STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Dramatis Personae"
(fka "Ritual Sacrifice")
#40511-418
Written by
Joe Menosky
Directed by
Cliff Bole
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 This script is not for publication or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
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Return to Script Department FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
FEBRUARY 24, 1993
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Dramatis Personae" 03/15/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Dramatis Personae"
CAST
SISKO ENSIGN
KIRA GUARD
ODO KLINGON
QUARK VALERIAN
BASHIR
DAX
O'BRIEN
COMPUTER VOICE
Non-Speaking
SUPERNUMERARIES
ALIEN
N.D. SECURITY GUARD
N.D. BAJORAN ENSIGNS
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Dramatis Personae" - 03/15/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Dramatis Personae"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
CARGO BAY FOUR WORMHOLE
COMMANDER'S OFFICE (KLINGON SHIP)
CORRIDOR
INFIRMARY
OPS
QUARK'S
SECURITY OFFICE
SISKOIS QUARTERS
RUNABOUT
STAR TREK: DS9 - "Dramatis Personae" - 03/15/93 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Dramatis Personae"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
DOLAMIDE DOLL-uh-mide
DURANIUM der-RAY-nee-um
FAHLEENA fah-LEE-nuh
HON-TIHL hon-TEEL
KALEANS kal-EE-uns
MARIAH muh-RYE-uh
MODELA moe-DELL-uh
PHORETIC FORE-ah-tick
PISTRES PISS-trees
RAZALIN RAZ-zuh-lin
SALTAHINA SAL-ta-nuh
SHERVAL DAS shur-VAL das
TEL-PEH TELL-puh
TERYON TER-ree-on
TOH'KAHT TOE kot
TOLTON TOLL tahn
TRITANIUM TRY-tay-nee-um
TULAMAK TOOL-uh-mok
ULTIMA THULE ULL-tih-muh THOOL
VALERIANS VUH-lair-ee-uns
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"Dramatis Personae"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Establishing.
2 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
The door CHIMES -- SISKO glances up from his computer.
SISKO
Come in.
KIRA steps inside the room. She's angry but she's keeping
her emotions under control.
KIRA
Commander, I just received word that
a Valerian transport has requested
permission to dock here at the
station.
SISKO
(a sympathetic smile)
Let me guess. You're here to
recommend we deny their request.
KIRA
The Valerians ran weapons-grade
dolamide to Cardassian forces during
the occupation of Bajor.
SISKO
I'm aware of that...
KIRA
I believe they're continuing to ship
weapons to the Cardassians... weapons
that could eventually be used to
attack Bajor.
SISKO
I share your concern, Major. But
unless we have proof to back up those
charges...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - TEASER 2.
2 CONTINUED:
KIRA
The proof is on the ship. Let me
conduct a search and if I find any
dolamide, we can confiscate it.
SISKO
I'm afraid it's not that simple.
Dolamide is used for power generators,
reactors, in short-range transports...
KIRA
And for weapons.
SISKO
Only if it's extremely pure.
Kira sighs in exasperation.
KIRA
So we're going to do nothing.
SISKO
I didn't say that. But we can't
just board their ship and start
tearing it apart.
KIRA
Then what can we do?
SISKO
You bring me evidence that the
Valerians are dealing in weapons-
grade dolamide and I promise you the
Federation will use every kind of
diplomatic pressure to stop them.
Kira considers for a beat.
KIRA
You think that'll work?
SISKO
(smiling)
It will if the Valerians want to
keep trading with the Federation.
Kira nods.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - TEASER 3.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
(still not totally
convinced)
All right, we'll try it your way.
SISKO
Good. Then you'll see to it that
the Valerian ship is cleared for
docking.
KIRA
(still doesn't relish
the thought)
Yes, sir.
She EXITS. Sisko goes back to work, satisfied he's done the
correct thing.
3 INT. OPS - CONTINUOUS
Kira continues into Ops. DAX is at her post; BASHIR is
working at a console; several Supernumeraries go about their
business.
DAX
Chief, I have a subspace message for
you from your wife. They've arrived
safely on Bajor.
3A CLOSE ON O'BRIEN
who looks up from one of his engineering monitors.
O'BRIEN
Imagine, taking eleven bored
schoolkids on a visit to the grain
processing center at Lasuma. I'm
glad it's not me.
3B ANGLE THE TURBOLIFT
as ODO exits into Ops.
ODO
(to Kira)
Here's the information you wanted on
the captain of the Valerian ship.
He hands her a PADD.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - TEASER 3A.
3B CONTINUED:
KIRA
Let me know if you find anything
else.
4 DAX
glances up from her console.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - TEASER 4.
4 CONTINUED:
DAX
Sensors are reading elevated neutrino
levels at the wormhole... Something's
coming through...
KIRA
On screen.
As everyone reacts --
5 OMITTED
6 INT. OPS - CONTINUOUS - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN
(OPTICAL)
The wormhole opens and a KLINGON
BIRD OF PREY comes blasting through.
DAX
(off instruments)
It's the Klingon vessel Toh'Kaht.
Sisko emerges from his office.
KIRA
They're not due back for another
month.
SISKO
Open hailing frequencies.
Suddenly the Klingon vessel EXPLODES. The station is rocked
by a shockwave. OFF reactions --
O'BRIEN
I'm reading a transporter signal.
Someone must have beamed off the
ship just as it exploded.
7 IN FRONT OF THE OPS TABLE (OPTICAL)
A KLINGON OFFICER begins to MATERIALIZE -- but is unable to
solidify and remains frozen in a Transporter state. The
Klingon beam is washed in a strange violet light.
SISKO
Mister O'Brien -- ?
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - TEASER 5.
O'Brien jumps into action, rushes to the Transporter panel
and quickly works the controls.
O'BRIEN
Something's interfering with the
rematerialization process.
Dax hurries over to help.
DAX
Lock onto him with our Transporter
signal. Try boosting the annular
containment field.
O'BRIEN
I'm already there...
The figure of the Klingon starts to solidify... O'Brien keeps
working the controls and the Klingon fully MATERIALIZES --
collapses against the Ops table.
Bashir is the first to his side -- running his tricorder
over the alien's battered and scorched body.
BASHIR
He's been hit by weapons fire. It's
severe. We've got to get him into
cryo-stasis.
The Klingon suddenly pushes himself away from the table,
stares around the room with a wild, toothy grin.
KLINGON
Victory...
He shudders and his eyes close, his hand slipping off of
Bashir. The doctor takes a reading from the tricorder, then
looks up.
BASHIR
He's dead.
OFF the reactions.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT ONE 6.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)
8 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE
Establishing.
SISKO'S VOICE
Station log, Stardate 46922.3. We
have identified the dead Klingon --
his name was Hon-Tihl, First Officer
of the Toh'Kaht. Why he died, and
the cause of his ship's destruction,
is still unknown.
9 INT. OPS
Bashir and Dax are briefing Sisko, Kira, O'Brien and Odo.
BASHIR
I found tritanium alloy fragments in
his chest and upper arms. If that
was all, we could have saved him.
But those weapon burns were too
severe.
SISKO
Is there any way to identify the
kind of weapon used?
BASHIR
(nodding)
I'm running a microtissue analysis
right now. We should have the results
in a couple of hours.
KIRA
The Klingon said "victory" before he
died. I wonder what he meant.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT ONE 7.
9 CONTINUED:
DAX
According to the Klingon high command,
the Toh'Kaht was in the gamma quadrant
on a routine bio-survey mission...
O'BRIEN
"Victory"... during a bio-survey... ?
A beat as everyone considers this.
ODO
As I recall the Toh'Kaht put in for
a maintenance check.
SISKO
Ask around the station, see if you
can learn anything about this bio-
survey.
Odo nods. Sisko turns to Dax and O'Brien.
SISKO
(continuing)
I'd like the two of you to take a
Runabout and try to find the
Toh'Kaht's mission recorder. I want
to know what caused that ship to
explode.
O'BRIEN
Aye, Sir.
Everyone stands... except for Dax who seems lost in thought,
a small smile on her face as if she were laughing at some
private joke.
O'BRIEN
Lieutenant...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT ONE 8-9.
9 CONTINUED: (2)
Dax looks up, still smiling...
DAX
Yes...
O'BRIEN
You coming?
Dax gets up.
DAX
I'm sorry, I was... nevermind...
She accompanies O'Brien to the Turbolift.
10 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) (STOCK)
A runabout leaves the station.
10A
thru OMITTED
11
12 INT. OPS (OPTICAL) (VPB)
Kira is at a workstation quickly working the controls, viewing
a series of numbers on a monitor. A small light suddenly
registers on the console. She reacts to the light.
KIRA
Dammit. Not yet...
She reluctantly hits a control and turns toward the
viewscreen. A VALERIAN suddenly appears on the viewscreen --
he is a humanoid with minimal prosthetic.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT ONE 10.
12 CONTINUED:
VALERIAN
Deep Space Nine, this is Valerian
vessel Sherval Das. We are entering
the Bajoran system, clear us for
docking.
KIRA
Negative, Sherval Das. There's going
to be a slight delay.
The Valerian is not happy.
VALERIAN
We are in need of maintenance. It
has been a long journey.
KIRA
I'm sure it has. But we've got our
own problems. You'll just have to
wait --
SISKO (O.S.)
Stand by, Sherval Das.
13 INCLUDE SISKO
as he steps into frame and touches a control on a console --
the Valerian disappears. He turns to Kira, puzzled.
SISKO
I'd like an explanation.
She indicates her workstation.
KIRA
I'm not finished running the
background check on their ship.
SISKO
We agreed there'd be no delays in
the docking procedure --
KIRA
(interrupting)
They just visited Fahleena Three and
Mariah Four -- the same two stops
they used to make when they were
running dolamide to the Cardassians.
The last stop would be the
purification plant on Ultima Thule.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT ONE 11.
13 CONTINUED:
KIRA
If I can place them there, we'll
know they're carrying weapons-grade
material.
A beat as Sisko considers her. He turns, hits a control on
the console and the Valerian reappears.
SISKO
(to Valerian)
Your ship is cleared for docking.
VALERIAN
Thank you, Commander. Sherval Das
out.
The Valerian touches a control in front of him and his image
DISAPPEARS. Sisko turns to Kira.
SISKO
No delays...
Sisko turns and heads toward his office. OFF Kira's face --
the anger just below the surface.
14 INT. QUARK'S
QUARK is behind the bar, playing the "good" bartender to an
Alien patron who looks down in the dumps, slumped over his
drink.
QUARK
Isn't it always the same old story?
I hear it day in, day out. She takes
you for granted. She doesn't
appreciate your... finer qualities.
The Alien just stares at his drink -- if he has any finer
qualities, they aren't readily apparent.
QUARK
(continuing)
The cut of your jib... The twist of
your tulamak...
Still nothing but silence from the patron.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT ONE 12.
14 CONTINUED:
QUARK
(continuing)
The way you turn a phrase...
(beat)
What does she want?
The Alien shrugs, pushes away from the bar, shuffling off.
Quark watches him go with as sympathetic a smile as he can
muster, then glances down and sees two TINY COINS next to
the empty glass. He's furious.
QUARK
(continuing)
Two Pistres? For all my compassion?
(calling after alien)
You call that a tip? No wonder she
left you! You piker!
Quarks snatches up the coins as if to hurl them -- then tucks
them into his pocket.
15 INCLUDE ODO
as he steps up to the bar.
ODO
Trouble, Quark?
The Ferengi brushes off his anger and is quickly back to
normal.
QUARK
Nothing I can't handle.
The Ferengi makes himself a drink.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT ONE 13.
15 CONTINUED:
ODO
I heard you had some problems with
the Klingons the last time they came
through...
QUARK
Spare me from beings who think pain
is pleasure.
(rethinking)
In small doses, perhaps. But the
Klingons? They're rough on the
holosuites. They break the furniture.
He indicates the holosuites.
QUARK
(continuing)
I'm still fixing the walls in
Holosuite Six.
(confidentially)
I'm not saying they don't spend big.
I'm just saying by the time you figure
in the damage, I'm lucky to break
even.
ODO
They do tend toward bluster, don't
they? Throwing their weight around.
Bragging...
Quark nods in agreement.
QUARK
This crew was worse than the last.
"Our glorious mission." I asked
them, "what's so glorious about a
gamma quadrant bio-survey?"
A beat.
ODO
(casual)
And what did they say?
Another beat. Quark suddenly realizes.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT ONE 14.
15 CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK
Crafty tonight, aren't we, Odo?
Looking for clues about the fate of
the Klingons. If I tell you what I
heard, what do I get in return?
ODO
Chances are, what you heard won't
help. So why should I give you
something for it?
QUARK
Because otherwise, I heard nothing.
A beat. Odo indicates the back of the bar.
ODO
Those damaged holosuites. Work crew
seven is probably doing the repairs,
am I right?
QUARK
(suspicious)
Yes...
ODO
Well, it looks as though I might
have to put in a priority request
for work crew seven. The bulkheads
in security could use a little shoring
up.
Quark scowls, giving in.
QUARK
They said they were coming back
through the wormhole with something
that would "make the enemies of the
Klingon Empire tremble."
ODO
Their exact words?
QUARK
A direct quote.
Odo considers this. Quark polishes off his drink.
ODO
You've been most helpful.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT ONE 15.
16 FOLLOW QUARK
as he disposes of the glass.
QUARK
(ruefully)
Don't let it get around.
No response from Odo. Quark turns to look at him.
17 INCLUDE ODO (OPTICAL)
who is now gripping the bar with both hands, apparently in
great pain. Quark is stunned.
QUARK
Odo?
Odo cries out in anguish, grips the bar, reels backward in
pain, HIS HEAD SUDDENLY SPLITTING IN TWO for a long terrible
moment, then coming back together. Odo slumps on to the
bar, unconscious. Quark is horrified. He goes running for
the door. We can see the Infirmary in the b.g.
QUARK
Doctor Bashir! Doctor Bashir!
OFF Odo's stricken face...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT TWO 16.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
18 INT. INFIRMARY
Odo is on his back on a bed, Bashir hovering over him with a
medical diagnostic instrument. Odo's eyes are closed. They
suddenly open with a start.
BASHIR
Welcome back, Constable.
Odo sits up. A beat as he collects himself.
ODO
How am I?
BASHIR
How do you feel?
ODO
Fine.
BASHIR
Good.
(indicates instrument)
Because I've got no way to know.
Your body chemistry defies analysis.
ODO
I don't remember anything...
Odo stretches a bit, seems to be satisfied with his condition.
ODO
(continuing)
But, I'm back to normal?
BASHIR
Like I said -- you tell me. I don't
know what caused it, and I couldn't
tell you if it'll happen again.
There's really nothing more I can do
here.
ODO
Then thank you for your time, Doctor.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT TWO 17.
18 CONTINUED:
Odo gets down from the bed. Bashir starts putting away
his instruments -- a CURIOUSLY COLD, CALCULATING TONE TO HIS
VOICE.
BASHIR
Tell me Odo, do you share my concern
about this Valerian situation?
Odo reacts -- not sure what Bashir is getting at.
ODO
Concern?
Again, the CALCULATING TONE from Bashir.
BASHIR
I think you know what I mean.
ODO
(patronizing)
Why don't you tell me and then you
can be sure I know.
A beat. Bashir nods.
BASHIR
Just don't be surprised if the uneasy
alliance on this station starts to
show a few cracks...
Odo's puzzlement grows.
ODO
What "uneasy alliance"?
BASHIR
Commander Sisko and Kira. Mark my
words, there's going to be trouble.
ODO
Exactly what are you basing all this
on, Doctor?
Bashir is about to answer... but he catches himself and
chuckles appreciatively.
BASHIR
Very clever, Constable.
(a conspiratorial
nod)
You're probably right. It's still
too early to commit oneself either
way.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT TWO 18.
18 CONTINUED: (2)
Odo reacts. A beat.
ODO
Are you finished with me?
Bashir smiles, appears back to normal.
BASHIR
Unless you'd like to pour yourself
through my phoretic analyzer -- I'd
love to see the results.
ODO
Another time, perhaps.
Odo heads for the door. OFF Bashir as his smile fades,
replaced by an ominous coldness in his eyes...
19 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Sisko is at his desk, drawing carefully on a large blueprint-
like large PADD. We are unable to make out what he's working
on. The door suddenly opens and Kira ENTERS.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT TWO 19.
19 CONTINUED:
KIRA
I've got them!
Sisko looks up from his blueprint which he folds over to
hide from Kira's eyes.
SISKO
Who?
KIRA
(of course)
The Valerians. Their ship was at
the Ultima Thule station one week
ago. That confirms it. They're
definitely running dolamide.
SISKO
So... ?
Kira reacts.
KIRA
So I've got an armed team ready to
board their vessel. We confiscate
the material and send them back where
they came from. Frankly, I'm half
tempted to take them to Bajor and
press charges.
Sisko is extremely calm.
SISKO
By whose authority?
Kira reacts, surprised.
KIRA
You're not going to do anything about
this?
SISKO
I'm not. And neither are you.
It's a tone of dismissal -- but Kira won't be put off so
easily.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT TWO 20.
19 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
That ship is acting against Bajoran
interests.
(beat)
This station is Bajoran property.
Sisko slowly stands.
SISKO
(firm)
Commanded by a Federation officer.
Commanded by me. Are you challenging
that, Major?
Kira looks away -- hiding the anger in her eyes.
KIRA
No, Sir...
IT'S A STRANGE, UNCHARACTERISTIC MOMENT between them -- a
weird undercurrent of potential violence. Then Sisko is
suddenly completely calm.
SISKO
Good...
(beat; almost friendly)
Now is there anything else I can do
for you?
Kira looks down at the covered blueprint but refuses to admit
her curiosity. She EXITS. Sisko waits until she's out the
door. Then, pleased to be alone, unfolds the blueprint and
continues to work.
20 INT. RUNABOUT
O'Brien and Dax at the controls. The Runabout is at impulse
speed.
DAX
Short-range sensors are picking up
some debris.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT TWO 21.
20 CONTINUED:
O'Brien checks his instruments.
O'BRIEN
Looks like duranium alloy. Probably
pieces of the Klingon's secondary
hull.
DAX
It's possible their mission recorder
is somewhere in the debris. The
magnetic field from the duranium
could be masking it.
O'BRIEN
Let's get a little closer...
O'Brien adjusts course. A couple of beats go by. THERE'S A
CALCULATING, MACHIAVELLIAN QUALITY TO O'BRIEN'S VOICE WE
HAVEN'T HEARD BEFORE.
O'BRIEN
Major Kira's been awfully aggressive
toward Commander Sisko lately...
about station policy.
DAX
(shrugs)
An honest difference of opinion.
O'Brien works the console.
O'BRIEN
We're within a thousand meters...
Secondary hull fragments, pieces of
the bulkhead... Still no sign of the
recorder.
DAX
I'm taking us closer...
Dax works her controls.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT TWO 22.
20 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
What if it's more than a difference
of opinion? What if Kira thinks the
Bajorans don't need us on DS Nine?
It is their station.
DAX
That would be suicidal. Without a
Federation presence Bajor would be
vulnerable again to the Cardassians.
O'BRIEN
That doesn't mean there aren't plenty
of misguided Bajorans who think they
can go it alone.
Dax smiles, she seems to DRIFT A BIT, ABNORMALLY, LIKE AN
INCOMPETENT DRAWING ON APHORISMS AND CLICHE.
DAX
Isn't it always like that? Bitterness
is the coin by which generosity is
repaid.
(remembering)
I once helped the Federation deliver
rain-inducing technology to Kelton
Four. The end of the drought was
the end of contact. Talk about fair
weather friends --
O'Brien cuts Dax off, as if not listening to her -- AGAIN,
THE CALCULATING TONE.
O'BRIEN
You've become quite friendly with
Major Kira, haven't you?
DAX
(vague)
Have I... ? Well, yes, I suppose I
have... if you say so...
O'BRIEN
Well, I wouldn't get too friendly
with the natives if I were you.
Remember where your loyalties lie.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT TWO 22A.
20 CONTINUED: (3)
DAX
Of course. Benjamin and I have been
close for a long time. Hand and
glove. I'm on his side -- no question
about it.
(smiles, aimlessly)
That reminds me of the time we found
ourselves --
O'BRIEN
(interrupting)
Good. Because anyone against Sisko
is against me.
O'Brien suddenly reacts to his console.
O'BRIEN
I'm picking up a weak subspace
transponder signal.
He quickly works the controls, then looks up at Dax.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT TWO 23.
20 CONTINUED: (4)
O'BRIEN
(continuing)
It's the mission recorder.
OFF their reactions.
21 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo is working at a console. The door opens and Kira steps
inside.
KIRA
Constable...
Odo glances up -- her visit is unexpected.
ODO
Can I help you, Major?
Kira moves closer, her attitude is relaxed. She smiles.
KIRA IS SLY, SEDUCTIVE AND SENSUALLY MANIPULATIVE -- NOT AN
ATTITUDE WE'VE SEEN BEFORE.
KIRA
You always manage to help me, Odo.
In fact, I'd say we work pretty well
together -- you and I.
Odo turns back to the console. He reacts to her overtures
with caution -- not quite sure where she's going.
ODO
Yes. I suppose our relationship has
always been... cooperative.
KIRA
Exactly. And that's just what I
need right now -- your cooperation.
Odo is listening.
KIRA
(continuing)
I'm convinced the Valerians have
dolamide on board. But the evidence
is still circumstantial. I need
solid proof.
(beat)
I want you to slip past their security
systems and into their cargo bay.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT TWO 24.
21 CONTINUED:
Odo looks up, surprised.
ODO
I heard Commander Sisko was adamant
about not interfering with the
Valerian ship. Has he changed his
mind?
KIRA
(too quickly)
Yes.
ODO
How odd.
A beat. Odo doesn't believe her. He stands.
ODO
(continuing)
Very well. I'll keep the two of you
informed of my progress.
KIRA
That's not necessary. The Commander's
busy -- no sense in bothering him.
A moment between them. Odo isn't buying and she knows it.
Kira laughs.
KIRA
(continuing)
I can't fool you, Odo.
ODO
(can't believe it)
You wanted me to go behind Sisko's
back, didn't you?
She studies him -- decides not to push any further.
KIRA
(casual)
Forget it. It was a bad idea.
Kira heads for the door, then pauses. AGAIN, THE STRANGELY
SEDUCTIVE MANNER...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT TWO 25.
21 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
(continuing)
What if you had to choose sides?
(warm smile)
Just remember who your friends are.
Kira is out the door.
OFF Odo's face -- what the hell is going on?
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT THREE 26.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
22 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE
The Valerian transport is docked at the station.
O'BRIEN (V.O.)
Personal log, Miles O'Brien. Stardate
46923.1. We've managed to retrieve
a portion of the Klingon Officer's
journal. Of course, Major Kira heard
about it immediately. She must have
spies everywhere.
23 INT. OPS - INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
Dax and O'Brien are briefing Sisko, Kira and Odo. Sisko
seems distracted, only barely tolerant about being there.
Dax works a panel and the viewscreen displays a shaky
recording of the Klingon who beamed aboard and died. (We
will not hear his entire speech. Only underlined words. It
is important that we do hear the reference to the energy
spheres.)
KLINGON
I believe the Captain has gone insane.
He has executed two more crew members,
charging them with attempted mutiny.
Medical Officer Kee-Bhor came to my
quarters insisting the violence is
being caused by those telepathic
energy spheres we brought back from
Saltah'na. Believing he's the
Captain's spy, I slit his throat.
The image fritzes out.
SISKO
(bored)
I've seen enough.
ODO REACTS, STUNNED AT SISKO'S ATTITUDE -- EVERYONE ELSE
SEEMS TO TAKE IT IN STRIDE.
O'BRIEN
There's more.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT THREE 27.
23 CONTINUED:
KIRA
The Klingon's mission must have
failed... and that failure caused
problems on board...
SISKO
I couldn't care less what happened
to a Klingon ship.
O'BRIEN
The Klingons might want to know.
Dax and I are setting up a data
interpolation to fill in what's
missing -- but it'll take some time...
Dax gives a distant, BLANK SMILE -- again, as if an
incompetent functionary.
DAX
The search itself is often reward
enough.
(to Sisko)
Benjamin, do you remember that wild
goose chase back on Elanu Four... ?
Sisko gives a tolerant half-smile, cuts her off.
SISKO
Fine. Do whatever you have to do,
but don't bother me with it.
Sisko turns and heads for his office. O'Brien starts working
at the console; Dax goes to her station; Kira scowls and
EXITS. Odo is left with a troubled expression on his face.
24 INT. QUARK'S
Dax is at the bar; Quark is setting a vibrantly colored drink
in front of her.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT THREE 28.
24 CONTINUED:
QUARK
Here we are. A Modela aperitif.
It's bright and sweet.
(leering)
Much like yourself, Lieutenant.
(beat)
I'll put it on your tab.
KIRA (O.S.)
The bad flattery is on the house.
25 INCLUDE KIRA
as she steps up to the bar and sits next to Dax.
QUARK
The two loveliest creatures on DS
Nine. I must be living correctly to
be so... blessed. What can I do for
you, Major?
KIRA
Get lost.
Quark reacts, insulted.
QUARK
As you wish...
He moves further down the bar and starts putting away some
glasses.
26 KIRA AND DAX
Kira turns to Dax -- her attitude is casual and friendly.
KIRA
How are you, Lieutenant?
DAX
(weary)
You know what they say -- put the
shoe on the right foot first, but
put the left foot first into the
bathtub.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT THREE 29.
26 CONTINUED:
Kira doesn't know what the hell Dax is talking about but
she nods supportively anyway.
KIRA
I understand.
Kira smiles -- again, she's SEDUCTIVELY MANIPULATIVE in a
way that's far out of character.
KIRA
(continuing)
But what I really meant was...
(beat)
Are you happy?
Dax shrugs, returning the smile.
DAX
That's not a question I get asked
too often.
Kira moves a little closer, more intimate in her manner.
KIRA
Oh, but it should be. In my opinion,
you're the most valuable officer on
this station.
(indicating drink)
May I... ?
DAX
Please.
Kira takes a sip of Dax's drink, then sets it back down in
front of her.
KIRA
Not bad. For Quark.
They both share a laugh. Dax picks up the drink, takes a
sip, then sets it down.
DAX
It is good...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT THREE 30.
26 CONTINUED: (2)
The physical tension between them goes up a few notches.
KIRA
I couldn't imagine running this
station without you.
Dax looks at her for a moment -- thinking seems difficult
for her.
DAX
Are you trying to tell me something?
A beat.
KIRA
My disagreement with Sisko about the
Valerians is no secret. You know
how he gets once he makes a decision.
Dax smiles, looks DISTANT...
DAX
Like talking to a stone.
(muses)
I remember a time on Rochani Three...
We were cornered by a party of Kaleans
who were not at all happy to see us.
But Benjamin --
KIRA
(interrupting)
-- You told me that story this
morning.
DAX
Oh.
(remembering)
I suppose I did...
KIRA
If you were to talk to Starfleet
Command... tell them how displeased
the Bajorans are with Sisko's handling
of this... I'm sure they'd listen to
you...
Dax is quiet for a moment, remembering.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT THREE 31.
26 CONTINUED: (3)
DAX
(sweetly)
I was decorated on my very first
assignment. The Admiral was a
Vulcan... So during the presentation
ceremony --
Kira interrupts.
KIRA
Dax. We have to keep the Valerians
here. Until we can search their
ship and confiscate the dolamide.
You've got to convince Starfleet --
it's for the good of Bajor and the
Federation.
A beat. Dax knits her forehead.
DAX
(fondly)
I've been friends with Benjamin Sisko
for many years... In many ways, he's
like a son to me. Or at least a
nephew...
(getting lost)
Some kind of close relative anyway...
KIRA
(impatient)
Listen to me, Jadzia...
She leans closer to Dax and the threat in her voice is
unmistakable.
KIRA
I'm getting rid of Sisko... one way
or another. Don't force me to get
rid of you as well.
Dax isn't so far gone that she doesn't know she's being
threatened. And as she reacts in fear, we hear the sudden
SOUND OFFSCREEN of clinking glass. Kira whips around at the
noise.
27 INCLUDE QUARK
close enough to eavesdrop -- which is clearly what he's been
doing. In a smooth motion that is still somehow sensual,
Kira stands, GRIPS QUARK BY THE COLLAR, and pulls him to
her. He cries out in pain.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT THREE 32.
27 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(mock sweetly)
Would you like to join us?
QUARK
Let me go!
KIRA
What did you hear?
QUARK
Nothing! Nothing at all!
Kira is still smiling, as she violently tosses him over the
bar and onto the floor.
KIRA
Good.
Quark struggles to his feet, rubbing his neck. Dax gets off
her chair and joins Kira and the two of them leave the bar.
OFF the anxiety and anger on Quark's face as he watches them
go...
28 INT. SECURITY OFFICE
Odo glances up from his workstation to see Quark hurrying
inside. A brightly colored NECKBRACE can be seen inside his
jacket.
ODO
(re: neck)
Is this a Ferengi fashion I'm not
aware of?
QUARK
Kira tried to tear my head off. I
want to file charges.
Odo is immediately attentive.
ODO
Tell me about it.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT THREE 33.
28 CONTINUED:
QUARK
I heard her plotting --
ODO
Go on.
QUARK
(nodding)
She was trying to convince Dax to
take her side against Sisko.
ODO
Did Dax seem persuaded?
QUARK
What difference does that make? I
was attacked!
ODO
Answer the question.
Odo is firm -- Quark shrugs.
QUARK
I couldn't tell. She was on the
fence.
Odo thinks for a moment, taking this all in.
ODO
Doesn't Kira's behavior seem a little
out of the ordinary? And the
others... At the staff briefing Sisko
was bored -- as if he couldn't be
bothered about running the station.
(remembering)
And Bashir... since when is he so
concerned with station politics.
Odo suddenly stares at Quark a bit doubtfully.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT THREE 34.
28 CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK
Don't look at me like that. I'm
perfectly normal.
ODO
I suppose you are.
(a beat)
It's time I had a talk with Sisko.
Odo heads for the door -- Quark reacts.
QUARK
Odo... wait!
No response.
QUARK
(continuing)
Odo! I want satisfaction.
Odo is out the door.
28A INT. OPS - OPTICAL
Odo ENTERS Ops, sees Dax staring at a monitor displaying a
Klingon journal entry. The quality has been improved, but
it's still damaged. Odo watches for a few beats. Once again
we only hear the underlined words of the Klingon's journal.
KLINGON
We have lost the battle for decks
five through twelve. The armory
remains in the hands of Captain Tel-
Peh, who demands my death. But I
remain confident that I can gain
control of this ship.
Dax seems entranced but without much comprehension.
ODO
Sisko... ?
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT THREE 35.
28A CONTINUED:
Dax dully indicates the Commander's office. Odo heads for
it.
29 OMITTED
30 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE (OPTICAL)
O'Brien is working a computer console -- the Klingon First
Officer is on the screen -- a different journal entry from
Dax's monitor. The door CHIMES.
KLINGON
First officer's mission journal...
day twenty-three...
O'BRIEN
Come in.
There's a dropout in the recording. O'Brien works a console
to fix the problem as Odo steps inside -- is surprised to
find O'Brien settled in -- LIKE HE OWNS THE PLACE.
ODO
Where's Commander Sisko?
O'BRIEN
(lightly)
In his quarters. Where he's safe.
Odo isn't quite sure how to respond. So he doesn't. O'Brien
gets the recording working again. The Klingon appears on
the monitor. Of the little we hear of the following, it's
important that the words "energy spheres" be understood.
KLINGON
I am weakened by my wounds. I sense
my enemies are closing in. Still, I
was able to hide the thalmerite device
under a crossbeam near the reactor
core on deck twenty-six. Rather
than be taken prisoner, I will blow
up this ship and transport to safety.
Perhaps medical officer Kee-Bhor was
right. All our trouble began when
we opened those energy spheres. All
I know is that Captain Tel-Peh must
die.
(beat)
Journal closed.
O'Brien stops the image.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/16/93 - ACT THREE 36.
30 CONTINUED:
ODO
It sounds like there was a power
struggle on board. Some kind of
attempted takeover.
O'BRIEN
(shrugs)
Management by mutiny. That's standard
operating procedure on a Klingon
vessel.
ODO
But awfully unusual for a Federation-
run space station...
O'BRIEN
Don't worry, if Major Kira tries
anything we'll be ready.
Odo stares at him for a moment -- decides not to pursue it.
ODO
When will the other log entries be
available?
O'BRIEN
(checks console)
At the current rate of processing --
at least seven more hours. But the
computer's taking it one entry at a
time. I'll set it up so you can
access as it goes.
ODO
Thank you, Chief.
O'BRIEN
Of course, Constable. Don't the
Commander and I always try to make
you happy?
O'Brien flashes a big smile -- it's SINISTER AND COLD, NOT
O'BRIEN AT ALL. Odo self-consciously tries to return it...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT THREE 37.
31 INT. CORRIDOR
Odo is hurrying up the corridor, looking like the weight of
the world is on his shoulders. He gets to a door -- is
surprised to find TWO FEDERATION SECURITY GUARDS FLANKING
IT.
ODO
What are you doing here?
GUARD
Chief O'Brien's orders.
Odo considers for a moment, then touches a door panel.
32 INT. SISKO'S QUARTERS
The door CHIMES. Sisko is at a desk, working on his
blueprint. The design drawing has become more complex. He
doesn't look up. Again, the CHIMES. He still doesn't look
up. But he's not pleased with the interruption.
SISKO
Come in.
The door opens and Odo steps inside. Sisko keeps working.
ODO
Commander...
Sisko continues working, never looking at Odo.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT THREE 38.
32 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Hello, Constable. How are you today?
ODO
Concerned, Sir.
SISKO
On such a fine afternoon? How
inappropriate.
SISKO IS WEIRDLY MELLOW, ALMOST OPIATE-LIKE IN HIS FASCINATION
WITH THE DRAWING.
ODO
Commander, I think something might
be wrong with --
(cautiously)
some of us. Ever since the Klingon
ship exploded, and their First Officer
beamed over... certain behaviors and
attitudes have been... abnormal.
A long silent beat as Sisko keeps drawing. Odo plunges ahead.
ODO
(continuing)
There appears to have been a mutiny
on the Klingon ship. I wouldn't go
so far as to say the same thing is
happening on DS Nine. But I find
some disturbing parallels --
Sisko interrupts.
SISKO
-- If something's bothering you,
Odo, tell it to Mister O'Brien.
That's what he's there for.
Sisko puts down the drawing pen and proudly holds up the
blueprint PADD.
SISKO
(continuing)
What do you think?
It's a design for an elaborate timepiece, with hands and
wheels and cogs and springs in profusion. Odo glances from
the drawing to the Commander -- THIS IS NOT THE SISKO HE
KNOWS.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT THREE 38A.
32 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO
What is it?
SISKO
It's a clock. Fascinating, isn't
it?
OFF the look on Odo's face -- he feels very much alone.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FOUR 39.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
33 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE
The Valerian ship is still at its dock.
33A
thru OMITTED
34
35 INT. SECURITY OFFICE (OPTICAL)
Odo ENTERS, is startled to find Kira is waiting for him.
She's kicked back comfortably, feet up, relaxed -- even more
seductive than we've seen her before.
KIRA
It's not nice to keep a friend
waiting.
Odo is cautious.
ODO
Did we have an appointment?
Kira laughs.
KIRA
When have I ever had to stand on
ceremony with you, Odo?
She takes her feet down, stretches.
KIRA
(continuing)
I need your help.
(beat)
I just took care of the Valerians.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
35 CONTINUED:
Odo reacts.
ODO
What do you mean?
KIRA
I locked down the docking clamps.
That ship isn't leaving until I say
it is.
(beat)
O'Brien will need at least a day to
do anything about it.
(beat)
By then, it won't matter.
Kira takes her feet down, smiles wickedly at Odo.
ODO
You're going after Sisko.
KIRA
And O'Brien. Either we get a more
reasonable commander from Starfleet --
somebody we can control -- or we go
it alone.
Kira stands, moves over to him, standing close by.
KIRA
(continuing)
With me running this place, you'll
be able to do what needs to be done.
If you want to toss Quark out on his
ears -- toss him out. If you want
to proclaim martial law on the
Promenade -- proclaim it. This
station will be yours to protect --
with no interference.
ODO
What's your plan?
Kira studies him for a moment -- Odo's face is completely
unreadable.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FOUR 41.
35 CONTINUED: (2)
KIRA
Odo, I trust you more than anyone on
this station. Because you can't be
corrupted.
(beat)
But this is a dangerous time. I
can't take any chances, even with
you.
Kira steps even closer, stares into Odo's eyes.
KIRA
(continuing)
When the moment comes, you'll know
it. I'll be counting on you.
Kira heads for the door. Odo watches her go.
ODO
Computer, open a channel to Starfleet
Headquarters.
COMPUTER VOICE
Subspace communication to Federation
territories is currently unavailable.
Odo reacts.
ODO
Why?
COMPUTER VOICE
By authority of Major Kira.
Odo thinks for a moment.
ODO
Open a channel to the Bajoran Council.
COMPUTER VOICE
Communication to Bajor is currently
unavailable.
ODO
By authority of Chief O'Brien?
COMPUTER VOICE
That is correct.
Odo sits back in his chair. He thinks for a moment, then
taps a few commands on his console.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FOUR 42.
35 CONTINUED: (3)
ODO
Computer, are you finished
reconstructing the journal of the
Klingon First officer.
COMPUTER VOICE
Data interpolation is complete.
ODO
On screen.
A STILL FRAME image of the dead Klingon appears on the
monitor.
ODO
Computer...
(beat)
Scan the journal for mention of
contact with any alien race.
COMPUTER VOICE
One entry found.
ODO
Play it.
The Klingon appears on the monitor. But he doesn't look
happy.
KLINGON
First Officer's journal, day twenty-
two. Our exploration of the fifth
planet has turned out to be a waste
of time. This world is not worthy
of a Klingon colony. All we found
was a collection of energy spheres
which possessed some type of
telepathic archive. The spheres
described an ancient power struggle
that destroyed a race called the
Saltah'na.
Odo reacts.
KLINGON
We will forward these results to our
science divisions.
He taps the console -- freezing the image. Then he quickly
heads for the door.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FOUR 43.
36 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Sisko is seated at the desk, fiddling with a TIMEPIECE --
the constructed version of his blueprint, which is nearby.
He is attaching some final piece to the mechanism. O'Brien
is pacing nearby, agitated.
O'BRIEN
Kira has already locked down the
Valerian ship. And she's diverted
half the station's systems to her
control.
Sisko's eyes grow cold.
SISKO
Since when?
O'BRIEN
An hour ago. I've heard some
disturbing rumors from our people on
the Promenade.
(beat)
I think she's going to make an attempt
on your life.
Sisko sets down the pen, looks up.
SISKO
I want you to arrest them. Kira and
every Bajoran officer on this station.
I want the names of every sympathizer --
O'BRIEN
(interrupting)
-- That's not a good idea, sir.
There are a lot more of them than
there are of us. If we tip our hand,
it could work against us.
SISKO
(cold)
What can we do?
O'BRIEN
Leave the station.
Sisko is suddenly on his feet -- exploding with rage.
SISKO
Never. Get me a phaser. I'll get
rid of Kira.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 44.
36 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
(calmly)
Hear me out, sir... We leave the
station. Raise a Federation attack
force. And return.
(beat)
And on that day we'll get rid of all
your enemies.
Sisko looks at him -- grows again completely calm -- ALMOST
PATHOLOGICALLY SO. He smiles and sits back down.
SISKO
How do we proceed?
O'BRIEN
I need a few more hours to free up
the Valerian ship. I've already
talked to their Captain. He's more
than happy to take us back to
Federation space.
Sisko finishes attaching the pendulum.
SISKO
Call me as soon as you're ready...
He gives the pendulum a tap with this finger -- it starts to
swing back and forth.
37
thru OMITTED
40A
41 INT. INFIRMARY
Bashir is handing a tiny, palm-held DEVICE over to one of
the BAJORAN N.D. Ensigns seen before in OPS.
BASHIR
It'll take effect in two minutes.
Plenty of time for --
Odo steps in. Bashir and the Ensign react as if caught in
the act -- but Bashir keeps his cool.
BASHIR
(to Ensign)
-- For you to get a good night's
sleep.
ENSIGN
Thank you, Doctor.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 45.
41 CONTINUED:
And with a nod to Odo, he EXITS the room. Bashir turns
to Odo.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 46.
41 CONTINUED: (2)
BASHIR
(re: Ensign)
Chronic insomnia. I think it's
hormonal.
(beat)
So how are you?
ODO
I take it you've completed your
autopsy of the Klingon.
BASHIR
Of course.
(conspiratorially)
You know, Odo, events have been moving
rapidly since our last conversation.
I'd advise you to choose sides or
risk finding yourself without any
friends at all.
ODO
The Klingon, Doctor, what did you
find?
BASHIR
(dismissive)
He's still dead, if that's what you
mean.
Bashir turns away from Odo, who grabs him and pushes him up
against the wall.
ODO
I don't have time for jokes.
Bashir's eyes widen in fear. Odo doesn't release his grip
but he does soften his attitude toward Bashir -- speaks to
him as a fellow conspirator.
ODO
Your findings could determine who
controls this station.
Bashir's interest is peaked.
BASHIR
How?
Odo gives Bashir a knowing smile.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FOUR 47.
41 CONTINUED: (3)
ODO
All in good time... First, tell me
about the Klingon...
BASHIR
I found nothing very unusual. The
columnar cells in his brain stem...
the membrane permeability was off...
ODO
(pressing)
What could cause that?
BASHIR
Any number of things.
ODO
Could it have something to do with
telepathy? The Klingons were studying
the telepathic archives of an ancient
race.
Bashir thinks for a moment.
BASHIR
If those archives were contained
within a self-sustaining energy
matrix, it could explain the changes
in the Klingon's brain.
Odo nods. It's finally starting to make sense to him.
ODO
Could that energy matrix have somehow
caused them to re-enact the power
struggle that destroyed the
Saltah'nans.
BASHIR
(curious)
Possibly. What are you getting at?
ODO
Doctor, I believe the Klingon brought
the matrix with him... and everyone
in Ops was affected except me...
without a humanoid brain, my system
rejected it.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FOUR 48.
41 CONTINUED: (4)
BASHIR
(a beat)
An interesting theory, Constable...
but I'm certainly not behaving out
of the ordinary.
Odo reacts, but plays along.
ODO
Of course not.
(a beat)
But what if you and I are the only
two who aren't affected.
A look of cold realization crosses Bashir's face.
BASHIR
I see... and you think we can use
that to our advantage.
ODO
Exactly.
BASHIR
Tell me your plan.
ODO
The first thing we have to do is
figure out how to remove the field
from everyone affected.
BASHIR
But then we'd lose our advantage.
ODO
Would you rather someone blew up the
station?
BASHIR
I see your point.
ODO
The power to control the energy matrix
is the power to control this station.
BASHIR
If I could determine the natural
resonance frequencies of the field,
I might be able to generate an
interference signal of some kind
which could force it out.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FOUR 49.
41 CONTINUED: (5)
ODO
Do it. I promise, Doctor, you won't
regret it.
Bashir nods, heads for a workstation. Odo takes a deep
breath, then goes to join him.
42 OMITTED
43 INT. OPS (OPTICAL)
O'Brien and Dax are working at a station -- the monitor
displays a schematic of the station and the docked Valerian
ship.
DAX
(distant)
This reminds me of a game I used to
play... It had a maze... What was it
called?
O'BRIEN
I'm through level two. See if you
can isolate the security blocks on
three.
A beat. Dax isn't responding. She smiles at a memory.
DAX
The Winter Garden...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FOUR 50.
43 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Lieutenant.
DAX
(glances up)
Oh. I'm sorry. I must have been
drifting.
O'BRIEN
(patronizing)
Try drifting over here when you get
the chance.
44 INCLUDE SISKO
stepping onto OPS from his office.
SISKO
What's taking so long, O'Brien?
O'BRIEN
Almost there, Sir. We've got one
more level of security lockouts to
break through and the Valerian ship
will be ready to go.
Sisko scowls, starts heading back to his office. Dax glances
up from her work -- exchanges a meaningful look with the
N.D. Bajoran Ensign last seen leaving the Infirmary.
The Ensign picks up a PADD and intercepts Sisko.
ENSIGN
Commander, I have the report you
asked for on those weapon scanners.
SISKO
Give it to Mister O'Brien.
But the Ensign holds out the PADD to Sisko.
ENSIGN
I really think you should see this,
sir.
And in his other palm, we see he's hiding the tiny DEVICE he
got from Bashir.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 50A.
45
thru OMITTED
46
47 O'BRIEN
notices Dax, who can't help but steal a glance at the Ensign's
progress. A look of suspicion crosses O'Brien's face.
48 THE SCENE
Everything happens in a flash.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 51.
-- The Ensign slowly brings the Device up toward Sisko's
back.
-- O'Brien leaps to his feet, shouting.
O'BRIEN
Commander!
-- Sisko whips around, grabbing the Ensign's wrist, sees the
Device, then swings the man violently around, throwing him
over a console.
-- Dax stands in a panic, hitting a companel.
DAX
(to COM)
Dax to Kira!
-- O'Brien backhands her, knocking her out. He dashes for
the transporter controls.
-- Sisko continues after the Ensign, blind with rage.
SISKO
Is it Kira?!
He hauls the Ensign to his feet, holding him up with one
hand and backhanding him with the other.
SISKO
(continuing)
Did Kira put you up to this?
ENSIGN
(fearful)
No...
Another blow.
SISKO
(continuing)
I want the truth.
The Ensign doesn't have a chance to answer before he's struck
again.
SISKO
Is that clear?
Sisko spots the Ensign's DEVICE now on the floor a few feet
away. He hauls the nearly unconscious man over to it, picks
it up and prepares to inject him with it.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FOUR 52.
48 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
Let's see how this works...
48A PHASER BLAST (OPTICAL)
hits the console next to them -- stopping Sisko cold.
49 INCLUDE KIRA
standing at the door, phaser raised, flanked by two armed
guards. Sisko just looks at her.
KIRA
Put it down... Sir...
Kira aims her weapon straight at him. OFF the tension of
the moment.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FIVE 53.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
50 INT. OPS - CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)
The face-off continues. Kira motions toward Sisko and O'Brien
with her weapon.
KIRA
(to guards)
Take them.
O'Brien suddenly DIVES for a Transporter control -- he and
Sisko DEMATERIALIZE.
Kira fires at Sisko -- the phaser blast goes harmlessly
through Sisko's body.
Dax struggles to her feet, dazed, as Kira rushes to the
workstation.
KIRA
You were supposed to deactivate the
transporter!
DAX
(groggy)
I forgot...
51 INT. AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
Sisko and O'Brien have just beamed in (we do not see them
materialize). O'Brien reacts -- unhappy about finding
themselves in the corridor.
O'BRIEN
Damn it. Kira must have set up a
force field to keep us from beaming
onto the Valerian ship. The
Transporter rerouted us here.
SISKO
We've got to get to that ship.
O'BRIEN
Odo's our only chance. He may be
able to override the field.
He goes to hit his combadge... Sisko stops him.
SISKO
You're sure we can trust him?
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FIVE 53A.
51 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
I don't see where we have any choice.
A beat. Sisko knows O'Brien's right.
SISKO
(touches combadge)
Sisko to Odo...
INTERCUT:
52 INT. INFIRMARY
Bashir and Odo are at a workstation. Odo reacts to the
urgency of Sisko's voice. Bashir reacts at hearing Sisko
still alive.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FIVE 54.
52 CONTINUED:
ODO
(to COM)
Odo here.
SISKO
(to COM)
Kira has moved against us. She has
Dax on her side... We need your help,
Constable. You've got to clear us a
path to the Valerian ship.
ODO
(to COM)
Take Crossover Bridge One to the
Cargo Bay entrance into Docking Port
Four. I'll keep it open for you.
SISKO
(to COM)
Right. Sisko out.
Sisko removes his combadge.
SISKO
(continuing, to O'Brien)
Leave your combadge here.
They remove their combadges. O'Brien looks troubled. Sisko
notices, slaps him on the back.
SISKO
Don't look so worried, Chief. She
hasn't beaten us yet.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FIVE 55.
52 CONTINUED: (2)
O'BRIEN
Yes, Sir.
And they quickly head up the corridor.
53 OMITTED
54 INT. OPS (OPTICAL) (VPB)
Kira and Dax at the workstation.
DAX
They're still in the Airlock Six
Corridor...
KIRA
What could they be doing in there?
DAX
Maybe they've given up.
KIRA
Sisko would rather die... which is
fine with me.
(a beat, then Kira
smiles as she figures
it out)
They must have taken off their
combadges. That's all right. They
won't get far.
Dax glances at a monitor display of the station, reacts with
alarm.
DAX
Somebody's taking out our
forcefields...
KIRA
Whoever it is knows how to override
the security codes.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
54 CONTINUED:
She hits her combadge.
KIRA
(to COM)
Kira to Odo.
INTERCUT:
55 INT. INFIRMARY
Bashir and Odo still at the workstation, both of them working
away at their consoles.
ODO
(to COM)
Go ahead, Major.
KIRA
(to COM)
Whose side are you on, Constable?
ODO
(to COM)
Yours, of course.
KIRA
(to COM)
Really? Then why are you helping
Sisko escape?
ODO
(to COM)
On the contrary. You'll find him
trapped in Cargo Bay Four. Consider
it my gift to you.
A beat. Kira smiles, she can taste victory.
KIRA
(to COM)
My apologies. We'll see you there.
Kira out.
Bashir to Odo.
BASHIR
Well done... you certainly fooled
her.
ODO
(impatiently)
Doctor, we're running out of time.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
55 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
(attention focused on
his console)
I'm just about done. I've set up an
ionic interference signal in Cargo
Bay Four. It's calibrated to lock
onto the resonance frequencies of
the telepathic field and drive it
out of those affected.
ODO
What will happen to it then?
BASHIR
It'll remain suspended as long as
the interference is in effect.
Odo quickly punches some buttons into his console.
ODO
That's all I need to know. Let's
go.
He and Bashir EXIT.
56 INT. CARGO BAY FOUR
Sisko and O'Brien rush into the Cargo Bay. Various containers
are stacked about the large room; on a far wall is another
ENTRY DOOR; on another wall is a large AIRLOCK.
O'Brien hurries to the Entry Door -- it doesn't move.
SISKO
What's wrong?
O'BRIEN
(puzzled)
It won't open.
O'Brien pops a panel off the doorframe and works the controls
inside.
O'BRIEN
(continuing)
It's completely locked down.
Someone's activated a level five
security protocol.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/17/93 - ACT FIVE 58.
56 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
There's only one person on this
station besides yourself who has
that kind of access.
Sisko doesn't need to be told who that someone is.
SISKO
(angry)
Odo!
KIRA (O.S.)
Relax, Commander...
57
thru OMITTED
59
60 INCLUDE KIRA, DAX, AND GUARD
as they step through the same doorway Sisko and O'Brien had
used, weapons drawn.
KIRA
... he'll be here any minute.
O'Brien steps away from the door panel, looks to Sisko, hoping
he has some kind of card to play. But Sisko only gives a
bitter laugh, as he slowly glares around the room.
SISKO
So... this is where it all ends.
KIRA
For you.
A beat... and when Sisko speaks, it's with great dignity.
SISKO
You know what disturbs me? The
ingratitude. I offered you my help...
my kindness... my leadership... and
how do you repay me? With betrayal...
But you won't get rid of me so easily.
You see, unlike you, I understand
history. Time will be my greatest
ally.
(passionately)
My name will blaze like a comet across
the stars long after your petty
treacheries are forgotten.
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/22/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
60 CONTINUED:
KIRA
But you won't be here to see it.
Kira aims her phaser at Sisko... but just as she's about to
fire... her attention is diverted by the sound of a door
WHOOSHING open and...
ODO (O.S.)
Major, wait...
61 ODO AND BASHIR
step through the door O'Brien was working on.
KIRA
I'm glad you two could make it.
She turns back to Sisko, raising her weapon as...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - 3/15/93 - ACT FIVE 60.
62 THE SCENE (OPTICAL)
ODO
(shouting)
Computer! Execute Odo One!
The door closes behind him as a LOW HUM is suddenly heard,
building quickly in intensity. As it does, a transparent
RIPPLE EFFECT starts to distort the air in the room.
Everyone drops their weapons, reacting in pain -- save for
Odo who watches the scene.
At the peak of their anguish, a VIOLET-GLOW seems to bleed
out of their heads, coloring the ripple effect in the air
around them.
Their faces start to clear -- the pain fading away, they
look disoriented, as if waking from a dream...
SISKO
(dazed)
Constable... ?
ODO
(urgently)
Everyone grab hold of something.
They all do as told. Odo hits a control on a panel. THE
AIRLOCK OPENS A CRACK. The air starts to rush outside,
causing everyone in the room to hold on for dear life.
The violet-colored empathic field ripples toward the airlock,
and is sucked out into space...
As soon as it disappears, Odo again hits the controls and
the AIRLOCK CLOSES, air hissing back into the cargo bay.
Everyone slowly lets go of their support holds. They exchange
looks, confusion giving way to relief.
Odo watches with approval.
ODO
(to all)
Welcome back...
And off their weary smiles...
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/22/93 - ACT FIVE 61.
63
thru OMITTED
64
65 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
The Valerian ship is no longer there.
SISKO (V.O.)
Commander's log; Stardate 46924.5.
With nothing to contain it, the
telepathic matrix has dispersed in
space.
66 INT. OPS
Business as usual. Dax and O'Brien (who is going over some
business with Odo) are at their stations. Supernumeraries,
including the Ensign as needed. Kira is headed toward the
Commander's Office.
SISKO (V.O.)
(continuing)
Meanwhile I'm happy to report
everything and everyone aboard DS
Nine has returned to normal.
66A INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Sisko at his desk contemplating his very alien timepiece.
The door CHIMES.
SISKO
Come in.
Kira ENTERS, feeling a little self-conscious. She looks
over at the clock.
KIRA
Did you really build that thing?
SISKO
Apparently so.
KIRA
Why?
SISKO
(simply)
I have no idea.
He waits a beat to her what's on her mind. When she doesn't
speak...
SISKO
Major?
DEEP SPACE: "Dramatis Personae" - REV. 3/18/93 - ACT FIVE 62.
66A CONTINUED:
KIRA
I know that none of us were really
responsible for our actions... but I
still feel like I owe you an apology.
SISKO
For attempted mutiny.
KIRA
Well... yes.
Sisko smiles.
SISKO
I think we'll let it go... this time.
Kira returns his smile -- there's a moment of camaraderie
between them. She nods and heads out the door.
OFF Sisko's smile as he turns back to studying the
timepiece...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
THE END