STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Homecoming"
#40512-421
Story by
Jeri Taylor
and
Ira Steven Behr
Teleplay by
Ira Steven Behr
Directed by
Rick Kolbe
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 This script is not for publication or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
July 2, 1993
STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - CAST
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Homecoming"
CAST
SISKO BORUM
KIRA BOSLIC CAPTAIN
ODO GUL DUKAT
QUARK JARO
BASHIR LI NALAS
DAX OVERSEER
JAKE CARDASSIAN V.0.
O'BRIEN TYGARIAN OFFICER
ROM
COMPUTER VOICE
Non-Speaking Non-Speaking
MORN THREE ASSAILANTS
SUPERNUMERARIES
STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - SETS
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Homecoming"
SETS
INTERIORS EXTERIORS
DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE
AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
COMMANDER'S OFFICE RUNABOUT
GUEST QUARTERS
HABITAT RING CORRIDOR CARDASSIA FOUR
INFIRMARY
KIRA'S QUARTERS LABOR CAMP - DAY
OPS
PROMENADE
QUARK'S
REPLIMAT
SISKO'S QUARTERS
RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE
STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Homecoming" 07/02/93 - PRONUNCIATION
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Homecoming"
PRONUNCIATION GUIDE
BAJOR BAY-jor
BAJORAN bah-JOR-an
BOSLIC BOZ-lik
CARDASSIA car-DASS-ee-uh
CARDASSIAN car-DASS-ee-en
GALOR GAL-or
HUTET HOO-tet
ICOBERRY EYE-co-berry
JACARINE JACK-ah-reen
JARO ESSA JAR-oe ESS-uh
LAIRA LAY-rah
LAMENDA lah-MEN-duh
LATINUM LAT-i-num
LI NALAS LEE NAH-less
LISSEPIAN li-SEP-ee-an
MARAYN muh-RAIN
MARTUK MAR-tuk
NANUT NAH-nut
NERYS nar-EES
PATRARK PAY-trark
PHALONIA fah-LONE-ee-ah
PHALONIAN fah-LONE-ee-an
RIXX ricks
ROMAH DOEK ROE-mah DOE-eck
RULOT RUE-lot
SAHVING SAH-ving
SUBYTT SUB-ite
YELIKAN YELL-i-kan
TYGARIAN tie-GAIR-ee-an
ZARALE zuh-RAIL
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 1.
STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
"The Homecoming"
TEASER
FADE IN:
1 INT. QUARK'S
The usual crowd. ROM is pouring a tall one for MORN as a
gleeful QUARK hurries over waving a Ferengi PADD.
QUARK
Rom, I have delightful news. It's
finally arrived.
ROM
It has?
QUARK
And I guarantee we're the only
establishment in this sector to offer
the entire cycle.
ROM
We are? Why that's marvelous, isn't
it, Morn? Really... amazing.
(stares blankly at
PADD)
What cycle?
QUARK
Idiot, don't you recognize profit
when you see it? You're looking at
the latest Holosuite programs from
Phalonia Prime.
That gets Morn's attention. He casually tries to peer over
Quark's shoulder to get a look at the PADD but is ignored by
the Ferengi.
QUARK
Yes, when it comes to designing adult
Holosuite programs, the Phalonians
display true genius.
(beat)
If you don't believe me, take a peek
at the image menu.
Quark leans over and taps a code into the PADD. He and Rom
crowd around it, blocking Morn's view (we never get to see
the contents of the menu either).
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 2.
1 CONTINUED:
QUARK
Let's see, where to begin. Ah, here
we go, Scenario Fourteen-C, "A picnic
with the Pleasure Goddess of Rixx."
Morn is determined to get a look at that Goddess. But Quark
pays no attention to him.
QUARK
(to Rom)
Now that's what I call a picnic.
Morn's heard enough. He reaches over and grabs the PADD out
of Quark's hands. He stares at it and then at Quark, who
finally takes notice of him.
QUARK
(to Morn, dryly)
I believe Holosuite Six is
available.
Morn immediately gets up and heads for the stairs. Quark
watches him go, a satisfied smile on his face.
QUARK
(gloating)
That Morn, he always was a sucker
for a Phalonian Holo-program.
He looks over to find Rom intently studying the discarded
PADD.
QUARK
(continuing)
What do you think you're doing?
ROM
Nothing, brother.
QUARK
The story of your life. Now get to
work.
He yanks the PADD from Rom, who SCURRIES OFF.
QUARK
(calling after him)
If anyone wants me, I'll be in...
(checking PADD menu)
... Holosuite Three.
Quark makes a beeline for the stairs when he's stopped by..
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 3.
1 CONTINUED: (2)
ODO (O.S.)
Quark!
2 NEW ANGLE
as a testy ODO makes his way through the crowd.
QUARK
Not now, Odo.
ODO
We have to talk.
QUARK
It'll have to wait.
ODO
It can't wait.
QUARK
(exasperated)
Of course not. Well make it fast.
I have... business to attend to.
ODO
You remember that Subytt freighter
we were discussing the other day?
The one you claimed was smuggling
defective isolinear rods to Bajor?
QUARK
Yes, yes, what about it?
ODO
Well, I conducted a little
investigation of that freighter, and
do you know what I discovered?
Quark smiles. He senses where this is going.
QUARK
That I was telling the truth?
Odo frowns. He hates to admit it.
ODO
That's right. I arrested the first
officer and two of the crew.
QUARK
Congratulations, Constable, I knew
you could do it. Now if you don't
mind I'm needed upstairs.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 4.
2 CONTINUED:
Quark tries to step around him, but Odo blocks his path.
ODO
Hold on, I'm not finished with you.
QUARK
Really, Odo, sometimes I think there's
no pleasing you. I help you crack a
notorious smuggling ring, yet you
still insist on treating me like an
enemy.
ODO
You are my enemy.
QUARK
Then how do you explain my helping
you?
Odo's body tenses, that's exactly what's been bothering him.
ODO
That's just it, I can't explain it.
QUARK
It's simple, really. I figured we'd
been at each others' throats long
enough. It's time we called a truce.
ODO
A truce? You must be joking.
QUARK
Ask that Subytt First Officer if I'm
joking. From now on, you and I are
going to be friends.
Odo stares suspiciously at Quark
ODO
You're up to something.
QUARK
Now why would you say that?
ODO
Because you're always up to something.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 5.
2 CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK
I can see it's going to take time,
but eventually you'll learn to trust
me.
ODO
That'll be the day.
Odo LEAVES. Rom, who's been listening, rejoins Quark.
QUARK
(very pleased with
himself)
I don't think I can remember Odo
looking quite so perplexed.
ROM
He's not alone. Those Subytt
smugglers were a potential source of
great profit.
QUARK
Must I quote you the seventy-sixth
Rule of Acquisition?
ROM
(searching his brain)
The seventy-sixth rule...
QUARK
"Every once in a while, declare
peace."
(to Rom)
It confuses the hell out of your
enemies.
Rom nods agreement, though he's not sure he understands that
particular rule.
3 NEW ANGLE
to include a FEMALE BOSLIC FREIGHTER CAPTAIN seated alone at
a table by the stairs.
CAPTAIN
Hey Quark, how are your lobes?
QUARK
Tingling at the sight of you.
He sits down, distracted by her beauty. All thoughts of
Holosuite delights driven from his mind. He notices her
empty drink.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 6.
3 CONTINUED:
QUARK
What will it be? Another black hole?
CAPTAIN
Don't have the time. Ship's about
to pull out. You know of anyone
headed to Bajor?
QUARK
Ships go back and forth from there
all the time. Why?
The Captain holds up an elaborate Bajoran earring.
CAPTAIN
I promised someone I'd deliver this
for them. But it looks like I'm not
going to make it there this trip.
QUARK
It's an earring.
CAPTAIN
I know it's an earring. It was given
to me by a maintenance worker on
Cardassia Four.
QUARK
(interest piqued)
Are you saying a Cardassian gave you
a Bajoran earring?
CAPTAIN
(nods)
He asked me to take it to Bajor.
Said whoever I showed it to would
understand.
QUARK
(wheels turning)
He said that?
CAPTAIN
Well, this is a Bajoran station,
right? There must be someone here
who'll know what to do with it.
QUARK
Oh, there is.
CAPTAIN
Who?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 7.
3 CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK
Me.
Quark plucks the earring out of her hands. Gives a reassuring
smile.
4 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS
KIRA, her tunic unbuttoned, stands before a Bajoran icon in
silent meditation. The DOORBELL CHIMES.
KIRA
Come in.
The door opens. In steps Quark.
QUARK
Surprise.
KIRA
What do you want?
Quark's eyes are locked on her open tunic.
QUARK
I always wondered what your quarters
looked like.
Kira buttons her tunic.
KIRA
That better not be your only reason
for being here.
Quark scrutinizes her rather spartan living space.
QUARK
You don't entertain much, do you?
KIRA
I entertain a lot. I just don't
entertain you.
Quark indicates an adjoining room. Kira disappears into
another room.
QUARK
Let me guess, the bedroom.
KIRA (O.S.)
You take one step in here and I
promise it'll be your last.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 8.
4 CONTINUED:
QUARK
It could be worth it.
KIRA
You have five seconds to tell me
what you want.
QUARK
Aren't you going to offer me a
beverage?
KIRA
Five... four...
QUARK
Can we at least sit down?
KIRA
...three... two... one.
Kira comes out of the bedroom, moves toward Quark. He backs
away.
QUARK
Wait.
He holds up the earring.
QUARK
I brought you something...
Kira stops dead in her tracks, her eyes locked on the droplet.
She slowly reaches out and takes it.
KIRA
Where did you get this?
QUARK
Is it valuable?
Kira grabs Quark by the collar.
KIRA
(urgent)
I said, where did you get it?
QUARK
From a Boslic Freighter Captain.
She got it from a Cardassian.
She studies Quark, trying to decide if he's telling the truth.
KIRA
Where?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - TEASER 9.
4 CONTINUED: (2)
QUARK
On Cardassia Four. That's what she
told me anyway.
(re: the earring)
Consider it a gift.
She lets him go. Then, her mind made up, she EXITS out the
door.
5 ON QUARK
Glad she's no longer in his face. And surprised that she's
left him alone in her quarters. He steps over to a dresser
and begins to casually rummage through a drawer.
6 NEW ANGLE
as the front door opens and Kira strides in. She grabs Quark
by the back of the neck and drags him into the hall. And
the door closes on the now empty quarters we...
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 10.
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)
7 INT. PROMENADE
SISKO is making his way through the street's hustle and bustle
when he's stopped by a VOICE from above.
JAKE (O.S.)
Hey, Dad, wait up.
Sisko looks up to see --
8 NEW ANGLE
JAKE double-timing it down the stairs from the second level.
JAKE
You got a minute?
SISKO
Sure. What's up?
They head down the Promenade.
JAKE
I've got great news.
SISKO
You passed your algebra test?
JAKE
Better than that.
SISKO
You figured out how to hit Sandy
Koufax's curve ball.
JAKE
No, even better.
SISKO
Better than hitting Koufax's curve?
This I want to hear.
JAKE
You remember that Bajoran girl I
told you about?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 11.
8 CONTINUED:
SISKO
The one with the great smile?
JAKE
That's right, Laira. I decided to
ask her out.
Sisko smiles. Glad that his son includes him in these type
of things.
SISKO
Good for you. And now you've come
to the old man for advice on what to
say to her.
JAKE
Dad...
SISKO
The main thing is you can't be afraid
of rejection...
JAKE
Dad, I already asked her out. And
she said yes.
SISKO
She did, well that's wonderful.
JAKE
I was just wondering if you had any
ideas what we could do. I was kinda
thinking of taking her to the
Holosuites.
That stops Sisko in his tracks.
SISKO
The Holosuites? I don't think so.
JAKE
Why not?
SISKO
Because you're too young to take a
girl to the Holosuites.
JAKE
Okay, then how about if I bring her
to our quarters?
SISKO
No, no quarters.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 12.
8 CONTINUED: (2)
JAKE
We're just going to talk.
SISKO
You can talk in public.
JAKE
It's not the same.
SISKO
You want to talk?
(pointing to the
Promenade's second
level)
Take her upstairs. That way you can
talk and watch the ships go through
the wormhole.
JAKE
That's boring.
SISKO
Since when?
JAKE
Since I started going out with girls.
SISKO
This is your first date.
JAKE
Yeah, and I don't want it to be my
last.
9 NEW ANGLE
to include Kira, who approaches Sisko.
KIRA
Commander, I need to speak with you.
SISKO
One moment, Major...
JAKE
Dad, I can see you're not ready to
have this conversation.
SISKO
I'm not ready.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 13.
9 CONTINUED:
JAKE
I'll just have to come up with some
ideas on my own. Really, don't worry
about it.
He WALKS OFF. Sisko watches him go.
SISKO
(trying to convince
himself)
Who's worried?
KIRA
(interrupting his
reverie)
Commander...
Sisko turns his attention to Kira. He gestures for her to
follow him.
SISKO
Join me, Major.
10 INT. REPLIMAT (OPTICAL)
as Sisko and Kira ENTER. Sisko approaches the beverage
replicators.
SISKO
(ordering)
One Raktajino with a jacarine peel.
He looks over at Kira to see if she wants anything.
KIRA
Nothing for me.
The Raktajino APPEARS. Sisko takes the cup and moves over
to the food replicator.
SISKO
(ordering)
One icoberry torte.
As he waits for his order.
SISKO
(continuing)
So, what can I do for you, Major?
Kira leans forward, gets right to the point.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 14.
10 CONTINUED:
KIRA
I need to borrow a runabout.
SISKO
What for?
Sisko removes his icoberry pie from the replicator (this
time we don't see the optical).
KIRA
(smiles)
You really don't want to ask me that.
SISKO
It's too late. I already have.
KIRA
Then you don't want to know the
answer.
11 NEW ANGLE
Sisko and Kira cross to a table. They sit.
SISKO
Major, I can't loan you a Starfleet
runabout without knowing where you
plan on taking it.
KIRA
(fixing Sisko with
her best level stare)
To Cardassia Four to rescue a Bajoran
prisoner of war.
A beat. Sisko sighs.
SISKO
You're right. I wish you hadn't
told me.
Kira shows Sisko the droplet.
KIRA
This earring was recently smuggled
off the planet.
(points to part of
the design)
See this? It's the insignia of Li
Nalas.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 15.
11 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(surprised)
The resistance leader?
KIRA
The greatest we ever had. His victory
over Gul Zarale in hand-to-hand
combat...
SISKO
I've heard the story, Major. But
wasn't he reported killed in action?
KIRA
The body was never found.
(pressing)
Look Commander, I wouldn't be asking
this if I thought there was another
way to rescue Li. But Bajoran ships
don't have the maneuverability or
defensive capabilities to get me
safely in and out of Cardassian
territory.
Sisko ponders the earring.
SISKO
You're sure this is genuine?
Kira smiles. She was expecting this.
KIRA
Dax found dermal residue on the
backing. A genetic analysis matched
it to Li's DNA records.
(re: the earring)
It's genuine all right.
SISKO
Have you told the provisional
government?
KIRA
(nodding)
I contacted three ministers. Their
responses were exactly what I
expected.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 16.
11 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
In other words, they're unwilling to
risk a war with Cardassia over an
earring.
(a beat)
I can't say I blame them.
KIRA
Commander, we both know the
provisional government is made up of
political opportunists too busy
fighting among themselves to care
what happens to Bajor.
(a beat)
And since the loss of the Kai, the
situation has only gone from bad to
worse. There are reports of factional
fighting in half a dozen districts...
religious riots have spread throughout
the southern islands... Bajor needs
a leader. Someone the people will
listen to. Someone they can trust.
SISKO
And you think Li Nalas is that leader?
KIRA
(no trace of doubt)
I know he is.
Before Sisko can respond...
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
O'Brien to Sisko.
SISKO
(taps combadge)
Go ahead, Chief.
O'BRIEN'S COM VOICE
I think you and Odo had better join
me in the Habitat Ring. Level
Thirteen, Section Four. There's
something you should see.
SISKO
We'll be right there.
But Kira isn't about to let him get away that easily.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 17.
11 CONTINUED: (3)
KIRA
So, do I get the runabout?
A beat. Sisko wants to help, but he's also aware of the
potential danger they would be risking.
SISKO
I'll have to think it over.
12 CLOSE ON SISKO
faced with another tough decision.
13 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR
Odo, O'BRIEN and Sisko are examining graffiti scrawled across
a wall; it's the Bajoran symbol modified in some ominous
way.
O'BRIEN
I was on my way to Crossover Bridge
Three to do some repair work on the
field modulators. I noticed this.
SISKO
(grim recognition)
It's the emblem of the Alliance for
Global Unity. They call themselves
"The Circle."
O'BRIEN
"The Circle," huh. Well, what gives
them the right to go mucking up our
station?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT ONE 18.
13 CONTINUED:
ODO
They're an extremist faction who
believe in Bajor for Bajorans. All
other species are inferior and should
be expelled from the planet.
SISKO
I understand this emblem has been
appearing all over Bajor.
ODO
That's correct. But this is the
first time I've seen it here.
SISKO
I want to be informed immediately if
it shows up anyplace else on the
station.
ODO
Understood.
O'Brien stares at the drawing with undisguised hostility.
O'BRIEN
If they think scrawling a couple of
signs is going to send us packing,
they've got another thing coming.
SISKO
Right now they're just letting us
know we're vulnerable.
ODO
I wouldn't be overly concerned,
Commander. This section is a low
security area.
SISKO
As of now, Constable, there are no
"low security areas" on this station.
Odo nods. All three are aware that the tension level on DS9
has just risen a notch. And on this realization we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 19.
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
14 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Sisko leaning back in his chair, lost in thought, lobbing a
baseball into the air. DAX ENTERS.
DAX
You wanted to see me, Benjamin?
Sisko tosses her the ball.
SISKO
Have a seat.
Dax sits. Looks at the ball with amusement.
DAX
Am I to assume this conversation is
going to be about baseball?
SISKO
(smiling)
Not this time.
DAX
(smiling right back)
Good.
SISKO
I thought you enjoyed talking about
baseball.
DAX
(correcting him)
Curzon enjoyed it. But not half as
much as he led you to believe.
Dax tosses the ball back to him.
DAX
So what's on your mind, Benjamin.
SISKO
(beat)
I've been thinking about our mission
here. I look at the turmoil on Bajor
and I see everything we fought for
this past year starting to unravel.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 20.
14 CONTINUED:
DAX
I told you when we came here this
was going to be a tough assignment.
Of course, I didn't know it was going
to be this tough...
SISKO
What if I told you I knew someone
who could bring stability to Bajor.
Someone who could unite the factions
and give us a chance to do our job.
DAX
(smiling)
I'd say give Kira the runabout.
This catches Sisko off guard.
SISKO
How do you know about Kira wanting a
runabout?
DAX
(simply)
She told me.
SISKO
(not pleased)
I thought this was supposed to be a
covert mission.
DAX
I promise not to tell.
SISKO
All right, supposing I do help, and
she does rescue Li Nalas. What do
we say to the Cardassians?
DAX
The question is, what do they say to
us? They swore they released all
their Bajoran prisoners.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 21.
14 CONTINUED: (2)
She rises, turns to leave.
SISKO
Dax...
DAX
(turns back)
Yes?
SISKO
You're sure Curzon didn't love
baseball.
DAX
(grinning)
Positive.
And she EXITS. Sisko leans back and tosses the ball
back into the air.
15 INT. OPS - CONTINUOUS
Regular crew. Kira looks to Dax, gives her "I gave it my
best shot" glance. Just then Sisko EXITS from the Commander's
Office. He nods toward Kira who smiles triumphantly, then
exits Ops for her quarters. Sisko approaches engineering.
SISKO
Chief, Major Kira needs a runabout...
O'BRIEN
(with approval)
Then she will be going to Cardassia
Four, after all.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 22.
15 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(not again)
How do you know about Cardassia Four?
O'BRIEN
She told me all about it.
SISKO
Is there anyone on this station she
didn't tell?
O'BRIEN
I doubt she mentioned it to Quark.
SISKO
Well then, as far as Quark's
concerned, she's going to Lamenda
Prime to bring back mineral samples.
O'BRIEN
Very good, sir.
SISKO
Now, is there any way we can prevent
the Cardassian sensors from picking
up the runabout's signature?
O'Brien immediately rattles off an answer.
O'BRIEN
I could modulate the engine's power
emissions, reconfigure the deflector
shield grid, and install field buffers
around the subspace emitter coil.
By the time I'm done, the Cardies
will think they're reading a Lissepian
transport.
SISKO
I see you've already given this a
bit of thought.
O'BRIEN
(faux surprise)
I suppose I have at that.
And as they share a smile...
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 22A.
15A OMITTED
16 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
Establishing.
17 OMITTED
18 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS
Kira, wearing civilian clothes is just finishing up a meal.
Door chimes.
KIRA
Come in.
Sisko and O'Brien ENTER. O'Brien is in civilian clothes.
KIRA
Commander... Chief... I was just
getting ready to leave.
SISKO
I just stopped by to wish you luck.
(a beat)
And to let you know that Chief O'Brien
will be accompanying you on your
mission.
Kira looks from Sisko to O'Brien. Sees they're both
serious...
KIRA
I don't think that's a good idea.
Having a Federation officer along
could cause complications for you
later.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 23.
18 CONTINUED:
SISKO
I'm willing to risk that.
(a beat)
You're an excellent pilot, Major...
but O'Brien here is better.
(smiling)
And I want to make sure I get my
runabout back in one piece.
But Kira still isn't comfortable with the idea.
KIRA
I appreciate the offer. But this is
a Bajoran problem.
SISKO
I don't agree. The truth is I need
Li Nalas back on Bajor as much as
you do.
O'BRIEN
Besides, I've seen how Cardassians
treat their prisoners. No one should
have to suffer like that.
KIRA
If the Cardassians get their hands
on us, we'll be the ones suffering.
O'BRIEN
They'll have to catch us first.
Kira realizes she's not going to be able to change their
minds.
KIRA
(relents)
I suppose I could use the company.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT TWO 24.
18 CONTINUED: (2)
Sisko nods, glad Kira isn't going off on her own.
19 INT. RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE
as O'Brien slips into the seat beside Kira.
KIRA
You have the controls, Chief.
O'BRIEN
Right.
But there's something still on Kira's mind.
KIRA
Before we go, there's just one thing
we need to clear up between us.
O'BRIEN
And what would that be?
KIRA
This mission can end only one of two
ways. Either we bring back Li
Nalas... or we don't come back at
all.
A beat. O'Brien doesn't flinch.
O'BRIEN
(matter-of-fact)
Understood.
That's exactly what Kira was hoping to hear.
KIRA
Then take us out of here, Mister
O'Brien.
O'BRIEN
(working panel)
Initializing launch sequence.
20 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
The Runabout arcs away from the station.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 25.
ACT THREE
FADE IN:
21 INT. RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE
Kira and O'Brien at their positions.
KIRA
How long until we reach Cardassia
Four?
O'BRIEN
I'd estimate another thirty minutes.
KIRA
(reacting to panel)
Hold on... We're being scanned.
A concerned look passes between them.
O'BRIEN
Can you get a fix on the source?
KIRA
(off panel)
It's position is holding steady at
bearing two-one-nine mark two-three.
O'BRIEN
It must be a navigational control
post. It's probably just a routine
scan.
KIRA
We're being hailed.
That raises the tension in the cabin.
O'BRIEN
On the other hand we could be in
serious trouble.
KIRA
They're repeating the hail.
O'BRIEN
We're on the edge of their scanner
range. That puts us out of visual
contact. I say we try and bluff
'em.
A beat. Then Kira nods agreement.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 26.
21 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(working panel)
OPENING A CHANNEL
CARDASSIAN (V.O.)
This is Cardassian Navigational
Control Post Twenty-Four. Identify
yourself.
KIRA
This is the Lissepian transport
Martuk.
CARDASSIAN (V.O.)
According to our scan your subspace
field emitters appear to be
malfunctioning.
Kira turns off the communications link (as she will do
whenever she doesn't want to be overheard by the Cardassians)
and looks at O'Brien who is working to correct the problem.
O'BRIEN
The field buffers must be distorting
our power signature.
KIRA
(re-opens comlink)
We've been having trouble with our
phase modulators. We're attempting
to correct the problem.
CARDASSIAN (V.O.)
Do you require assistance? We can
dispatch a repair ship.
O'BRIEN
Bloody hell. They want to help us.
KIRA
(on subspace)
Your offer is most appreciated, Post
Twenty-Four. But unnecessary.
CARDASSIAN (V.O.)
Are you certain? Your power signature
is still fluctuating.
O'BRIEN
(tight)
He's getting suspicious.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 27.
21 CONTINUED: (2)
A beat as Kira decides how to play it.
KIRA
(on subspace)
I believe we can correct the problem
on our own. Besides, Gul Marayn is
waiting on Cardassia Four to receive
my shipment of Rulot seeds. Any
delay could ruin the entire crop...
and the Gul's mood.
CARDASSIAN (V.O.)
Understood. You can put in for
repairs after you deliver your cargo.
KIRA
My plan exactly.
(a beat; to O'Brien)
They've broken off their transmission.
They relax.
O'BRIEN
Tell me, Major, who's this Gul Marayn.
KIRA
Don't ask me. I just made him up.
She smiles.
22 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE (OPTICAL)
arriving at Cardassia Four.
23 INT. RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE
O'Brien checking monitors.
O'BRIEN
We're in synchronous orbit above the
Hutet Labor camp.
He works his console.
O'BRIEN
I've limited the bio-scan to detect
only Bajoran lifeforms.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 28.
23 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
(a beat)
Hold on. I'm getting multiple
readings. There must be about a
dozen Bajoran prisoners down there.
KIRA
Is there any way to beam up more
than two at a time?
O'BRIEN
I'm afraid not. And as soon as we
beam up the first two all hell's
gonna break loose in that camp.
KIRA
And there's no guarantee that Li
will be one of the first two.
(a beat)
What's security like down there?
O'BRIEN
The compound's surrounded by a
standard Cardassian forcefield.
Kira quickly reaches a decision.
KIRA
We'll have to land. It's our only
chance of getting them all out of
there.
O'BRIEN
I'll find us a secluded spot to put
down.
And as he works his console...
24 EXT. HUTET LABOR CAMP - DAY (OPTICAL)
An arid, desolate plain. Bajoran prisoners are breaking
rocks in the hot sun (or some such grueling and ultimately
meaningless task) as Cardassian overseers watch over them.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 29.
25
thru OMITTED
27
28 NEW ANGLE
A burly Cardassian OVERSEER is patrolling inside the perimeter
of the Security Field. He reacts as he spots something O.S.
29 HIS POV
Kira and O'Brien headed his way. Kira's blouse zipper is
pulled down low enough to catch the eye.
KIRA
(sotto voce)
How do I look?
O'BRIEN
I doubt there's a Cardassian alive
who could resist you.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 30.
29 CONTINUED:
KIRA
I hope you're right.
As they EXIT frame...
O'BRIEN
So do I.
30 ANGLE - THE PRISONERS
aware of the newcomers. Among the prisoners is a tall, rangy,
laconic Bajoran in his late forties. This is LI NALAS. Li,
a man of great physical presence, has a quiet self-effacing
Abraham Lincoln/Gary Cooper charisma. He's intensely self-
conscious; but years of living with his reputation has taught
him to hide his true feelings behind his public image.
Standing beside him is his close friend BORUM.
LI
(re: O'Brien & Kira)
What's all this?
BORUM
(hope rising)
I'm not quite sure.
31 ANGLE - KIRA AND O'BRIEN
as they approach the Overseer.
OVERSEER
Halt.
They stop a few feet from the security field. O'Brien assumes
a loud, overbearing manner.
O'BRIEN
We're here to see the prefect.
OVERSEER
What for?
O'BRIEN
(dripping innuendo)
She has an appointment with him.
The Overseer eyes Kira. It's obvious he likes what he sees.
OVERSEER
(with sexual overtones)
I used to be stationed on Bajor.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 31.
31 CONTINUED:
O'BRIEN
Then you know why the prefect doesn't
want to be kept waiting.
OVERSEER
What would it cost me for an
appointment.
KIRA
More than you can afford.
O'BRIEN
(ignoring her)
Two strips of gold-pressed latinum and
she's all yours.
KIRA
(contemptuous)
He wouldn't know what to do with me.
OVERSEER
(to O'Brien)
She needs disciplining.
KIRA
(derisive laugh)
From a boy like you? I don't think
you're capable of it.
The Overseer waves O'Brien away.
OVERSEER
Step back. I want to examine what
I'm paying for.
O'BRIEN
Of course. But no sampling the
merchandise until the sale is
completed.
32 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The Overseer takes out a small Field Control Unit. He points
it at the invisible security field, illuminating a small
portion which opens.
OVERSEER
(to Kira)
Come here.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 32.
32 CONTINUED:
Kira enters the camp. O'Brien tries to follow her inside
but the Overseer hits a button and the field closes in front
of him; separating him from Kira.
33 NEW ANGLE
The overseer pulls Kira to him.
OVERSEER
Now, show me why you're worth two
strips of gold press latinum.
KIRA
All right.
She reaches for the zipper of her blouse, then suddenly lashes
out with a vicious forearm to the Overseer's face. He
staggers back. Kira closes in, hits him again and he goes
down.
34 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as a second overseer rushes toward her. Kira whips out a
phaser and stuns him. She picks up the Field Control Unit
and opens a hole in the security field, allowing O'Brien to
enter.
35 ANGLE - O'BRIEN (OPTICAL)
as a third overseer fires at him. O'Brien shoots him with a
phaser. There are no other Cardassians in sight.
36 ANGLE ON O'BRIEN AND KIRA
as they hurry over to the prisoners. Kira spots Li.
KIRA
Li Nalas?
Li is confused by the sudden turn of events.
LI
Who are you?
KIRA
Major Kira Nerys. We've come to get
you out of here.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 33.
36 CONTINUED:
BORUM
The earring... you got it.
KIRA
Yes.
LI
I don't understand. My earring was
lost...
BORUM
No, I had it smuggled back to Bajor.
O'BRIEN
Gentlemen, I suggest you save this
discussion for later.
37 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
As a phaser blast kills one of the Bajoran prisoners. Li is
also hit, a searing burn across his side. Borum catches him
as he falls.
38 KIRA AND O'BRIEN'S POV (OPTICAL)
More Cardassian overseers are headed their way, firing as
they come.
39 BACK TO SCENE (OPTICAL)
Kira aims the control unit at the security field. It opens.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 34.
39 CONTINUED:
KIRA
(to the prisoners)
Come on. We have a ship waiting.
40 THE OVERSEERS
giving chase.
41 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
The prisoners are moving as fast as they can but the years
of incarceration have taken their toll. Kira and O'Brien
bring up the rear, firing at the pursuing Cardassians, who
are quickly gaining on them.
O'BRIEN
(to Kira)
We'll never make it at this rate.
Borum, supporting Li, and seven other prisoners fall back
and wait for Kira and O'Brien.
BORUM
(to Kira)
Get Li to Bajor.
(pointing to three
other prisoners)
We'll stay behind... hold them off
until you reach your ship.
LI
No. I won't allow it.
BORUM
(to Li)
Don't you see, we did this for you.
(to Kira)
Get him back safely. That's all
that matters.
A beat. Kira hates to leave any of them behind. But she
knows he's right.
KIRA
You have my word.
BORUM
Then go.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 35.
41 CONTINUED:
Kira nods her thanks as she hands her phaser to Borum.
Then she's on her way with O'Brien, Li and the rest of the
prisoners. Borum, remaining behind with the others, fires at
the advancing Cardassians.
42 INT. RUNABOUT - RIO GRANDE
Kira, O'Brien, Li and the Bajorans pile in. O'Brien eases
Li into a chair. Kira opens a 24th century first aid kit,
zaps him with a sterilizing spray. O'Brien takes the
controls.
O'BRIEN
Ready to launch, Major.
KIRA
Not yet. Some of the others still
might make it.
O'BRIEN
Standing by.
O'Brien reacts to panel readings.
O'BRIEN
I'm picking up two Galor class
warships entering orbit. They
should be overhead in one minute,
forty-five seconds.
LI
Major, you can't leave those men
behind.
O'BRIEN
One minute, thirty seconds. If we
don't leave now, Major, we never
will.
Kira has to make the tough decision.
KIRA
Take us home, Chief.
O'BRIEN
Yes, sir.
He works the panels.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT THREE 36.
43 EXT. SPACE - CARDASSIA FOUR
The Runabout streaks up and away from the planet.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT THREE
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 37.
ACT FOUR
FADE IN:
44 INT. AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
Bashir watching as the airlock gate slides open revealing
Kira, who is supporting the injured Li.
KIRA
Careful, watch your step.
Bashir helps Li to step out of the airlock.
BASHIR
Easy now, I have you.
KIRA
He took a phaser hit.
Bashir does a quick scan of Li's injury as O'Brien begins
bringing the rest of the prisoners out of the airlock.
LI
Doctor, these people have been
prisoners for ten years. They need
medical attention...
BASHIR
And they'll get it. But first we'd
better see to this wound.
(hits combadge)
Bashir to Dax.
DAX
Go ahead, Doctor.
Bashir is holding on to Li.
BASHIR
I have a patient here requiring
emergency treatment. Beam us to the
Infirmary.
DAX
Stand by.
45 BASHIR AND LI (OPTICAL)
as they beam out.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 38.
46 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
The doors open and Kira strides in.
KIRA
Commander, I need to talk to...
She stops suddenly as she sees...
47 KIRA'S POV (OPTICAL)
Sisko is in mid-conversation with GUL DUKAT, whose image
appears on his monitor.
48 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)
as both Sisko and Dukat look over at Kira.
SISKO
Ah, Major Kira, I'm glad you could
join us.
Kira looks positively stricken... afraid she's implicated
Sisko in the rescue mission.
KIRA
(to Sisko, trying to
cover)
I'm sorry. I didn't know you were
busy.
SISKO
Apparently not.
KIRA
I'll just wait outside.
She turns to go.
SISKO
Hold on, Major. There's something I
want you to hear.
(a beat)
Go ahead, Dukat.
Kira prepares for the worst.
DUKAT
Major, I just informed Commander
Sisko that the Cardassian High Command
has issued a formal apology to the
people of Bajor.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 39.
48 CONTINUED:
KIRA
An apology...
Kira looks to Sisko in disbelief.
DUKAT
We had no idea that Bajoran prisoners
were still being held on Cardassia
Four. Such detentions are a direct
violation of supreme directive twenty-
six-forty-five. I assure you the
camp prefect will be chastised
accordingly.
KIRA
What about the prisoners who were
left behind?
DUKAT
They're already en route to Bajor.
KIRA
(one surprise after
another)
Well... I look forward to their safe
return.
DUKAT
I'm sure you do. I hope our quick
response to this unfortunate situation
will prove once and for all that
Cardassia is no longer your enemy.
The monitor goes blank as Dukat ends the transmission.
KIRA
Commander... ?
SISKO
I'm as surprised as you are.
KIRA
There must be a reason why they're
being so accommodating.
SISKO
I'm sure there is. But until we can
figure out their motives, let's just
be grateful that all the prisoners
are being returned safely.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 40.
48 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
(smiling)
Congratulations on the success of
your mission, Major.
Kira accepts the compliment, though she's still bothered by
Dukat's generosity.
49 INT. INFIRMARY
Bashir is administering a hypospray to Li's wound.
BASHIR
There, that should do it.
(steps back)
How do you feel?
LI
Better.
BASHIR
Luckily your wound wasn't as serious
as it looked. You've probably had a
lot worse.
LI
(good humored)
Actually this one was bad enough.
Bashir is fascinated to be talking to such a great man.
BASHIR
You know, I've read all about your
battle with Gul Zarale.
LI
(he's heard it all
before)
That was a long time ago.
BASHIR
Well, I consider myself something of
a history buff and I must say some
of the campaigns you led against the
Cardassians were truly remarkable
examples of tactical...
LI
Doctor, I think you'll find that
others enjoy talking about those
days more than I do.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 41.
49 CONTINUED:
BASHIR
Of course.
(impressed by Li's
modesty)
I understand completely.
And as Bashir finishes up his examination...
50 INT. PROMENADE
Sisko, Kira and Li walk along the street, passing Bajorans
who stop and stare at Li. Their reactions ranging from
surprise, confusion, awe and joy. It's as if JFK had survived
Dallas and suddenly appeared on a public street 30 years
later. But for the moment Li is too lost in the sights of
the Promenade to notice the attention that's building around
him.
LI
(looking around)
Amazing.
KIRA
What is?
LI
Being here.
(to Sisko)
Years ago I worked in one of this
station's ore processing plants.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 42.
50 CONTINUED:
SISKO
I think you'll find that things have
changed considerably.
51 NEW ANGLE
as Odo comes out of security and joins them.
ODO
Commander, a transport carrying
Minister Jaro has arrived from Bajor.
SISKO
Major, I think you should have the
honor of welcoming him aboard.
KIRA
Thank you, Commander.
And with a nod to Li, she's off.
52 ON LI
As he and Sisko continue their walk, he notices three Bajorans
staring at him in rapt recognition. Intensely uncomfortable
under their scrutiny, he veers out of their path.
53 INT. REPLIMAT
As Sisko leads Li over to the eatery.
SISKO
If you're hungry, the Replimat has
some passable Bajoran food.
But all Li sees are the reactions of the Bajoran diners to
his sudden appearance in their midst.
LI
Actually, I'm a bit tired. I think
I'd like to see my quarters.
SISKO
Of course.
But as Sisko turns to leave the Replimat, he becomes aware
of the crowd that has begun to form around them.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 43.
53 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(smiling)
It appears you've been recognized.
Li smiles back, but he's clearly not pleased to be the focus
of all this attention.
54 INT. AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
Kira meets MINISTER JARO and an aide at the airlock gate.
KIRA
(pleasant smile)
Minister Jaro.
JARO
Major...
Jaro's eyes search the corridor.
JARO
Where is he?
KIRA
(knowing he means Li)
He's on the Promenade with Commander
Sisko.
JARO
And he's all right?
KIRA
(nodding)
Considering what he's gone through
the last ten years.
JARO
(shaking his head in
wonder)
Li Nalas... alive. Who would have
ever imagined...
They start down the corridor, the aide trailing behind them.
JARO
The prophets were kind to you today,
Major.
KIRA
I'd say they were kind to all of us.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 44.
54 CONTINUED:
JARO
You know your little adventure has
made you some enemies in the Chamber
of Ministers.
Jaro's tone implies he's not one of them.
KIRA
I'm not surprised. All I did was
risk my life...
JARO
(gently chiding)
What you did, Major, was declare war
on Cardassia. Thankfully they
declined the invitation.
KIRA
I'd do it again if it meant bringing
Li Nalas home.
JARO
(smiling)
I'm sure you would. And though
officially I have to warn you that
the next time you disobey orders
will mean the end of your military
service... as a private citizen... I
want to thank you for what you've
done this day.
KIRA
(touched)
That's nice to hear.
JARO
Now, take me to see Li Nalas.
And as they EXIT frame...
55 INT. PROMENADE - THE REPLIMAT
Sisko and Li have taken refuge in the Replimat as Odo and
two N.D. security officers control the growing crowd of
onlookers.
ODO
Let's move back, please. No more
pushing.
LI
I'm sorry about this, Commander.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 45.
55 CONTINUED:
SISKO
(to Li)
I don't think they're going to leave
until you say a few words.
ODO
I agree.
LI
(wishing there was
some other way)
If that's what it takes...
Li steps forward. The crowd quiets down. Li is not
comfortable standing before them, but his innate calm and
dignity makes him an effective speaker.
LI
It's good to be free.
Hearing the great man speak brings an awed silence from the
crowd. We have a moment of absolute quiet. Li allows himself
a small almost rueful smile, then...
LI
(continuing)
It's good to know that Bajor is
free.
Another beat of silence and then a wave of cheering starts
to build. It builds slowly, erupting finally into loud
heartfelt cheers. Then from out of the crowd we hear a voice
rise above the shouting.
JARO
Yes, it is good to be free.
56 NEW ANGLE
as Jaro and Kira push their way through the crowd. Jaro
stops in front of Li. A beat as he stands there beaming
with joy.
JARO
It really is you, isn't it.
LI
(simply)
I'm Li Nalas.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 45A.
56 CONTINUED:
JARO
I'm Minister Jaro Essa and it's a
great pleasure to welcome you home.
LI
Believe me, it's a pleasure to be
here.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 46.
56 CONTINUED: (2)
Jaro stands in front of Li, visibly moved to be part of
this momentous occasion... until the shouts of the crowd
remind him he's still a politician.
JARO
(to Li, re: the crowd)
I hope you won't mind if I address
the crowd. After all, you can't
expect a politician to pass up an
opportunity like this...
LI
Go right ahead...
Jaro turns to the crowd.
JARO
Fellow Bajorans, I have only one
thing to say to you today... To ask
of you, really... Never forget this
moment. Because I promise you that
years from now your children and
your grandchildren will want to know
what it was like the day Li Nalas
returned to Bajor.
The crowd cheers.
57 ANGLE SISKO
who looks over at Li, who seems gaunt and tired and
surprisingly unhappy.
58 INT. GUEST QUARTERS
Sisko and Li ENTER. Away from the crowd Li's spirit seems
to rise.
SISKO
I hope you'll find these quarters
satisfactory.
LI
Commander, I just spent ten years in
a Cardassian labor camp. I'm just
happy to have a moment's privacy.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 47.
58 CONTINUED:
SISKO
Enjoy it while you can. Judging
from the crowd on the Promenade, a
moment is all you're going to get.
LI
(subdued)
I thought they'd have forgotten me
by now.
SISKO
(tongue in cheek)
It appears you were wrong.
LI
This morning I was a slave and tonight
I'm a hero.
SISKO
(sympathetic)
It must seem a little overwhelming.
Li sits down. His wound hurts, he's tired but he smiles
wryly.
LI
I'll tell you what is overwhelming,
Commander. It's knowing that
something I've waited for my whole
life has finally happened.
(a beat)
The Cardassians are gone... we've
won.
(a beat)
You've been there recently. What's
it like, a free Bajor?
SISKO
I think you'll be pleased... for the
most part.
LI
"Most part"?
SISKO
Bajor lacks strong leadership.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 48.
58 CONTINUED: (2)
LI
(thoughtful)
So that's what Major Kira meant.
(off Sisko's
questioning look)
On the runabout, she told me my return
would bring stability to Bajor.
SISKO
She's right. Bajor could use your
help. And frankly so could I.
(sympathetic)
But before you go off saving Bajor,
I suppose you could use a good night's
sleep.
LI
Sounds like I'm going to need it.
Sisko EXITS. Li leans back in his chair and stares at the
ceiling, looking every bit like he's still in prison.
59 INT. QUARK'S
It's late. The bar is closed. Quark and Rom are seated at
a table. Rom watches as Quark divides up their weekly latinum
earnings.
QUARK
One for you... six for me. One for
you... six for me.
Quark glances up to see a morose Rom staring wistfully at
his thin pile of latinum.
QUARK
Would you stop looking so glum.
Payday is supposed to be a time of
joy.
ROM
I know, brother. But every week
it's the same thing. Six for you
and only one for me. It's not fair.
QUARK
(thoughtful)
You're right.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 49.
59 CONTINUED:
ROM
I am?
QUARK
Yes, it's not fair.
ROM
It's not?
QUARK
Absolutely not.
He resumes divvying up the loot.
QUARK
One for you, and seven for me.
One for you, and seven for me. Is
that better?
Rom gets up and heads for the door.
QUARK
(continuing)
And where are you going?
ROM
To bed. To dream of an equal share
of profits.
He EXITS.
QUARK
(muttering to himself)
Dream on.
(resumes counting)
One for you, seven for me.
He hears a noise behind him.
QUARK
What is it now?
He turns to see...
60 QUARK'S POV
Three masked figures headed toward him. Quark rises.
QUARK
I'm sorry, but we're closed. You
fellows on your way to a party?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FOUR 50.
61 NEW ANGLE
Without speaking, one of the figures grabs Quark's arms while
another stuffs a gag in his mouth.
61A CLOSE ON THIRD ASSAILANT
who is carrying a small metal device (it should look like
the 24th century version of a cattle prod). He hits a button
on the handle of the device.
61B CLOSE ON DEVICE
as it glows ominously.
62 CLOSE ON QUARK
eyes widening in fear, he struggles harder to fight free,
but to no avail.
62A BACK TO THIRD ASSAILANT
Though we can't really make out his features, we know he's
smiling, as he advances on Quark.
63 WIDER ANGLE
As a terrified Quark is forced onto the floor and out of
frame. The third intruder bends over him, and thrusts the
brand home. As we hear the SOUND OF SIZZLING FLESH and
Quark's muffled howl of pain...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FOUR
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 51.
ACT FIVE
FADE IN:
64 INT. QUARK'S
Quark is being treated by Bashir, who uses a dermal
regenerator to heal the burn on his forehead. Sisko and
Kira stand nearby.
BASHIR
(patience wearing
thin)
Hold still.
QUARK
(panicked)
Doctor, will there be a scar?
BASHIR
I said, hold still.
QUARK
Does that mean yes?
BASHIR
No. This dermal regenerator should
repair the damaged tissue as well as
prevent any scarring.
Quark sighs in relief.
BASHIR
(continuing)
Unless, of course, you don't hold
still.
SISKO
(to Quark)
Did you recognize any of your
assailants?
65 NEW ANGLE
to include Odo and Li as they ENTER the bar.
QUARK
They were wearing masks.
KIRA
And you're sure they didn't say
anything?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 52.
65 CONTINUED:
QUARK
Not a word. They just came in...
(indignant)
... branded me and left.
ODO
The Promenade is usually deserted at
this hour. No one saw them enter or
leave.
SISKO
Constable, I want all security
personnel on full alert.
ODO
I've already seen to it.
LI
(to Kira)
Who's responsible for this?
KIRA
An extremist group from Bajor, who
call themselves The Circle.
LI
(surprised)
Bajorans did this?
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 53.
65 CONTINUED: (2)
SISKO
I'm afraid so.
LI
But why?
KIRA
Their goal is to rid Bajor of all
non-Bajorans.
LI
Hasn't the provisional government
tried to stop them... ?
KIRA
(with contempt)
Oh, they've tried. But the truth is
the Circle is more organized than
the government.
QUARK
Well, the government better get
organized, because I intend to sue
them for financial compensation.
SISKO
(in no mood for Quark's
antics)
Not now, Quark.
Quark decides not to push it.
SISKO
(to Li)
People have grown impatient with the
government's inability to get things
done, so they turn to the Circle.
KIRA
We need someone to speak out against
these reactionaries. Someone the
people will listen to.
A beat. It's clear to Li that they mean him. He nods
thoughtfully.
65A NEW ANGLE
Bashir turns off the dermal regenerator and steps away from
Quark. Quark's forehead looks Ferengi normal.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 53A.
65A CONTINUED:
BASHIR
There, that should do it.
Quark stands, running his hands over his head, checking for
any remaining burn tissue.
QUARK
How do I look?
KIRA
As handsome as ever.
QUARK
(look of relief)
Really.
He grins happily.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 54.
66 INT. SISKO'S QUARTERS
Sisko ENTERS. It's late. He's tired. The first thing he
sees is a mopey Jake lounging on the couch.
SISKO
Jake? What are you doing up?
JAKE
I couldn't sleep.
SISKO
So, how was your date? It was
tonight, wasn't it?
JAKE
It was supposed to be. She couldn't
make it.
Sisko sits down, ready to give his son a fatherly pep talk.
SISKO
It happens.
JAKE
She said her father wouldn't let her
go out with me.
SISKO
Why not?
JAKE
Because I'm not a Bajoran.
Sisko sighs in weary frustration.
SISKO
That's not much of a reason.
(a beat)
Jake... there are things happening
on Bajor... bad things... I'm sorry
you've become a victim of them. You
don't deserve it. Nobody does.
He leans over and pulls Jake to him, kisses him on the head,
holds on to him tightly. A beat, then...
SISKO
(continuing)
Now it's time for bed, okay?
Jake gets up and heads for his room.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 55.
66 CONTINUED:
JAKE
Night, Dad.
67 ANGLE SISKO (OPTICAL)
He gets up, checks a pitcher on the table, sees that it's
full, and pours himself some juice. But before he can
drink...
COM VOICE
Commander, there's a call for you
from the Tygarian freighter docked
on Upper Pylon Two.
SISKO
Put it through.
He goes over to the monitor. A TYGARIAN OFFICER appears on
screen.
TYGARIAN
Commander Sisko, I am Romah Doek,
executive officer of the Nanut. We
were preparing to depart the station
for the Gamma Quadrant when we
discovered a Bajoran citizen trying
to board our ship disguised as a
crew member.
The Tygarian reaches off camera and pulls a solemn Li Nalas
into frame.
TYGARIAN
I was hoping you'd know what to do
with him.
Push in on Sisko's stunned reaction.
68 INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE
Li stands before Sisko who's seated at his desk.
SISKO
The Nanut isn't scheduled to return
from the Gamma Quadrant for two years.
LI
Actually I planned on staying there
considerably longer.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 56.
68 CONTINUED:
SISKO
I don't follow.
Li studies Sisko. It's as if he's sizing him up, deciding
how much to tell him.
LI
Commander, I'm going to tell you a
story. You may even believe it.
SISKO
I'm listening.
Li launches into his story. He paces around the office,
lost in memory, speaking with a quiet urgency that compels
belief.
LI
During the occupation I was a member
of a minor resistance cell, the name's
unimportant. One day, this was in
the mountains surrounding the Sahving
valley, we were ambushed by Cardassian
troops. Only three of us managed to
escape. We hid in the hills for two
days, but finally the lack of food
and water forced us down into the
valley. We made our way to a ridge
above a small lake. As I was the
only one still carrying a phaser, I
went ahead to scout for the enemy.
Halfway down the embankment I slipped
and went sprawling on my back down
to the edge of the lake just as a
huge Cardassian emerged from the
water. He must have just finished
bathing. He stood there frozen in
surprise, dressed only in his
underwear, shivering from the cold.
I lay there looking up at him too
stunned to move. It was only when
he reached over for a phaser rifle
lying across his clothes on a nearby
rock that I realized I was still
holding my own phaser. I shot him,
his body collapsed on top of me,
which is how my companions found us
a moment later.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 57.
68 CONTINUED: (2)
LI (Cont'd)
One of them recognized him as Gul
Zarale, responsible for the massacre
of a half-dozen Bajoran villages. I
tried to tell them what happened,
but they had already convinced
themselves that I killed Zarale during
some kind of savage struggle.
(a beat)
Which is what they insisted on telling
every Bajoran we met. And no matter
how hard I denied it, the story
continued to spread until it seemed
all of Bajor had heard it. Soon
every victory won by the resistance
was attributed to my leadership.
Stories of my courage, my brilliance,
my daring grew more and more
unbelievable... yet people insisted
on believing them. My reputation
even followed me into the labor
camp... my presence alone seemed to
inspire my fellow prisoners... and
all I had done was shot an unarmed
Cardassian in his underwear. I'll
never forget that look on his face
as he died. He was so... embarrassed.
(a beat; ruefully)
Commander, I did what Bajor needed
me to do. I've allowed myself to be
a slave to my reputation all these
years. Isn't that enough?
SISKO
They still need you.
LI
But I'm not the man they think I am.
SISKO
(thoughtful)
Perhaps not.
(smiling)
But Bajor doesn't need a man, it
needs a symbol, and that's what
you are.
Sisko steps out from behind his desk and approaches Li.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - 07/02/93 - ACT FIVE 57A.
68 CONTINUED: (3)
SISKO
No one's asking you to lead troops
into battle, or to kill a hundred
Cardassians with your bare hands.
(a beat)
But I saw you in front of that crowd
on the Promenade. They look at you
and they see strength, and honor,
and decency.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - REV. 07/09/93 - ACT FIVE 58.
68 CONTINUED: (4)
SISKO
They look at you and they see the
best of themselves.
LI
But it's all based on a lie.
SISKO
No. It's based on a legend. And
legends are as powerful as any truth.
Bajor still needs that legend.
(with simple finality)
It needs you.
69 ON LI
unable to deny Sisko's words.
70 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)
71 INT. OPS
Everyone at their post.
DAX
The Yelikan transport is prepared
for departure.
KIRA
(working panel)
Opening mooring clamps on Docking
Bay Six.
72 NEW ANGLE
Minister Jaro and Li step off the Turbolift.
JARO
(to Sisko)
Commander...
SISKO
Minister Jaro... Li...
JARO
Navarch Li, as of yesterday's
unanimous assembly vote.
DEEP SPACE: "The Homecoming" - REV. 07/09/93 - ACT FIVE 59.
72 CONTINUED:
KIRA
Congratulations.
LI
(self-deprecating
humor)
Navarch. There's never been one
before. They didn't feel any existing
title was adequate. So they created
a new one for me.
SISKO
(to Li)
I hear that thousands of people showed
up to greet your ship when it arrived
on Bajor.
LI
It was quite a celebration. I wish
I could have stayed longer.
SISKO
What stopped you?
Jaro steps forward to take control of the situation.
JARO
The Navarch needed to return here to
assume his new post.
(a beat)
He's been made the Bajoran Liaison
Officer to Deep Space Nine.
Surprised looks from our crew.
SISKO
(re: Kira)
I already have a liaison officer.
JARO
Not anymore. Major Kira is no longer
assigned to this station. She's
been recalled to Bajor.
73 ON KIRA
She can't believe it. She turns to Sisko.
74 SISKO
clearly angered by the news. And as his frown deepens we...
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT FIVE
TO BE CONTINUED...