STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                              
                       "The Storyteller" 
                          #40511-414 
                              
                           Story by 
                    Kurt Michael Bensmiller 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                    Kurt Michael Bensmiller 
                              and 
                        Ira Steven Behr 
                              
                          Directed by 
                       David Livingtson 

THE WRITING CREDITS MAY NOT BE FINAL AND SHOULD NOT BE USED 
FOR PUBLICITY OR ADVERTISING PURPOSES WITHOUT FIRST CHECKING 
WITH THE TELEVISION LEGAL DEPARTMENT.

Copyright 1992 Paramount Pictures Corporation. All Rights 
Reserved. This script is not for publication or 
reproduction. No one is authorized to dispose of same. If 
lost or destroyed, please notify the Script Department.

Return to Script Department          FINAL DRAFT
PARAMOUNT PICTURES CORPORATION
                        FEBRUARY 2, 1993

     STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Storyteller" - 02/02/93 - CAST 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                       "The Storyteller" 
                             CAST 

          SISKO                    FAREN
          O'BRIEN                  HOVATH
          BASHIR                   SIRAH
          DAX                      VARIS
          KIRA                     WOBAN
          JAKE                     THE CROWD
          ODO                      WOMAN
          QUARK                    
          NOG                      

          Non-Speaking             Non-Speaking
          N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES     Villagers

     STAR TREK: DS9 - "The Storyteller" - 02/02/93 - SETS 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                       "The Storyteller" 
                             SETS 

        INTERIORS                     EXTERIORS
        DEEP SPACE NINE                 DEEP SPACE NINE
          OPS                           
          DOCKING RING PORT SEVEN -     PLANET BAJOR
            CORRIDOR
          COMMANDER'S OFFICE            VILLAGE SQUARE
          PROMENADE                     
          REPLIMAT                      RUNABOUT
          TURBOLIFT                     
          QUARK'S                       
            A BACK ROOM
          RUNABOUT                      
          SECURITY OFFICE               
          RUNABOUT                      
          VARIS'S QUARTERS              
          SIRAH'S CHAMBER               

    STAR TREK: "The Storyteller" - 02/04/93 - PRONUNCIATION 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                       "The Storyteller" 
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

          PAQU                     PAH-coo
          NAVOT                    nah-VOT
          VARIS SUL                VAIR-is sool
          WOBAN                    WOE-ban
          TETRACH                  TE-trark
          FAREN                    FAIR-in
          SIRAH                    suh-RAH
          GLYRHOND                 GLEER-hund
          BUCK BOKAI               buck BOW-kai
          HOVATH                   HO-vath
          DAL'ROK                  DAL-rock

      DEEP SPACE:  "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER     xx1        

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE                    
                          "The Storyteller"                            
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	Establishing.

					SISKO (V.O.)
			Station log, Stardate 46729.1.  The 
			Bajoran government has asked me to 
			mediate a dispute between two rival 
			factions, the Paqu and the Navot.  
			At issue is a land dispute which 
			could trigger a civil war.

2    INT. OPS

	SISKO EXITS his office.  KIRA, DAX and O'BRIEN are at their 
	stations; Supernumeraries as needed.

					KIRA
			Commander, the Paqu delegation has 
			arrived at docking bay six.

					SISKO
			Let's welcome them aboard.  Dax, any 
			word on the Navot?

					DAX
			They should be here within the hour.

	Sisko and Kira head for the Turbolift.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER           2.

2    CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			Excuse me, Commander.

3    NEW ANGLE

	as O'Brien comes down from Engineering to join Sisko and 
	Kira at the Turbolift.

					SISKO
			Chief, I thought you'd be on your 
			way to Bajor by now.

					O'BRIEN
			We're due to leave any moment.
				(ill at ease)
			Sir, I was wondering if perhaps Ensign 
			Boyer could take my place on this 
			particular mission.  After all, I'd 
			be little more than a chauffeur, and 
			Boyer can pilot a Runabout as well 
			as I can.

					SISKO
			Has something come up that requires 
			your presence on the station?

					O'BRIEN
			No, Sir.  Everything's running 
			smoothly, for a change.  But around 
			here, you never know...

	Just then BASHIR ENTERS from the Ops doorway.

					BASHIR
			Ah, there you are Chief.  All set to 
			go?

					O'BRIEN
			Yes, Sir.

	Sisko and O'Brien exchange a look.  Sisko now understands 
	the reason behind O'Brien's reluctance.  Bashir doesn't pick 
	up on any of this.

        DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/05/93 - TEASER        3.

3    CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			Commander, did the Magistrate give 
			any indication regarding the nature 
			of this medical emergency?

					SISKO
				(shaking his head)
			Only that his village was in danger 
			of extinction.

					BASHIR
			In that case we better be on our 
			way.

	Sisko and Kira enter the Turbolift.

					SISKO
				(to O'Brien)
			I agree.

					O'BRIEN
			Yes, Sir.

					SISKO
				(to comm)
			Docking port six.

	The Turbolift begins its descent.  O'Brien and Bashir head 
	for the door.

					BASHIR
			You know Chief, in a way I'm really 
			looking forward to this mission.

					O'BRIEN
			Why's that?

					BASHIR
			I see it as a wonderful opportunity 
			for us to get to know one another.

	As they EXIT out the door, O'Brien glances back at Sisko.  
	He's not a happy camper.

4    INT. TURBOLIFT

	On Sisko and Kira.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER           4.

4    CONTINUED:

					SISKO
				(to Kira)
			I'd like you to set up a preliminary 
			meeting with both sides for later 
			this afternoon.  Make sure they know 
			that this is an informal session.  I 
			just want to get them talking to 
			each other.

					KIRA
			Just getting them to sit down at the 
			same table will be an accomplishment.
				(beat)
			Sir, about these negotiations...

					SISKO
			You have some advice for me?

					KIRA
			There's an old saying on Bajor, "the 
			land and the people are one." Well, 
			the land inhabited by the Paqu and 
			Navot is some of the harshest on the 
			planet.

					SISKO
			Relax Major.  This isn't my first 
			time up at the plate.

					KIRA
				(doesn't get the 
				baseball reference)
			Sir...

	As the Turbolift doors open...

					SISKO
				(smiling)
			Besides, I'll have you by my side to 
			help me avoid making mistakes.

	And they EXIT.

5    INT. DOCKING PORT SEVEN - CORRIDOR

	Moving with Sisko and Kira as they reach the airlock door.

					SISKO
			What can you tell me about the Paqu 
			Tetrarch?

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - TEASER           5.

5    CONTINUED:

					KIRA
			Not much.  The Paqu choose to avoid 
			contact with outsiders.

	The airlock doors OPEN and out steps a Paqu advisor.  He 
	steps aside to allow another figure to emerge from the 
	passage: a hard-bitten fifteen-year-old girl (VARIS SUL).

					VARIS
			Commander Sisko?

	Sisko nods, somewhat confused.

					SISKO
			Yes?

					VARIS
			I am Varis Sul, Tetrarch of the Paqu.

	As Sisko and Kira react we...

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT ONE        6.
                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

	(Note: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.)

6    EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL)

	Traveling at impulse.

7    INT. RUNABOUT

	O'Brien in the pilot seat.  Bashir, feeling ignored, is seated 
	behind him.  Hold for a beat a silence.  Then...

					BASHIR
				(a beat)
			Chief, may I ask you a question?

					O'BRIEN
				(all business)
			Of course.

					BASHIR
			And I'd like an honest answer.

					O'BRIEN
			You'll get one.

	Bashir hesitates a moment before speaking.

					BASHIR
			Do I... annoy you?

					O'BRIEN
				(looking over his 
				shoulder)
			Annoy me?  What kind of question is 
			that?

					BASHIR
			Well, the thing is, we've just spent 
			two hours alone together in this 
			runabout and you hardly said a word 
			to me the whole time.

	O'Brien turns back to the controls.

					O'BRIEN
			Really?  I hadn't noticed.

					BASHIR
			Oh, I see...

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT ONE       6A.

7    CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			I suppose I was too busy... thinking.

					BASHIR
			Thinking?

					O'BRIEN
			That's right.

	A beat as Bashir mulls over O'Brien's answer.  Then...

					BASHIR
			About what?

					O'BRIEN
			What?

					BASHIR
			What were you thinking about?  I'm 
			just curious.

	O'Brien does a slow burn but he refuses to allow the young 
	doctor to see how annoyed he's getting.

					O'BRIEN
			Let's see... I was thinking that 
			when I get back to the station, I'll 
			have to run a level one diagnostic 
			on the phase coil generators.
				(a beat)
			Satisfied?

					BASHIR
				(nods)
			I guess so.

					O'BRIEN
				(case closed)
			Glad to hear it.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE          7.

7    CONTINUED:	(2)

	But Bashir isn't willing to let it go just yet.  He's 
	determined to empty his pockets.

					BASHIR
			I mean, the only reason I brought it 
			up is because your opinion means a 
			lot to me, and I'm aware I have a 
			tendency to run off at the mouth 
			sometimes.

					O'BRIEN
			Is that a fact.

					BASHIR
			I suppose it's a nervous habit.  I 
			hope you don't hold it against me.

					O'BRIEN
			Not at all, Sir.

	Bashir nods to himself.  This has gone better than he thought, 
	though he still suspects O'Brien isn't being totally up front 
	with him.  He decides to take it one more step.

					BASHIR
			Oh, and one more thing.

					O'BRIEN
			And what would that be, Sir?

	O'Brien steadies himself.  He figures next he'll have to 
	listen to stories from Bashir's childhood.

					BASHIR
			I don't think it's really necessary 
			for you to call me "Sir."

					O'BRIEN
				(surprised)
			What should I call you?  You're my 
			superior officer.

					BASHIR
			How about Julian.

	O'Brien flinches, but quickly recovers his laconic poise.

					O'BRIEN
			Is that an order?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE        8.

7    CONTINUED:	(3)

					BASHIR
			Of course not.  I'd simply prefer it 
			if you called me by my first name.

	O'Brien considers a beat then...

					O'BRIEN
				(checking console)
			All right.  We've achieved stable orbit 
			around Bajor.  We can beam down any 
			time... Julian.

	And we notice just the slightest edge in his voice as he 
	says the name.  Bashir notices it as well.  Hopes he's 
	mistaken.

8    EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY (OPTICAL)

	Bashir and O'Brien MATERIALIZE in the middle of a plaza.  A 

	few villagers are cleaning up some debris.  Nearby is a large 
	raised platform.  Bashir takes out his medical tricorder.  
	Takes readings.

					BASHIR
				(re: tricorder)
			No sign of any airborne infections, 
			the soil appears free of pollutants, 
			and the ground water's clear of 
			bacterial contamination.

					FAREN (O.S.)
			Gentlemen...

9    NEW ANGLE

	to include FAREN, a Bajoran official.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE          9.

9    CONTINUED:

					FAREN

			I am Faren Kag, the village 
			magistrate.

					BASHIR
			I'm Doctor Bashir and this is Chief 
			O'Brien.

					FAREN
			This village is in great jeopardy.  
			I only hope you're not too late.

	He leads them toward a large stone building.

9A   INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER

	Faren leads Bashir and O'Brien into the room where an old 
	man (THE SIRAH) lies asleep in a bed.  (NOTE: The Sirah wears 
	a bracelet, set with a green stone, around one of his wrists.) 
	HOVATH, a young Bajoran of twenty-four, sits watching over 
	him.

					FAREN
			Has he shown any sign of improvement?

					HOVATH
			None.

					FAREN
				(to Bashir)
			You must help him.

					BASHIR
			How many others are sick?

					FAREN
			Others?

					O'BRIEN
			You said the entire village was in 
			jeopardy?

					FAREN
			It is.
				(looking down at the 
				old man)
			If he dies, we all die.

	Off O'Brien and Bashir's reactions...

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         9A.

10   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) (STOCK)

11   INT. QUARK'S - A BACK ROOM

	Sisko, Kira, Varis, and WOBAN, the large, gruff Navot leader, 
	are seated at a table.  Woban munches on some hors d'oeuvres.

					WOBAN
			I'll say this for the Cardassians.  
			Their replicators make a fine larish 
			pie.

					VARIS
				(to Sisko)
			I didn't come here to eat, Commander.

					SISKO
			Then let's talk.  The official 
			negotiations won't begin until 
			tonight, but I thought it might be a 
			good idea for us to meet informally 
			to see where we all stand.

	Sisko consults his PADD.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         10.

11   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			According to the treaty that has 
			existed between you for the past 
			ninety years...
				(reading)
			"... the border separating the Paqu 
			and the Navot shall forever be the 
			river Glyrhond."

					WOBAN
			That's correct.

	Varis nods curtly.

					KIRA
				(an attempt at levity)
			Well, at least we all agree on 
			something.

					SISKO
			Now, as I understand it, during the 
			occupation the Cardassians diverted 
			the river for use in their mining 
			operations.  As a result the Glyrhond 
			now flows twenty kilometers west of 
			its former position.

					WOBAN
			Twenty kilometers into Navot 
			territory.

					VARIS
			It's Paqu territory now.
				(to Sisko)
			You read the treaty Commander.  The 
			river is our common border.

					WOBAN
			The treaty says nothing about stealing 
			land.  If your father was alive he'd 
			give us back what was ours.

					VARIS
			My father would have done no such 
			thing.  Besides, I'm Tetrarch now.
				(coldly)
			I will not be pressured into betraying 
			my people.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         11.

11   CONTINUED:	(2)

	Before Sisko can respond, the tension is cut by the arrival 
	of an upbeat QUARK, who carries a tray of drinks which he 
	distributes around the table.

					QUARK
			Let's see, one glass of Gamzian wine, 
			two Bajoran synthales...
				(to Varis)
			And a Trixian bubble juice for the 
			little lady.

	Varis grabs the glass and, rising, splashes the contents in 
	Quark's face.

					VARIS
			I'm not a little lady.

	She storms away.  Quark wipes his face then turns to Sisko.

					QUARK
			I'm still charging her for that drink.

	But Sisko and Kira have other concerns.

12   INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL

	JAKE and NOG are seated at their usual spot.  Jake is wearing 
	a baseball glove.

					JAKE
			Nog, we've been sitting here over an 
			hour.  Let's go play some ball in 
			the Holosuite.

					NOG
			No.

					JAKE
			Why not?

					NOG
			Because baseball is slow and boring...

					JAKE
			And you can't hit my curve ball.

					NOG
			It's a stupid game that even humans 
			stopped playing hundreds of years 
			ago.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         12.

12   CONTINUED:

					JAKE
			Maybe.  But you still can't hit my 
			curve ball.

	Before Nog can protest...

					ODO (V.O.)
			Mister Sisko...

13   NEW ANGLE

	As ODO advance toward the boys.

					ODO
			Nog, I thought I told you no dangling 
			over the Promenade.

					JAKE
			We're not gonna fall, Odo.

					NOG
			We can see things better from down 
			here.

	Odo peers over the railing.

					ODO
			And what, may I ask, is so important 
			to see?

					JAKE
			Nothing.

					ODO
			In that case, you can see "nothing" 
			just as well from up here.
				(an order)
			Now, on your feet.

	The boys scramble to a standing position.

					ODO
			Thank you.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         13.

	He continues his rounds.  The boys wait until he turns 
	the bend, then sit back down.

					JAKE
			Are you gonna come to the Holosuite 
			with me or not?  We can have Buck 
			Bokai hit a few out to us.  He was 
			the greatest hitter of all time.
				(a beat)
			I'll even let you use my glove.

					NOG
				(a moonstruck grin)
			I've never seen anything so beautiful.

	Jake stares at the glove.  Maybe he's missing something.  
	But Nog isn't talking about some worn piece of leather.  He 
	points below to the Promenade.

14   THEIR POV

	Varis and her advisor are passing beneath them.

15   BACK TO SCENE

	Both boys check her out carefully.

					JAKE
				(nothing special)
			She's all right.

					NOG
			All right?
				(determined)
			I have to meet her.

	Jake stares at his lovesick buddy.  Yeah, Nog's serious.

16   EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL)

17   INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER

	Bashir is finishing up his examination of the Sirah, who 
	remains asleep.  O'Brien is seated in a chair on the other 
	side of the room.  Hovath looks to the doctor for reassurance.  
	But Bashir has none to give.  Whatever he's picked up on the 
	medical tricorder isn't good.  Suddenly the Sirah begins to 
	stir.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE       14.

17   CONTINUED:

					SIRAH
			The Dal'Rok...

	He attempts to sit up.  Bashir lays a restraining hand on 
	him.

					BASHIR
			Easy now.  Try not to exert yourself.

	The Sirah looks around.  Spots Hovath.

					SIRAH
			Hovath, the time... ?

					HOVATH
			Still two hours before nightfall.

					SIRAH
			You should have woken me.  Help me 
			get dressed.

	Hovath moves to the bed but Bashir motions him away.

					BASHIR
			I'm afraid you're in no shape to go 
			anywhere.

	The Sirah sizes up Bashir.

					SIRAH
			The prophets sent you, didn't they.

					BASHIR
			I beg your pardon?

	The Sirah smiles, takes hold of Bashir's hand.  The smile 
	fades.

					SIRAH
				(troubled)
			No... Something's wrong.  It must be 
			your companion.

	O'Brien, who has been seated in the b.g. listening with only 
	half an ear, suddenly begins to pay closer attention to the 
	conversation.

					BASHIR
				(baffled)
			You mean Chief O'Brien?

					SIRAH
			Bring him to me.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE       15.

17   CONTINUED:	(2)

					BASHIR
			Why?

					SIRAH
			Because you are not the one I've 
			been waiting for.

	That doesn't exactly clarify matters, but Bashir turns to 
	O'Brien.

					BASHIR
			Chief... he wants to see you.

	O'Brien rises.  The Sirah waves him over.

					SIRAH
			Come closer.

	O'Brien looks to Bashir, who gives a "don't ask me" shrug.  
	O'Brien approaches the bed.  The Sirah grabs hold of his 
	hand then smiles with satisfaction.

					SIRAH
				(to O'Brien)
			I knew the prophets wouldn't fail 
			us.
				(a beat)
			You may leave now...
				(to Bashir)
			Both of you.

	Bashir is about to argue, then thinks better of it.

					BASHIR
				(to Hovath)
			See that he stays in bed.

	As Bashir and O'Brien head for the door.

					O'BRIEN
			What was that all about?

					BASHIR
			I haven't a clue.

	They EXIT.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT ONE       16.

18   EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - CONTINUOUS

	Bashir and O'Brien are met by an anxious Faren.


					FAREN
			The Sirah... how is he?

					BASHIR
			I wish I had better news.  He's 
			suffering from systemic organ failure 
			brought on by an accelerated rate of 
			cellular decay... his body is 
			surrendering to old age.

					FAREN
				(hopefully)
			Is there anything you can do?

					BASHIR
			I can keep him comfortable and 
			relatively free of pain.  Other than 
			that, it's only a matter of time.
				(a beat)
			I'm sorry.

	So is Faren, who refuses to accept the diagnosis.

					FAREN
			But we need him.  The Dal'Rok will 
			be here soon.

					O'BRIEN
			What's the Dal'Rok?

					FAREN
			It's a terrible creature that lives 
			in the woods just north of the 
			village.  Every year at the end of 
			harvest it appears.

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT ONE         17.

18   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			And you say it's coming tonight.

					FAREN
				(nods)
			Yes, it always comes for five nights.  
			This will be the fourth.  And only 
			the Sirah is strong enough to defeat 
			it.

					BASHIR
			Right now, the Sirah isn't strong 
			enough to get out of bed.

	Faren stares off in the direction of the woods.

					FAREN
			If what you say is true, this village 
			will be destroyed tonight.

	And off Bashir and O'Brien's reactions...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO       18.
                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

19   OMITTED

20   INT. HABITAT RING

	Jake and Nog come down the corridor.

					JAKE
			You're sure this is the place?

					NOG
			You saw the readout.  There's only 
			one female her age visiting the 
			station, and these are her quarters.

	They approach the door.

					NOG
			Well go ahead.

					JAKE
			What?

					NOG
			Ring the bell.

					JAKE
			Me?  You're the one who wants to 
			meet her.

					NOG
			Are you afraid?

					JAKE
				(insulted)
			Of a girl.

					NOG
			Then ring.

					JAKE
			You ring.

	Nog gives Jake a friendly push.  Jake pushes back.

					NOG
			You are afraid.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO       19.

20   CONTINUED:

					JAKE
			No I'm not, you are.

	A good natured shoving match ensues.  Suddenly the doors 
	open and Varis stands before them.  They freeze!

					VARIS
			What are you doing?

	Nog steps forward.

					NOG
			My name's Jog... I mean Jake.

	Jake moves to rescue his flustered friend.

					JAKE
			He's Nog.  I'm Jake Sisko.

	The boys walk past her into the room.  A flicker of interest 
	crosses Varis's face as she recognizes the surname.

					VARIS
			Sisko...

21   INT. VARIS'S QUARTERS

	Varis sizes up the two boys.

					JAKE
			We're kinda the unofficial welcoming 
			committee around here.

					NOG
			That's right...
				(at a loss)
			Welcome to DS Nine.

					VARIS
			Thank you.  I'm Varis Sul.

					JAKE
			Would you like a tour of the station?  
			There's a Klingon freighter leaving 
			for the Gamma Quadrant in a little 
			while.  We could watch it go through 
			the wormhole.

					NOG
			Good idea.

STXTÇ¥
          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT TWO        19A.

					JAKE
21   CONTINUED:

			Thanks.
				(to Varis)
			So, how about it?  You wanna come?

          DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT TWO         20.

21   CONTINUED:	(2)

	Varis gives it a moment's thought before answering.  
	Spending some time with Jake could possibly give her valuable 
	insight regarding Commander Sisko.

					VARIS
			I've never seen the wormhole.

					NOG
			Then you're in luck.  We know the 
			best spot on the station for wormhole 
			watching.

					JAKE
			Unless you're too busy or something...

					VARIS
			Not at the moment.

					JAKE
			Then let's go.

	And she EXITS, leaving the boys to follow.  Jake and Nog 
	exchange grins behind her back.  They realize she's a little 
	older, a little more mature... so to have her consent to 
	hang around with them is a real boost to their egos.

22   EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL) (STOCK)

23   EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - NIGHT

	The Sirah, in ceremonial clothes, is led into the square by 
	Hovath.  Bashir and O'Brien are with them.

					BASHIR
			Listen to me, Sirah.  You must return 
			to bed.  To be out here... in your 
			condition...

					SIRAH
			Your concern touches me, Doctor.
				(looks over at O'Brien)
			But I'm in the hands of the prophets.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO       21.

23   CONTINUED:

	They arrive at the platform, which is surrounded by a group 
	of villagers, including Faren, who stand motionless, softly 
	mumbling a religious chant.  Hovath helps support the Sirah 
	up the platform stairs.  In unison, the villagers lift their 
	eyes to the darkness.   A light wind begins whipping around 
	the square.  O'Brien pulls out his tricorder.

					O'BRIEN
			Strange.  I'm not registering any 
			atmospheric disturbance...

	The Sirah, feeble as he is, suddenly spreads his arms wide, 
	meeting the full force of the wind which has picked up 
	considerably.

					SIRAH
			The Dal'Rok wakes.

					CROWD
			The Dal'Rok... the Dal'Rok...

					SIRAH
			We are ready.

					CROWD
			Yes... we're ready... the Dal'Rok...

					SIRAH
			In the shadows of the night he 
			hungers... With the hatred of the 
			ancients he rages... From the twisted 
			pit of chaos he approaches...

24   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The Dal'Rok, a large ominously rolling energy cloud, appears 
	in the sky above the square.

					CROWD
				(fear building)
			The Dal'Rok... the Dal'Rok... it's 
			here...

24A  ANGLE - BASHIR AND O'BRIEN

	once again checking the tricorder.

					BASHIR
			Is it alive?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO      21A.

24A  CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			The tricorder's still not registering 
			anything.

					BASHIR
			Could it be some kind of holographic 
			image?

					O'BRIEN
			I'm not picking up any power source.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO       22.

25   BACK TO SCENE (OPTICAL)

	The Sirah shouts to be heard above the crowd.

					SIRAH
			The Dal'Rok's anger is like a wave 
			crashing down on the village.

					CROWD
			Yes... the anger... a wave... we 
			feel it.

					SIRAH
			The weight of its fury threatens to 
			crush us all.  The Dal'Rok thinks 
			the village is powerless to defend 
			itself.

	Strange lightning flashes begin emitting from the Dal'Rok, 
	exploding in the sky above the village.  Bashir and O'Brien 
	look around them.  The crowd's panic is almost palpable.  
	The Sirah is nearing exhaustion but he continues to play his 
	audience for all he's worth.

					SIRAH
			But the Dal'Rok is mistaken.  The 
			village is strong.  Much stronger 
			than the Dal'Rok can ever imagine.

					CROWD
			Yes... the village... the village is 
			strong.

26   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Particles of shimmering white light behind rising up from 
	the village and begins shrinking the Dal'Rok.

27
thru   OMITTED 
29

30   ANGLE - THE SIRAH

	Struggling to finish the story.

					SIRAH
			Our strength... our unity... shall 
			drive... the Dal'Rok...

	The Sirah suddenly collapses.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT TWO       23.

31   NEW ANGLE BASHIR AND O'BRIEN

	Bashir heads for the stage as the crowd dissolves into chaos.

					CROWD
			The Sirah... Is he hurt... Look out... 
			The Dal'Rok...

32   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	Sure enough the white lights disappear from around the 
	Dal'Rok, which fires another energy bolt toward the village.

33   ANGLE ON A BUILDING (OPTICAL)

	A chunk of a wall explodes.

34   ANGLE ON O'BRIEN

	As the crowd cries out in alarm.

					O'BRIEN
			Bloody hell.

	And on his reaction to the destruction, we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE      24.
                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

35   EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - THE PLATFORM - NIGHT

36   CONTINUOUS (OPTICAL)

	Bashir administers to the Sirah, as interactive lighting and 
	sound remind us that the Dal'Rok is still raging overhead 
	(though no more damage is seen).  The Sirah begins to stir.

					BASHIR
			Chief, help me get him down from 
			here.

	The Sirah forces himself to his feet, Bashir lending support.

					SIRAH
			Where is my successor?

	O'Brien and Hovath step onto the platform.

					HOVATH
			Sirah...

	But the Sirah ignores the youth and holds a hand out to 
	O'Brien.

					SIRAH
			The one the prophets sent.

	The Sirah grabs hold of O'Brien's hand.

					O'BRIEN
			Wait a second, you've got the wrong 
			guy.

					SIRAH
				(an urgent whisper)
			Say as I say... the village shall 
			not be destroyed.

					O'BRIEN
			What?

					SIRAH
			Quickly.

	O'Brien looks over at Bashir, who's just as perplexed as he 
	is.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE       24A.

35   CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
				(feeling foolish)
			The village shall not be destroyed.

					SIRAH
			Louder.  So they can all hear.

					O'BRIEN
				(to the crowd)
			The village shall not be destroyed.

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE      25.

35   CONTINUED:	(2)

	The Sirah keeps a tight grip on O'Brien, summoning up 
	every last bit of strength to get through this crisis.

					SIRAH
				(a whisper)
			Despite our fears, we stand our ground 
			and face the Dal'Rok.

					O'BRIEN
				(to the crowd)
			Despite our fears, we stand our ground 
			and face the Dal'Rok.

36   ANGLE THE VILLAGERS

	watching the battle with newfound hope.

					CROWD
			Stand fast.  Face the Dal'Rok.

37   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	As once again the shimmering particles of white light begin 
	shooting up at the Dal'Rok.

	ANGLE THE PLATFORM

38   The Sirah is rapidly whispering to O'Brien who repeats the 
	words for all to hear.

					O'BRIEN
			The village is strong.

					CROWD
			The village is strong.

					O'BRIEN
			More powerful than the Dal'Rok.

					CROWD
			More powerful than the Dal'Rok.

					O'BRIEN
			Together we use that power to drive 
			it away.

					CROWD
			Drive it away.

					O'BRIEN
			Drive it away!

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE     25A.

38   CONTINUED:

					CROWD
			Drive it away!

39   ANGLE - THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The white lights have completely encircled the Dal'Rok.  A 
	beat and then both the Dal'Rok and the lights fade away.

					O'BRIEN (V.O.)
			The Dal'Rok is defeated.

40   ANGLE THE PLATFORM (OPTICAL)

	Still taking his cues from the Sirah.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        26.

40   CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			The village is safe.

	The villagers cheer wildly.

					CROWD
			The village is safe.  All thanks to 
			the prophets.  The Sirah.  The Sirah.

	The Sirah drops O'Brien's hand and slumps against him.  
	O'Brien and Bashir lower down to the floor of the platform.  
	Bashir leans over to examine him, but there's nothing he can 
	do.  The villagers fall silent.

					BASHIR
			He's dead.

	Hovath drops to his knees in mourning, but Faren leaps onto 
	the stage and addresses the villagers.

					FAREN
			The Sirah has left us.

	Faren waits a beat or two, and then throws a welcoming arm 
	around O'Brien.

					FAREN
			But the prophets have sent us his 
			successor.

	The villagers erupt with thunderous cheers.

					FAREN
				(continuing)
			A new Sirah to tell the story.

					CROWD
			A new Sirah... the story... All thanks 
			to the prophets.

					FAREN
			A new Sirah to protect the village.

	The villagers roar their approval.

41   CLOSE ON O'BRIEN

	too astonished to even protest.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        27.

42   OMITTED

43   INT. QUARK'S

	Not very crowded.  Kira ENTERS and sits down at the bar.  
	Quark hurries over.

					QUARK
			Major, what a pleasant surprise.  I 
			always look forward to one of your 
			infrequent visits.

					KIRA
			Spare me the small talk and get me a 
			star drifter.

	Quark begins gathering the ingredients.

					QUARK
			So, how are the negotiations coming 
			along?

					KIRA
			Better make it a double.

	Quark nods sympathetically.

44   INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE

	Sisko studying a PADD.  The door chimes.

					SISKO
			Come in.

	Varis ENTERS.

					VARIS
			You asked to see me.

					SISKO
			Please, sit down.

	Varis doesn't move.

					VARIS
			I just spent the last five hours 
			sitting at a conference table.

					SISKO
			Yes, five long, unproductive hours.

					VARIS
			Woban is an obstinate fool.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        28.

44   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			Woban is here to talk.  What are you 
			here for?

					VARIS
			I would think that was obvious.  To 
			defend the interests of my people.

					SISKO
			How?  By starting a war?

	Varis bristles at the suggestion.

					VARIS
			I object to your tone, Commander.

					SISKO
			Because if that's what you want, if 
			you'd rather fight than talk, then 
			we're just wasting our time.

					VARIS
			That land belongs to the Paqu.

					SISKO
			The Navot don't agree.

					VARIS
			Then they'd better be ready to die 
			for it.  I am.  Or don't you believe 
			me?

					SISKO
				(frustration showing)
			I believe in people working together 
			to find reasonable solutions to their 
			problems.  I hope you do as well.

	It takes a moment for Varis to control her temper, and when 
	she speaks, it's with a cold, flat anger.

					VARIS
			What you "hope" is no concern of 
			mine.  Now, anything else you wish 
			to say to me can be said tomorrow 
			across the conference table.

	She turns to leave.

					SISKO
			Varis...

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        29.

44   CONTINUED:	(2)

	She turns back to Sisko.

					SISKO
			Are you sure your people are as ready 
			as you are to die for that land?

	Varis stares at Sisko for a beat.  EXITS.  Hold on Sisko, 
	who's not looking forward to tomorrow.

44A  EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) (STOCK)

44B  INT. PROMENADE - DAY TWO

	Jake and Nog are checking the premises for Varis.

					NOG
			Where do you think she is?

					JAKE
			I guess if she's not here, we can 
			try again at her quarters.

					NOG
			When we find her, I want you to let 
			me do the talking.

					JAKE
			She asks me questions... I answer 
			them.  What's wrong with that?

					NOG
			Just remember, I saw her first.
				(a beat)
			She's mine.

45   INT. PROMENADE STAIRS

	As the boys climb to the second level.

					JAKE
			Then, how come you can barely say 
			two words to her without getting 
			tongue-tied?

					NOG
			That's a lie.

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE     29A.

45   CONTINUED:

					JAKE
			I've never seen you so nervous.  You 
			must really like her.

					NOG
			I never said that.

46   INT. SECOND LEVEL

	Jake and Nog reach the landing.  They both stop short as 
	they see Varis seated at their hangout, her feet dangling 
	over the edge of the walkway.  She looks pretty miserable.

47   NEW ANGLE

	As an embarrassed Nog bumps into Jake, he hopes she hasn't 
	heard them.

					NOG
			Uh... we were... uh... just...

					JAKE
			Looking for you.

					VARIS
				(subdued)
			I've been... busy.

	Jake and Nog sit down on either side of her.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        30.

47   CONTINUED:

					JAKE
				(picking up on her 
				mood)
			Is something wrong?  You seem a little 
			depressed.

					VARIS
				(a beat)
			It's nothing, really.
				(wanting to talk)
			It's just... there are these people... 
			who want something I have... and I 
			refuse to give it to them.

	Nog perks up.  Here's a chance to help the girl of his dreams.

					NOG
			How badly do they want it?

					VARIS
			Very badly.

					NOG
			Is there anything they have that you 
			want?

					VARIS
			That I want?

					NOG
			Maybe this isn't a problem.  Maybe 
			it's an opportunity.

	Varis considers for a moment.

					VARIS
			Maybe...

					JAKE
			When I have a problem I can't figure 
			out, I ask my dad.

					NOG
				(determined not to be 
				outdone by Jake)
			I ask my dad, too.

					VARIS
			It helps, doesn't it?

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE      31.

47   CONTINUED:	(2)

			JAKE				NOG
		Yes.				No.

					JAKE
			My dad's a pretty smart guy.

					NOG
			Mine, too.
				(off Jake's look)
			In his own way.

					VARIS
			My parents are dead.  They were killed 
			by the Cardassians.

					JAKE
			I'm sorry.  My mom was killed during 
			an attack by the Borg.

	There's a moment of mutal sympathy between Jake and Varis.

					JAKE
			Isn't there someone you can talk to?  
			Someone you trust?

					VARIS
			I don't trust many people.

					JAKE
			My dad says...

					NOG
			Could we please talk about something 
			besides your father?

					VARIS
				(to Jake)
			You admire him very much, don't you?

					JAKE
				(smiling)
			I trust him.

					ODO
			Mister Sisko...

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE       31A.

48   NEW ANGLE


	as Odo heads towards them.  Varis hides her face so that Odo 
	doesn't recognize her.  She wants her relationship with Jake 
	kept hidden from Sisko.

					NOG
				(uh-oh)
			Odo...

					JAKE
			We were just leaving.

	Jake and Nog pull Varis to her feet and head for the hills.

49   CLOSE ON ODO

	not bothering to pursue.  He allows himself the smallest 
	trace of a smile at the fear he inspires in Jake and Nog.

50   OMITTED

51   INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER - DAY

	O'Brien pacing the room.  Bashir gazing out a window.

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT THREE      32.

51   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
				(musing)
			I wonder what was controlling those 
			energy creatures.

					O'BRIEN
			One thing's certain, it wasn't me.

					BASHIR
			Try telling that to the villagers.  
			They saw the Sirah choose you as his 
			successor.

					O'BRIEN
			He made a mistake.

					BASHIR
			But you saw how he greeted you when 
			we arrived.  It was as if he were 
			expecting you.
				(upbeat)
			I'll tell you, Chief, I'm glad you 
			came along on this mission.  If it 
			wasn't for you, I'd have just done 
			what I could for the Sirah and left.  
			Look at what I'd have missed.

					O'BRIEN
			I'm glad you're enjoying yourself... 
			Julian.

					BASHIR
			Don't worry, Chief, I have faith in 
			you.

					O'BRIEN
				(not inspired)
			Do you?

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT THREE     32A.

51   CONTINUED:	(2)

					BASHIR
				(a throwaway)
			For all we know, you really were 
			sent by the prophets.

	That raises O'Brien's hackles.

					O'BRIEN
			I was sent by Commander Sisko.
				(a beat)
			That Dal'Rok... or whatever... will 
			be returning tonight... and everyone's 
			counting on me to stop it... Only
			trouble is I don't have the slightest 
			idea how I'm supposed to do that.

52   NEW ANGLE

	Faren, Hovath and some villagers ENTER carrying various 
	presents (food, jewels, clothing).

					FAREN
			These gifts are for you, Sirah.

	The offerings do not improve O'Brien's mood.

					O'BRIEN
			Well tell them I don't want...

					BASHIR
				(interrupting)
			Bring them right in.  Put them 
			wherever you like.

	The villagers do as they're told, all the while gazing 
	respectfully at O'Brien.

					O'BRIEN
			Now look... Julian...

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT THREE        33.

52   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			We're visitors here, Chief.  It 
			wouldn't be polite to refuse our 
			hosts.

	The villagers file out, leaving behind Faren, Hovath and 
	three beautiful Bajoran women, whose eyes never leave O'Brien.

					O'BRIEN
				(uncomfortable)
			How can I help you ladies?

					BASHIR
				(way ahead of him)
			I think they're the ones offering 
			services, Chief.

	The women smile modestly at O'Brien.

					O'BRIEN
				(appalled)
			Now look here, there's been a serious 
			misunderstanding...

					FAREN
			Is there a problem, Sirah?

					O'BRIEN
			No, they're not... well, yes... 
			they're quite... Look, I have a wife 
			and daughter back at DS Nine.

					FAREN
				(no problem)
			Of course.

	Faren gestures to the women, who EXIT.

					FAREN
				(to O'Brien)
			You must send for them.

					O'BRIEN
			Why?

					FAREN
			So they can live here with you.

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE      34.

52   CONTINUED:	(2)

					O'BRIEN
				(that takes the cake)
			You're missing the point.  You see, 
			I'm not staying.

	Faren just doesn't get it.

					FAREN
			Then who will tell the story?

					O'BRIEN
			You'll just have to find someone 
			else.

					FAREN
			But there is no one else.  The Sirah 
			chose you.

					BASHIR
			He made a mistake.

					FAREN
			But what about the Dal'Rok?  Without 
			your protection, he'll kill us all.

					O'BRIEN
			Look, Faren, I'd like to help, really 
			I would, but I don't know how.

					FAREN
			You must tell the story.

					O'BRIEN
				(sees there's no point 
				in arguing)
			As simple as that, is it?

	Faren nods.  Secure in his faith.

					FAREN
			May the prophets grant you victory, 
			Sirah.

					O'BRIEN
			Let's hope so.

	Faren EXITS.

      DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT THREE      35.

53   ANGLE HOVATH

	about to follow.  He pauses to stare unobserved at O'Brien.  
	It's a jealous, hateful stare.

54   NEW ANGLE

	Hovath turns and EXITS, leaving O'Brien and Bashir alone in 
	the room.

					BASHIR
			Now what do we do?

					O'BRIEN
			The way I see it, there's only one 
			way out of this mess.  We have to 
			find out exactly what this Dal'Rok 
			is, and destroy it... before it 
			destroys us.

	Bashir nods in agreement as we...

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR         36.
                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

55   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

					SISKO (V.O.)
			Station Log supplemental.  We have 
			completed a second day of talks 
			between the Paqu and the Navot.  So 
			far, we're no closer to finding a 
			solution than we were when 
			negotiations began.

56   INT. VARIS'S QUARTERS

	A thoughtful Varis is seated at a table studying a monitor 
	displaying a map of the disputed border.  The door CHIMES.

					VARIS
			Enter.

57   NEW ANGLE

	Jake and Nog tramp in, their happy-go-lucky attitudes in 
	sharp contrast to Varis, who shuts off the monitor.

					JAKE
			Hi, you want to do something?

					VARIS
			I'm sorry.  Not right now.

	Nog's disappointed, but Jake sees that she means it.

					JAKE
			Okay, we'll stop by later.

	He turns to go, but Nog isn't ready to admit defeat.

					NOG
			Is there anything we can do to cheer 
			you up?

					VARIS
				(appreciates the 
				concern)
			I don't think so.

					NOG
			You're sure?

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR         37.

57   CONTINUED:

	Jake takes hold of Nog's arm and leads him toward the 
	door.

					JAKE
				(quietly)
			Let's go, before you embarrass 
			yourself.

	But before they exit...

					VARIS
			Wait.

	Nog pulls away from Jake.

					NOG
				(to Varis)
			Yes?

	Varis is clearly uncomfortable asking for help from Jake and 
	Nog.  But at the moment, she truly feels she has no one else 
	to turn to.

					VARIS
			You remember that... opportunity we 
			were discussing yesterday?

					NOG
			Yes.

					VARIS
			How can you be sure that an 
			opportunity is worth the risk?

	Nog smiles.  At last he's on familiar ground.

					NOG
			Instinct.  The Ninth Rule of 
			Acquisition clearly states 
			"opportunity plus instinct equals 
			profit."

					VARIS
				(half to herself)
			Instinct.

					JAKE
				(to Nog)
			That's not gonna help.

	But Varis brightens a bit.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/03/93 - ACT FOUR      38.

57   CONTINUED:	(2)

					VARIS
			I think it does.  Thank you, Nog.

	Nog smiles, delighted to have been of assistance.

					NOG
			Good.  Let's celebrate.

	And as Varis considers the request...

					VARIS
			Celebrate... ?

	Nog reaches into his pocket, pulls out a Cardassian computer 
	chip.

					NOG
			I took one of my uncle's security 
			rods.

					JAKE
			What are we gonna do with that?

					NOG
			I don't know...
				(an idea)
			We could swipe Odo's bucket.

					JAKE
			Are you kidding?

					VARIS
			A bucket?

					NOG
				(to Jake)
			We'll give it back.

					JAKE
			Yeah, but...

					NOG
			It'll be funny.

					JAKE
			But we can't just walk into 
			security...

					NOG
			Watch me.

	He heads for the door.  Varis and Jake, who is not convinced 
	this is such a hot idea, follow after him.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR      39.

58
thru   OMITTED
59

60   INT. PROMENADE - THE REPLIMAT

	as Jake, Nog, and Varis arrive.  Nog looks inside the Security 
	Office, then motions to the others to wait for him.  Before 
	Jake can protest, Nog disappears into an alcove near the 
	Security Office.

					VARIS
				(to Jake)
			I still don't understand what's so 
			funny about a bucket.

					JAKE
			Odo lives in it.

	Off Varis's surprised expression...

					JAKE
				(continuing)
			He's a shape-shifter.  Every sixteen 
			hours he has to change back to his 
			original form.

					VARIS
			Inside a bucket?

					JAKE
			He turns into some kind of liquid.

60A  THEIR POV

	The Security doors open.  Nog stands inside.  Waves them 
	over.

61   INT. SECURITY OFFICE

	Jake and Varis join Nog inside the semi-dark office.

					JAKE
				(to Nog)
			Maybe this isn't such a good idea.

					NOG
				(ignores the warning)
			Watch the front door.  I'll be right 
			back.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR        39A.

61   CONTINUED:

	Nog EXITS into a back room.  Jake checks the Promenade.

					VARIS
			Jake, you're sure this is all right?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR      40.

61   CONTINUED:	(2)

					JAKE
				(trying to convince 
				himself)
			Well... it's not like we're really 
			stealing anything.

	Nog, carrying the bucket, comes running in from the back 
	room.

					NOG
			Found it.

	Suddenly he trips.  A thick goo spills out of the bucket.

					JAKE
				(panicked)
			Odo!

	Nog cracks up.

					NOG
			It's oatmeal.  I filled it from the 
			replicator.

					JAKE
			Very funny.

					NOG
			You should have seen your face!

	Nog continues to laugh.  A beat then Jake joins in. Even 
	Varis smiles.  It's the first real smile we've seen from 
	her.  It's endearing, she finally looks like a kid.

62   NEW ANGLE

	as the front door opens and Odo ENTERS.  Spots Nog with the 
	bucket.

					ODO
			I believe that belongs to me.

	Caught red-handed, Nog hands the bucket to Odo.  But the 
	moment Odo grabs it, Nog darts out through the open door.

63   INT. PROMENADE

	Nog comes barreling out of the security office only to run 
	right smack into Sisko, who catches hold of him.

					SISKO
			What's the rush?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR      41.

63   CONTINUED:

	Nog isn't about to say.

64   SISKO'S POV

	as he spots Odo in the doorway with Jake and Varis.

65   ANGLE SISKO

	HOLD on his surprised reaction.

66   EXT. SPACE - THE PLANET BAJOR (OPTICAL)

67   EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - DAY

	Bashir watches O'Brien check the damaged building with his 
	tricorder.

					O'BRIEN
			There's some residual neutrino levels 
			in the microstructure of the building 
			material.

					BASHIR
			But if the Dal'Rok has no physical 
			substance, how can it leave a neutrino 
			trace?

					O'BRIEN
			I didn't say it made sense.  But 
			this wall didn't just spontaneously 
			blow itself to pieces.

					BASHIR
			Lucky for us, you were able to stop 
			it before it did anymore damage.

					O'BRIEN
			All I did was repeat what the Sirah 
			told me.

					BASHIR
			All right, then how did the Sirah stop 
			it?

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR         42.

					O'BRIEN
			Good question.  Maybe there's some 
			kind of controlling mechanism hidden 
			somewhere.

	O'Brien begins examining the platform.

68   NEW ANGLE

	A WOMAN, carrying an infant, approaches.  O'Brien intent on 
	his search, tries to step around her.

					O'BRIEN
			Excuse me, miss...

	She blocks his path.

					WOMAN
			Please Sirah, for the baby...

					O'BRIEN
			What about her?

					BASHIR
			I think she wants you to bless the 
			child.

					O'BRIEN
			Me?

					WOMAN
				(heartfelt)
			It would mean so much.

	O'Brien, at a loss, pats the infant on the head.

					O'BRIEN
			I'm sure she'll make you very proud.

					WOMAN
			Thank you.

	She walks off, thrilled by the encounter.

					O'BRIEN
			You're quite welcome.

69   NEW ANGLE

	as more villagers come forward.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR         43.

69   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			Looks like some more of your followers 
			are requesting an audience

					O'BRIEN
			This won't do.  You continue looking 
			around here.  I'll check the Sirah's 
			room.

	O'Brien EXITS.  Bashir intercepts the villagers.  Flashes 
	his most boyish grin.

					BASHIR
			I'm afraid the Sirah is busy at the 
			moment.  Perhaps I can be of service.

70   NEW ANGLE

	to include Hovath in the crowd.

71   INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER

	O'Brien searches the room.  Looks up to find...

72   HOVATH

	standing in the doorway.

					O'BRIEN
				(no time for 
				interruptions)
			Look, I could use a little privacy.

					HOVATH
			There are more gifts outside.

					O'BRIEN
				(no time to argue)
			All right, bring them in...

	He's about to resume his search, but gets an idea and turns 
	back to Hovath.

					O'BRIEN
			Hold on.  You worked for the Sirah, 
			didn't you?

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR        43A.

72   CONTINUED:

					HOVATH
			I was his apprentice.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FOUR      44.

72   CONTINUED:	(2)

					O'BRIEN
			Did he ever reveal any of his secrets?  
			How he controlled the Dal'Rok, that 
			sort of thing?

	Hovath regards O'Brien with surly contempt.

					HOVATH
			Why ask me?  Surely the Sirah taught 
			you all you need to know.

	O'Brien can see that Hovath isn't willing to help.

					O'BRIEN
			All right, have it your way.  But 
			don't blame me when that creature 
			goes rampaging through your village.

	O'Brien resumes exploring the room.

73   NEW ANGLE

	As soon as O'Brien turns his back, Hovath removes a dagger 
	hidden in his shirt.  Raising up the blade he advances on 
	O'Brien who, at the last moment, senses the danger and turns 
	just as Hovath lunges at him.  They struggle, O'Brien trying 
	to wrest the knife away from the youth, whose pent up anger 
	makes him a formidable foe.

74   ANGLE BASHIR

	as he ENTERS the room.

					BASHIR
			Chief!

	He runs over and tries to pull Hovath away.  Enraged, the 
	youth turns his attack on Bashir.

					O'BRIEN
				(to Bashir)
			Careful, don't hurt him.

	But it's Hovath who's getting the better of Bashir, the knife 
	point moving ever closer to the doctor's chest.

					BASHIR
			I'll try not to.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FOUR         45.

74   CONTINUED:

	O'Brien grabs hold of Hovath, making it a three-way tussle.

					O'BRIEN
			That's enough.

					BASHIR
			Tell him that.

	O'Brien finally manages to extract the knife from Hovath's 
	grip and shove him against the wall.

					O'BRIEN
			I said that's enough.  Now you mind 
			explaining why you tried to kill me?

					HOVATH
			You are not the true Sirah.

					O'BRIEN
			You won't get any argument from me.

					BASHIR
				(to Hovath)
			If he's not, who is?

					HOVATH
				(simply)
			I am.

	And off their reaction, we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      46.
                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

75   INT. SIRAH'S CHAMBER

	As before.

					HOVATH
			For five years, I studied with the 
			Sirah, learning the secrets of the 
			storyteller.
				(to O'Brien)
			Only to have you come along and take 
			my place.

					O'BRIEN
			Look friend, as far as I'm concerned, 
			the job's yours.

					BASHIR
				(to Hovath; re: O'Brien)
			But if you were supposed to take 
			over, why did the Sirah pick him?

					HOVATH
				(ashamed)
			It was his way of punishing me.

					BASHIR
			Punishing you?

					HOVATH
			Three nights ago, the Sirah allowed 
			me to tell the story.  But when the 
			Dal'Rok appeared, I was unable to 
			control it.  Several people were 
			injured.

					O'BRIEN
			Control it?  How?

	Hovath crosses to a table and picks up the Sirah's bracelet.

					HOVATH
			With this.

	O'Brien and Bashir examine the bracelet.

					HOVATH
			The stone is said to be a fragment 
			of an orb from the celestial temple.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      47.

75   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			We had one of the orbs aboard our 
			station.  We're aware of how powerful 
			they are.

					HOVATH
			Many years ago, this village was 
			deeply divided by hate and mistrust.  
			The first Sirah knew that unless he 
			could find a way to unite the people, 
			the village would destroy itself.  
			So he used the orb fragment as a 
			catalyst to give their fears a 
			physical form.

					O'BRIEN
			So the villagers' thoughts create the 
			Dal'Rok.

					HOVATH
			But they don't know that.  It's a 
			secret passed from Sirah to Sirah.

					O'BRIEN
			Why do they need a storyteller?

					HOVATH
			The story helps focus the villagers' 
			thoughts...

					BASHIR
				(putting it all 
				together)
			And enables them to defeat the Dal'Rok 
			by creating the shimmering lights.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE     47A.

75   CONTINUED:	(2)

					HOVATH
				(a beat)
			I know if I had another chance, I 
			could control the Dal'Rok.

	O'Brien looks Hovath in the eye, sizes him up, then hands 
	him the ceremonial clothes.

					O'BRIEN
			Well son, it looks like tonight you're 
			going to get that chance.

	Hovath smiles gratefully at O'Brien as he drapes the Sirah's 
	clothes around himself.

					FAREN (O.S.)
			What is this?

75A  NEW ANGLE

	Faren stands in the doorway.

					FAREN
				(to Hovath; outraged)
			You have no right to wear those 
			clothes.

					HOVATH
			I have every right...

					FAREN
			You had your chance to prove 
			yourself... you failed.

					HOVATH
			It won't happen again.

					FAREN
			That's right... because you won't be 
			allowed to endanger the village a 
			second time.  Now take off those 
			robes.

	A beat and then Hovath removes the garment and hands it back 
	to O'Brien.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FIVE        47B.

75A  CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			Hold on...

					FAREN
				(to O'Brien)
			Sirah, it's time you were getting 
			ready.  The people have assembled to 
			hear the story.

	O'Brien sighs.  He's not looking forward to this.

76   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

77   INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE

	Varis stands before Sisko.  Her usual combative attitude is 
	nowhere in evidence.

         DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - 2/02/93 - ACT FIVE         48.

77   CONTINUED:

					VARIS
			I want you to know Commander, that I 
			take complete responsibility for 
			what happened in the security office.

					SISKO
			I think there's more than enough 
			blame to spread around.  Jake should 
			have known better.

					VARIS
			I'm afraid he and Nog were just trying 
			to impress me.

					SISKO
			That's not much of an excuse.

					VARIS
			Didn't you ever do anything foolish 
			to impress a girl?

	Sisko has to concede the point.

					SISKO
			I may have.

					VARIS
			Jake's a nice boy.  So's Nog, in his 
			own way.  I enjoy their company.

					SISKO
			I suppose you don't get much of a 
			chance to be with people your own 
			age.

					VARIS
			True.  But that's not why I wanted 
			to be with them.
				(off Sisko's reaction)
			I wanted to learn about you.

	Sisko can't help but be impressed.  Beneath all the bad 
	attitude, this is one savvy girl.

					SISKO
			And... ?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      49.

77   CONTINUED:	(2)

					VARIS
			Jake think's very highly of you.  
			He... trusts you.

					SISKO
				(smiling)
			That's always nice to hear.

	Varis takes a seat.  For the rest of the scene, her words 
	are spoken softly and with great thought behind them.

					VARIS
			Hearing Jake speak of you reminded 
			me how much I miss my own parents.  
			My father was a great man.  A great 
			leader.

					SISKO
			I'm sure he'd be very proud of you.

					VARIS
			I try to be strong... the way he was 
			strong... but it's... difficult.

					SISKO
			From what I've learned about your 
			father, he wasn't afraid to 
			compromise.

					VARIS
			That's because he knew the Navot 
			feared him.  If I were to make 
			concessions, Woban would think I was 
			weak.

					SISKO
			I doubt he would be that foolish.
				(a beat)
			But he is determined to get back 
			that land.

					VARIS
			I'm not afraid of Woban or the Navot.

					SISKO
			I never said you were.
				(a beat)
			So your answer is still no.

					VARIS
			You don't lose by saying no.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      50.

77   CONTINUED:	(3)

					SISKO
			Maybe.  But a great leader... like 
			your father... is one who's willing 
			to risk saying yes.

	Sisko's words hit home.  It's the final push that Varis's 
	needs to take this next great step.

					VARIS
			Commander, I believe I know of an... 
			opportunity... that could allow both 
			sides to say yes.

	That piques Sisko's interest.

78
thru   OMITTED
80

81   EXT. VILLAGE SQUARE - NIGHT

	O'Brien (dressed as the Sirah), Bashir, Faren and Hovath 
	approach the platform passing villagers bowed in meditation.

					O'BRIEN
				(out of the side of 
				his mouth)
			I thought you wanted this job.

					HOVATH
			I do.

					O'BRIEN
			Then why don't you fight for it.

	But Hovath's mind is made up.

					HOVATH
			No, Faren is right.  The people will 
			never accept me as Sirah and without 
			their support, I could never control 
			the Dal'Rok.

					O'BRIEN
			And you think I can?

					HOVATH
			You have to.

	As they reach the steps...

					BASHIR
			Good luck.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      51.

81   CONTINUED:

	O'Brien mounts the steps as if on the way to a hanging.

82   NEW ANGLE

	As O'Brien reaches the platform, the wind begins kicking up.  
	O'Brien is unsure how to proceed.  The crowd begins to grow 
	restless.

					CROWD
			Speak... The story... Speak... Tell 
			the story.

	O'Brien looks to Faren, Hovath and Bashir.  No help there.  
	Resigned to the fact that there's no way out, O'Brien 
	addresses the crowd.

					O'BRIEN
				(ill-at-ease)
			Once upon a time, there was a Dal'Rok.  
			He lived there...
				(points)
			In the woods... and he hated the 
			village... and all of the villagers... 
			and wanted to see them destroyed.

83   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The energy cloud appears in the distant sky.

					CROWD
			The Dal'Rok... it's here... the 
			Dal'Rok.

84   ANGLE BASHIR

	Both impressed and curious.  Maybe O'Brien can actually pull 
	this off.

85   ANGLE O'BRIEN

	feeling the pressure.

					O'BRIEN
			Yes... the Dal'Rok has arrived... 
			and it's... it's...

	O'Brien is at a loss for words.

   DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE 52-53.      

85A  ANGLE ON BASHIR

	Silently rooting him on.

85B  BACK TO O'BRIEN

	No choice but to go for it.

					O'BRIEN
			...hungry.  But... the village is 
			prepared to fight.

86   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The Dal'Rok keeps coming.  But there's no sign of the 
	sparkling energy lights.

87   ANGLE BASHIR AND HOVATH

					HOVATH
			Something's wrong.

					BASHIR
			What's wrong is O'Brien's not the 
			Sirah.  You are.

88   ANGLE O'BRIEN

	fiddling with the bracelet as he tries again.

					O'BRIEN
			The village is strong... and 
			powerful... and unafraid... to face 
			the Dal'Rok.

89   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The lights still haven't made an appearance.  The Dal'Rok is 
	almost overhead.

90   ANGLE BASHIR AND HOVATH

	The doctor is giving the kid the full court press.

					BASHIR
			Did you ever think maybe the Sirah 
			planned all this?

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      54.

90   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			He knew the villagers had lost 
			confidence in you, so he chose O'Brien 
			as his successor, knowing you'd have 
			to rescue him.
				(urgent)
			Don't you see?  This is your chance 
			to prove once and for all that you're 
			the true Sirah.

	As this sinks in with Hovath...

91   ANGLE O'BRIEN

	Eyes locked onto the Dal'Rok, still not ready to give up.

					O'BRIEN
			All right, let's really focus on this 
			one and send the Dal'Rok a message... 
			Okay, let's send that message...
				(searches the sky)
			Where the hell are those lights?

92   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The Dal'Rok swipes at the air.

93   ANGLE O'BRIEN (OPTICAL)

	The impact knocks him to his knees.

94   ANGLE PLATFORM

	As the villagers panic, Bashir and Hovath race over to a 
	dazed O'Brien and help him to his feet.

95   ANGLE HOVATH

	Hovath grabs the bracelet off O'Brien's wrist, puts it on, 
	and addresses the crowd.

					HOVATH
			Wait, there's no need to run.  A new 
			voice appears to challenge the 
			Dal'Rok.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT FIVE      55.

96   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	Sure enough the sparkling energy light begins flying up toward 
	the Dal'Rok.


96A  ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR (OPTICAL)

	reacting to the arrival of the lights.

					O'BRIEN
			It's about time.

97   ANGLE THE PLATFORM

	Hovath is gaining confidence by the second.

					HOVATH
			The Dal'Rok is a fearsome enemy.  
			The mountains shake with its fury.  
			But our prosperity is its misery.  
			Our unity is its vulnerability.  Our 
			strength is its doom.
				(a beat)
			Look... the Dal'Rok trembles.  It 
			fears our strength.  It fears our 
			determination.  It knows it cannot 
			stand against us.

98   ANGLE THE SKY (OPTICAL)

	The lights close around the Dal'Rok, shutting it from view.  
	A beat and then the energy display fades back into the night.

99   ANGLE THE PLATFORM

					HOVATH
			There... see for yourselves, the 
			Dal'Rok is defeated.  The village is 
			safe for another year.

					CROWD
			The Sirah... Sirah.

100  ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR

	as the villagers cheer their new Sirah.  O'Brien removes the 
	ceremonial robe and lays it on to the platform.  Then he 
	grabs Bashir and leads him away.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/11/93 - ACT FIVE     55A.

100  CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			Let's get out of here before they 
			change their minds.

	Bashir doesn't need to be told twice.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      56.

101  EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) - DAY THREE

102  OMITTED

102A INT. PROMENADE - THE TURBOLIFT

	The doors open and Sisko and Varis step out, on their way to 
	another round of negotiations.

					SISKO
			Nervous?

					VARIS
			Not at all.
				(admission)
			Maybe a little.  Do you think Woban 
			will accept my proposal?

					SISKO
			It's very possible.  It does give 
			the Navot back their land.

					VARIS
			And free trade access to both sides 
			of the river would mean a lot to my 
			people.

					SISKO
				(smiling)
			It's a reasonable compromise.

102B ANGLE QUARK'S

	Jake, Nog and Odo are waiting for them by the entrance.

					JAKE
				(to Varis)
			We thought we'd wish you good luck 
			with your meeting.

					VARIS
				(touched)
			Thank you.

	She leans over and kisses Nog on his cheek.

					VARIS
			For all your help.

       DEEP SPACE: "The Storyteller" - REV. 2/04/93 - ACT FIVE      57.

102B CONTINUED:

	And if a Ferengi could blush, Nog would be beet red.

103  NEW ANGLE

	As Sisko leads Varis into the conference room, Odo places a 
	hand on the boys' shoulders.

					ODO
			All right, let's go.  You two are going 
			to clean the Security office until 
			it shines.

	The boys nod, ready to accept their fate.  He leads them 
	away as we pick up...

104  ANGLE O'BRIEN AND BASHIR

	exiting the Promenade airlock, having just returned from 
	Bajor.

					BASHIR
			You know Chief, this is going to 
			make a fantastic story to tell around 
			the station.

					O'BRIEN
			No thanks.  I've had my fill of 
			storytelling for the time being.

					BASHIR
			Well, I hope you won't mind if I 
			mention it.

					O'BRIEN
			Suit yourself... Julian.

	Bashir nods.  But there's still one more pocket he needs to 
	empty.

					BASHIR
			Oh, and Chief, on second thought, 
			you don't really have to call me 
			Julian.

					O'BRIEN
				(poker-faced)
			Right you are... Sir.

	And as they pass out of range, O'Brien lets slip a private 
	(yet satisfied) grin.

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         
                            THE END                             •