repatriation of
splinter groups like the Kohn-Ma...
you have, we have, an opportunity
here, Commander... I hope you don't
miss it.
She moves away from his toward the infirmary... a beat as he
reacts - she always gives him something to think about.
10 INT. INFIRMARY
Sisko ENTERS as Bashir does reparative procedures. Tahna,
on the biobed, is just beginning to regain consciousness.
Kira as already reached his bedside.
KIRA
How is he?
BASHIR
Second degree burns, lacerations, a
minor concussion... Not much compared
to what he's been through before.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 11.
SISKO
(arriving)
Before?
Bashir opens the torn, bloodied shirt.
11 INSERT - CLOSE ON TAHNA'S CHEST
to reveal a series of hideous, deliberately designed scars.
BASHIR (O.S.)
The most recent of these scars is
only two, perhaps three years old.
12 RESUME - SHOT
TAHNA
(finally conscious)
Two-and-a-half, actually.
BASHIR
It's remarkable you lived through
this.
Kira eyes the scars coolly -- without expression, as:
KIRA
It's a Cardassian technique designed
to keep you alive.
Bashir reacts...
SISKO
I'm Commander Benjamin Sisko. I
have a few questions for you... if
you're up to answering them...
KIRA
(showing her loyalties)
Commander Sisko hasn't decided whether
to grant you asylum yet, Tahna.
SISKO
(controlled bristling)
Major, perhaps I should conduct this
alone...
TAHNA
(reacts to the rank)
Major?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 12.
12 CONTINUED:
KIRA
I'm the liaison officer to the
Federation here.
(beat, toward Sisko)
Still fighting for Bajor in my own
way.
(to Tahna)
I'll stop back later.
She nods, angry, at Sisko... and exits.
TAHNA
What do you need to know, Commander?
SISKO
For starters, why were they chasing
you?
TAHNA
(smiles in pain)
You really want to hear the story of
my life?
SISKO
I assume as a member of the Kohn-Ma
that you've committed serious acts
against them...
TAHNA
Any one of a hundred that would lead
to a Cardassian death sentence.
SISKO
Any of them since their withdrawal
from Bajor?
TAHNA
(beat)
Frankly, yes.
SISKO
Why would you continue the violence
against them now?
TAHNA
(sincere)
To be honest, I'm not sure anymore,
Commander...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 12A.
12 CONTINUED: (2)
TAHNA (Cont'd)
(beat)
We say we're punishing them for crimes
committed against us for half a
century... but... I've had enough of
the killing.
Tahna is exhausted... Bashir moves over...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 13.
12 CONTINUED: (3)
BASHIR
I'm sorry, Commander. He needs rest
now...
Sisko nods at Tahna, and turns to leave...
12A INT. TAHNA'S QUARTERS (TIGHT) (OPTICAL)
Kira's been speaking with a Starfleet ADMIRAL, whose face we
can see on Kira's monitor...
KIRA
Admiral, I think Commander Sisko's
being incredibly short-sighted. He
obviously doesn't understand the
issues involved...
ADMIRAL
Thank you for bringing this to my
attention, Major. I'll stay in close
touch with the situation...
KIRA
Thank you, Admiral.
The image on the monitor disappears. Kira, looking somewhat
self-satisfied.
12B INT. OPS
Sisko enters...
O'BRIEN
Sir, the Cardassian warship has
docked. Lieutenant Dax is making
sure that all procedural details are
precisely observed no matter how
long it takes.
SISKO
(small smile)
Well done... I have some more research
to do on the Kohn-Ma before I see
them...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 14.
12B CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
(beat)
Sir... I don't know much about the
Bajoran terrorists, but...
(beat)
You've never fought the Cardassians,
have you?
SISKO
No.
O'BRIEN
Well you just wouldn't want to turn
a man... any man... over to their
tender care, Sir. You just wouldn't.
Sisko reacts, nods... as O'Brien picks up a signal on his
console...
O'BRIEN
Subspace transmission from Admiral
Rollman for you, Commander...
SISKO
In my office...
He enters...
12C INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Sisko hits a panel at his desk, the same admiral appears on
the monitor...
ADMIRAL
Ben, that Bajoran woman you've got
working for you interrupted a staff
meeting to tell me how she disapproves
of your handling of this asylum
matter... I think you have a problem
there, Commander.
SISKO
(beat, tight)
Yes, Admiral.
13
thru OMITTED
15
16 INT. INFIRMARY
Tahna is sleeping as Kira ENTERS. She moves to stand next
to him; just looking. With the instinct of the hunted, he
senses another presence -- and wakens.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 15.
16 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(quickly)
It's all right; you're safe.
TAHNA
(relaxes; smiles)
Strange to run into each other here,
isn't it?
KIRA
It's good to be with someone who
knows what it's been like out there.
TAHNA
Wearing that uniform, I thought maybe
you'd forgotten.
KIRA
Never.
TAHNA
(slight chiding)
Working on the inside hasn't dulled
that old fire just a little?
KIRA
(smiles)
Ask Sisko about that.
TAHNA
Don't get along?
KIRA
Oil and water.
He smiles, but is in discomfort.
KIRA
You're tired. I should go.
TAHNA
You think he'll give me to the
Cardassians, Kira?
KIRA
Over my dead body.
TAHNA
That's the Kira I remember...
He closes his eyes... she looks at him with respect and
commitment...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 16.
17 INT. SISKO'S OFFICE
Sisko Rises as Gul Danar ENTERS. The adversarial nature of
this meeting is belied by the mutual civility.
GUL DANAR
If you require all vessels to endure
such lengthy docking procedures,
Commander, you're going to have a
lot of impatient traffic out there.
SISKO
I apologize... we're still trying to
repair all the damage your forces
did before they left... it does create
unreasonable delays.
GUL DANAR
I accept your apology, not your
explanation. What about Tahna Los?
SISKO
Well, we've got a problem.
GUL DANAR
A diplomatic insult to the Cardassian
people would be a problem...
delivering a wanted criminal to us
would not be...
SISKO
(seeking a reasonable
solution)
Danar, in war, both sides commit
atrocities...
GUL DANAR
My "request" for this man is made in
connection with an extremely sensitive
issue. I can only tell you that we
are certain he plans to commit more
acts of terrorism...
SISKO
He tells me that he has renounced
the Kohn-Ma... and wants to help to
rebuild Bajor...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT ONE 17.
17 CONTINUED:
GUL DANAR
He committed brutal acts of
destruction and murder and he must
pay for those crimes...
Sisko stands... uncomfortable with his role in this...
thoughtfully paces...
SISKO
I appreciate the Cardassian
position...
(beat, a decision)
... but I know if a Bajoran freedom-
fighter is turned over to the
Cardassians by the Federation...
that would be a mistake that would
undermine everything I'm trying to
accomplish here. So, with apologies,
I'm going to grant him asylum for
the time being. Eventually, he'll
want to relocate to Bajor and if you
want to pursue the matter with the
provisional government that's your
business.
Danar looks at him with stiff rage, wheels around; storms
out.
18 ON SISKO
whose face reflects some uncertainty over what he's just
done.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 18.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 EXT. SPACE - DS9 (OPTICAL)
Re-Establishing.
20 INT. TAHNA'S QUARTERS
as Kira ENTERS with Tahna. He's obviously improved
considerably... but a few traces of his pain still remain in
his walk. There's a bed, a small desk and a chair, a monitor,
and various other objects placed to make the quarters less
impersonal.
KIRA
How long since you've slept in a
comfortable bed?
TAHNA
(smiles)
I can adapt to that part very quickly,
thank you.
He sits down. She studies him, smiles.
KIRA
I'm glad you're here. We need you,
Tahna...
TAHNA
(a calculated "mistake")
I don't think the Federation has any
use for my particular talents...
KIRA
I mean Bajor needs you.
(beat)
If you had the impression that I'm a
Federation officer in any way, I
promise you...
TAHNA
I thought you were under Sisko's
command...
KIRA
I am, but...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 19.
20 CONTINUED:
TAHNA
(light, smiles)
Now that's something I could never
adapt to...
KIRA
(uncomfortable)
Somebody's got to coordinate relations
between the Federation and the
provisional government... at least
if someone like me is here...
TAHNA
Why?
Off her look... ?
TAHNA
Why should they be here at all?
What right does this so-called
provisional government have to bring
them here...
KIRA
(wanting to interrupted)
I know...
("but" is implied)
TAHNA
(continuing)
... after everything we fought for,
Kira... freedom from domination...
true independence... No outsiders.
No Cardassians. No Federations.
KIRA
Things have changed, Tahna. Now
that the wormhole has been
discovered...
TAHNA
(boredly)
Yes, the wormhole.
KIRA
Look, I don't want the Federation
here any more than you do... but
they are serving a purpose. For the
time being, at least.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 20.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
Without the Federation, the
Cardassians would be back in a minute
to take control of the wormhole.
And the wormhole is the future of
Bajor, Tahna. It's bringing ships
and commerce... it makes us a power
in the quadrant...
TAHNA
I don't want to be a power in the
quadrant. I want Bajor for Bajorans.
I want our homeland back.
KIRA
We have it back. And as we grow
stronger, we'll be able to defend it
ourselves... we won't have to lean
on the Federation or anyone else. I
know it's difficult to see... after
all we've been through, we want it
all now... but with people like you
leading the way...
TAHNA
You have adapted, haven't you... ?
She looks at him, defensive...
KIRA
(beat, a sudden doubt)
Tahna, I've put myself on the line
for you here... you are finished
with the Kohn-Ma...
TAHNA
(sincerely)
Yes, I'm finished with the Kohn-Ma.
She smiles, reassured.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 21.
20 CONTINUED: (3)
KIRA
I've been talking with several of
the ministers in the provisional
government about amnesty.
(he reacts)
For you and for any member of the
Kohn-Ma who follows you.
TAHNA
There are some who might. If there
were assurances...
KIRA
(hopeful, optimistic)
I'm working on it, Tahna. I'll find
a way to make it happen.
On his reaction...
21 INT. PROMENADE - AIR LOCK AREA - ON N/D SECURITY
GUARD
He is on the seat of his pants; his back against a
support beam -- just recovering consciousness. PULL
BACK and WIDEN to discover the two Klingon women, LURSA
and B'ETOR (the sisters of Duras), being held at bay
just this side of the air lock by a BAJORAN DEPUTY who,
though keeping them covered with his weapon, is
obviously very intimidated by the two bombastic Klingon
sisters.
22 INCLUDING ODO
as he arrives on the scene.
ODO
(to Bajoran Deputy)
What.
BAJORAN DEPUTY
Sir, these two...
(beat)
...women... are just arriving.
They...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 22.
22 CONTINUED:
BAJORAN DEPUTY
(indicates semi-
conscious Guard)
... objected to giving up their
weapons.
LURSA
Klingons do not surrender their
weapons. We are Lursa and B'Etor.
Of the house of Duras.
ODO
And we have specific regulations.
You can leave the weapons or leave
the station. Your choice; please
make it now.
B'ETOR
Who are you?
ODO
I'm the one giving you the choice.
A long beat. Lursa and B'Etor exchange glances -- then,
reluctantly, proffer their weapons to Odo. Once he's got
them:
ODO
Welcome to DS Nine.
Eyeing Odo disdainfully, the sisters move off along the
Promenade. And now Odo turns to look after Lursa and B'Etor --
his policeman's interest piqued.
23 INT. SISKO'S OFFICE
Sisko works at his terminal. The door CHIMES.
SISKO
Come in.
Odo ENTERS.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 23.
23 CONTINUED:
ODO
We have some new guests you might be
interested in...
(off Sisko's look)
Couple of Klingon sisters from the
Duras Family...
SISKO
(reacts)
Lursa and B'Etor...
ODO
You know them, then.
SISKO
(acknowledges)
They tried to grab control of the
Klingon High Council... started a
brief civil war. They've been out
of sight since then...
ODO
I ran a security check... the Klingons
have them listed as renegades...
SISKO
(nods)
We've heard they're trying to raise
capitol to rebuild their armies...
(beat, musing)
So, what are they doing here?
ODO
Sitting.
(off Sisko's look)
They went straight to Quark's. But
not for the gambling... and certainly
not for the food. They're just...
sitting.
SISKO
(beat)
I don't like it...
ODO
Why don't I lock them up and call
the Klingons to come get them...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 24.
23 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
Odo...
ODO
If they're enemies of the Klingon
High Council...
SISKO
They haven't broken any laws here.
You can't just throw them in jail.
ODO
You know, Cardassian rule may've
been oppressive, but at least it was
simple.
SISKO
Keep an eye on them.
ODO
As you wish, Commander.
He exits. On Sisko's thoughtful expression...
24 INT. QUARK'S
We look across the noisy place -- where drinkers and gamblers
are enjoying themselves -- to see Lursa and B'Etor seated in
a corner in B.G.; removed from the goings-on, drinking ales...
25 REVERSE - GARAK
watching the (o.s.) Klingon sisters.
26 ANGLE - BASHIR
enters, glances casually around, reacts as he sees Garak,
takes a deep breath to build of confidence and moves to his
table. Trying desperately to be casual and pleasant...
BASHIR
And how are you this evening, Mister
Garak?
(catches himself)
Oh, excuse me... It's just plain,
simple Garak, you said.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 25.
26 CONTINUED:
GARAK
Plain and simple. Join me, Doctor;
enhance my evening.
Bashir sits. Garak continues to casually keep an eye on the
Klingon sisters.
BASHIR
Keeping an eye on the ebb and flow
of things, are you?
GARAK
As a clothier, I do interest myself
in what the population is wearing
from day to day.
BASHIR
You... must have to stay abreast of
the latest trends, don't you?
GARAK
Hmmm.
BASHIR
Of course, I know very little about
the latest trends in medicine,
comparatively speaking.
GARAK
Medicine? I was talking about
clothes.
BASHIR
Yes, of course. Clothes. Medicine.
Trends. You know.
GARAK
Klingons have an odd sense of...
style, don't you think?
26A ANGLE - INCLUDING LURSA AND B'ETOR
Bashir looking at them...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 26A.
26A CONTINUED:
BASHIR
Yes... they do...
GARAK
But intriguing... I say those two...
outfits... are worth studying
closely... one never knows where the
next trend may come from...
Bashir glances at him, glances back at the Klingon women...
27 OMITTED
27A ODO
is at his regular spot at the bar, also keeping an eye on
the klingons... his gaze now shifts from the
28A TAHNA
who's just ENTERING to find a spot at the bar. As he looks
around him, relaxed, he spots:
29 OMITTED
30 LURSA & B'ETOR
who have seen him as well -- and now rise.
30A ON GARAK
noting they're leaving... panning to Bashir watching with no
sense of what he's supposed to be seeing...
30B TAHNA
slides off the bar stool -- moves, still relaxedly, back
toward the entrance.
30C ODO
watches as...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 27.
31 OMITTED
32 LURSA & B'ETOR
follow him out.
33 OMITTED
34 INT. CARGO BAY - LOW ANGLE
The door opens and as the feet of Tahna, Lursa and B'Etor
ENTER together... a small rat skitters out of the way through
the shadows among the crates and cargo bins. As the door
closes, moving up to find them --
LURSA
The payment.
TAHNA
It's on its way.
B'ETOR
That was not the arrangement.
Lursa and B'Etor confront Tahna -- not touching him, but
literally backing him up against one of the bins,
TAHNA
I couldn't stop to get it. I barely
got past the Cardassians.
LURSA
Your safety is not our concern.
B'ETOR
Your gold is.
TAHNA
It will be available tomorrow.
B'ETOR
Good.
B'Etor reaches out -- grips Tahna by the front of his jacket,
with:
B'ETOR
... Because if we've made this trip
for nothing, you'll have made a fatal
mistake.
B'Etor lets go of him. Without another word, she and Lursa
simply turn and EXIT. A beat later, Tahna follows...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT TWO 28.
35
thru OMITTED
36
37 ANGLE ON THE CARGO BAY FLOOR (OPTICAL)
as the RAT re-appears, and... "SHIFTS" back into Odo. He
stands looking after the departed Tahna, as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 29.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
38 EXT. SPACE - DS9 (OPTICAL)
Re-Establishing.
39 INT. OPS
Light duty roster... Kira at her station and supernumeraries
as Sisko enters from the Turbolift... she turns as she sees
him arrive, moves to greet him with enthusiasm... as they
walk toward Sisko's office...
KIRA
I've managed to arrange a hearing of
the Ministers' Court...
SISKO
And predictions?
KIRA
I have two of the ministers, the
smart ones, ready to vote for
amnesty... I'm sure one of the others
will fall in line...
SISKO
Good...
KIRA
And Tahna says two more members of
the Kohn-Ma have agreed to come in...
as long as you'll guarantee their
safety...
SISKO
Done.
She pauses... sincere... somewhat awkwardly, she's not so
good with "sincere"...
KIRA
I have to say this, Commander...
when we first talked I wasn't sure
you...
(beat)
... this wouldn't have been possible
without your support. I want you to
know it's appreciated.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 30.
39 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(acknowledges,
pleasantly
conversational)
Be sure to mention it the next time
you chat with Admiral Rollman...
KIRA
(reacts)
Sir...
SISKO
(cordial, but clear)
Go over my head again and I'll have
yours on a platter...
He goes into his office, stay with her a beat...
40 INT. SISKO'S OFFICE (CONTINUOUS)
Odo is there waiting for him as Sisko ENTERS... played as
though Odo has previously asked Sisko to meet him.
SISKO
News about our Klingon sisters?
ODO
(nods)
They seem to make friends easily.
SISKO
Friends... ?
ODO
Our reformed Kohn-Ma, for example...
SISKO
(reacts)
Tahna... with Lursa and B'Etor?
ODO
(acknowledges)
Talking about a business arrangement.
He's paying them for something. I
don't know what. The gold is
supposedly on its way...
40A ANGLE
Sisko reacts, glances out into Ops to Kira, who is sitting at
her station... he wonders what this means?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 31.
40A CONTINUED:
SISKO
(musing)
Two other members of the Kohn-Ma may
be bringing it...
ODO
How do you know that?
SISKO
Major Kira mentioned that they're on
their way...
Both men realize there is unstated concern about Kira's role
in this...
ODO
You want her to know about this?
SISKO
(thoughtful beat)
Not quite yet.
They exchange an uncomfortable look and...
41 OMITTED
42 INT. GARAK'S SHOP
As Lursa and B'Etor enter... Garak looks up, does not react...
cooly --
LURSA
You are the clothier, Garak... ?
GARAK
At your service, madame. May I show
you our latest fashions... perhaps
some silk lingeries from Kraus-Four?
B'ETOR
Watch your tongue, Cardassian. Or
I'll cut it off and eat it.
GARAK
I meant no offense. I have few
Klingon patrons. What is it you
wish to buy...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 32.
42 CONTINUED:
LURSA
We are not here to buy... but to
sell...
B'ETOR
We understand you still... represent
Cardassian interests here.
GARAK
I am only a simple clothing
merchant...
B'Etor grabs him hard...
B'ETOR
We have no time for your games... do
you want Tahna Los or not...
Garak frees himself from her grasp...
GARAK
You are in a position to deliver the
Bajoran to Cardassian authorities?
LURSA
What is he worth to them?
B'ETOR
In gold-press latinum.
Garak measures them and thinks a beat, and in a true used
car dealer way, types a figure on a pad and hands it to them
to see... they react with disgust... start to leave...
LURSA
You insult us.
GARAK
(stopping them)
Ladies, ladies... please... everything
is negotiable...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 33.
42 CONTINUED: (2)
GARAK
I am only what I seem to be - a
merchant seeking to make the best
transaction...
(beat)
Let us... haggle.
On their reactions...
43 INT. TAHNA'S QUARTERS
Tahna is studying something on a PADD, responds to his door
CHIME... turns off the PADD...
TAHNA
Yes, come in.
The door opens to admit a very buoyed-up Kira.
KIRA
I have the third minister's vote...
the hearing is simply a formality
now... you're going to receive
amnesty, Tahna...
He takes a beat to study her... seemingly warm...
TAHNA
I never realized you were such an
accomplished politician, Kira...
KIRA
(embarrassed)
Me? A politician? I don't think
so...
TAHNA
You manipulate Sisko and the
Federation... the ministers of the
provisional government...
KIRA
I'm just... determined...
(beat)
I think they all simply get tired of
hearing my voice...
Beat... he is really rather impressed with her... and what
follows is not an error but a decision to open the door a
little wider to her...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 34.
43 CONTINUED:
TAHNA
And we expected to find that Kira
Nerys had lost the fire in her
heart...
Kira takes a long beat to react...
KIRA
What are you talking about?
A long silence between them... he lets the truth find her...
KIRA
You knew I was here before you even
came...
(he shrugs)
Tahna, I've trusted you...
And he stands and he moves to her, with steel in his eyes,
quiet but formidable --
TAHNA
I am Kohn-Ma. I fight for the freedom
of Bajor. You once fought for it as
well.
KIRA
I am still fighting for it...
TAHNA
Kira, stop deluding yourself... you
say you don't believe in the
provisional government... you say
you don't believe in the Federation...
and yet you are their... dance
instructor.
KIRA
That's not fair.
TAHNA
Don't be naive, Major.
KIRA
I've told you I don't want the
Federation here, but for now...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 35.
43 CONTINUED: (2)
TAHNA
Once you're in your comfortable bed
with the Federation, you won't be
able to get out. We won't be able
to get out.
KIRA
If you expect me to help you commit
some act of violence against the
Federation...
TAHNA
(massively reassuring)
No. The violence is over. That's
the truth. No one will be hurt.
In any way. I promise you that.
But I do need your help...
KIRA
You've already lied to me, Tahna; I
know how the game works.
TAHNA
(persevering)
To do what we plan, we need a small
ship capable of warp speed. I gambled
that I could convince you to get it
for us.
KIRA
Just what is this "peaceful" plan?
TAHNA
In one move... and non-violently...
we accomplish everything that both
of us ever wanted for Bajor.
KIRA
(very skeptical)
How?
TAHNA
(smiles ruefully)
I know the game, too. You know I
can't risk telling you that.
KIRA
How do you know I won't go straight
to Sisko?
TAHNA
If you do, we'll both know where
your loyalties are, won't we.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT THREE 36.
43 CONTINUED: (3)
She starts to leave again -- is stopped by:
TAHNA
But I don't think you will. You
want freedom for Bajor. In your
heart, you know the Federation cannot
give it to us. No one can give us
freedom. We have to take it. You'll
have to make the choice, Kira. Be
with us. Or stop lying to yourself
about what you've become.
43C CLOSE - KIRA
Her face reflects her confusion. What she's just heard was
sincere. And on her look we
44
thru OMITTED
49
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 37.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
49A INT. PROMENADE REPLIMAT
Bashir sits relaxedly in his usual spot... as Garak
approaches.
BASHIR
Ah. Plain, simple Garak. How are
you, today?
GARAK
(serious)
Being observant, Doctor.
BASHIR
I'm sure of it.
GARAK
There's a time for levity, my young
friend... and a time for genuine
concern.
No fool, Bashir takes a narrower interest in what Garak's
saying, as:
GARAK (Cont'd)
... The arrival on this station,
for instance...
(indicates)
... of those two Kohn-Ma terrorists.
49B ANGLE FAVORING (INT.) PROMENADE SECOND LEVEL
Tahna stands talking (MOS) with two rugged Bajoran Men, KOR
and NORIC.
49C RESUME - BASHIR & GARAK
as Bashir turns his (quizzical) attention back to Garak.
BASHIR
(aplomb cracking)
Terrorists... What are they doing
here... ?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 38.
49C CONTINUED:
GARAK
I'm not exactly sure; but together,
we might have some success at finding
out...
BASHIR
(in over his head,
now)
Together.
(beat)
Garak, I'm a doctor, not a...
GARAK
(overrides)
Once you do have the appropriate
answer, I'm sure you'll know what to
do with it.
BASHIR
(starts to rise)
I really must be getting along...
GARAK
Doctor, I think it's time for you to
take advantage of my shop. If you'll
be there at exactly twenty fifty-
five hours this evening, I promise
to show you a suit that will make
you into a new man.
BASHIR
A suit? We're talking about
terrorists, and you want me to buy a
new suit?
GARAK
Doctor, am I making myself clear? I
want you to buy a new suit tonight
at twenty-fifty-five. Exactly.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 39.
49C CONTINUED: (2)
BASHIR
I see. Yes...
(finally does rise)
If you'll excuse me now...
And a Bashir who can't get out of there fast enough, does
so.
50 INT. OPS
Kira at a station... studying a monitor... no other regulars,
supernumeraries as needed...
50A THE MONITOR
The heading indicates she is in a BAJORAN INTELLIGENCE file...
GRADE H-1 ACCESS ONLY. Sub-heading: KOHN-MA ACTIVITIES,
STARDATE 46422... a variety of intelligence reports with
various reports that we don't need to see... she flips the
page down to the next date and another similar file comes
up...
SISKO (O.S.)
Major... ?
Kira's hand hits a panel and the computer goes dark...
50B ANGLE - INCLUDE SISKO
moving from his office toward her station...
KIRA
Yes, Commander.
SISKO
I'd like to meet the two Kohn-Ma who
just arrived as soon as possible...
KIRA
Of course. I'll arrange it.
SISKO
How do they seem to you?
KIRA
Sir?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 40.
50B CONTINUED:
In the background, Bashir arrives on the Turbolift... moves
toward them...
SISKO
(measuring her)
Do you feel as secure about them as
you do about Tahna Los?
KIRA
Absolutely.
BASHIR
Commander Sisko...
Kira uses the interruption to escape, moves away and quickly
EXITS... Sisko studies her a beat before turning to Bashir...
BASHIR
(continuing)
... I need some guidance...
SISKO
Yes, Doctor... ?
BASHIR
It's about... Garak, the Cardassian...
I'm afraid this... relationship...
has gotten a little out of hand.
SISKO
How's that?
BASHIR
He wants me to buy a suit.
SISKO
(deadpan)
A suit.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 41.
50B CONTINUED: (2)
BASHIR
At exactly twenty-fifty-five tonight.
SISKO
Why twenty-fifty-five?
BASHIR
I don't know... but it has something
to do with the Bajoran terrorists on
board.
Sisko reacts...
BASHIR
He... he says that together, he and
I might discover what they're really
doing here.
(Sisko reacts, muses,
a beat)
I don't understand why he wants me
involved...
SISKO
Sometimes, communications can't be
conducted through official channels.
Maybe this is their way of telling
us that we have a common enemy.
BASHIR
What do you want me to do?
SISKO
I think, Doctor, that you could
definitely use a new suit.
Off Bashir's reaction...
50C INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo works at his desk... as Kira ENTERS.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 42.
50C CONTINUED:
KIRA
Busy?
ODO
What can I do for you?
She moves around in the office, glances distractedly at
things, making little adjustments to his monitors.
KIRA
Are all the security measures in
place for the trip to the Ministers'
Court... ?
ODO
I told you they'd be taken care of
and they will.
KIRA
Fine.
A beat. Odo studies her. She's about to leave...
ODO
You know, there's one thing about
you humanoids I can't imitate very
well...
KIRA
What's that?
ODO
Pretense. There's a special talent
to it. It's as hard for me as
creating one of your noses.
She smiles lightly, sits.
KIRA
Maybe, that's why I've learned to
respect your opinion, Constable.
Never any... pretense.
(he acknowledges)
How much do you know about me, Odo?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 43.
50C CONTINUED:
ODO
More than you probably realize.
She reacts.
KIRA
I've done some things I'm not proud
of. I still have nightmares about
the raids on the Haru outposts. But
at least I was sure of what I was
doing then.
He knows where she's coming from... responds evenly...
ODO
(gently)
And there's something you're not
sure of now.
KIRA
(frustration)
You have no more love for the
Federation than I do.
ODO
Meaning?
She can't yet let herself spew it out. Silence. And then,
with his compassion for her predicament remaining unabated.
KIRA
Maybe there are still wars to be
fought and I'm just making a fool of
myself doing what I'm doing here.
ODO
Sounds like you're trying to talk
yourself into something. Or out of
something.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 43A.
50C CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
Either way, I have to betray someone.
ODO
Only important thing is not to betray
yourself. he looks at him... a
beat... they both know what they're
talking about here.
KIRA
How could I possibly turn against my
own people?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 44.
50C CONTINUED: (3)
ODO
Are they? Your own people?
KIRA
They're no different than I used to
be.
ODO
Used to be.
Beat. Looking for some way out --
KIRA
I could just refuse to help them.
Ignore the whole thing.
ODO
The Joranian ostrich hides by sticking
its head under water. Sometimes
even until it drowns.
KIRA
(acknowledges, sighs)
They'd find a way to do whatever
they want to do anyway... and I'd
still feel responsible for the
consequences.
A beat. She knows now what she has to do.
KIRA
It was so much easier when I knew
who the enemy was.
A beat. He hits his combadge.
SISKO'S COM VOICE
Go ahead.
ODO
There's someone down here in security
who wants to talk to you, Commander.
Off her look...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 45.
51
thru OMITTED
54
55 INT. GARAK'S SHOP - FAVORING CLOSED ENTRANCE
as Garak moves from BEHIND CAMERA to unlock the front entrance
of the now darkened shop -- and admit Bashir, with:
GARAK
Doctor, it's Twenty-fifty-seven.
You're late. Come in quickly, please.
As Garak literally ushers Bashir through the shop, toward
its rear...
BASHIR
I... I was...
Garak yanks a jacket from its display mount; shoves it into
Bashir's hands, while still propelling him through the shop.
GARAK
(interrupts)
You just try that on as many times
as you like, and be very, very quiet.
Garak almost shoves Bashir out of sight into his (o.s.)
fitting room, closes a full-length curtain in front of him...
56 INT. FITTING ROOM
Bashir's just standing there, holding the jacket. He
catches his reflection in the full length mirror --
casually holds the jacket up for scrutiny -- then
freezes as he hears the (O.S.) SOUND of the shop front
door opening and closing, along with:
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 46.
56 CONTINUED:
GARAK'S VOICE (FAR O.S.)
(thru door)
Ah, right on time. Welcome.
Bashir moves to listen...
B'ETOR'S VOICE
Save your "welcomes," Cardassian.
Do your people want the Bajoran or
not?
GARAK'S VOICE
I can now venture to say, with some
certainty, that you will receive the
agreed-upon payment on delivery.
57 INT. GARAK'S SHOP
Lursa and B'Etor loom over him:
LURSA
We will complete our business with
Tahna Los in four hours...
GARAK
And what business might that be?
B'ETOR
That is not your concern.
GARAK
If it requires that those I represent
must take extra precautions, it
becomes my concern.
The women exchange a glance -- what the hell do they care?
They want the gold.
LURSA
We are delivering a cylinder of
Bilitrium to him.
B'ETOR
The rendezvous will be on the dark
side of Bajor Eight's lower moon.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FOUR 47.
58 INT. FITTING ROOM
Bashir listening...
B'ETOR
(continuing)
The Cardassians can have him then.
Bashir hears the (o.s.) shop front door open and close
again. A long beat... before the fitting room curtain
is opened from without by Garak, whom he now faces
with:
BASHIR
What's Bilitrium?
GARAK
A rare crystalline element, that can
be an incredibly powerful source of
energy... Provided, of course, that
one also has an anti-matter converter.
Unfortunately, that's why Cardassians
were chasing Tahna Los when he arrived
here. He stole one.
BASHIR
But if he's got both...
GARAK
Quite right, Doctor. He will have
the ingredients for a bomb. A bomb
of significant destructive capability.
Off Bashir's reaction, we
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 48.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
59 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
The Klingon ship is no longer present.
60 INT. OPS
Sisko, Kira, Dax, O'Brien, Bashir and Odo all present around
the table. Kira is tight, eyes down, already has told what
she needs to tell, knows what she has to do next... doesn't
need to be told...
SISKO
(searching for options)
We have nothing to hold them on....
they haven't committed any crime
yet...
ODO
Conspiracy is a crime...
BASHIR
But conspiracy to what? We don't
even know what their plan is...
O'BRIEN
Once the exchange is made, with the
Klingons, you've got them holding
the components to an explosive
device... that's enough evidence
right there...
Kira looks up for the first time...
KIRA
Chief O'Brien's right. We have to
let them have a runabout.
SISKO
(beat)
Agreed.
KIRA
And I have to be on it.
SISKO
Not agreed. Major...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 48.
60 CONTINUED:
KIRA
Commander, Tahna doesn't know if he
can trust me as it is... if I try to
stay behind, he won't buy into this.
The only way to convince him is if
I'm on board.
(beat)
If Tahna fails, I promise you others
will try. At least, this way you
can find out what they're up to.
Sisko nods, realizing she's right.
SISKO
Mister O'Brien, you and I will take
a Runabout to a point behind the
second moon of Bajor Eight to avoid
detection.
O'BRIEN
Aye, Sir...
On the move with O'Brien...
SISKO
(continuing)
Dax, stay in touch with us on a
secured channel... keep an eye on
the Cardassians; they'll be coming
to the party too...
She acknowledges.
SISKO
(to Kira)
You get him there, Major... we'll be
waiting...
She acknowledges... Sisko and O'Brien exit...
61 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
62 INT. TURBOLIFT
Kira and Tahna... Tahna carrying two shoulder
bags... (CONTINUED)
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 50.
62 CONTINUED:
KIRA
This'll be the first time a Bajoran
officer's taken out a Federation
Runabout alone...
The door opens, exiting to the airlock...
63 INT. AIRLOCK - CONTINUOUS
KIRA
It might get Sisko's attention.
We'd better initialize pre-launch
the minute we get on board...
64 INT. SECURITY
Odo looking at them exiting the airlock on a monitor...
ODO
They're moving into the Runabout...
65 INT. OPS
Only Dax present (plus Supernumeraries as needed). She's at
station; monitoring.
DAX
Acknowledged. DS Nine to Ganges.
SISKO'S COM VOICE
Go ahead, Dax.
DAX
Major Kira and Tahna are preparing
to leave in the Yangtzee Kiang.
66 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES (OPTICAL)
Sisko and O'Brien. We may want to try and establish a dark
side of a moon out their window.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 51.
DAX'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
They're initializing pre-launch
systems now...
SISKO
Understood, Lieutenant.
(to O'Brien)
... Shut down all main power systems.
O'BRIEN
(working controls)
Main power systems down.
(aside)
... Dead quiet...
67 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
The Runabout Yangtzee Kiang is launched, and disappears into
space.
68
thru OMITTED
69
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 52.
70 INT. YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
At warp... Tahna has opened the housing atop the now
completely visible anti-matter converter. It (like the duffel
in which it was carried) is shaped like a fat, metallic
sausage... but with an attached, hose-like extension
protruding from one end. At the loose end of this extension
"cord" is a generic "plug" (for insertion into an external
power-source "socket"). Tahna's attaching the plug to the
interior of a wall panel...
KIRA
Bajor Eight in one-hundred-twenty
thousand kilometers. (tech?) Dropping
to impulse.
(turns; to Tahna)
What is that?
TAHNA
(holds up "plug")
An anti-matter converter... I'm
transferring power from the ship's
warp drive into the storage cells.
KIRA
(reacts, off monitor)
We've got a Klingon Bird of Prey
decloaking dead ahead.
Through the window, they see Lursa's and B'Etor's Bird of
Prey as it decloaks. She reacts like it is completely
unexpected.
TAHNA
Calm down... we're here to meet
them...
KIRA
Klingons, why?
TAHNA
You'll know soon enough.
70A EXT. RUNABOUT GANGES NEAR MOON (OPTICAL)
We identify Runabout Ganges near a moon.
71 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES
Sisko and O'Brien as before, reading sensors...
O'BRIEN
The Klingons have powered up their
transporters...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 53.
71 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Prepare to go to full impulse.
72 EXT. SPACE - THE RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
dwarfed by the Klingon ship.
73 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
Two transporter beams MATERIALIZE into Lursa and B'Etor.
Lursa carries a slender metallic cylinder. Tahna reaches
for his second shoulder bag -- hands it to B'Etor. She'll
immediately examine its contents, during:
TAHNA
Thirteen kilograms of gold-press
Latinum; as promised.
LURSA
This is yours.
She tosses the metallic cylinder, with no respect for its
contents, at Tahna who catches it deftly, smiles. B'Etor
nods to Lursa -- everything looks okay.
B'ETOR
(to her own combadge)
'eH. HImaH!
And Lursa and B'Etor -- now carrying the "knapsack" --
DEMATERIALIZE. Kira looks at the cylinder... she already
knows what it is, but must play dumb.
KIRA
What is it?
TAHNA
Bajoran independence.
74 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES
Sisko and O'Brien as before.
O'BRIEN
(off monitor)
Bird of Prey is moving off... and
cloaking.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 54.
SISKO
Set an intercept course with the
Runabout.
O'BRIEN
Intercept in one minute, twelve
seconds.
75 INT. OPS
Dax off controls...
DAX
DS Nine to Ganges...
SISKO'S COM VOICE
Ganges...
DAX
The Cardassian warship Aldara is
crossing the border, Benjamin... on
an intercept course with the Yangtzee
Kiang.
76 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES
DAX'S COM VOICE
They'll enter Bajoran space in twenty-
nine seconds...
SISKO
Acknowledged.
O'BRIEN
The Yangtzee's sensors should be
picking us up now, sir...
77 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
And Tahna has indeed picked them up... they have the Ganges
showing on monitors...
TAHNA
They must've been waiting for us
here. How did they know?
KIRA
(off monitors)
We've also got a Cardassian warship
three minutes away...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 55.
77 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(beat)
The Klingons must have sold us out...
TAHNA
Prepare to engage warp engines.
KIRA
There's nowhere to run, Tahna...
TAHNA
We don't have to go far.
A reaction from Kira... she glances at the wall mounted phaser
array... bolts to try and get one, but he shoves her roughly
to the floor and gets one himself, points it at her...
TAHNA
I should have know...
(grabs her, pushes
her to her chair)
Set the course for DS Nine.
KIRA
No.
TAHNA
(calmly)
If you don't, I'll explode the bomb
right here and destroy all six
colonies on Bajor Eight.
KIRA
(reacts)
You would kill thousands of your own
people for this?
TAHNA
The question is whether you would
kill them by refusing to set the
course...
She has no choice... she sets the panel... engages warp...
78 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES
O'BRIEN
They've gone to warp...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 56.
78 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Follow them.
He opens a hailing channel...
SISKO
(to com)
Ganges to Yangtzee Kiang. Drop out
of warp, or we will open fire...
79 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG
Tahna is in the back, simply inserting the slender cylinder
through the open housing at the top of the anti-matter
device... and then dropping it into a lower hatch... all the
while keeping an eye on Kira with a phaser either in his
hand or right next to it...
SISKO'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
Repeat. We will open fire.
TAHNA
I doubt that he'll shoot with his
Major on board. But just in case...
Having completed his work... he moves with phaser in hand to
a companel...
TAHNA
This is the voice of the Kohn-Ma...
there is an armed bilitrium explosive
device on board this ship...
80 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES (OPTICAL)
The other runabout is on monitors.
TAHNA'S COM VOICE
Fire on us and you will detonate it.
O'BRIEN
If that device goes off while they're
at warp, they'll spread radiation
across half the system.
SISKO
(checking monitor)
He's headed straight back for the
station.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 57.
80 CONTINUED:
A quick thought as he punches in a new hailing channel...
SISKO
(continuing)
... This is the Federation vessel
Ganges to Cardassian warship,
Aldara...
The monitors change to a picture of Gul Danar...
GUL DANAR
So we're finally allies, Commander.
SISKO
Gul Danar, the Federation Runabout
Yangtzee Kiang is carrying an
explosive bilitrium device. Can you
intercept before it reaches the space
station?
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 58.
80 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO (Cont'd)
We believe they intend to set it off
at the mouth of the wormhole... will
you be able to ready them before
they get here?
GUL DANAR
Our time to intercept is two minutes,
fourteen seconds...
O'BRIEN
That's about a minute too late,
Commander...
GUL DANAR
If I may, Commander, take this
opportunity to say that I warned
you...
Sisko switches off the transmission in mid-sentence... the
other runabout returns to monitors...
SISKO
Ready photons, Chief. We'll fire as
soon as they slow to impulse... at
least that'll diminish the spread of
bilitrium radiation throughout the
area...
O'BRIEN
(grim)
Aye, sir.
81 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
Tahna has completed all that he has to do to prepare the
bomb...
KIRA
One hundred thousand kilometers to
the wormhole...
TAHNA
Slow to impulse... take us within
fifty meters of the mouth...
KIRA
You're only hurting Bajor by doing
this, Tahna...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 58A.
81 CONTINUED:
TAHNA
No one's going to be hurt, Kira.
(she reacts, confused)
Adjust your course to take a vectored
approach past the mouth of the
wormhole.
KIRA
(it dawns)
... The wormhole... it's not the space
station you're after... you can't
possibly believe you can destroy the
wormhole with that device...
TAHNA
I don't have to destroy the
wormhole... I just have to collapse
the entrance
KIRA
You're only hurting Bajor by doing
this, Tahna...
TAHNA
No more wormhole. No more Federation.
Or Cardassians. Or anyone else.
(noticing the monitors,
reacts)
Drop out of warp.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 59.
She doesn't do it. Brandishing the phaser...
TAHNA
Now!
She makes a quick move and pushes him away with one arm as
she slams down her other hand on the control panel, we hear
the ship drop out of warp as she twists the helm sharply.
The Runabout instantly rocks roughly.
82 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
At impulse. It makes a sharp turn...
INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
through the forward window -- the Mouth of wormhole becomes
visible... light engulfs the window... the ship rocks...
Tahna and Kira are shaken off balance.
83 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES (OPTICAL)
Watching the other runabout on the monitor...
O'BRIEN
My God, they're going into the
wormhole. At full impulse.
83A OMITTED
84 EXT. INSIDE WORMHOLE - THE RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG
(OPTICAL)
in a vague spin...
85 INT. YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
white light outside the windows... shaking, spinning...
stabilizers failing... Tahna unsteady, attempts to get to
the bomb release... Kira fights him, delays him just briefly
enough so that as...
86 HIS HAND
reaches out...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 60.
87 EXT. SPACE - THE YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
comes out the other side of the wormhole...
88 INT. YANGTZEE KIANG - HIS HAND - CLOSE UP
hits the panel...
89 EXT. SPACE - THE YANGTZEE KIANG (OPTICAL)
as the ship clears the wormhole which disappears... The bomb
is launched forward as the Runabout moves away at an angle...
the bomb EXPLODES harmlessly.
89A EXT. SPACE - REVERSE ANGLE - PAST THE YANGTZEE
KIANG (OPTICAL)
The wormhole opens again... as
Runabout Ganges arrives into this
quadrant.
90 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG
TAHNA
No!
(turning the phaser
back on Kira)
Damn you!
SISKO'S COM VOICE
Sisko to Kira... are you all right,
Major...
TAHNA
(moves to the companel)
No, she's not all right, Commander.
And if you want her alive... you'll
do exactly as I say...
91 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES (OPTICAL)
The other runabout visible through the window.
SISKO
Listen carefully, Tahna. You can
either surrender now, to me...
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 61.
92 INT. RUNABOUT YANGTZEE KIANG
SISKO'S COM VOICE
(continuing)
... Or you can wait here for the
Cardassian warship and I'll let them
deal with you this time. Your choice.
Tahna looks for another way out... and cannot find it... he
drops his phaser, turns his back to Kira as she picks it
up...
KIRA
There'll be no further resistance,
Commander.
93 INT. RUNABOUT GANGES
Sisko and O'Brien react, pleased.
94 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
95 INT. AIRLOCK
as it opens to reveal Tahna followed by Kira with a phaser
on her prisoner... they are met by Sisko, O'Brien, Odo (with
handcuffs) and a Bajoran deputy who turns Tahna around so
that Odo can affix handcuffs to his wrists. This done, the
Deputy starts Tahna toward the brig, as:
KIRA
Tahna...
He turns back... she searches for some words to say...
KIRA
(continuing)
The old ways don't work anymore.
Everything is different now. I had
to do this... for Bajor... I hope
you'll understand some day.
He looks at her evenly a beat, before:
TAHNA
Traitor.
And the Bajoran Deputy leads him away.
DEEP SPACE: "Past Prologue" 10/05/92 - ACT FIVE 61A-62.
95A ANOTHER ANGLE
Sisko regards Kira with understanding and commiseration.
SISKO
Major...
(trails off)
But she doesn't want to hear it... EXITS without
acknowledging. Sisko and O'Brien exchange a look... and
as they follow...
96 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
FADE OUT.
THE END