STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE
by Ron Richard
(When Star Trek scripts are written, they use the term “tech” in any place where specific numbers, dates, or terminology would appear. When a script is accepted for production, the terms are filled in so that it all matches with canon.)
TEASER
FADE IN:
PROMENADE
JAKE and NOG are hanging above PROMENADE in their usual girl watching position. JAKE elbows NOG and points below. There is a beautiful young BAJORAN WOMAN walking there. JAKE leaps off, unmindful of the drop. The woman is suddenly on a BASEBALL OUTFIELD dressed in a BASEBALL UNIFORM running for a fly ball. She leaps up to make the catch and JAKE lands in her arms. (Off) The crowd roars. They are now in SISKO’S QUARTERS.
BAJORAN WOMAN
I almost lost you in the sun.
JAKE
Where’s Nog?
BAJORAN WOMAN
You saw me first.
JAKE
Yeah, he can pick his own team.
BAJORAN WOMAN
I’m the best right fielder you could ever have. Let’s get on with the game.
She is now dressed in leotards, jumps up onto a convenient set of PARALLEL BARS and begins a complicated gymnastics routine while JAKE watches with growing desire. Suddenly, COMMANDER SISKO is next to JAKE.
SISKO
You know, Jake, if you like this, there is a holoprogram you really ought to try. It’s a replay of famous Olympic games going back centuries. (beat) You’re pretty limber and flexible, yourself. I think this is something you could do if you put your mind to it. You really ought to look into it.
SISKO goes to the REPLICATOR.
SISKO
Karabda ale, cold.
SISKO gets his DRINK and calmly sits in his EASY CHAIR. He reads a PADD, seemingly unconcerned. JAKE is nervous with his dad being there, but still watches the woman perform. She does a final move and makes a perfect landing in true Olympic fashion in front of JAKE. He applauds enthusiastically.
BAJORAN WOMAN
Thank you, Jake.
The woman embraces JAKE and begins to passionately kiss him. He responds in kind. SISKO continues to drink his ale and read his PADD. JAKE and the WOMAN are now dressed in swimwear. They turn together and dive into a SWIMMING POOL which is still in SISKO’S QUARTERS. The two swim together for a few moments.
SISKO
As good a swimmer as you are, Jake, you would make an excellent marine biologist. Remember how interesting you said that lecture by Mrs. O’Brian was? You know, the one about all the varieties of ocean life on Pacifica? You could do it, Jake. A career like that would be a snap for you.
JAKE and the WOMAN continue to swim together. They embrace in the water and start to go under while kissing. They are now lying on the floor together still entwined. SISKO sticks his head in between the two.
SISKO
(unconcerned)
She didn’t drown, did she?
JAKE
No, I’ve been giving her artificial respiration.
SISKO
That’s good. I see that first aid training you took did some good. The medical field would be wonderful for you, Jake. I’ll ask Dr. Bashir to let you work with him in the infirmary. It’ll be great. You can get a head start right here and medical school will be a breeze.
JAKE starts to talk to his father, but no sounds are coming out. He continues to speak to SISKO while the WOMAN is all over him, but the only sounds are SISKO’s voice.
SISKO
There’s a great technical university on Tiburon. It has a complete medical school as well as Academy credit extension classes in [tech]. I know that right now you don’t want to go to the Academy, but who knows what might come up. I know that a new, sudden interest can just appear out of the blue. Best of all, Tiburon is only twenty‑five light‑years from here. I’ll be able to visit you often. Why don’t I get a copy of the application form out of the computer. It never hurts to fill these things out ahead of time.
JAKE suddenly gets his voice back.
JAKE
(To the WOMAN)
C’mon, let’s go for a walk.
They are immediately on the PROMENADE. SISKO is there, too.
SISKO
(Hands JAKE a PADD)
Here you go. I already filled out most of it. You know, all the simple stuff like date of birth, sex, race…I always thought that one should be optional. Oh, well. You just need to fill in the rest, you see here where it talks about the fields of study you’re interested in and right here it needs to know…
JAKE
Dad!
SISKO
Yeah, Jake?
JAKE
I know that you…I know that you…
(Suddenly it is as though JAKE’s mouth won’t respond)
Want…me…to…but…but…
(He can utter nothing but gibberish)
WOMAN
Jake.
(JAKE turns to her and she gives him a long, passionate kiss)
JAKE
(To SISKO and in perfect voice)
I know that you want me to be everything that you are and some things that you are not, but I have to live my life the way I want to. And right now, I want to have a good time with this woman.
The CROWD in the PROMENADE begins to applaud and cheer. JAKE acknowledges them with a wide grin and nod. He takes the WOMAN around the waist and moves through the CROWD getting claps on the back the whole way.
SISKO
(Calling after him)
C’mon Jake, there will be plenty of time for that. You don’t really know what you want in a woman right now, anyway. These forms will only take a minute. Jake…Jake!…JAKE!
CLOSEUP JAKE
JAKE is leaning back smiling contentedly. As the view pulls back, he is in a technical looking EASY CHAIR. He has a DREAMPLAYER device pointed at his head.
SISKO
(off Jake)
Jake!…JAKE!
One of SISKO’s hand claps JAKE on the shoulder. The other removes the DREAMPLAYER from JAKE’s head. JAKE opens his eyes and looks at SISKO.
JAKE
Sorry Dad, but we’re going back to our quarters for a romantic swim and you’re not invited. You’ll just have to…
JAKE looks around and suddenly realizes that he is in QUARK’S. He looks up first at the stern face of his father and then over to QUARK, who is standing next to him and was apparently operating the DREAMPLAYER. QUARK glances at SISKO sheepishly and shrugs in Ferengi toady fashion.
OFF JAKE’s embarrassed reaction…
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE ‑ STATION
INT. PROMENADE ‑ CROWDED
ODO (V.O.)
Security log: Stardate [tech]. Today, I arrested Dorgon Falor for petty theft in the jewelry store on the Promenade. This is the third time in the last twenty days… The Prime Directive Society ships are scheduled to arrive in two days. Security arrangements are proceeding. Mostly it will be a problem with crowd control. I’ve been told they tend to use passive resistance techniques to achieve their ends. I would almost prefer a violent riot… And Quark has acquired a new device designed to separate people from their money. All in all, a typical day.
INT. QUARK’S
SISKO
Jake, it’s eleven‑hundred. Aren’t you supposed to be studying on the computer at this hour?
JAKE
Yeah, Dad. I…was just taking a break. Our replicator is busted again, so I came here for some pudding. While I was here I decided to try out Quark’s new Dreamplayer.
SISKO
(To Quark)
Dreamplayer?
QUARK
A harmless device, Commander. It allows one to replay a recent dream with perfect clarity and absolute reality. It’s as though you’re really there! With practice, you can even direct your dream and add any elements you want. I have the feeling that this device will eventually make holosuites obsolete. For amusement purposes only, of course.
SISKO
And where did you acquire this “harmless device?”
QUARK
I purchased all the rights from a merchant in the Karama system, Commander. Apparently it’s all the rage in the Gamma Quadrant.
SISKO
The Gamma Quadrant!? You’re using an untested alien device on your customers and MY SON?
QUARK
Commander, I take great offense at that inference. This device is anything but untested. It has been put through extensive shakedowns and is guaranteed to be totally safe. The circuitry was even modified to be more compatible with human and Bajoran brains. At considerable expense to myself, I might add. My customers’ happiness and safety are always foremost in my mind and I am thoroughly convinced of their safety.
SISKO
Just the same, these devices are to be shut down as of now until I am thoroughly convinced.
Sisko activates his COMBADGE
Chief O’Brien and Doctor Bashir, report to Quark’s immediately. I have a little project for you.
INT. OPS
DAX, KIRA and CREWMEN are at their posts.
DAX
No, I’m not being argumentative, it’s just that I’ve always had a different opinion than you about these things.
(Looking at her monitor)
We’re starting to get indications on the long range sensors. It could be the convoy we’re expecting.
KIRA
Any indications of numbers?
DAX
No, not yet. They’re still at the edge of sensor range.
KIRA
Keep monitoring. (Beat) After being seven or eight different people, how can you always have had the same opinion.
DAX
Because it’s just a common sense way of looking at the matter.
(Realizes she has just put her foot in her mouth)
KIRA
Oh, and my opinion has nothing to do with common sense?
DAX
You know I didn’t mean that. It’s just that…no, never mind.
KIRA
What?
DAX
Well, I believe that sometimes you don’t think things through all the way. You rely more on your instincts than on your brain. No offense.
KIRA
None taken, because I happen to be damn proud of my instincts. They’ve saved my life more times than I can count. If I had “thought things through” during every crisis, I would have been dead long ago.
DAX
You’re right, I’m sorry.
KIRA
That’s all right. (Beat) Tanaker sauce should still be served on the side, though.
Dax’s reaction. SISKO enters from the TURBOLIFT.
SISKO
Report.
DAX
The Prime Directive Society ships are just starting to appear on the long range sensors, Benjamin. No indications of numbers, yet.
SISKO
They usually travel in a convoy of about fifteen or twenty ships.
DAX
They’re only [tech] light years away, but still they won’t arrive for another two days.
KIRA
Two days?
DAX
They’re only traveling at warp [tech].
KIRA
Why so slow?
SISKO
They don’t have the luxury of state of the art vessels, Major. This group has been around for as long as the Prime Directive itself. In fact, this year is the two‑hundredth anniversity of its inception. Some of their ships are almost that old, too. Their task force, as they like to call it, is limited to the speed of the slowest ships. It’s taken them almost a year to make the journey from Earth.
KIRA
So I take it that they are on their way here to join in the celebration of this anniversary?
SISKO
Hardly, Major.
SISKO stomps into his office.
KIRA
(To Dax)
Did I say something wrong?
DAX
The Prime Directive Society is not a great friend to Starfleet.
KIRA
Why? Don’t they believe in the Prime Directive?
DAX
On the contrary, they believe in a very strict interpretation of it. Part of the Prime Directive is to allow cultures to develop naturally on their own without acquiring knowledge and skills from other cultures before they’re ready. The PSD thinks that should apply to the Federation, too.
KIRA
Sort of a practice what you preach attitude, huh?
DAX
That about sums it up. They are convinced that unrestrained interaction with other cultures has caused damage. They like to stage protests to get this issue into the public eye.
KIRA
That sounds like some of those “Bajor for Bajorans” idiots in the Provisional Government. They would like nothing better than to never even see anyone from another culture, ever again. If everyone thought like that, Bajor would never have gone into space in the first place and brought culture and art to half a dozen sectors of space.
DAX
It’s not that they’re isolationists, they just believe in being very careful before full contact is established with another species.
KIRA
You sound like you believe in the same thing.
DAX
No, of course not. I agree with you.
KIRA
You do?
DAX
Sure. (Smiling) It’s only common sense.
INT. SISKO’S OFFICE
SISKO at his desk studying his COMPUTER. The door CHIMES.
SISKO
Come.
O’BRIEN and BASHIR enter.
SISKO
Gentlemen. What have you got for me?
BASHIR
I’ve hooked Quark’s “dreamplayer” to the neural inputs in the Infirmary computer, Commander; and run a few simulations of what would happen to a humanoid brain. There doesn’t appear to be any detrimental effects.
O’BRIEN
It’s technology I’ve never seen before, Commander, but I understand how it works. In essence, it’s a very sophisticated scanner that can analyze the exact [tech] state in a humanoid brain cell. The person using it concentrates on a particular memory or dream he wants to relive. The machine then focuses on that and searches for the corresponding [tech] frequency in the area of the brain devoted to memory; just like a computer searching for a particular file. It’s then played back in the person’s head. The signal is greatly enhanced, so the …vision…is absolutely real.
BASHIR
With practice, the user could even create new elements and control the entire sequence. Commander, I would have to study it more, but this could be a wonderful medical device. If this apparatus were used for something other than a toy, it could be invaluable as a diagnosis tool, or as an aid to a patient’s self-healing. The possibilities are endless.
SISKO
I agree, Doctor. However, since you have now confirmed that there are no harmful effects, I have no choice but to give the dreamplayer back to Quark and let him use it as he will. You could ask him for the rights to replicate and experiment with it, but I doubt the royalties would be cheap.
BASHIR
What if he refuses to sell?
O’BRIEN
Quark?
BASHIR
That’s right, I forgot who we were talking about. Commander, if I can convince Quark to sell the device to Starfleet, I’ll need to request some funding.
SISKO
You know how to fill out the forms, Doctor.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Kira to Sisko.
SISKO
Go ahead, Major.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Sir, request you come to Ops.
SISKO
On my way.
INT. OPS
SISKO, O’BRIEN AND BASHIR enter from SISKO’S OFFICE
KIRA
(To DAX)
Is that the final figure?
DAX nods
SISKO
What is it, Major?
KIRA nods to DAX
DAX
The Prime Directive Society task force is now fully within sensor range. Benjamin, there’s three hundred and twenty ships.
OFF SISKO’s reaction…
FADE OUT.
END ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. SPACE ‑ PRIME DIRECTIVE SOCIETY FLEET ‑ OLD ANTIQUATED SHIPS (OPTICAL)
INT. OPS
SISKO
Open a channel to that fleet.
DAX
Channel open.
SISKO
This is Commander Benjamin Sisko of Starbase Deep Space Nine. Please respond.
INT. OPS ‑ VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)
The face of NADA BARTLETT appears on the screen.
BARTLETT
Go ahead, Commander. I am Nada Bartlett, Chairman of the Prime Directive Society. I had a feeling you would be calling about now.
SISKO
A pleasure to meet you, Chairman. I assume, then, you know what this call is about.
BARTLETT
You’re probably alarmed at the size of our task force.
SISKO
Hardly alarmed, Chairman Bartlett. May I ask your intentions when you arrive?
BARTLETT
You’re not familiar with our group and its goals?
SISKO
Quite familiar, Chairman. I had the honor of dealing with some of your group once before when I was at the Utopia Planitia Shipyards. I ask again, what are your intentions?
BARTLETT
I will be honest with you, Commander. Our intentions are the same as they always are. We intend to bring into the public eye the hypocrisy of Starfleet and the Federation in their liberal interpretation of the Prime Directive.
SISKO
I will be equally honest with you, Chairman. I will tolerate no interference with the operation of this station. All vessel traffic rules and station regulations as well as the laws of Starfleet and the Federation will be adhered to while you are here.
BARTLETT
As it should be, Commander. Bartlett out.
The screen goes blank. SISKO starts for his office.
SISKO
Get me Admiral Necheyev on subspace. I’ll take it in my office.
EXT. SPACE ‑ STARFIELD GOING PAST AT WARP NINE (OPTICAL)
The view pulls back to reveal JAKE is traveling through space without benefit of starship or spacesuit. He hurtles past nebulae and pulsars and finally through the WORMHOLE. He suddenly spies a BORG SHIP. JAKE pulls out a HAND PHASER and fires. The BORG SHIP explodes. Suddenly, there is a ROMULAN WARBIRD. He fires and that ship explodes. A JEM’HADAR ship appears and suffers the same fate. JAKE smiles with satisfaction after each one. He spots a planet ahead and lands on the surface. He is surrounded by BORG, ROMULANS, JEM’HADAR, CARDASSIANS and miscellaneous monsters. JAKE pulls a KLINGON BAT’TELH from behind his back and begins to lay waste to all his enemies. As the body count increases, JAKE laughs maniacally. With each death, he enjoys the killing more and more. After the last one falls, QUARK comes up to him and puts his arm around his shoulder.
QUARK
Mister Sisko, that was the most incredible act of bravery I have ever witnessed and I would just like to show my appreciation.
INT. QUARK’S
The scene has suddenly shifted to QUARK’S. There are six DABO GIRLS surrounding JAKE, all expressing their appreciation. The CROWD around the DABO TABLES has dropped what they are doing and are cheering JAKE. JAKE has a huge pile of LATINUM in front of him and is generously giving it out to the DABO GIRLS and the CROWD. One of the GAMBLERS shakes his hand.
GAMBLER
Three cheers for Agent Sisko, the most daring and brilliant secret operative in the history of the galaxy! HIP, HIP…
CROWD
HOORAY!
GAMBLER
HIP, HIP…
CROWD
HOORAY!
GAMBLER
HIP, HIP…
CROWD
HOORAY!
The CROWD goes wild as QUEEN VICTORIA elbows her way through.
QUEEN VICTORIA
Mister Sisko, the entire British Empire is forever grateful. You have saved us all from certain destruction and we are forever in your debt.
JAKE
Thank you, Your Majesty.
QUEEN VICTORIA
Kneel, Jacob of Deep Space Nine.
JAKE kneels. QUEEN VICTORIA pulls a SWORD and taps him on the shoulders.
QUEEN VICTORIA
I dub thee Knight and Earl. Rise, Sir Jacob, Earl of the Gamma Quadrant.
JAKE rises.
QUEEN VICTORIA
I invest thee with all the planets and goods pertaining to the new titles. And to the Starbase of Deep Space Nine.
The CROWD cheers wildly. The cheers continue as…
CLOSEUP OF JAKE WITH DREAMPLAYER AS BEFORE
The cheers have turned into those of the regular crowd at QUARK’S around the DABO TABLES. The same faces as in JAKE’s dream are there.
GAMBLER
Dabo!
JAKE slowly smiles and rises from the DREAMPLAYER. He motions to QUARK.
JAKE
Thanks, Quark. See you next time.
QUARK
My pleasure. Your money is always good here.
JAKE exits.
QUARK
(To himself)
Getting to be my best customer.
INT. SISKO’S OFFICE
SISKO is at his desk addressing his MONITOR.
SISKO
I just don’t understand, Admiral. How did the Prime Directive Society manage to assemble such a large fleet without anyone knowing it. There must have been flight plans and permits…
ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN ‑ ADMIRAL NECHEYEV (OPTICAL)
NECHEYEV
These people are extremely clever, Commander; as well as resourceful, persistant and masters of the legal loophole. After your call yesterday, we backtracked the entire process. Apparently, they were able to apply for permits under several different names of individuals and organizations. All of these names are legitimate and their convoy appears to be completely legal.
SISKO
(Sighs)
I take it then, Admiral, that they are planning on disrupting the Prime Directive Anniversary celebration next month?
NECHEYEV
The Prime Directive Society does not exactly give Starfleet an itinerary of its plans, Commander. They have protested this anniversary in the past, but it has always been on Earth or Vulcan. This being the two‑hundredth year, the festivities will be extravagant. I would have thought that they would want to stay closer to the heart of the Federation since they want so much to be in the public eye.
SISKO
What are my orders, Admiral?
NECHEYEV
Commander Sisko, your mission is one above and beyond the call of duty. I’m afraid I’ll have to ask you to perform a very terrifying task.
SISKO
Sir?
NECHEYEV
The Prime Directive Society has always been a relatively minor movement. The recent threat posed by the Dominion has caused many people to become sympathetic to their cause. Now, this revelation about the size of the PDS fleet has reached the ears of the news media. There will be reporters arriving a few days after the convoy. The Federation wants to project a positive image of the ideology of the Prime Directive. There will be a televised debate between the leaders of the PDS and representatives of Starfleet. You and officers of your choice will defend the views of the Federation.
SISKO
(Stunned)
But sir,…Why me?
NECHEYEV
The Federation Council wanted to send the Secretary of Exploration, but he is in the Beta Quadrant and could not arrive for over three weeks. In lieu of anyone else, they decided that you would have to do. No offense, Commander.
SISKO
None taken, Admiral. I’m…honored.
NECHEYEV
You have your orders, Commander. Starfleet out.
The SCREEN blanks out. SISKO activates his COMBADGE.
SISKO
Sisko to Ops.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Kira here
SISKO
Major, I want a meeting of all the senior staff in my office at 0900 hours tomorrow.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Aye, sir.
SISKO
Sisko out.
INT. PROMENADE
JAKE and NOG are walking along the PROMENADE
JAKE
I tell you, Nog, this Dreamplayer is the greatest thing you can possibly imagine. You can do things that the Holosuites can’t come close to, and it’s even more real because it comes out of your own head. How could it possibly be anything other than you want it to be?
NOG
But it’s still not real. You’re not really doing those things. I could dream all I wanted about making huge profits and becoming the Grand Nagus, but that wouldn’t make it happen.
JAKE
But that’s the best part about it. You can experience things that you know will never happen to you.
NOG
Who says I’ll never be the Grand Nagus?
JAKE
Well, no one. But wouldn’t you like to experience something that would be absolutely impossible in the real world?
NOG
Not if I can spend my time working on a deal that can happen. When you finish one of those sessions, what do you have to show for it?
JAKE
OK, look. If you won’t try it, at least lend me a couple strips of latinum so I can go again. I spent all my money.
NOG
You’re forgetting the thirteenth Rule of Acquisition, “Neither a borrower nor a lender be.”
JAKE
Oh, come on; you know I’ll pay you back.
NOG
That’s not it. I might lend you money for something worthwhile, but this Dreamplayer is just a waste of time. (Beat) Don’t tell my Uncle Quark that I said that.
JAKE
Forget it. I’ll find the money someplace else.
JAKE storms away.
OFF NOG’s reaction.
INT. SISKO’S OFFICE
SISKO, KIRA, DAX, O’BRIEN, BASHIR and ODO are having a meeting.
SISKO
So that’s it, people. Starfleet has assigned me this mission. Believe me, I would rather jump out an airlock in my underwear, but those are my orders and I will carry them out.
KIRA
You have our sympathies, Commander.
SISKO
Oh, don’t worry. I won’t be in this alone. I intend to drag some of you down with me. Doctor, I believe you were on the debating team in the Academy.
BASHIR
Well, yes I was, Commander, but only because I wanted to meet this girl who…
SISKO
Thank you. I knew I could count on you. Dax, you were a diplomat in your previous life and I know you can hold your own in a good argument.
DAX
Curzon usually held his own by raising his voice and intimidating people. Are you sure that’s what you want here?
SISKO
I’m counting on your new self to keep that under tight control. Constable, I would like you there, as well.
ODO
(Squirming)
Commander, I haven’t even mastered a humanoid basic shape, yet, let alone the intricacies of human speech subtleties and tones of voice. I’m afraid I might express an idea incorrectly.
SISKO
Odo, that has got to be the flimsiest excuse I have ever heard. You’re not getting out of it that easily.
ODO
But, Commander, it’s just that… (beat)
SISKO
What is it, Constable?
ODO
Well, Commander…are you sure you want me, a Changeling, to represent the views of the Federation? My race, after all, does control the Dominion.
SISKO
Odo, I want you because you are honest and honorable and therefore believable. That’s what you will project for the media. You will be part of the proof that not everything in the universe that is different is dangerous or harmful.
ODO
Thank you, Commander.
SISKO
Major Kira…
KIRA
No, Commander, you can’t possibly expect me to be on this team. I can’t debate in a calm, rational manner!
She is starting to get worked up.
KIRA
I would just lose my temper with those fatheads and start to yell! I really think you should reconsider this decision…
SISKO
(Interrupting)
Major, MAJOR!
She stops.
SISKO
I wanted to be diplomatic about it, but I couldn’t have put it any better myself. I would prefer not to have you on the debating panel if that’s alright with you.
KIRA
(Taken aback)
Yes,…of course, Commander.
SISKO
Mr. O’Brien.
O’BRIEN
(Unnerved)
Sir?
SISKO
You also, will not be on the panel. I’m sorry.
O’BRIEN
(Relieved)
Yes sir, thank you, sir.
SISKO
But, what I do need from all of you, are ideas and suggestions; some kind of ammunition to fight this battle.
BASHIR
Well, Commander, there are thousands of examples in the medical field alone of how contact with other species has saved lives and improved the quality of life.
O’BRIEN
As well as technological advances; starship design, transporter technology…
KIRA
New farming techniques, energy production…
SISKO
And I’m going to want to compile a list of all the most relevant ideas. But, for every one of these positive items that we come up with, you can bet the PDS will have at least one negative item to counter them. I need something more; something that will show everyone that exploration and interraction is not the monkey’s paw they make it out to be.
KIRA
Sir, with all due respect for your list of positive items, I’ve always found that actions speak much louder than words. What we need is not a list of evidence, but a physical demonstration that what we do and what we want is right; some kind of action that speaks for itself.
BASHIR
You know, Major, hearing you talk, I would swear that your attitudes toward the Federation have changed.
KIRA
Don’t jump to conclusions, Doctor. I’m only saying that I completely disagree with what these people are trying to push on us. I hate to say it, but right now, Bajor needs to be part of the Galaxy. And I happen to believe that the Galaxy needs Bajor, too.
CREWMAN’S COM VOICE
Ops to Commander Sisko.
SISKO
Go ahead.
CREWMAN’S COM VOICE
Sir, you asked to be informed when the PDS fleet arrived. ETA five minutes, Sir.
INT. OPS.
SISKO, KIRA, DAX, BASHIR, ODO AND O’BRIEN enter from SISKO’S OFFICE and take their posts.
DAX
Benjamin, I’m receiving multiple hails. [Tech] ships are requesting docking permission.
SISKO
That’s the maximum number the station can handle.
DAX
They claim that these ships are in need of repair and maintenance and cannot operate safely much longer.
SISKO
Very well. Give clearance to those [tech] ships and order the others to assume a holding pattern.
DAX
Aye, Sir.
EXT. SPACE ‑ OLD SHIPS DOCKING (OPTICAL)
INT. OPS.
DAX
The ships have docked.
SISKO
Very good. Odo, are your people ready for this crowd?
ODO
Yes, Commander. With your permission, I’ll go to the docking ring and make sure everything is …orderly.
SISKO
By all means, Constable.
ODO exits.
DAX
Benjamin, something unusual here.
SISKO
What is it?
DAX
Several of the ships are not proceeding to their assigned holding patterns.
SISKO
What’s their course?
DAX
They seem to be headed for the wormhole.
SISKO
Why would they want to go through the wormhole? Hail them, Lieutenant.
DAX works her PANEL.
DAX
No response.
SISKO
Open a channel. (Beat) This is Commander Benjamin Sisko of Deep Space Nine to all ships on course for the wormhole. What are your intentions? Respond, please.
DAX
(Beat) Commander, their course is not through the wormhole, after all.
SISKO
What do you mean?
DAX
They’re taking up a position five hundred meters from the event horizon. (Beat) Benjamin, they’ve completely blocked the entrance to the wormhole. Nothing can get in or out.
OFF SISKO’s reaction.
FADE OUT
END OF ACT TWO
ACT THREE
EXT. SPACE ‑ SHIPS HOLDING POSITION (OPTICAL)
INT. OPS
SISKO
Any response yet, Dax?
DAX
None yet. Looks like they’re bringing the final ships into formation.
SISKO
Give me a tactical display.
ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN ‑ SHIPS IN TIGHT FORMATION AT MOUTH OF WORMHOLE (OPTICAL)
DAX
There are one hundred eighty‑five ships in tight formation at the mouth of the wormhole. There is no more than thirty meters of space between any of them.
SISKO
Which means nothing much bigger than a runabout could get through their screen.
DAX
And even that would be dangerous. It would require precision flying, and if they should shift position to try to block the maneuver, it could mean a collision.
KIRA
We could use our runabouts to tow them out of there with a tractor beam.
SISKO
Then what would we do with them, Major? We only have three runabouts and the moment we release one ship to go get another, the first one would be right back on the blockade line.
O’BRIEN
Sir, I think I could rig up a tractor corral. We could place a couple dozen stationary buoys out of the way of the regular traffic patterns. We then outfit them with tractor emitters and tow the ships within the buoys’ perimeter. If I fine tune them in a special way, we should have no trouble keeping those old ships bottled up.
SISKO
Sounds good. Get started on it right away.
O’BRIEN
Aye, sir.
O’BRIEN exits.
SISKO
Major, when is the next ship due to return from the Gamma Quadrant?
KIRA
(Looks at her CONSOLE)
Not for another three days, Commander.
SISKO
That should give us enough time to get those ships out of there. If someone came through the wormhole now, they wouldn’t be able to stop in time to avoid a collision.
ODO’S COM VOICE
Odo to Sisko.
SISKO
Go ahead, Constable.
ODO’S COM VOICE
Commander, I’ve got the leader of these people, a Nada Bartlett, down in my office. I thought perhaps you would like to speak to her.
SISKO
You thought right, Constable. I’ll be right there.
INT. ODO’S OFFICE
ODO’S OFFICE is jammed with people. The DEPUTIES are trying to keep things orderly, but the CROWD is growing. They are not violent at all, just in the way.
SISKO enters
SISKO
Constable?
ODO
Ah, Commander. May I present Nada Bartlett, the Chairman of the Prime Directive Society? Chairman, this is Commander Benjamin Sisko.
BARTLETT
I’m pleased to finally meet you in person, Commander.
SISKO
Likewise, Chairman. Odo, may I ask what is going on?
ODO
Apparently, Commander, Chairman Bartlett’s followers are protesting my asking her to my office to confer. Chairman, I must repeat, no one here is under arrest or being charged with anything.
BARTLETT
I assure you, sir, everyone here is aware of that. I must also point out that these people are not, as you say “my followers.” This group existed long before I was born. We are all independently minded people who can see the truth and the inherent dangers of several of the Federation’s policies. My function is only to coordinate the group’s efforts.
SISKO
The media paints a somewhat different picture of you and your group, Chairman.
BARTLETT
Of course. The media has always been slanted toward Federation viewpoints.
SISKO
Well, I can hardly agree with that, Chairman, but perhaps we will find out in two days. Are you aware of Starfleet’s proposal of a publicized debate?
BARTLETT
Yes, I heard about it not long before we arrived. I think that is a marvelous idea.
SISKO
Then you agree to the debate?
BARTLETT
Absolutely, Commander. In fact…
She searches the CROWD for a moment, then calls out.
BARTLETT
Kane, Sheol, Owen, could you come here a moment?
KANE D’SHATHRA, (A male alien), SHEOL ALATINIA, (a female alien) and OWEN DURAN come forward.
BARTLETT
Commander, I would like to introduce the people who will be serving on the debate team with me. This is Kane D’Shathra from Rigel II, Sheol Alatinia of Leta V and Owen Duran from Tau Ceti III. This is Commander Sisko.
They nod their How do you do’s.
SISKO
A pleasure. The debate is scheduled for twenty‑hundred hours on our Promenade two days from now. Until then, I suggest, Chairman, that you and your group take advantage of the hospitality this station has to offer. The Promenade has many different shops and attractions.
BARTLETT
Thank you, Commander. I’m sure we will find something to occupy our time until the debate. If that is all, Commander, Constable, I bid you both a good day.
SISKO AND ODO TOGETHER
Chairman.
SISKO gives ODO a “You know what to do” nod and exits.
INT. CARGO BAY
O’BRIEN and a TECHNICIAN are working on a TRACTOR BUOY.
SISKO enters.
SISKO
How’s it coming, Chief?
O’BRIEN
We’re fitting the last of the buoys now, Commander. They should be loaded and ready to place in about thirty minutes.
SISKO
How many of these buoys are there?
O’BRIEN
Twenty‑two, Sir.
SISKO
There is just a single emitter on this. How can twenty‑two buoys keep hold of two or three hundred ships?
O’BRIEN
Well, this is something I read about in a technical journal a couple of years ago. I’ve been dying to try it ever since, but never had the opportunity until now. By fine tuning the [tech] to a [tech] frequency, I can produce a highly cohesive field between beams. The beams from the buoys lock on to each other instead of a target ship and interact so that a completely encased wall of tractor energy is created. It will be just as though those ships are inside a hollow sphere. They won’t be going anywhere.
SISKO
I’ve never heard of anything like this, before.
O’BRIEN
It’s technology borrowed from the Tholians, Sir. I got wind of it through a sort of unofficial “grapevine” that Starfleet engineers have established between themselves. It’s come in handy on more than one occasion.
SISKO
I’m sure it has.
O’BRIEN
Sir, if it’s alright with you, I’d like to request that Lieutenant Dax and Major Kira fly the two runabouts. I’ll have my hands full placing the buoys and that will be tricky enough. But when it comes to actually plucking those ships off their blockade line and taking them to the corral, I’m going to need the best pilots you can spare.
SISKO
Take them, but don’t deprive me of my Ops crew for too long.
O’BRIEN
It should only be for a few hours, Commander.
SISKO
Let me know when you’re ready to implement it.
O’BRIEN
Aye, sir.
INT. AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
O’BRIEN, KIRA, DAX and BASHIR are walking toward the AIRLOCK.
BASHIR
And so, after listening to over thirty minutes of “Ferengi Rules of Acquisition,” fears about competitors and general hard luck stories, I finally got Quark to name a price for his Dreamplayer.
O’BRIEN
Just so I know how much this will affect the Federation’s economy, what is Quark’s price?
BASHIR
He’s asking five‑hundred bars of gold pressed latinum for all the replication rights.
DAX
Five‑hundred?! Doesn’t he know that you just want the machine for medical research?
BASHIR
Yes, I told him that I was not planning on opening a rival casino, but he still insists on his price plus residuals for any profit made from its use.
There is a disturbance ahead. The AIRLOCK DOOR is being blocked by a CROWD of people, including KANE D’SHATHRA, SHEOL ALATINIA and OWEN DURAN.
KIRA
Excuse us.
There is no acknowledgment.
KIRA
EXCUSE US, PLEASE, but we need to get through here!
DURAN
Why do you need to go out there; to bring more problems and suffering into peoples’ lives? That’s what you’re doing, you know!
ALATINIA
Starfleet has no right to inflict alien influences on our people!
D’SHATHRA
You don’t think about what you do. You just head out there in your starships and gobble up every bit of what’s out there; good or bad.
KIRA
Look, this is all very interesting, but we have to get to our ships.
DURAN
The Prime Directive was meant for everyone, including the Federation and Starfleet! Prime Directive For All! PRIME DIRECTIVE FOR ALL!
The CROWD begins to chant along.
CROWD
PRIME DIRECTIVE FOR ALL! PRIME DIRECTIVE FOR ALL! PRIME DIRECTIVE FOR ALL!
KIRA taps her COMBADGE.
KIRA
(Above the chanting) Security to the runabout pads.
ODO’s COM VOICE
Odo to Kira.
KIRA
Go ahead.
ODO’s COM VOICE
Major, is this an emergency?
KIRA
Well, not really. Do you have a problem?
INT. OUTSIDE OF ODO’S OFFICE.
There is a large CROWD blocking the corridor and doorway. ODO’s DEPUTIES are physically removing them one by one.
ODO
Nothing we can’t handle in time. These PDS people are trying to impede Station operations.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
It sounds like we have the same problem. Whenever you can, we could use some people at the runabout pads.
ODO
I’ll have somebody there as soon as I can, Major. I have requested all available personnel for temporary security duty, but…take that man out of there!
Two DEPUTIES pick up a MAN who was blocking access to a PANEL. The DEPUTIES carry him off. The MAN does not resist. He just goes limp.
ODO
…But as you can see, these people are nothing if not persistent.
OFF the DEPUTIES trying to maintain order.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT 3
ACT 4
EXT. SPACE ‑ RUNABOUTS AMONG PDS FLEET (OPTICAL)
INT. RUNABOUT COCKPIT
O’BRIEN and DAX are at the RUNABOUT controls.
O’BRIEN
Stand by…coming into range (beat) locking on tractor beam.
EXT. SPACE ‑ RUNABOUT LOCKING TRACTOR BEAM ON A SHIP. (OPTICAL)
INT. RUNABOUT COCKPIT
DAX
We’ve got them. It’s a good lock. They should have a smooth ride to the corral.
O’BRIEN
Too bad. That would break my heart to jostle them around a bit.
DAX
Changing course to one‑one‑three mark seven‑six for the corral. I take it you’re not too fond of this group.
O’BRIEN
Oh, they stick in my craw. They raise this big row about something they obviously know nothing about.
DAX
Chief, can I ask you a personal question?
O’BRIEN
Sure.
DAX
Is there anyone you like?
O’BRIEN
What do you mean?
DAX
Well, the PDS “sticks in your craw,” it’s well known how you feel about Cardassians, the Bajorans, I believe I heard you say, “give you a bellyache…”
O’BRIEN
Is that how you see me, hating everyone?
INT. PROMENADE
ODO is still trying to restore order, despite QUARK bugging him.
QUARK
No, I don’t think you hate everyone, you just mistrust them all.
ODO
Don’t be absurd. I do not mistrust all humanoids.
QUARK
But you don’t think much of their motives or their judgment.
ODO
(To DEPUTY off) Keep that corridor clear! Quark, I don’t have time for this right now.
QUARK
I have to agree. As they say, time is money and my business is booming with all these crusaders here.
ODO
Then why don’t you go back to fleecing your customers and leave me to do my job of controlling this ridiculous crowd.
QUARK
You see? Do you hear what you’re saying? You feel exactly the same about all humanoids as you do about me.
INT. RUNABOUT COCKPIT
KIRA and BASHIR are towing ships.
KIRA
Oh, come on, you feel exactly the same as I do about this group.
BASHIR
Let’s just say I agree with most of what you’re saying.
KIRA
And what parts do you not agree with?
BASHIR
Well, you are right in that medical science today owes quite a bit to the exploration efforts of Starfleet; the medical records found in the Orion ruins, the Fabrini archives, the discovery of the element Karvalium in the Drusillan asteroid belt…
KIRA
Yes, you mentioned all this in the meeting with Commander Sisko, and I agree! Starfleet may have plenty of faults, but when it comes to discovering new technology and ideas, it can’t be beat.
BASHIR
But there is a negative side to everything, Major. Sisko said that himself about the Prime Directive Society.
KIRA
Alright, name one negative thing that exploration has brought us.
BASHIR
Countless new diseases, xenophobia, interstellar wars, holaddiction…
INT. OTHER RUNABOUT COCKPIT
O’BRIEN
Holodecks, replicator technology, subspace radio, the universal translator, this very corral that we’re headed for, now. All these things came about in one way or another from interaction and contact with other species and cultures.
DAX
But these PDS people aren’t concerned with that. They feel that all of the benefits from exploration are cancelled out by the detriments.
O’BRIEN
But what bothers me about them is that they’re the type of people who turn on a light or use a replicator without ever once thinking about who to thank for it, or what had to be sacrificed. I suppose there have been a few drawbacks, but you have to learn to deal with those. A truly strong person can learn to handle changes.
INT. PROMENADE
ODO
But what about the people who can’t handle those changes; the ones who just want to live a simple life, only to have “progress” and “social change” inflicted on them whether they want it or not?
QUARK
Being a Ferengi, that concept is alien to me. We are brought up on progress and change. To be non‑competitive or unable to adapt is suicidal. We Ferengi actually thrive on change and progress.
ODO
Fortunately for the universe, not everyone is a Ferengi. There are plenty of people out there who don’t “thrive on change,” who don’t want “progress” and who don’t want to compete.
QUARK
Or just aren’t able to do those things.
ODO
I have noticed that most humanoids are not wise enough to handle even their own problems, let alone those of a whole galaxy.
QUARK
Then you actually agree with this Prime Directive Society?
ODO
Absolutely not! If there is one thing I am sure of, it’s that all beings have the right to explore their own paths, no matter what the personal cost. Civilizations have that same right.
INT. RUNABOUT COCKPIT
KIRA
Bajor has the right to any technology or resources that it can possibly acquire. Our home was all but ruined by the Cardassians and we need free trade in order to get back on our feet.
BASHIR
So are you saying that the Galaxy owes Bajor a full recovery?
KIRA
Yes!…No! What I meant is that the rest of the Galaxy was pretty conspicuous by its absence when the Cardassians invaded Bajor.
BASHIR
So the Federation or some other power should have stepped in and stopped the Cardassians?
KIRA
It might have saved a lot of bloodshed…on both sides. The Bajorans were a peaceful people until the Cardassians came.
BASHIR
Who evolved into sentience a hundred thousand years before Humans or Cardassians.
KIRA
What are you saying, Doctor; that Bajorans should have been more evolved and developed ultra powerful weapons by the time the Cardassians came?
BASHIR
Not at all, Major…
KIRA
The Bajorans didn’t feel the need for technology and weapons. We found inner peace and enlightenment through our spiritual strength and sense of self-worth. To base a civilization’s merits on what inventions it has come up with is naive. It’s narrow minded; it’s…well, a Federation viewpoint.
BASHIR
Yet, now Bajor needs, I believe you said, “any technology or resources that it can possibly acquire.”
KIRA
Bajorans are also realists, Doctor.
EXT. STATION ‑ (OPTICAL)
SISKO (V.O.)
Station log, stardate [tech]. Members of the media have begun to arrive. They are proving to be just as…industrious as the Prime Directive Society.
INT. AIRLOCK CORRIDOR
The CORRIDOR is crowded. Three REPORTERS are interviewing NADA BARTLETT and SHEOL ALATINIA using RECORDING DEVICES.
BARTLETT
…And by staging these protests, our society is determined to make it known to all beings everywhere how the Federation’s one sided view of the Prime Directive is an insult and a danger to every citizen.
REPORTER #1
The Starfleet ships are returning right now from their mission. Would you say your plans are defeated now that your fleet has been prevented from blockading the wormhole?
BARTLETT
Starfleet, as usual, with total disregard for everything we are trying to say, has used its overwhelming power to contain our task force, it’s true. However, I think they will find that we are not so easily ignored.
ALATINIA
We have always and will always use every peaceful method we have to bring the Federation to its senses. Our main tool is education. Once enough people realize that recklessly unleashing new and potentially dangerous knowledge on people is morally wrong, they will force the Federation Council to reevaluate its stand on the Prime Directive.
BARTLETT
One of the most common misconceptions about our group is that we are against the Prime Directive. It is quite the opposite. We believe that the idea of non‑interference with other cultures is one of the wisest precepts that humanoids have ever come up with. We simply believe this should apply equally to all parties.
REPORTER #2
And you do not believe this is so?
BARTLETT
It hasn’t been for the last two hundred years. Two centuries ago, the Federation enacted the Prime Directive in order to preserve the natural development of other cultures. Unfortunately, the mission of Starfleet has always been to seek out new knowledge and ideas for the Federation. Apparently, to their way of thinking, the Federation is quite capable of safely assimilating all this knowledge and others are not. That is why our Society has always been shrugged off by Starfleet, albeit, very politely.
The AIRLOCK DOOR opens and KIRA, DAX, O’BRIEN AND BASHIR enter. The REPORTERS immediately descend on them.
REPORTER #3
Major Kira, I understand the last of the PDS task force has been imprisoned in your holding pen.
KIRA
Ah, excuse me, I have to be going.
REPORTER #1
Is it true that some of those ships are in desperate need of repair and that the prisoners on board are in danger if they can’t get off?
O’BRIEN
No! That’s ridiculous! Where did you hear…
DAX
Chief!
REPORTER #2
A Vulcan research vessel is due to come back from the Gamma Quadrant tomorrow. Is it true that it is carrying the complete plans for a new weapons system obtained on a Dominion world?
SISKO has appeared in the CORRIDOR
SISKO
It most certainly is not.
The REPORTERS immediately point their RECORDING DEVICES at SISKO.
The Vulcan ship T’sai has been on a seven month mission cataloging a quasar formation in the Gamma Quadrant.
REPORTER
Commander Sisko, can you tell us the status of the PDS ships? Are they in any danger?
SISKO
The [tech] ships that showed dangerous malfunctions are safely docked and awaiting repair. As far as the ones in the holding corral, Mr. O’Brien can answer that question for you. Chief?
O’BRIEN
Yes, sir. Except for the ones that are docked, the PDS ships are all in acceptable condition and have been safely conducted to the tractor corral. The wormhole entrance is clear, Commander.
SISKO
Well done, Chief. When can you start on the repairs of the docked ships?
O’BRIEN
(Giving an evil glance to BARTLETT)
I have a small engineering team working on them now, Commander, but most of my people have been requested by Odo for temporary security duty.
SISKO
Thank you, Chief. Now, if you will excuse us, please, we have to prepare for tomorrow’s debate. Chairman Bartlett, until tomorrow.
SISKO, DAX, KIRA, O’BRIEN and BASHIR exit. The REPORTERS are right behind them flinging more questions.
FADE OUT
END OF ACT 4
ACT 5
INT. SISKO’S QUARTERS
SISKO is alone in his quarters studying his MONITOR. JAKE enters, trying to be quiet. As he tiptoes across the room he doesn’t notice SISKO in the dim light.
SISKO
Jake?
JAKE
(Startled) Hi, Dad.
SISKO
I thought you were in your room asleep. What are you doing out at this hour?
JAKE
Oh, I couldn’t sleep.
SISKO
That doesn’t answer my question.
JAKE
(Snaps at him) Dad, I was just out. Is it okay with you if I go to bed, now?
SISKO
Jake, I don’t know what’s gotten into you, lately. For the past few days, whenever I ask you a simple question, you bite my head off. The computer says your study performance is way off, too. You apparently didn’t even take the physics test you were scheduled for. Now, you’re out of our quarters when you shouldn’t be. I’m asking you again. Where were you?
JAKE
Quark’s
SISKO
QUARK’S?!
JAKE
Dad, I’m [tech] years old. I think I’m plenty old enough to be in Quark’s.
SISKO
At noon, eating lunch, maybe, but not at one‑thirty in the morning!
JAKE
Dad, when you were the same age I am, you were in Starfleet Academy. I’m still living here with you. I think it’s time I was in some quarters of my own.
SISKO
When did all this start? You never were interested in your own quarters, before. It’s that damn Dreamplayer, again, isn’t it?
JAKE
What, did you think this day would never come?
SISKO
We’ll talk about this some other time, when you can have a civil tongue in your head. As for now, go to bed!
JAKE
(Sarcastically) Yes, sir!
OFF SISKO’s reaction.
INT. PROMENADE
There is a large TABLE set up. It is crowded with members of the MEDIA talking to various PDS PEOPLE and STATION PERSONNEL. SISKO, BASHIR, DAX and ODO enter and take their seats on one side of the TABLE. The Starfleet members are in DRESS UNIFORMS. There is a DEBATE REFEREE standing at the center of the TABLE. The reporters start talking to their CAMERAMEN.
REPORTER #1
Commander Sisko and his officers have just entered and taken their places. The Prime Directive Society team members are already present with one exception. The debate will start in approximately two minutes.
REFEREE
Chairman Bartlett, I notice that one member of your team is not here, yet. I must remind you that the debate will begin on schedule. If your missing member does not show, you will have to proceed without her.
BARTLETT
I understand. I’m sure Sheol will be right along. I don’t understand what could be keeping her.
SISKO
(Offering his hand) Chairman, I would just like to wish you good luck.
BARTLETT
(Shakes his hand) And the same to you, Commander. I would like you to know that, even though I might disagree with your views, I have a great deal of respect for you.
SISKO
Thank you, Chairman. The same goes for you.
Everyone takes their seats as the debate begins.
REFEREE
I would like to thank both parties for attending. I will remind you of the rules. Each party will be allowed an opening statement of no more than two minutes duration. The Prime Directive Society won the random selection. Chairman Nada Bartlett, their representative will go first. Chairman?
BARTLETT
Thank you. What is the main purpose and philosophy of the Prime Directive? Basically, when it was enacted, it was deemed that humans and the other members of the then fledgling Federation did not possess sufficient wisdom or even the right to interfere with the natural development of the myriad of other species that were being discovered. The proponents sited examples from Earth history, from Vulcan history and from the history of a dozen other worlds. All of which showed that interference, deliberate or unintentional, even with the noblest and most innocent of goals, leads to disaster. A civilization that has been developing for thousands of years weaves a tapestry of history, values, beliefs and morals so immensely complex, that the introduction of even a slight new variable can unravel the tapestry irreparably. The Federation showed remarkable vision and foresight to recognize this. Thus, they founded the Prime Directive. However, one flaw was overlooked, even to this day. The same wisdom used for the benefit of newly discovered cultures is disregarded when it comes to the Federation’s own people. Starfleet, the expansive tool of the Federation, is the worst offender. Starfleet’s charter is, “To Seek Out New Life and New Civilizations.” The unwritten finish to that phrase is, “At All Costs.” The Federation is constantly on the lookout for new members to assimilate their cultures and technology. This makes them no better than the Borg.
SISKO reacts to this.
BARTLETT
(Continuing)
Apparently, Starfleet and the Federation feel that cultural upheaval in other societies is something to be scrupulously avoided. It is, for them, to be actively sought out. The very motto of Starfleet Academy itself is, “Ex Astris, Scientia;” or “From the Stars, Knowledge.” Note there is no mention made of wisdom. I put it to Commander Sisko that if a Starfleet vessel acquired an alien technology that would advance Federation science by ten‑thousand years, they would take it in a heartbeat with no heed of the damage it could do. We of the Prime Directive Society do not advocate isolationism. We merely state that the wisdom of the Prime Directive that protects other cultures should protect our own, as well. Thank you.
REFEREE
Thank you, Chairman. Commander Sisko, you have two minutes to respond.
SISKO
Thank you. As I look at the faces of the Prime Directive Society members, I see not just humans. I see at least twenty different species of beings and fifty different cultures and planets represented. You are all separate, distinct entities who have bonded together in a common goal. This, to my mind, is what the Federation has always been about. Chairman Bartlett mentioned the Starfleet charter. New life and civilizations are sought out not for their technology or wealth, but for their friendship; to add their uniqueness and their own brand of values to the fabric of the Federation. Nothing is lost and there is everything to gain on all sides. Starfleet takes first contact procedures very seriously. A civilization is not approached until it is about to find out for itself that there is other life in space. Any culture that has not progressed to this point yet is…
Suddenly there is the muffled sound of about six explosions somewhere on the station. The last one shakes the room slightly. There is alarm among the CROWD. The REPORTERS all begin talking into their RECORDING DEVICES. SISKO’s COMBADGE activates.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Ops to Commander Sisko.
SISKO
Go ahead.
The REPORTERS are moving in on SISKO, trying to hear what is being said.
KIRA’S COM VOICE
Sir, we have an emergency. Several systems have just gone down.
INT. OPS.
SISKO’S COM VOICE
What systems, Major?
KIRA
Chief?
O’BRIEN
Weapons control, (beat) tractor beam control, transporter control, some of the controls on the docking ring and three power conduits. I can’t reroute power flow right away until those conduits are repaired. Internal scanners indicate residual energy traces at each location. From the look of the patterns, I would say someone planted several hand phasers on overload at key locations. (Beat) Major, one of the docked ships is detaching. It’s a large freighter belonging to the PDS people.
EXT. STATION ‑ SHIP PULLING AWAY FROM DOCKING RING (OPTICAL)
KIRA
Try to stop that ship, Chief!
O’BRIEN
I can’t, Major. I’ve got no control over the docking clamps. It’s taking up a course for the wormhole. (Beat) The ship is hailing us.
KIRA
On screen.
ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN ‑ THE FACE OF SHEOL ALATINIA (OPTICAL)
ALATINIA
Since Starfleet and the Federation has never lowered themselves to listen to us, we’ll just have to shout a little louder. We can’t allow more chaos to be brought into our lives, so you can just say goodbye to your precious wormhole.
The image on the VIEWSCREEN terminates.
INT. OPS.
O’BRIEN
Major, sensors are reading a buildup in that ship’s warp core. If it isn’t stopped, it will breach in approximately…eighty‑five seconds.
SISKO and DAX enter from the TURBOLIFT. DAX takes her post.
SISKO
Report.
KIRA
A docked freighter has left the station. I think they intend to detonate their engines and collapse the entrance to the wormhole.
DAX
Sensors are picking up elevated neutrino levels. Something is coming through the wormhole.
EXT. SPACE ‑ A SHIP EXITING THE WORMHOLE (OPTICAL)
INT. OPS.
DAX
It’s the Vulcan science ship T’Sai back from the Gamma Quadrant.
SISKO
Dax, contact the T’Sai, tell them the situation and warn them to get as far from the wormhole as they can! Put me through to that freighter.
O’BRIEN
(Beat) No response.
SISKO
Chief, I need either a tractor beam or weapons, fast.
O’BRIEN
I’m sorry, sir. They knew just what areas to sabotage. It will be at least twenty minutes or so before I can get any of the systems back.
DAX
They’ll reach the wormhole in…forty seconds.
SISKO
(Looking around) Options!
Each one of the Ops crew shakes their head in helplessness.
DAX
Benjamin, the Vulcan ship T’Sai is not heading away from the wormhole. (beat) They’re on an intercept course with the freighter. Make that a collision course.
SISKO
On screen.
ANGLE ON VIEWSCREEN ‑ EXT. SPACE ‑ THE FREIGHTER AND THE SCIENCE SHIP. (OPTICAL)
DAX (OFF)
The freighter is attempting evasive action. The Vulcan ship is countering them…
The VULCAN SHIP collides with the FREIGHTER. Both ships are destroyed. The STATION shakes.
INT. OPS.
Everyone reacts with horror.
DAX
Scanning…no life signs. It looks like the Vulcan ship ejected something before the collision. (Beat) It’s their mission recorder.
SISKO
They didn’t want their quasar study…or anything else…to be wasted.
INT. PROMENADE
SISKO is strolling along the PROMENADE. It seems back to normal.
SISKO (V.O.)
Personal log, Stardate [tech]. Chairman Bartlett and her followers have denied any sanction of the attempted destruction of the wormhole. They claim it was an act of desperation by one individual. Because of these tragic events, both Starfleet and the Prime Directive Society have mutually agreed to cancel the debate.
SISKO comes up to ODO on the PROMENADE.
SISKO
Well, Constable, it looks like things are settling down at last.
ODO
Yes, Commander, most of the PDS people have gone back to their ships. It seems they’ve forgotten about this protest of theirs.
SISKO
Oh, no, they haven’t forgotten. Maybe they’re just…thinking it over.
SISKO resumes his stroll.
SISKO (V.O.)
(Continuing) My entire life has been devoted to exploration and expansion of knowledge. I have always thrived on the new and unknown. Those things I don’t think will ever change for me.
SISKO pauses outside of QUARK’S. He glances in and sees JAKE in the DREAMPLAYER chair.
SISKO (V.O.)
(Continuing) But the events of the past few days have given me…new perspectives.
FADE OUT
END OF ACT 5
THE END