STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Storyteller"
#40511-414
Story by
Kurt Michael Bensmiller
Teleplay by
Kurt Michael Bensmiller
and
Ira Steven Behr
Directed by
David Livingtson
THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING
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 This script is not for publication or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
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.
Return to Script Department FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
FEBRUARY 2, 1993
STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Storyteller" - 02/02/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Storyteller"
CAST
SISKO FAREN
O'BRIEN HOVATH
BASHIR SIRAH
DAX VARIS
KIRA WOBAN
JAKE THE CROWD
ODO WOMAN
QUARK
NOG
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES Villagers
STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Storyteller" - 02/02/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Storyteller"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
OPS
DOCKING RING PORT SEVEN - PLANET BAJOR
CORRIDOR
COMMANDER'S OFFICE VILLAGE SQUARE
PROMENADE
REPLIMAT RUNABOUT
TURBOLIFT
QUARK'S
A BACK ROOM
RUNABOUT
SECURITY OFFICE
RUNABOUT
VARIS'S QUARTERS
SIRAH'S CHAMBER
STAR TREK: "The Storyteller" - 02/04/93 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Storyteller"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
PAQU PAH-coo
NAVOT nah-VOT
VARIS SUL VAIR-is sool
WOBAN WOE-ban
TETRACH TE-trark
FAREN FAIR-in
SIRAH suh-RAH
GLYRHOND GLEER-hund
BUCK BOKAI buck BOW-kai
HOVATH HO-vath
DAL'ROK DAL-rock
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER xx1
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Storyteller"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Establishing.
SISKO (V.O.)
Station log, Stardate 46729.1. The
Bajoran government has asked me to
mediate a dispute between two rival
factions, the Paqu and the Navot.
At issue is a land dispute which
could trigger a civil war.
2 INT. OPS
SISKO EXITS his office. KIRA, DAX and O'BRIEN are at their
stations; Supernumeraries as needed.
KIRA
Commander, the Paqu delegation has
arrived at docking bay six.
SISKO
Let's welcome them aboard. Dax, any
word on the Navot?
DAX
They should be here within the hour.
Sisko and Kira head for the Turbolift.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Excuse me, Commander.
3 NEW ANGLE
as O'Brien comes down from Engineering to join Sisko and
Kira at the Turbolift.
SISKO
Chief, I thought you'd be on your
way to Bajor by now.
O'BRIEN
We're due to leave any moment.
(ill at ease)
Sir, I was wondering if perhaps Ensign
Boyer could take my place on this
particular mission. After all, I'd
be little more than a chauffeur, and
Boyer can pilot a Runabout as well
as I can.
SISKO
Has something come up that requires
your presence on the station?
O'BRIEN
No, Sir. Everything's running
smoothly, for a change. But around
here, you never know...
Just then BASHIR ENTERS from the Ops doorway.
BASHIR
Ah, there you are Chief. All set to
go?
O'BRIEN
Yes, Sir.
Sisko and O'Brien exchange a look. Sisko now understands
the reason behind O'Brien's reluctance. Bashir doesn't pick
up on any of this.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/05/93 - TEASER 3.
3 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
Commander, did the Magistrate give
any indication regarding the nature
of this medical emergency?
SISKO
(shaking his head)
Only that his village was in danger
of extinction.
BASHIR
In that case we better be on our
way.
Sisko and Kira enter the Turbolift.
SISKO
(to O'Brien)
I agree.
O'BRIEN
Yes, Sir.
SISKO
(to comm)
Docking port six.
The Turbolift begins its descent. O'Brien and Bashir head
for the door.
BASHIR
You know Chief, in a way I'm really
looking forward to this mission.
O'BRIEN
Why's that?
BASHIR
I see it as a wonderful opportunity
for us to get to know one another.
As they EXIT out the door, O'Brien glances back at Sisko.
He's not a happy camper.
4 INT. TURBOLIFT
On Sisko and Kira.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER 4.
4 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(to Kira)
I'd like you to set up a preliminary
meeting with both sides for later
this afternoon. Make sure they know
that this is an informal session. I
just want to get them talking to
each other.
KIRA
Just getting them to sit down at the
same table will be an accomplishment.
(beat)
Sir, about these negotiations...
SISKO
You have some advice for me?
KIRA
There's an old saying on Bajor, "the
land and the people are one." Well,
the land inhabited by the Paqu and
Navot is some of the harshest on the
planet.
SISKO
Relax Major. This isn't my first
time up at the plate.
KIRA
(doesn't get the
baseball reference)
Sir...
As the Turbolift doors open...
SISKO
(smiling)
Besides, I'll have you by my side to
help me avoid making mistakes.
And they EXIT.
5 INT. DOCKING PORT SEVEN - CORRIDOR
Moving with Sisko and Kira as they reach the airlock door.
SISKO
What can you tell me about the Paqu
Tetrarch?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER 5.
5 CONTINUED:
KIRA
Not much. The Paqu choose to avoid
contact with outsiders.
The airlock doors OPEN and out steps a Paqu advisor. He
steps aside to allow another figure to emerge from the
passage: a hard-bitten fifteen-year-old girl (VARIS SUL).
VARIS
Commander Sisko?
Sisko nods, somewhat confused.
SISKO
Yes?
VARIS
I am Varis Sul, Tetrarch of the Paqu.
As Sisko and Kira react we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT ONE 6.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(Note: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
6 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL)
Traveling at impulse.
7 INT. RUNABOUT
O'Brien in the pilot seat. Bashir, feeling ignored, is seated
behind him. Hold for a beat a silence. Then...
BASHIR
(a beat)
Chief, may I ask you a question?
O'BRIEN
(all business)
Of course.
BASHIR
And I'd like an honest answer.
O'BRIEN
You'll get one.
Bashir hesitates a moment before speaking.
BASHIR
Do I... annoy you?
O'BRIEN
(looking over his
shoulder)
Annoy me? What kind of question is
that?
BASHIR
Well, the thing is, we've just spent
two hours alone together in this
runabout and you hardly said a word
to me the whole time.
O'Brien turns back to the controls.
O'BRIEN
Really? I hadn't noticed.
BASHIR
Oh, I see...
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT ONE 6A.
7 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
I suppose I was too busy... thinking.
BASHIR
Thinking?
O'BRIEN
That's right.
A beat as Bashir mulls over O'Brien's answer. Then...
BASHIR
About what?
O'BRIEN
What?
BASHIR
What were you thinking about? I'm
just curious.
O'Brien does a slow burn but he refuses to allow the young
doctor to see how annoyed he's getting.
O'BRIEN
Let's see... I was thinking that
when I get back to the station, I'll
have to run a level one diagnostic
on the phase coil generators.
(a beat)
Satisfied?
BASHIR
(nods)
I guess so.
O'BRIEN
(case closed)
Glad to hear it.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 7.
7 CONTINUED: (2)
But Bashir isn't willing to let it go just yet. He's
determined to empty his pockets.
BASHIR
I mean, the only reason I brought it
up is because your opinion means a
lot to me, and I'm aware I have a
tendency to run off at the mouth
sometimes.
O'BRIEN
Is that a fact.
BASHIR
I suppose it's a nervous habit. I
hope you don't hold it against me.
O'BRIEN
Not at all, Sir.
Bashir nods to himself. This has gone better than he thought,
though he still suspects O'Brien isn't being totally up front
with him. He decides to take it one more step.
BASHIR
Oh, and one more thing.
O'BRIEN
And what would that be, Sir?
O'Brien steadies himself. He figures next he'll have to
listen to stories from Bashir's childhood.
BASHIR
I don't think it's really necessary
for you to call me "Sir."
O'BRIEN
(surprised)
What should I call you? You're my
superior officer.
BASHIR
How about Julian.
O'Brien flinches, but quickly recovers his laconic poise.
O'BRIEN
Is that an order?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE 8.
7 CONTINUED: (3)
BASHIR
Of course not. I'd simply prefer it
if you called me by my first name.
O'Brien considers a beat then...
O'BRIEN
(checking console)
All right. We've achieved stable orbit
around Bajor. We can beam down any
time... Julian.
And we notice just the slightest edge in his voice as he
says the name. Bashir notices it as well. Hopes he's
mistaken.
8 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY (OPTICAL)
Bashir and O'Brien MATERIALIZE in the middle of a plaza. A
few villagers are cleaning up some debris. Nearby is a large
raised platform. Bashir takes out his medical tricorder.
Takes readings.
BASHIR
(re: tricorder)
No sign of any airborne infections,
the soil appears free of pollutants,
and the ground water's clear of
bacterial contamination.
FAREN (O.S.)
Gentlemen...
9 NEW ANGLE
to include FAREN, a Bajoran official.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 9.
9 CONTINUED:
FAREN
I am Faren Kag, the village
magistrate.
BASHIR
I'm Doctor Bashir and this is Chief
O'Brien.
FAREN
This village is in great jeopardy.
I only hope you're not too late.
He leads them toward a large stone building.
9A INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER
Faren leads Bashir and O'Brien into the room where an old
man (THE SIRAH) lies asleep in a bed. (NOTE: The Sirah wears
a bracelet, set with a green stone, around one of his wrists.)
HOVATH, a young Bajoran of twenty-four, sits watching over
him.
FAREN
Has he shown any sign of improvement?
HOVATH
None.
FAREN
(to Bashir)
You must help him.
BASHIR
How many others are sick?
FAREN
Others?
O'BRIEN
You said the entire village was in
jeopardy?
FAREN
It is.
(looking down at the
old man)
If he dies, we all die.
Off O'Brien and Bashir's reactions...
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 9A.
10 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) (STOCK)
11 INT. QUARK'S - A BACK ROOM
Sisko, Kira, Varis, and WOBAN, the large, gruff Navot leader,
are seated at a table. Woban munches on some hors d'oeuvres.
WOBAN
I'll say this for the Cardassians.
Their replicators make a fine larish
pie.
VARIS
(to Sisko)
I didn't come here to eat, Commander.
SISKO
Then let's talk. The official
negotiations won't begin until
tonight, but I thought it might be a
good idea for us to meet informally
to see where we all stand.
Sisko consults his PADD.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 10.
11 CONTINUED:
SISKO
According to the treaty that has
existed between you for the past
ninety years...
(reading)
"... the border separating the Paqu
and the Navot shall forever be the
river Glyrhond."
WOBAN
That's correct.
Varis nods curtly.
KIRA
(an attempt at levity)
Well, at least we all agree on
something.
SISKO
Now, as I understand it, during the
occupation the Cardassians diverted
the river for use in their mining
operations. As a result the Glyrhond
now flows twenty kilometers west of
its former position.
WOBAN
Twenty kilometers into Navot
territory.
VARIS
It's Paqu territory now.
(to Sisko)
You read the treaty Commander. The
river is our common border.
WOBAN
The treaty says nothing about stealing
land. If your father was alive he'd
give us back what was ours.
VARIS
My father would have done no such
thing. Besides, I'm Tetrarch now.
(coldly)
I will not be pressured into betraying
my people.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 11.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
Before Sisko can respond, the tension is cut by the arrival
of an upbeat QUARK, who carries a tray of drinks which he
distributes around the table.
QUARK
Let's see, one glass of Gamzian wine,
two Bajoran synthales...
(to Varis)
And a Trixian bubble juice for the
little lady.
Varis grabs the glass and, rising, splashes the contents in
Quark's face.
VARIS
I'm not a little lady.
She storms away. Quark wipes his face then turns to Sisko.
QUARK
I'm still charging her for that drink.
But Sisko and Kira have other concerns.
12 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL
JAKE and NOG are seated at their usual spot. Jake is wearing
a baseball glove.
JAKE
Nog, we've been sitting here over an
hour. Let's go play some ball in
the Holosuite.
NOG
No.
JAKE
Why not?
NOG
Because baseball is slow and boring...
JAKE
And you can't hit my curve ball.
NOG
It's a stupid game that even humans
stopped playing hundreds of years
ago.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 12.
12 CONTINUED:
JAKE
Maybe. But you still can't hit my
curve ball.
Before Nog can protest...
ODO (V.O.)
Mister Sisko...
13 NEW ANGLE
As ODO advance toward the boys.
ODO
Nog, I thought I told you no dangling
over the Promenade.
JAKE
We're not gonna fall, Odo.
NOG
We can see things better from down
here.
Odo peers over the railing.
ODO
And what, may I ask, is so important
to see?
JAKE
Nothing.
ODO
In that case, you can see "nothing"
just as well from up here.
(an order)
Now, on your feet.
The boys scramble to a standing position.
ODO
Thank you.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 13.
He continues his rounds. The boys wait until he turns
the bend, then sit back down.
JAKE
Are you gonna come to the Holosuite
with me or not? We can have Buck
Bokai hit a few out to us. He was
the greatest hitter of all time.
(a beat)
I'll even let you use my glove.
NOG
(a moonstruck grin)
I've never seen anything so beautiful.
Jake stares at the glove. Maybe he's missing something.
But Nog isn't talking about some worn piece of leather. He
points below to the Promenade.
14 THEIR POV
Varis and her advisor are passing beneath them.
15 BACK TO SCENE
Both boys check her out carefully.
JAKE
(nothing special)
She's all right.
NOG
All right?
(determined)
I have to meet her.
Jake stares at his lovesick buddy. Yeah, Nog's serious.
16 EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL)
17 INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER
Bashir is finishing up his examination of the Sirah, who
remains asleep. O'Brien is seated in a chair on the other
side of the room. Hovath looks to the doctor for reassurance.
But Bashir has none to give. Whatever he's picked up on the
medical tricorder isn't good. Suddenly the Sirah begins to
stir.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE 14.
17 CONTINUED:
SIRAH
The Dal'Rok...
He attempts to sit up. Bashir lays a restraining hand on
him.
BASHIR
Easy now. Try not to exert yourself.
The Sirah looks around. Spots Hovath.
SIRAH
Hovath, the time... ?
HOVATH
Still two hours before nightfall.
SIRAH
You should have woken me. Help me
get dressed.
Hovath moves to the bed but Bashir motions him away.
BASHIR
I'm afraid you're in no shape to go
anywhere.
The Sirah sizes up Bashir.
SIRAH
The prophets sent you, didn't they.
BASHIR
I beg your pardon?
The Sirah smiles, takes hold of Bashir's hand. The smile
fades.
SIRAH
(troubled)
No... Something's wrong. It must be
your companion.
O'Brien, who has been seated in the b.g. listening with only
half an ear, suddenly begins to pay closer attention to the
conversation.
BASHIR
(baffled)
You mean Chief O'Brien?
SIRAH
Bring him to me.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE 15.
17 CONTINUED: (2)
BASHIR
Why?
SIRAH
Because you are not the one I've
been waiting for.
That doesn't exactly clarify matters, but Bashir turns to
O'Brien.
BASHIR
Chief... he wants to see you.
O'Brien rises. The Sirah waves him over.
SIRAH
Come closer.
O'Brien looks to Bashir, who gives a "don't ask me" shrug.
O'Brien approaches the bed. The Sirah grabs hold of his
hand then smiles with satisfaction.
SIRAH
(to O'Brien)
I knew the prophets wouldn't fail
us.
(a beat)
You may leave now...
(to Bashir)
Both of you.
Bashir is about to argue, then thinks better of it.
BASHIR
(to Hovath)
See that he stays in bed.
As Bashir and O'Brien head for the door.
O'BRIEN
What was that all about?
BASHIR
I haven't a clue.
They EXIT.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE 16.
18 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - CONTINUOUS
Bashir and O'Brien are met by an anxious Faren.
FAREN
The Sirah... how is he?
BASHIR
I wish I had better news. He's
suffering from systemic organ failure
brought on by an accelerated rate of
cellular decay... his body is
surrendering to old age.
FAREN
(hopefully)
Is there anything you can do?
BASHIR
I can keep him comfortable and
relatively free of pain. Other than
that, it's only a matter of time.
(a beat)
I'm sorry.
So is Faren, who refuses to accept the diagnosis.
FAREN
But we need him. The Dal'Rok will
be here soon.
O'BRIEN
What's the Dal'Rok?
FAREN
It's a terrible creature that lives
in the woods just north of the
village. Every year at the end of
harvest it appears.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE 17.
18 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
And you say it's coming tonight.
FAREN
(nods)
Yes, it always comes for five nights.
This will be the fourth. And only
the Sirah is strong enough to defeat
it.
BASHIR
Right now, the Sirah isn't strong
enough to get out of bed.
Faren stares off in the direction of the woods.
FAREN
If what you say is true, this village
will be destroyed tonight.
And off Bashir and O'Brien's reactions...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 18.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
19 OMITTED
20 INT. HABITAT RING
Jake and Nog come down the corridor.
JAKE
You're sure this is the place?
NOG
You saw the readout. There's only
one female her age visiting the
station, and these are her quarters.
They approach the door.
NOG
Well go ahead.
JAKE
What?
NOG
Ring the bell.
JAKE
Me? You're the one who wants to
meet her.
NOG
Are you afraid?
JAKE
(insulted)
Of a girl.
NOG
Then ring.
JAKE
You ring.
Nog gives Jake a friendly push. Jake pushes back.
NOG
You are afraid.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 19.
20 CONTINUED:
JAKE
No I'm not, you are.
A good natured shoving match ensues. Suddenly the doors
open and Varis stands before them. They freeze!
VARIS
What are you doing?
Nog steps forward.
NOG
My name's Jog... I mean Jake.
Jake moves to rescue his flustered friend.
JAKE
He's Nog. I'm Jake Sisko.
The boys walk past her into the room. A flicker of interest
crosses Varis's face as she recognizes the surname.
VARIS
Sisko...
21 INT. VARIS'S QUARTERS
Varis sizes up the two boys.
JAKE
We're kinda the unofficial welcoming
committee around here.
NOG
That's right...
(at a loss)
Welcome to DS Nine.
VARIS
Thank you. I'm Varis Sul.
JAKE
Would you like a tour of the station?
There's a Klingon freighter leaving
for the Gamma Quadrant in a little
while. We could watch it go through
the wormhole.
NOG
Good idea.
STXT Ç ¥
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT TWO 19A.
JAKE
21 CONTINUED:
Thanks.
(to Varis)
So, how about it? You wanna come?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT TWO 20.
21 CONTINUED: (2)
Varis gives it a moment's thought before answering.
Spending some time with Jake could possibly give her valuable
insight regarding Commander Sisko.
VARIS
I've never seen the wormhole.
NOG
Then you're in luck. We know the
best spot on the station for wormhole
watching.
JAKE
Unless you're too busy or something...
VARIS
Not at the moment.
JAKE
Then let's go.
And she EXITS, leaving the boys to follow. Jake and Nog
exchange grins behind her back. They realize she's a little
older, a little more mature... so to have her consent to
hang around with them is a real boost to their egos.
22 EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL) (STOCK)
23 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - NIGHT
The Sirah, in ceremonial clothes, is led into the square by
Hovath. Bashir and O'Brien are with them.
BASHIR
Listen to me, Sirah. You must return
to bed. To be out here... in your
condition...
SIRAH
Your concern touches me, Doctor.
(looks over at O'Brien)
But I'm in the hands of the prophets.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 21.
23 CONTINUED:
They arrive at the platform, which is surrounded by a group
of villagers, including Faren, who stand motionless, softly
mumbling a religious chant. Hovath helps support the Sirah
up the platform stairs. In unison, the villagers lift their
eyes to the darkness. A light wind begins whipping around
the square. O'Brien pulls out his tricorder.
O'BRIEN
Strange. I'm not registering any
atmospheric disturbance...
The Sirah, feeble as he is, suddenly spreads his arms wide,
meeting the full force of the wind which has picked up
considerably.
SIRAH
The Dal'Rok wakes.
CROWD
The Dal'Rok... the Dal'Rok...
SIRAH
We are ready.
CROWD
Yes... we're ready... the Dal'Rok...
SIRAH
In the shadows of the night he
hungers... With the hatred of the
ancients he rages... From the twisted
pit of chaos he approaches...
24 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The Dal'Rok, a large ominously rolling energy cloud, appears
in the sky above the square.
CROWD
(fear building)
The Dal'Rok... the Dal'Rok... it's
here...
24A ANGLE - BASHIR AND O'BRIEN
once again checking the tricorder.
BASHIR
Is it alive?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 21A.
24A CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
The tricorder's still not registering
anything.
BASHIR
Could it be some kind of holographic
image?
O'BRIEN
I'm not picking up any power source.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 22.
25 BACK TO SCENE (OPTICAL)
The Sirah shouts to be heard above the crowd.
SIRAH
The Dal'Rok's anger is like a wave
crashing down on the village.
CROWD
Yes... the anger... a wave... we
feel it.
SIRAH
The weight of its fury threatens to
crush us all. The Dal'Rok thinks
the village is powerless to defend
itself.
Strange lightning flashes begin emitting from the Dal'Rok,
exploding in the sky above the village. Bashir and O'Brien
look around them. The crowd's panic is almost palpable.
The Sirah is nearing exhaustion but he continues to play his
audience for all he's worth.
SIRAH
But the Dal'Rok is mistaken. The
village is strong. Much stronger
than the Dal'Rok can ever imagine.
CROWD
Yes... the village... the village is
strong.
26 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
Particles of shimmering white light behind rising up from
the village and begins shrinking the Dal'Rok.
27
thru OMITTED
29
30 ANGLE - THE SIRAH
Struggling to finish the story.
SIRAH
Our strength... our unity... shall
drive... the Dal'Rok...
The Sirah suddenly collapses.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO 23.
31 NEW ANGLE BASHIR AND O'BRIEN
Bashir heads for the stage as the crowd dissolves into chaos.
CROWD
The Sirah... Is he hurt... Look out...
The Dal'Rok...
32 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
Sure enough the white lights disappear from around the
Dal'Rok, which fires another energy bolt toward the village.
33 ANGLE ON A BUILDING (OPTICAL)
A chunk of a wall explodes.
34 ANGLE ON O'BRIEN
As the crowd cries out in alarm.
O'BRIEN
Bloody hell.
And on his reaction to the destruction, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 24.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
35 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - THE PLATFORM - NIGHT
36 CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
Bashir administers to the Sirah, as interactive lighting and
sound remind us that the Dal'Rok is still raging overhead
(though no more damage is seen). The Sirah begins to stir.
BASHIR
Chief, help me get him down from
here.
The Sirah forces himself to his feet, Bashir lending support.
SIRAH
Where is my successor?
O'Brien and Hovath step onto the platform.
HOVATH
Sirah...
But the Sirah ignores the youth and holds a hand out to
O'Brien.
SIRAH
The one the prophets sent.
The Sirah grabs hold of O'Brien's hand.
O'BRIEN
Wait a second, you've got the wrong
guy.
SIRAH
(an urgent whisper)
Say as I say... the village shall
not be destroyed.
O'BRIEN
What?
SIRAH
Quickly.
O'Brien looks over at Bashir, who's just as perplexed as he
is.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 24A.
35 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
(feeling foolish)
The village shall not be destroyed.
SIRAH
Louder. So they can all hear.
O'BRIEN
(to the crowd)
The village shall not be destroyed.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 25.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
The Sirah keeps a tight grip on O'Brien, summoning up
every last bit of strength to get through this crisis.
SIRAH
(a whisper)
Despite our fears, we stand our ground
and face the Dal'Rok.
O'BRIEN
(to the crowd)
Despite our fears, we stand our ground
and face the Dal'Rok.
36 ANGLE THE VILLAGERS
watching the battle with newfound hope.
CROWD
Stand fast. Face the Dal'Rok.
37 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As once again the shimmering particles of white light begin
shooting up at the Dal'Rok.
ANGLE THE PLATFORM
38 The Sirah is rapidly whispering to O'Brien who repeats the
words for all to hear.
O'BRIEN
The village is strong.
CROWD
The village is strong.
O'BRIEN
More powerful than the Dal'Rok.
CROWD
More powerful than the Dal'Rok.
O'BRIEN
Together we use that power to drive
it away.
CROWD
Drive it away.
O'BRIEN
Drive it away!
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 25A.
38 CONTINUED:
CROWD
Drive it away!
39 ANGLE - THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The white lights have completely encircled the Dal'Rok. A
beat and then both the Dal'Rok and the lights fade away.
O'BRIEN (V.O.)
The Dal'Rok is defeated.
40 ANGLE THE PLATFORM (OPTICAL)
Still taking his cues from the Sirah.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 26.
40 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
The village is safe.
The villagers cheer wildly.
CROWD
The village is safe. All thanks to
the prophets. The Sirah. The Sirah.
The Sirah drops O'Brien's hand and slumps against him.
O'Brien and Bashir lower down to the floor of the platform.
Bashir leans over to examine him, but there's nothing he can
do. The villagers fall silent.
BASHIR
He's dead.
Hovath drops to his knees in mourning, but Faren leaps onto
the stage and addresses the villagers.
FAREN
The Sirah has left us.
Faren waits a beat or two, and then throws a welcoming arm
around O'Brien.
FAREN
But the prophets have sent us his
successor.
The villagers erupt with thunderous cheers.
FAREN
(continuing)
A new Sirah to tell the story.
CROWD
A new Sirah... the story... All thanks
to the prophets.
FAREN
A new Sirah to protect the village.
The villagers roar their approval.
41 CLOSE ON O'BRIEN
too astonished to even protest.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 27.
42 OMITTED
43 INT. QUARK'S
Not very crowded. Kira ENTERS and sits down at the bar.
Quark hurries over.
QUARK
Major, what a pleasant surprise. I
always look forward to one of your
infrequent visits.
KIRA
Spare me the small talk and get me a
star drifter.
Quark begins gathering the ingredients.
QUARK
So, how are the negotiations coming
along?
KIRA
Better make it a double.
Quark nods sympathetically.
44 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Sisko studying a PADD. The door chimes.
SISKO
Come in.
Varis ENTERS.
VARIS
You asked to see me.
SISKO
Please, sit down.
Varis doesn't move.
VARIS
I just spent the last five hours
sitting at a conference table.
SISKO
Yes, five long, unproductive hours.
VARIS
Woban is an obstinate fool.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 28.
44 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Woban is here to talk. What are you
here for?
VARIS
I would think that was obvious. To
defend the interests of my people.
SISKO
How? By starting a war?
Varis bristles at the suggestion.
VARIS
I object to your tone, Commander.
SISKO
Because if that's what you want, if
you'd rather fight than talk, then
we're just wasting our time.
VARIS
That land belongs to the Paqu.
SISKO
The Navot don't agree.
VARIS
Then they'd better be ready to die
for it. I am. Or don't you believe
me?
SISKO
(frustration showing)
I believe in people working together
to find reasonable solutions to their
problems. I hope you do as well.
It takes a moment for Varis to control her temper, and when
she speaks, it's with a cold, flat anger.
VARIS
What you "hope" is no concern of
mine. Now, anything else you wish
to say to me can be said tomorrow
across the conference table.
She turns to leave.
SISKO
Varis...
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 29.
44 CONTINUED: (2)
She turns back to Sisko.
SISKO
Are you sure your people are as ready
as you are to die for that land?
Varis stares at Sisko for a beat. EXITS. Hold on Sisko,
who's not looking forward to tomorrow.
44A EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) (STOCK)
44B INT. PROMENADE - DAY TWO
Jake and Nog are checking the premises for Varis.
NOG
Where do you think she is?
JAKE
I guess if she's not here, we can
try again at her quarters.
NOG
When we find her, I want you to let
me do the talking.
JAKE
She asks me questions... I answer
them. What's wrong with that?
NOG
Just remember, I saw her first.
(a beat)
She's mine.
45 INT. PROMENADE STAIRS
As the boys climb to the second level.
JAKE
Then, how come you can barely say
two words to her without getting
tongue-tied?
NOG
That's a lie.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 29A.
45 CONTINUED:
JAKE
I've never seen you so nervous. You
must really like her.
NOG
I never said that.
46 INT. SECOND LEVEL
Jake and Nog reach the landing. They both stop short as
they see Varis seated at their hangout, her feet dangling
over the edge of the walkway. She looks pretty miserable.
47 NEW ANGLE
As an embarrassed Nog bumps into Jake, he hopes she hasn't
heard them.
NOG
Uh... we were... uh... just...
JAKE
Looking for you.
VARIS
(subdued)
I've been... busy.
Jake and Nog sit down on either side of her.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 30.
47 CONTINUED:
JAKE
(picking up on her
mood)
Is something wrong? You seem a little
depressed.
VARIS
(a beat)
It's nothing, really.
(wanting to talk)
It's just... there are these people...
who want something I have... and I
refuse to give it to them.
Nog perks up. Here's a chance to help the girl of his dreams.
NOG
How badly do they want it?
VARIS
Very badly.
NOG
Is there anything they have that you
want?
VARIS
That I want?
NOG
Maybe this isn't a problem. Maybe
it's an opportunity.
Varis considers for a moment.
VARIS
Maybe...
JAKE
When I have a problem I can't figure
out, I ask my dad.
NOG
(determined not to be
outdone by Jake)
I ask my dad, too.
VARIS
It helps, doesn't it?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 31.
47 CONTINUED: (2)
JAKE NOG
Yes. No.
JAKE
My dad's a pretty smart guy.
NOG
Mine, too.
(off Jake's look)
In his own way.
VARIS
My parents are dead. They were killed
by the Cardassians.
JAKE
I'm sorry. My mom was killed during
an attack by the Borg.
There's a moment of mutal sympathy between Jake and Varis.
JAKE
Isn't there someone you can talk to?
Someone you trust?
VARIS
I don't trust many people.
JAKE
My dad says...
NOG
Could we please talk about something
besides your father?
VARIS
(to Jake)
You admire him very much, don't you?
JAKE
(smiling)
I trust him.
ODO
Mister Sisko...
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 31A.
48 NEW ANGLE
as Odo heads towards them. Varis hides her face so that Odo
doesn't recognize her. She wants her relationship with Jake
kept hidden from Sisko.
NOG
(uh-oh)
Odo...
JAKE
We were just leaving.
Jake and Nog pull Varis to her feet and head for the hills.
49 CLOSE ON ODO
not bothering to pursue. He allows himself the smallest
trace of a smile at the fear he inspires in Jake and Nog.
50 OMITTED
51 INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER - DAY
O'Brien pacing the room. Bashir gazing out a window.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT THREE 32.
51 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
(musing)
I wonder what was controlling those
energy creatures.
O'BRIEN
One thing's certain, it wasn't me.
BASHIR
Try telling that to the villagers.
They saw the Sirah choose you as his
successor.
O'BRIEN
He made a mistake.
BASHIR
But you saw how he greeted you when
we arrived. It was as if he were
expecting you.
(upbeat)
I'll tell you, Chief, I'm glad you
came along on this mission. If it
wasn't for you, I'd have just done
what I could for the Sirah and left.
Look at what I'd have missed.
O'BRIEN
I'm glad you're enjoying yourself...
Julian.
BASHIR
Don't worry, Chief, I have faith in
you.
O'BRIEN
(not inspired)
Do you?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT THREE 32A.
51 CONTINUED: (2)
BASHIR
(a throwaway)
For all we know, you really were
sent by the prophets.
That raises O'Brien's hackles.
O'BRIEN
I was sent by Commander Sisko.
(a beat)
That Dal'Rok... or whatever... will
be returning tonight... and everyone's
counting on me to stop it... Only
trouble is I don't have the slightest
idea how I'm supposed to do that.
52 NEW ANGLE
Faren, Hovath and some villagers ENTER carrying various
presents (food, jewels, clothing).
FAREN
These gifts are for you, Sirah.
The offerings do not improve O'Brien's mood.
O'BRIEN
Well tell them I don't want...
BASHIR
(interrupting)
Bring them right in. Put them
wherever you like.
The villagers do as they're told, all the while gazing
respectfully at O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
Now look... Julian...
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE 33.
52 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
We're visitors here, Chief. It
wouldn't be polite to refuse our
hosts.
The villagers file out, leaving behind Faren, Hovath and
three beautiful Bajoran women, whose eyes never leave O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
(uncomfortable)
How can I help you ladies?
BASHIR
(way ahead of him)
I think they're the ones offering
services, Chief.
The women smile modestly at O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
(appalled)
Now look here, there's been a serious
misunderstanding...
FAREN
Is there a problem, Sirah?
O'BRIEN
No, they're not... well, yes...
they're quite... Look, I have a wife
and daughter back at DS Nine.
FAREN
(no problem)
Of course.
Faren gestures to the women, who EXIT.
FAREN
(to O'Brien)
You must send for them.
O'BRIEN
Why?
FAREN
So they can live here with you.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 34.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
(that takes the cake)
You're missing the point. You see,
I'm not staying.
Faren just doesn't get it.
FAREN
Then who will tell the story?
O'BRIEN
You'll just have to find someone
else.
FAREN
But there is no one else. The Sirah
chose you.
BASHIR
He made a mistake.
FAREN
But what about the Dal'Rok? Without
your protection, he'll kill us all.
O'BRIEN
Look, Faren, I'd like to help, really
I would, but I don't know how.
FAREN
You must tell the story.
O'BRIEN
(sees there's no point
in arguing)
As simple as that, is it?
Faren nods. Secure in his faith.
FAREN
May the prophets grant you victory,
Sirah.
O'BRIEN
Let's hope so.
Faren EXITS.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE 35.
53 ANGLE HOVATH
about to follow. He pauses to stare unobserved at O'Brien.
It's a jealous, hateful stare.
54 NEW ANGLE
Hovath turns and EXITS, leaving O'Brien and Bashir alone in
the room.
BASHIR
Now what do we do?
O'BRIEN
The way I see it, there's only one
way out of this mess. We have to
find out exactly what this Dal'Rok
is, and destroy it... before it
destroys us.
Bashir nods in agreement as we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 36.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
55 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
SISKO (V.O.)
Station Log supplemental. We have
completed a second day of talks
between the Paqu and the Navot. So
far, we're no closer to finding a
solution than we were when
negotiations began.
56 INT. VARIS'S QUARTERS
A thoughtful Varis is seated at a table studying a monitor
displaying a map of the disputed border. The door CHIMES.
VARIS
Enter.
57 NEW ANGLE
Jake and Nog tramp in, their happy-go-lucky attitudes in
sharp contrast to Varis, who shuts off the monitor.
JAKE
Hi, you want to do something?
VARIS
I'm sorry. Not right now.
Nog's disappointed, but Jake sees that she means it.
JAKE
Okay, we'll stop by later.
He turns to go, but Nog isn't ready to admit defeat.
NOG
Is there anything we can do to cheer
you up?
VARIS
(appreciates the
concern)
I don't think so.
NOG
You're sure?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 37.
57 CONTINUED:
Jake takes hold of Nog's arm and leads him toward the
door.
JAKE
(quietly)
Let's go, before you embarrass
yourself.
But before they exit...
VARIS
Wait.
Nog pulls away from Jake.
NOG
(to Varis)
Yes?
Varis is clearly uncomfortable asking for help from Jake and
Nog. But at the moment, she truly feels she has no one else
to turn to.
VARIS
You remember that... opportunity we
were discussing yesterday?
NOG
Yes.
VARIS
How can you be sure that an
opportunity is worth the risk?
Nog smiles. At last he's on familiar ground.
NOG
Instinct. The Ninth Rule of
Acquisition clearly states
"opportunity plus instinct equals
profit."
VARIS
(half to herself)
Instinct.
JAKE
(to Nog)
That's not gonna help.
But Varis brightens a bit.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/03/93 - ACT FOUR 38.
57 CONTINUED: (2)
VARIS
I think it does. Thank you, Nog.
Nog smiles, delighted to have been of assistance.
NOG
Good. Let's celebrate.
And as Varis considers the request...
VARIS
Celebrate... ?
Nog reaches into his pocket, pulls out a Cardassian computer
chip.
NOG
I took one of my uncle's security
rods.
JAKE
What are we gonna do with that?
NOG
I don't know...
(an idea)
We could swipe Odo's bucket.
JAKE
Are you kidding?
VARIS
A bucket?
NOG
(to Jake)
We'll give it back.
JAKE
Yeah, but...
NOG
It'll be funny.
JAKE
But we can't just walk into
security...
NOG
Watch me.
He heads for the door. Varis and Jake, who is not convinced
this is such a hot idea, follow after him.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR 39.
58
thru OMITTED
59
60 INT. PROMENADE - THE REPLIMAT
as Jake, Nog, and Varis arrive. Nog looks inside the Security
Office, then motions to the others to wait for him. Before
Jake can protest, Nog disappears into an alcove near the
Security Office.
VARIS
(to Jake)
I still don't understand what's so
funny about a bucket.
JAKE
Odo lives in it.
Off Varis's surprised expression...
JAKE
(continuing)
He's a shape-shifter. Every sixteen
hours he has to change back to his
original form.
VARIS
Inside a bucket?
JAKE
He turns into some kind of liquid.
60A THEIR POV
The Security doors open. Nog stands inside. Waves them
over.
61 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Jake and Varis join Nog inside the semi-dark office.
JAKE
(to Nog)
Maybe this isn't such a good idea.
NOG
(ignores the warning)
Watch the front door. I'll be right
back.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 39A.
61 CONTINUED:
Nog EXITS into a back room. Jake checks the Promenade.
VARIS
Jake, you're sure this is all right?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
61 CONTINUED: (2)
JAKE
(trying to convince
himself)
Well... it's not like we're really
stealing anything.
Nog, carrying the bucket, comes running in from the back
room.
NOG
Found it.
Suddenly he trips. A thick goo spills out of the bucket.
JAKE
(panicked)
Odo!
Nog cracks up.
NOG
It's oatmeal. I filled it from the
replicator.
JAKE
Very funny.
NOG
You should have seen your face!
Nog continues to laugh. A beat then Jake joins in. Even
Varis smiles. It's the first real smile we've seen from
her. It's endearing, she finally looks like a kid.
62 NEW ANGLE
as the front door opens and Odo ENTERS. Spots Nog with the
bucket.
ODO
I believe that belongs to me.
Caught red-handed, Nog hands the bucket to Odo. But the
moment Odo grabs it, Nog darts out through the open door.
63 INT. PROMENADE
Nog comes barreling out of the security office only to run
right smack into Sisko, who catches hold of him.
SISKO
What's the rush?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR 41.
63 CONTINUED:
Nog isn't about to say.
64 SISKO'S POV
as he spots Odo in the doorway with Jake and Varis.
65 ANGLE SISKO
HOLD on his surprised reaction.
66 EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL)
67 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY
Bashir watches O'Brien check the damaged building with his
tricorder.
O'BRIEN
There's some residual neutrino levels
in the microstructure of the building
material.
BASHIR
But if the Dal'Rok has no physical
substance, how can it leave a neutrino
trace?
O'BRIEN
I didn't say it made sense. But
this wall didn't just spontaneously
blow itself to pieces.
BASHIR
Lucky for us, you were able to stop
it before it did anymore damage.
O'BRIEN
All I did was repeat what the Sirah
told me.
BASHIR
All right, then how did the Sirah stop
it?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 42.
O'BRIEN
Good question. Maybe there's some
kind of controlling mechanism hidden
somewhere.
O'Brien begins examining the platform.
68 NEW ANGLE
A WOMAN, carrying an infant, approaches. O'Brien intent on
his search, tries to step around her.
O'BRIEN
Excuse me, miss...
She blocks his path.
WOMAN
Please Sirah, for the baby...
O'BRIEN
What about her?
BASHIR
I think she wants you to bless the
child.
O'BRIEN
Me?
WOMAN
(heartfelt)
It would mean so much.
O'Brien, at a loss, pats the infant on the head.
O'BRIEN
I'm sure she'll make you very proud.
WOMAN
Thank you.
She walks off, thrilled by the encounter.
O'BRIEN
You're quite welcome.
69 NEW ANGLE
as more villagers come forward.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 43.
69 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
Looks like some more of your followers
are requesting an audience
O'BRIEN
This won't do. You continue looking
around here. I'll check the Sirah's
room.
O'Brien EXITS. Bashir intercepts the villagers. Flashes
his most boyish grin.
BASHIR
I'm afraid the Sirah is busy at the
moment. Perhaps I can be of service.
70 NEW ANGLE
to include Hovath in the crowd.
71 INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER
O'Brien searches the room. Looks up to find...
72 HOVATH
standing in the doorway.
O'BRIEN
(no time for
interruptions)
Look, I could use a little privacy.
HOVATH
There are more gifts outside.
O'BRIEN
(no time to argue)
All right, bring them in...
He's about to resume his search, but gets an idea and turns
back to Hovath.
O'BRIEN
Hold on. You worked for the Sirah,
didn't you?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 43A.
72 CONTINUED:
HOVATH
I was his apprentice.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR 44.
72 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
Did he ever reveal any of his secrets?
How he controlled the Dal'Rok, that
sort of thing?
Hovath regards O'Brien with surly contempt.
HOVATH
Why ask me? Surely the Sirah taught
you all you need to know.
O'Brien can see that Hovath isn't willing to help.
O'BRIEN
All right, have it your way. But
don't blame me when that creature
goes rampaging through your village.
O'Brien resumes exploring the room.
73 NEW ANGLE
As soon as O'Brien turns his back, Hovath removes a dagger
hidden in his shirt. Raising up the blade he advances on
O'Brien who, at the last moment, senses the danger and turns
just as Hovath lunges at him. They struggle, O'Brien trying
to wrest the knife away from the youth, whose pent up anger
makes him a formidable foe.
74 ANGLE BASHIR
as he ENTERS the room.
BASHIR
Chief!
He runs over and tries to pull Hovath away. Enraged, the
youth turns his attack on Bashir.
O'BRIEN
(to Bashir)
Careful, don't hurt him.
But it's Hovath who's getting the better of Bashir, the knife
point moving ever closer to the doctor's chest.
BASHIR
I'll try not to.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR 45.
74 CONTINUED:
O'Brien grabs hold of Hovath, making it a three-way tussle.
O'BRIEN
That's enough.
BASHIR
Tell him that.
O'Brien finally manages to extract the knife from Hovath's
grip and shove him against the wall.
O'BRIEN
I said that's enough. Now you mind
explaining why you tried to kill me?
HOVATH
You are not the true Sirah.
O'BRIEN
You won't get any argument from me.
BASHIR
(to Hovath)
If he's not, who is?
HOVATH
(simply)
I am.
And off their reaction, we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 46.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
75 INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER
As before.
HOVATH
For five years, I studied with the
Sirah, learning the secrets of the
storyteller.
(to O'Brien)
Only to have you come along and take
my place.
O'BRIEN
Look friend, as far as I'm concerned,
the job's yours.
BASHIR
(to Hovath; re: O'Brien)
But if you were supposed to take
over, why did the Sirah pick him?
HOVATH
(ashamed)
It was his way of punishing me.
BASHIR
Punishing you?
HOVATH
Three nights ago, the Sirah allowed
me to tell the story. But when the
Dal'Rok appeared, I was unable to
control it. Several people were
injured.
O'BRIEN
Control it? How?
Hovath crosses to a table and picks up the Sirah's bracelet.
HOVATH
With this.
O'Brien and Bashir examine the bracelet.
HOVATH
The stone is said to be a fragment
of an orb from the celestial temple.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 47.
75 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
We had one of the orbs aboard our
station. We're aware of how powerful
they are.
HOVATH
Many years ago, this village was
deeply divided by hate and mistrust.
The first Sirah knew that unless he
could find a way to unite the people,
the village would destroy itself.
So he used the orb fragment as a
catalyst to give their fears a
physical form.
O'BRIEN
So the villagers' thoughts create the
Dal'Rok.
HOVATH
But they don't know that. It's a
secret passed from Sirah to Sirah.
O'BRIEN
Why do they need a storyteller?
HOVATH
The story helps focus the villagers'
thoughts...
BASHIR
(putting it all
together)
And enables them to defeat the Dal'Rok
by creating the shimmering lights.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 47A.
75 CONTINUED: (2)
HOVATH
(a beat)
I know if I had another chance, I
could control the Dal'Rok.
O'Brien looks Hovath in the eye, sizes him up, then hands
him the ceremonial clothes.
O'BRIEN
Well son, it looks like tonight you're
going to get that chance.
Hovath smiles gratefully at O'Brien as he drapes the Sirah's
clothes around himself.
FAREN (O.S.)
What is this?
75A NEW ANGLE
Faren stands in the doorway.
FAREN
(to Hovath; outraged)
You have no right to wear those
clothes.
HOVATH
I have every right...
FAREN
You had your chance to prove
yourself... you failed.
HOVATH
It won't happen again.
FAREN
That's right... because you won't be
allowed to endanger the village a
second time. Now take off those
robes.
A beat and then Hovath removes the garment and hands it back
to O'Brien.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FIVE 47B.
75A CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Hold on...
FAREN
(to O'Brien)
Sirah, it's time you were getting
ready. The people have assembled to
hear the story.
O'Brien sighs. He's not looking forward to this.
76 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
77 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Varis stands before Sisko. Her usual combative attitude is
nowhere in evidence.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FIVE 48.
77 CONTINUED:
VARIS
I want you to know Commander, that I
take complete responsibility for
what happened in the security office.
SISKO
I think there's more than enough
blame to spread around. Jake should
have known better.
VARIS
I'm afraid he and Nog were just trying
to impress me.
SISKO
That's not much of an excuse.
VARIS
Didn't you ever do anything foolish
to impress a girl?
Sisko has to concede the point.
SISKO
I may have.
VARIS
Jake's a nice boy. So's Nog, in his
own way. I enjoy their company.
SISKO
I suppose you don't get much of a
chance to be with people your own
age.
VARIS
True. But that's not why I wanted
to be with them.
(off Sisko's reaction)
I wanted to learn about you.
Sisko can't help but be impressed. Beneath all the bad
attitude, this is one savvy girl.
SISKO
And... ?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 49.
77 CONTINUED: (2)
VARIS
Jake think's very highly of you.
He... trusts you.
SISKO
(smiling)
That's always nice to hear.
Varis takes a seat. For the rest of the scene, her words
are spoken softly and with great thought behind them.
VARIS
Hearing Jake speak of you reminded
me how much I miss my own parents.
My father was a great man. A great
leader.
SISKO
I'm sure he'd be very proud of you.
VARIS
I try to be strong... the way he was
strong... but it's... difficult.
SISKO
From what I've learned about your
father, he wasn't afraid to
compromise.
VARIS
That's because he knew the Navot
feared him. If I were to make
concessions, Woban would think I was
weak.
SISKO
I doubt he would be that foolish.
(a beat)
But he is determined to get back
that land.
VARIS
I'm not afraid of Woban or the Navot.
SISKO
I never said you were.
(a beat)
So your answer is still no.
VARIS
You don't lose by saying no.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 50.
77 CONTINUED: (3)
SISKO
Maybe. But a great leader... like
your father... is one who's willing
to risk saying yes.
Sisko's words hit home. It's the final push that Varis's
needs to take this next great step.
VARIS
Commander, I believe I know of an...
opportunity... that could allow both
sides to say yes.
That piques Sisko's interest.
78
thru OMITTED
80
81 EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - NIGHT
O'Brien (dressed as the Sirah), Bashir, Faren and Hovath
approach the platform passing villagers bowed in meditation.
O'BRIEN
(out of the side of
his mouth)
I thought you wanted this job.
HOVATH
I do.
O'BRIEN
Then why don't you fight for it.
But Hovath's mind is made up.
HOVATH
No, Faren is right. The people will
never accept me as Sirah and without
their support, I could never control
the Dal'Rok.
O'BRIEN
And you think I can?
HOVATH
You have to.
As they reach the steps...
BASHIR
Good luck.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 51.
81 CONTINUED:
O'Brien mounts the steps as if on the way to a hanging.
82 NEW ANGLE
As O'Brien reaches the platform, the wind begins kicking up.
O'Brien is unsure how to proceed. The crowd begins to grow
restless.
CROWD
Speak... The story... Speak... Tell
the story.
O'Brien looks to Faren, Hovath and Bashir. No help there.
Resigned to the fact that there's no way out, O'Brien
addresses the crowd.
O'BRIEN
(ill-at-ease)
Once upon a time, there was a Dal'Rok.
He lived there...
(points)
In the woods... and he hated the
village... and all of the villagers...
and wanted to see them destroyed.
83 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The energy cloud appears in the distant sky.
CROWD
The Dal'Rok... it's here... the
Dal'Rok.
84 ANGLE BASHIR
Both impressed and curious. Maybe O'Brien can actually pull
this off.
85 ANGLE O'BRIEN
feeling the pressure.
O'BRIEN
Yes... the Dal'Rok has arrived...
and it's... it's...
O'Brien is at a loss for words.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 52-53.
85A ANGLE ON BASHIR
Silently rooting him on.
85B BACK TO O'BRIEN
No choice but to go for it.
O'BRIEN
...hungry. But... the village is
prepared to fight.
86 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The Dal'Rok keeps coming. But there's no sign of the
sparkling energy lights.
87 ANGLE BASHIR AND HOVATH
HOVATH
Something's wrong.
BASHIR
What's wrong is O'Brien's not the
Sirah. You are.
88 ANGLE O'BRIEN
fiddling with the bracelet as he tries again.
O'BRIEN
The village is strong... and
powerful... and unafraid... to face
the Dal'Rok.
89 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The lights still haven't made an appearance. The Dal'Rok is
almost overhead.
90 ANGLE BASHIR AND HOVATH
The doctor is giving the kid the full court press.
BASHIR
Did you ever think maybe the Sirah
planned all this?
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 54.
90 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
He knew the villagers had lost
confidence in you, so he chose O'Brien
as his successor, knowing you'd have
to rescue him.
(urgent)
Don't you see? This is your chance
to prove once and for all that you're
the true Sirah.
As this sinks in with Hovath...
91 ANGLE O'BRIEN
Eyes locked onto the Dal'Rok, still not ready to give up.
O'BRIEN
All right, let's really focus on this
one and send the Dal'Rok a message...
Okay, let's send that message...
(searches the sky)
Where the hell are those lights?
92 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The Dal'Rok swipes at the air.
93 ANGLE O'BRIEN (OPTICAL)
The impact knocks him to his knees.
94 ANGLE PLATFORM
As the villagers panic, Bashir and Hovath race over to a
dazed O'Brien and help him to his feet.
95 ANGLE HOVATH
Hovath grabs the bracelet off O'Brien's wrist, puts it on,
and addresses the crowd.
HOVATH
Wait, there's no need to run. A new
voice appears to challenge the
Dal'Rok.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT FIVE 55.
96 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
Sure enough the sparkling energy light begins flying up toward
the Dal'Rok.
96A ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR (OPTICAL)
reacting to the arrival of the lights.
O'BRIEN
It's about time.
97 ANGLE THE PLATFORM
Hovath is gaining confidence by the second.
HOVATH
The Dal'Rok is a fearsome enemy.
The mountains shake with its fury.
But our prosperity is its misery.
Our unity is its vulnerability. Our
strength is its doom.
(a beat)
Look... the Dal'Rok trembles. It
fears our strength. It fears our
determination. It knows it cannot
stand against us.
98 ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)
The lights close around the Dal'Rok, shutting it from view.
A beat and then the energy display fades back into the night.
99 ANGLE THE PLATFORM
HOVATH
There... see for yourselves, the
Dal'Rok is defeated. The village is
safe for another year.
CROWD
The Sirah... Sirah.
100 ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR
as the villagers cheer their new Sirah. O'Brien removes the
ceremonial robe and lays it on to the platform. Then he
grabs Bashir and leads him away.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT FIVE 55A.
100 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Let's get out of here before they
change their minds.
Bashir doesn't need to be told twice.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
101 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) - DAY THREE
102 OMITTED
102A INT. PROMENADE - THE TURBOLIFT
The doors open and Sisko and Varis step out, on their way to
another round of negotiations.
SISKO
Nervous?
VARIS
Not at all.
(admission)
Maybe a little. Do you think Woban
will accept my proposal?
SISKO
It's very possible. It does give
the Navot back their land.
VARIS
And free trade access to both sides
of the river would mean a lot to my
people.
SISKO
(smiling)
It's a reasonable compromise.
102B ANGLE QUARK'S
Jake, Nog and Odo are waiting for them by the entrance.
JAKE
(to Varis)
We thought we'd wish you good luck
with your meeting.
VARIS
(touched)
Thank you.
She leans over and kisses Nog on his cheek.
VARIS
For all your help.
DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
102B CONTINUED:
And if a Ferengi could blush, Nog would be beet red.
103 NEW ANGLE
As Sisko leads Varis into the conference room, Odo places a
hand on the boys' shoulders.
ODO
All right, let's go. You two are going
to clean the Security office until
it shines.
The boys nod, ready to accept their fate. He leads them
away as we pick up...
104 ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR
exiting the Promenade airlock, having just returned from
Bajor.
BASHIR
You know Chief, this is going to
make a fantastic story to tell around
the station.
O'BRIEN
No thanks. I've had my fill of
storytelling for the time being.
BASHIR
Well, I hope you won't mind if I
mention it.
O'BRIEN
Suit yourself... Julian.
Bashir nods. But there's still one more pocket he needs to
empty.
BASHIR
Oh, and Chief, on second thought,
you don't really have to call me
Julian.
O'BRIEN
(poker-faced)
Right you are... Sir.
And as they pass out of range, O'Brien lets slip a private
(yet satisfied) grin.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END •