STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                              
                         "Equilibrium" 
                          #40513-450 
                              
                           Story by 
                      Christopher Teague 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                        Rene Echevarria 
                              
                          Directed by 
                          Cliff Bole 

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

Copyright 1994 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 This script is not for publication or 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
                        August 10, 1994

        STAR TREK: DS9 - "Equilibrium" 08/12/94 - CAST 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                         "Equilibrium" 
                             CAST 

          SISKO                    RENHOL
          KIRA                     TIMOR
          ODO                      YOLAD
          BASHIR                   MASKED FIGURE
                                   (JORAN BELAR)
          DAX                      
          JAYE                     

          Non-Speaking             Non-speaking
          N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES     

 STAR TREK DEEP SPACE NINE: "Equilibrium" - 08/10/94 - SETS       

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                         "Equilibrium" 
                             SETS 

        INTERIORS                     EXTERIORS
        DEEP SPACE NINE                 DEEP SPACE NINE
          SISKO'S QUARTERS              THE DEFIANT
          COMMANDER'S OFFICE            TRILL
          REPLIMAT                      
          PROMENADE                     
          INFIRMARY                     
          DAX'S QUARTERS                

        DEFIANT                       
          BRIDGE                        
          CORRIDOR                      
          BASHIR'S QUARTERS             

        CAVES                         

        DAX'S ROOM AT SYMBIOSIS INSTITUTE

      STAR TREK: "Equilibrium" - 08/11/94 - PRONUNCIATION 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                         "Equilibrium" 
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

          BELAR                    bell-ARE
          TENARAN                  ten-ARE-uhn
          BENZOCYATIC              BEN-zoh-sigh-attic
          BENZOCYATIZINE           BEN-zoh-sigh-at-uh-zeen
          ISOBORAMINE              eye-so-BORA-meen
          JORAN                    juh-RAN
          MAK'ALA                  muh-KAH-lah
          RENHOL                   REN-hall
          SYMBIOINT                SIM-bee-unt
          TIMOR                    teh-MORE
          TORIAS                   tuh-RYE-us
          YOLAD                    yoh-LAD


            DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - 08/10/94 - TEASER            1.

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE                    
                            "Equilibrium"                              
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	hanging in space.

2    INT. SISKO'S QUARTERS

	where SISKO is cooking a meal for BASHIR, KIRA, JAKE and 
	ODO.  Sisko has his sleeves rolled up and is a whirlwind of 
	activity... he's a man in his element, effortlessly tending 
	to five different things at once.

	There are a few 24th Century HOT-PLATES on the table, with 
	SAUCEPANS and SKILLETS on them.

	Jake is helping his dad, and we see that the two of them 
	make a good team.  Kira and Bashir sit nearby, BEVERAGES and 
	HORS D'OEUVRES at hand.

	Odo is watching with great interest as Sisko whips something 
	in a BOWL with a whisk.

					SISKO
			Now the secret to a good souffle, 
			Constable, is its consistency.  You 
			have to be very careful not to 
			overwhip it.

					ODO
			I see...

	Sisko is somewhat surprised by Odo's curiosity.

					SISKO
			I hope I'm not boring you.

					ODO
			Just because I don't need food, 
			Commander, doesn't mean I'm not 
			interested in its preparation.  I'm 
			fascinated by the humanoid 
			preoccupation with eating.

	Sisko realizes he needs to turn the fish -- Odo offers to 
	take over stirring the souffle.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - TEASER          2.

2    CONTINUED:

					ODO
			May I?

					SISKO
			By all means.

	He hands him the bowl, and Odo takes the whisk in hand.  He 
	begins whipping, a little tentatively.

					SISKO
				(continuing)
			Keep it smooth.  That's right... 
			it's all in the wrist.

	Odo starts to get the hang of it, gets a rhythm going.  Sisko 
	smiles, and Odo can't help but smile back.  Sisko turns the 
	fish in the skillet and starts expertly chopping something.

					BASHIR
			Where'd you learn to do that?

					SISKO
			I used to work summers at my father's 
			restaurant in New Orleans.

					KIRA
			What are we having?  It smells 
			delicious.

					JAKE
			Blackened redfish... with creamed 
			spinach and sauteed beets.

	Bashir responds with a notable lack of enthusiasm.

					BASHIR
			Beets... ?

					SISKO
				(with humor)
			You don't like beets, Doctor?

	Jake turns toward Bashir as if to warn him of something --

					JAKE
			Careful --

					BASHIR
				(uninterrupted)
			They're not exactly a personal 
			favorite of mine.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - TEASER          3.

2    CONTINUED:	(2)

					SISKO
			That's because you've never had them 
			prepared properly.

					JAKE
				(to Bashir)
			I tried to warn you.

					SISKO
				(lightly)
			The beet is a very misunderstood 
			vegetable.

					BASHIR
				(wry)
			Well, I look forward to... 
			understanding it better.

	Kira can't help but smile.  There's a CHIME at the door.

					SISKO
			Come in.

	DAX ENTERS, looking a little harried.

					DAX
			What a day... I spent the last six 
			hours in one of the upper pylons 
			trying to get the new sensor relay 
			on-line.

					SISKO
			Help yourself to something.  Dinner'll 
			be ready in a few minutes.

					DAX
			Great, I've been looking forward to 
			it all day.

					BASHIR
			I hope you like beets.

	Sisko smiles and shakes his head...

					DAX
			Love them.

	Bashir shakes his head as if to say, "am I the only one?"  Dax 
	crosses over toward the replicator to get something to drink.  
	Odo is still whipping away, looking a little like a man trying 
	to hold a baby.

            DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - 08/10/94 - TEASER            4.

2    CONTINUED:	(3)

					SISKO
			Keep at it, Constable -- nice, even 
			strokes.

	Odo concentrates on what he's doing, and Kira can't help but 
	smile.

					ODO
			Do you find something amusing, Major?

					KIRA
			I just think you look... cute.

	Odo isn't sure whether he considers that a compliment, turns 
	his attention to what he's doing.

	Dax has found a KEYBOARD sitting on top of a box near the 
	replicator.

					DAX
			Who's is this?

					JAKE
			It's mine.

					DAX
			I didn't know you played.

	She hesitantly touches the keys, just to hear how they sound.

					JAKE
			I don't.  I took lessons for a while 
			but I wasn't very good.

					DAX
			I know the feeling.  None of Dax's 
			hosts, including Jadzia, had any 
			musical ability.

					BASHIR
				(lightly)
			No one ever said life was fair.

					DAX
			Not even when you've had seven of 
			them.

	As the conversation continues, Dax continues experimenting 
	with the keyboard.  Her playing seems to improve as she 
	continues and gains in confidence.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - TEASER          5.

2    CONTINUED:	(4)

					DAX
			You would think one of us would've 
			been born without a tin ear.

	Dax manages to pick out a series of chords that have a smooth, 
	almost lyrical progression to them.

					KIRA
			Sounds like one of you had some 
			talent, after all.

	Dax looks down at the keyboard, suddenly very serious.  She 
	concentrates and plays the same piece a second time.

					BASHIR
			That was lovely.

					DAX
				(sharply)
			Quiet.

	Her hands flutter across the keyboard as if trying to remember 
	an old skill... but she can't.  She tries to play again, but 
	now the music comes out discordant and arbitrary.

					DAX
				(frustrated)
			That's not it...

					KIRA
			What piece was that?

					DAX
			I don't know.  I don't think I ever 
			heard it before.

					BASHIR
			Maybe you hit on it by accident.  
			You know, beginner's luck.

					DAX
				(searching her memory)
			I know it somehow.

					JAKE
			Dinner's ready!

            DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - 08/10/94 - TEASER            6.

2    CONTINUED:	(5)

					KIRA
				(lightly)
			Maybe it's something from your 
			childhood.  You'll think of it.

	Kira crosses to join the others... but Dax stays by the 
	keyboard, stares down at it.  She can't seem to shake what 
	happened, seems disturbed by it on some fundamental level.

	PUSH IN on her troubled features... and...

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT ONE         7.
                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

	(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)

3    INT. COMMANDER'S OFFICE (VPB)

	where Sisko and Dax are sitting playing CHESS.  Sisko is 
	studying the board carefully; Dax sits across from him, 
	looking a little edgy, trying to hum the tune she played in 
	Sisko's quarters.  Sisko looks up at her; her humming is 
	making it hard for him to concentrate.

					SISKO
				(lightly)
			Dax, do you mind... ?

					DAX
			What?

					SISKO
			Your humming.  It's a little 
			distracting.

					DAX
			Sorry, I didn't realize I was doing 
			it.

					SISKO
			You've been humming that same tune 
			ever since we started the game.

					DAX
			I guess I can't get it out of my 
			head.

					SISKO
			Do me a favor...
				(smiles)
			-- try.

	He studies the board again, and within seconds Dax starts 
	mouthing the tune to herself -- it's silent, but still 
	distracting.  He sees that she's off in her own world, and 
	decides not to make an issue of it.

	After a moment, Sisko moves a piece.  When she doesn't seem 
	to notice, he gets her attention.

					SISKO
			Your turn...

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT ONE         8.

3    CONTINUED:

	Dax takes just a cursory glance at the pieces and counters.  
	Sisko seems surprised by her choice, as if he thinks it was 
	a bad move.

					SISKO
			You sure you want to do that?

					DAX
				(even)
			Your move.

	Sisko shrugs, if that's the way she wants it.  He moves a 
	piece, looks at her.

					SISKO
			Check.

					DAX
			Where'd that Knight come from?

					SISKO
			Your mind's not on the game.

					DAX
			Oh, so you made an illegal move to 
			get my attention... ?

	Sisko is taken completely by surprise by the accusation.

					SISKO
			Of course not.  It was a legal move.
				(beat)
			Look, maybe we should just call it a 
			day.  You obviously have other things 
			on your mind.

	Dax looks at him, her features cold.

					DAX
			Curzon always suspected you were a 
			cheat.

	Sisko can't believe what he's hearing; he's too surprised to 
	be angry.

					SISKO
			Is this some kind of joke?

	She holds his gaze... this is no joke.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT ONE         9.

3    CONTINUED:	(2)

					SISKO
			You mind telling me what's going on 
			here?

					DAX
			Don't play innocent with me, Benjamin.  
			We both know you were trying to cheat 
			me.  Why don't you just admit it?

	With a sudden movement she upends the board, scattering the 
	pieces.  And with that she EXITS the room... Off Sisko's 
	concerned expression as he watches her go...

4    INT. REPLIMAT (VPB)

	where Dax is sitting at a table, brooding, a mug of raktajino 
	forgotten in front of her.

					KIRA (O.S.)
			Dax... ?

	Dax looks up to see Kira standing nearby.

					DAX
			Did Sisko send you to apologize for 
			him?

					KIRA
			No.  But he is a little concerned 
			about what happened.  I thought you 
			might want to talk about it.

					DAX
			There's nothing to talk about.

					KIRA
			You can't really think he tried to 
			cheat you?

					DAX
			I knew you'd take his side.

					KIRA
			I'm not taking anyone's side.

					DAX
			In that case... I think you should 
			leave.

					KIRA
			Dax --

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT ONE        10.

4    CONTINUED:

					DAX
			I'm serious, Kira.  Leave.

	Kira can't just give up, she's too concerned about her friend.  
	She stands there, trying to think of what tack to take.  Dax 
	looks up at her, stands.

					DAX
			Fine, then I'll go.

	Dax tries to move past her, but Kira catches her arm.

					KIRA
			Wait --

					DAX
				(even)
			Get your hands off me... before I do 
			something I'll regret.

	Kira looks into Dax's eyes... but doesn't see anyone she 
	recognizes.  Dax's threat is real, and Kira feels she has no 
	choice but to let her go.  Dax holds her gaze for a beat, 
	then smiles, as if she's enjoying Kira's discomfort.

					DAX
			That's the first smart thing you've 
			done since you walked over here.

	She turns and walks off into the Promenade... we hold on 
	Kira's face for a beat and --

									CUT TO:

5    INT. PROMENADE (VPB)

	where Dax is making her way across the central corridor.  
	SUPERNUMERARIES go about their daily business, passing this 
	way and that.

5A   NEW ANGLE

	where we see that everyone on the Promenade has suddenly 
	disappeared.  The place is empty, deserted.  A LIGHTING CHANGE 
	gives the Promenade a mysterious look.

	Dax's attention is caught by a strange FIGURE standing on 
	the upper level, looking down at her.

	The Figure is wearing dark, flowing robes and a strange, 
	slightly feminine featured, eyeless MASK.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT ONE        11.

5A   CONTINUED:

	Dax seems gripped with fear, visceral and intense.  She tries 
	to steel herself, swallow back her fear, but there's something 
	about the figure that seems to cut deep into her.

	Suddenly she hears a strange SOUND... like an elongated 
	musical note, distorted and eerie -- this is a stretched out 
	version of the melody Dax played in the Teaser, and as the 
	scene progresses, the piece will continue beyond the point 
	we've already heard.

	Dax looks away from the figure to see if anyone else is 
	around, but the place is deserted.

	When she looks back, the figure is gone.  She looks around, 
	trying to find him again.

	Something in her peripheral vision catches her eye -- she 
	turns and sees the masked figure standing in the center of 
	the lower level.  It seems impossible that he could have 
	moved there so quickly, but there he is.

	The figure stands with its hand held about face high... it 
	slowly passes its hand across its face and in a single, 
	impossibly seamless movement, removes the mask and reveals a 
	second mask underneath.  This mask is also eyeless, and the 
	markings inscribed on it are more blunt and angular, with a 
	somewhat masculine quality.

6    ON DAX

	as she reacts to this strange transformation.  It's bizarre, 
	frightening.  The MUSIC continues and Dax decides to get the 
	hell out of there.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT ONE        12.

6    CONTINUED:

	She moves off, fighting the urge to break into a run.  As 
	she comes around the free-standing directory console, she has 
	to stop short to keep from running into the masked figure -- 
	it's standing directly in her path, not six feet away.

	Before Dax even has time to react the figure reaches up and 
	tears off its mask, ripping it in half -- revealing a 
	sinister, identifiably masculine mask, from behind which 
	piercing humanoid eyes stare at her.

	Dax gasps, steps back... and bumps smack into someone -- she 
	reacts, startled, and we --

									CUT TO:

7    OMITTED

8    NEW ANGLE - NORMAL LIGHTING

	where we see that Dax has backed into QUARK.  The Promenade 
	is full of people as before.  Quark sees her troubled 
	expression.

					QUARK
			Something wrong, Lieutenant?

	Dax doesn't answer; when she turns back toward the masked 
	figure, he's gone.  Dax looks around, trying to find him in 
	the crowd -- but he's disappeared.  Off her troubled features 
	we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/10/94 - ACT TWO        13.
                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

9    INT. INFIRMARY (VPB)

	where Bashir is scanning Dax with various INSTRUMENTS as 
	Sisko looks on.

	Dax is clearly distressed... the incident in the Promenade 
	has jolted her into realizing that something's wrong with 
	her.

	While Bashir works, Sisko tries to be there for her... his 
	demeanor is gentle, reassuring.

					SISKO
			How do you feel?

					DAX
				(apologetic)
			Like an idiot.  I'm sorry about those 
			horrible things I said to you.

					SISKO
			Don't worry about it... they're 
			already forgotten.
				(lightly)
			And I used to think Curzon had a 
			temper.

					DAX
			I don't know what's wrong with me.  
			I feel like I have all this anger 
			inside and I don't know where it's 
			coming from.

					SISKO
			This masked figure you saw in your...

					DAX
				(helping him)
			Hallucination?

					SISKO
			Do you have any sense of who it 
			might've been?

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/10/94 - ACT TWO        14.

9    CONTINUED:

					DAX
			That's what's so strange.  He seemed 
			familiar somehow... but I don't know 
			from where.
				(intent)
			And the music.  Benjamin, I have to 
			find out what that music is.

					SISKO
			Why don't you input as much as you 
			can remember into the computer -- it 
			might be able to find a match in the 
			Federation database.

					DAX
			I'll do it as soon as Julian lets 
			me out of here.

	Bashir studies his Tricorder, regards Dax for a beat.

					BASHIR
			Jadzia... have you ever experienced 
			any hallucinations prior to this?

					DAX
			Never... and I hope I never have 
			another one.  It was terrifying...

					BASHIR
			Have any of Dax's other hosts?

					DAX
			No... believe me I'd remember.

	Bashir studies Dax's file on a monitor.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/10/94 - ACT TWO        15.

9    CONTINUED:	(2)

					BASHIR
			According to your file, the only 
			major trauma the Dax symbiont ever 
			suffered was when Torias Dax was 
			injured in a shuttle accident.

					SISKO
			Torias, he was Dax's... fifth host, 
			wasn't he?

					DAX
				(nods)
			Right before Curzon.

					BASHIR
			It says here that Torias remained in 
			a comatose state for just under six 
			months.
				(considers)
			There must've been a lot of tissue 
			damage, the Doctors couldn't keep 
			his isoboramine levels up.

					SISKO
			Isoboramine?

					DAX
			It's a neurotransmitter that mediates 
			synaptic functions between host and 
			symbiont.

					BASHIR
				(off monitor; to Sisko)
			When the levels fell below forty 
			percent of normal... they had to 
			remove the symbiont.

					DAX
			Sometimes a host has to be sacrificed 
			to save a symbiont.

	Bashir turns to Dax, opens his tricorder and scans her.  Dax 
	looks at him for a beat, realizes what he's doing.

					DAX
			Are you checking my isoboramine 
			levels, Julian?

	Bashir holds her gaze for a moment, then nods.

					BASHIR
			Yes...

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/10/94 - ACT TWO        16.

9    CONTINUED:	(3)

	Dax hears something in his voice.

					DAX
			How low are they?

					BASHIR
				(grave)
			They're down to seventy-three percent 
			of normal...

	Dax reacts -- this is dangerously low.

					SISKO
			Do you have any idea what's causing 
			it?

					BASHIR
			I'm not sure; there's no tissue 
			damage, no synaptic degradation...

	Dax is almost afraid to ask...

					DAX
			Julian, am I in danger of rejecting 
			my symbiont?

					BASHIR
			I wouldn't worry about rejection 
			just yet -- but we do have to get 
			those isoboramine levels back up.
				(to Sisko)
			I suggest we take her back to the 
			Trill homeworld and have the doctors 
			at the Symbiosis Commission examine 
			her.

	Sisko turns to Dax, gives her a reassuring smile.

					SISKO
			Curzon always said he wanted to show 
			me the Trill homeworld.  Looks like 
			I'm going to get there after all.

	Dax manages a small smile... she appreciates Sisko's attempt 
	to lighten a difficult situation.  Off this moment...

10   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as the Defiant pulls away.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/10/94 - ACT TWO       16A.

11   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (VPB)

	Bashir ENTERS and approaches Sisko, who is in the command 
	chair looking over a PADD an N.D. just handed him.

					BASHIR
			How long before we reach Trill?

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        17.

11   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			A little over thirty-seven hours.  
			How's Dax?

					BASHIR
			Resting in her quarters.

	A small silence settles between them.

					SISKO
			It's funny... it's been almost four 
			years since Curzon died... and I 
			still miss the old man.
				(beat)
			At first I didn't think I'd ever get 
			used to a new Dax... but now... if 
			anything were to happen to Jadzia...

					BASHIR
			I know... I feel the same way...
				(beat)
			We'll just have to make sure nothing 
			happens to her.  Right?

					SISKO
			Right.

	They share a supportive smile... each aware that a pact has 
	been made, and each feeling a little better for it.  Off 
	this moment...

12   INT. DEFIANT - BASHIR'S QUARTERS (VPB)

	where he's reclined on the lower bunk in his PAJAMAS, studying 
	up on Trill physiology on a PADD.  The lights are quite DIM, 
	except for his reading light.  After a moment there's a CHIME 
	at the door.

					BASHIR
			Yes.

	The door OPENS to reveal Dax in the corridor, wearing simple 
	nightclothes.

					DAX
			Oh, good.  I didn't wake you.

					BASHIR
				(sitting up)
			Not at all.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        18.

12   CONTINUED:

	She's trying to smile, act as if she's fine -- but the 
	truth is she's scared and doesn't want to be alone.


					BASHIR
			Having trouble sleeping?

					DAX
			A little...

					BASHIR
			I could give you something...

					DAX
			No, thanks... but I could use a little 
			company -- unless you're busy.

	Bashir gestures for her to take a seat.

					BASHIR
				(causally)
			I was just doing some reading...

	Bashir would like to leave it at that, but Dax reaches over 
	and picks up the PADD to see what he's reading.

					DAX
			Anything I'd be interested in?

	She looks down at the medical data on the PADD, realizes 
	what it is.

					DAX
			Trill physiology...

					BASHIR
			Just some background research...

	It hits her that Bashir is really concerned about her 
	condition, and that very fact worries her.  He sees the shadow 
	cross her features, reaches to take the PADD out of her hand.

					BASHIR
			Jadzia, I know you're worried... but 
			the Doctors at the Symbiosis 
			Commission know a lot more about 
			this than I do.

	But somehow Dax isn't comforted.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        19.

12   CONTINUED:	(2)

					DAX
			I can't believe I'm going back there.  
			I spent three years as an Initiate, 
			and in all that time I hardly ever 
			left the complex.  After I was joined 
			I swore I'd never set foot in there 
			again.

					BASHIR
			Was it really that bad?

					DAX
			No... what I remember most is the 
			endless series of tests they put me 
			through.

					BASHIR
			Considering the risk of rejection, 
			you can't really blame them.  If 
			they gave a symbiont to an unsuitable 
			host, they'd both die in a matter of 
			days.

					DAX
			That's true... I guess the reason I 
			had such a difficult time there was 
			because I put so much pressure on 
			myself... I wanted to be joined so 
			badly...

					BASHIR
			Look on the bright side, at least 
			this time you won't be there as an 
			Initiate.

					DAX
			No, I'll be a patient... and that's 
			even worse.
				(beat)
			I never told you this, Julian... but 
			I've always been afraid of doctors.

					BASHIR
			Most people are.  When I was younger 
			I was terrified of them.

					DAX
			Really?

					BASHIR
			They seemed to know everything... it 
			was like they held the power of life 
			and death in their hands.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO       19A.

12   CONTINUED:	(3)

					BASHIR
				(smiles)
			I used to think that if I didn't 
			behave, they'd make sure I got sick.

	Dax smiles at his confession.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        20.

12   CONTINUED:	(4)

					BASHIR
			When I got older, I decided that I 
			wanted to know what they knew... be 
			as smart as they were.

					DAX
			And that's why you went to medical 

			school?

					BASHIR
			That's right.  And you know what I 
			learned there?
				(beat)
			That all I really wanted to do was 
			help people.

	Dax studies his face as he continues.

					BASHIR
			That's what doctors are there for... 
			to help.  So there's really no reason 
			to be afraid of them.

	There's a moment as they both realize that Bashir has just 
	revealed a very personal aspect of himself.  After a beat, 
	Bashir smiles self-deprecatingly.

					BASHIR
			Now if that little story hasn't put 
			you to sleep, I don't know what will.

	Dax studies his face for a beat.

					DAX
			You're a very dear man, Julian...

	There's a small silence between them.

					BASHIR
			Jadzia... you're welcome to sleep 
			here if you want.  You can have the 
			top bunk.

	Dax never would've asked, but she's deeply grateful that he 
	offered.

					DAX
			Are you sure you don't mind?

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        21.

12   CONTINUED:	(5)

					BASHIR
			Absolutely.  Up you go.

	Dax hates to ask, but...


					DAX
			If it's not too much trouble, do you 
			think I could have the lower bunk?
				(explaining)
			Curzon once fell out of a tree, and 
			ever since then I...

	Bashir can't help but smile.

					BASHIR
			Anything you want.

	He climbs in to the upper bunk and Jadzia settles into the 
	lower one.

13   ON BASHIR

	as he makes himself comfortable, props his head up to resume 
	reading his PADD.  After a beat, he realizes his reading 
	light might be bothering Dax.

					BASHIR
			Is this too bright for you?

	No answer.

					BASHIR
			Dax?

	He sticks his head over the side and looks down.

14   RESUME SCENE

	as he sees that Dax has fallen fast asleep, her features 
	perfectly peaceful...

					BASHIR
				(a whisper)
			Sweet dreams...

	As Bashir returns to his reading...


         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        22.

15   EXT. TRILL CAPITOL CITY (MATTE SHOT) - DAY

16   INT. DAX'S ROOM AT THE SYMBIOSIS COMMISSION (VPB)

	This is a 24th century facility; there's a BED suitable for 
	both examining a patient and for convalescing.  A WALL PANEL 
	above it gives bio-readings, and there's a COMPUTER CONSOLE 
	and MONITOR on another wall as well.  There are a few CHAIRS 
	for visitors, some PLANTS, and a WINDOW that looks out on 
	the Trill capitol.

	Sisko and Bashir are waiting with Dax for the results of her 
	tests.  Dax seems a little worn out, like she's just been 
	through an exhaustive ordeal.

					DAX
			-- after they finally finished the 
			neural response analysis, another 
			Doctor came in and ran a cortical 
			protein series.

					BASHIR
			Did they do a bio-spectral scan on 
			the symbiont?

	Dax gingerly touches her stomach.

					DAX
			They had to make an incision so they 
			could insert the scanner.

					SISKO
			So you saw him?

					DAX
			Who?

					SISKO
				(lightly)
			Dax...
				(off her nod)
			How's that old worm holding up these 
			days?

					DAX
				(smiles)
			Handsome as ever.

	Sisko smiles at her reply, before he can say anything else 
	the door OPENS and DOCTOR RENHOL ENTERS.  She's an unjoined 
	Trill of about forty, with a warm quality to her, and an 
	intelligent, competent air.  She wears a simple uniform and 
	is carrying a PADD-LIKE device.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/18/94 - ACT TWO        23.

16   CONTINUED:

	She smiles when she sees Dax.

					RENHOL
			Jadzia... it's good to see you again.

	Dax smiles when she sees her... we'll notice a certain 

	restraint in her demeanor around Renhol.  She was part of 
	the team that tested and evaluated Jadzia, and old habits 
	die hard.

					DAX
			Doctor Renhol...

					RENHOL
			Everyone's excited about your being 
			here, you know.
				(to Sisko)
			Jadzia's the only Initiate who ever 
			successfully reapplied to the program 
			after being dropped.

	Renhol smiles warmly at her former pupil.  She notices the 
	MED-KIT Bashir has slung over his shoulder.

					RENHOL
			You must be Doctor Bashir.

					BASHIR
			That's right.

	Renhol turns to Sisko.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/18/94 - ACT TWO        24.

16   CONTINUED:	(2)

					SISKO
			Commander Ben Sisko.

					RENHOL
			Ah, yes.  Curzon's friend.

					SISKO
			I had that privilege.

					BASHIR
			Have you had a chance to look over 
			the test results?

					RENHOL
			Yes, I have.  As you noted, Doctor, 
			her isoboramine levels are low... 
			I've put her on a benzocyatic regimen 
			to compensate.
				(showing Bashir her 
				PADD)
			As you can see, there's already been 
			a three percent improvement.

	Relieved smiles all around.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/18/94 - ACT TWO        25.

16   CONTINUED:	(3)

					DAX
				(to Renhol)
			Will I need to stay here for the 
			duration of the treatment?

					RENHOL
			No... Doctor Bashir can administer 
			it.  But I would like to see you 
			back here tomorrow for a follow up... 
			and for lunch.

					DAX
				(smiles)
			I'd like that.

					RENHOL
			Well... if you'll excuse me I have 
			an Initiate who needs some hand-
			holding.

	She winks at Jadzia and EXITS.  Off this moment...

17   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits Trill.

18   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE

	as Sisko, Bashir and Dax ENTER from the side door.  
	SUPERNUMERARIES man the various stations.

					DAX
				(enthused)
			I don't know why we came back here 
			when I could be taking you on a tour 
			of the Tenaran ice cliffs.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        26.

18   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
				(lightly)
			You're not taking us anywhere, Dax.

					BASHIR
			You're going straight to your quarters 
			to rest.

					DAX
			But --

					BASHIR
			No, buts.  Doctor's orders.

	They both look at her expectantly.  After a beat.

					DAX
			But I can never sleep in the 
			afternoon.

					BASHIR
			Just lay down, close your eyes, and 
			try not to think.

					SISKO
			Usually works for me.

	Dax sees they're going to stick to this, sighs, and heads 
	for the door.

19   INT. DEFIANT - CORRIDOR

	as Dax makes her way down it.  She nods to a passing N.D. 
	and approaches an intersection.  Her attention is caught by 
	an odd sound; she stops walking to listen... and we realize 
	what she's heard -- the faint strains of MUSIC, distant and 
	eerie.  It's the same melody Dax played in the teaser... but 
	where's it coming from?

	She looks both ways... then starts down one path.  The music 
	stops for a moment... then repeats itself, this time coming 
	from the other direction.

	She starts back, and when she turns a corner she stops up 
	short at what she sees: the masked figure is at the far end, 
	staring at her from behind the sinister mask (the same one 
	we saw in Act One).

	Even stranger, an N.D. walks right past him and turns the 
	corner without seeming to take note of him.

         DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT TWO        27.

19   CONTINUED:

					DAX
			Who are you?

	He doesn't answer, seems to be listening as the melody's 
	final notes play out...

					MASKED FIGURE
			It's beautiful... isn't it?

	(NOTE: this line might be dubbed in, we don't want to see 
	the mask moving as he speaks).

	Dax starts to reach for her combadge but suddenly TWO MEN 
	burst out of a door and into the corridor.

19A  ON DAX

	as she reacts.  The masked figure is gone.  The two men are 
	wearing UNIFORMS that are similar to what Doctor Renhol was 
	wearing, but a little more old-fashioned, somehow.

	The two men immediately charge toward Dax -- they're 
	threatening looking, seem bent on capturing her.

	Instinctively she turns and tries to escape, but they catch 
	her almost immediately.  She does her best to fight them 
	off, and manages to take one of them down.  The second man 
	gets her from behind, but she manages to shove him hard 
	against the wall... she turns and they begin to struggle.

20   ON DAX

	as she reacts with confusion to something she sees.

21   NEW ANGLE

	where we see that Dax is struggling with Bashir.  The two 
	men are gone.

					BASHIR
			Dax... Jadzia!

	Dax realizes it's him, stops struggling.  She looks around, 
	tries to make sense of it all.  Off her distraught expression 
	we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT THREE       28.
                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

22   EXT. TRILL CAPITOL CITY (MATTE SHOT) - DAY

23   INT. DAX'S ROOM AT THE SYMBIOSIS COMMISSION

	A distraught-looking Dax is seated on the diagnostic table 
	as Doctor Renhol examines her with a small SCANNER.  Bashir 
	and Sisko look on, concern etched on their feures.

					BASHIR
			I don't understand why she'd have 
			another hallucination... I've checked 
			her isoboramine levels -- they've 
			risen another six percent.

					RENHOL
				(nods)
			That's a larger increase than I'd 
			anticipated.
				(considers)
			The suddenness could be what triggered 
			her hallucination.
				(works her PADD)
			I want you to start administering 
			more frequent treatments but at a 
			lower dosage.

	She shows him the dosage she wants on the PADD, and Bashir 
	acknowledges with a nod.  Dax seems troubled by something...

					DAX
			Doctor, the two people who attacked 
			me... they were from the Symbiosis 
			Commission.

					RENHOL
			Hallucinations often take the form 
			of latent anxieties...
				(a small smile)
			-- and we all know the time you spent 
			here wasn't always easy for you.

					DAX
			But the uniforms they were wearing... 
			they were from over a hundred years 
			ago.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       29.

23   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			That's long before Jadzia was an 
			Initiate.

					DAX
			And none of my other hosts had bad 
			memories of being here.

	Renhol doesn't seem particularly troubled by this.

					RENHOL
			With seven lifetimes worth of 
			memories... it's no surprise things 
			would get a little jumbled.

					SISKO
			So you feel we're on the right track 
			with these treatments?

					RENHOL
			I do.
				(to Dax)
			But I still want to see you tomorrow.

	Dax acknowledges and Renhol takes her leave.  Sisko turns to 
	Dax, sees that she still looks worried... something's on her 
	mind.

					SISKO
			What's on your mind, Dax?

					DAX
			I wish I knew what those 
			hallucinations meant.

					SISKO
			The computer's still trying to 
			identify the music... maybe that'll 
			tell us something.

					DAX
			I hope so.

	Sisko and Bashir hear the frustration in her voice.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       30.

23   CONTINUED:	(2)

					BASHIR
			Jadzia... maybe there are some issues 
			you need to work out about the time 
			you spent here.

					DAX
			I don't need therapy, Julian, I need 
			answers.
				(to Sisko)
			Maybe the Guardians could help me.

					BASHIR
			The Guardians?

					SISKO
			They're unjoined Trill who've devoted 
			their lives to the care of the 
			symbionts.

					DAX
			They know more about them than anyone.

					BASHIR
			Sounds like an unusual job.

					SISKO
			From what Curzon told me, the 
			Guardians are unusual people.

	Off Bashir's intrigued expression...

24   INT. THE CAVES OF MAK'ALA

	as Sisko, Bashir and Dax ENTER.  In one corner a POOL of 
	grayish liquid emerges from a low opening in the rockface -- 
	its surface extends back into the recesses of the opening, 
	as if more pools exist in adjacent chambers.

	Bashir and Sisko look around, trying to make sense of the 
	bizarre setting.  Dax smiles to herself; in a sense, she's 
	home again.


    DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE 31-32.       

24   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			So this is where the symbionts breed?

					DAX
				(nods)
			There are interconnecting pools 
			throughout these caves.  They stretch 
			back for kilometers.

	She spots something off-screen, gestures.

					DAX
			Look... one of them is surfacing.

25   ON THE POOL (OPTICAL)

	We catch a glimpse of a symbiont's back as it surfaces 
	briefly... an ENERGY DISCHARGE forms on the surface of the 
	pool, then snakes along it before seeming to dissipate.

26   RESUME SCENE

					SISKO
			What was that energy discharge?

					DAX
			That's how the symbionts communicate 
			with each other.

					BASHIR
			Fascinating...

	Just then an odd little fellow ENTERS the cavern and starts 
	toward the pool.  He's a Trill of about thirty-five, with 
	the air of a man who has a lot on his mind.  His name is 
	TIMOR, and it will quickly become apparent that he's more 
	comfortable dealing with symbionts than humanoids.  He's 
	carrying some diagnostic EQUIPMENT.

					DAX
			That's one of the Guardians... don't 
			be surprised if he seems a little 
			distracted.  They're not used to 
			visitors.

	Timor moves to the pool's edge... as our people watch, he 
	dips a scoop-type instrument into the pool... holds it up to 
	his eyes, and begins calibrating some dials on the device.  
	He reacts to some mysterious reading he's getting.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT THREE       33.

26   CONTINUED:

					TIMOR
				(to himself)
			That explains things...

	He carefully pours the liquid back into the pool, and moves 
	over to a console, the bottom of which is connected to the 
	pool.  Intrigued, Bashir approaches him.

					BASHIR
			Can I ask what you're doing?

	As he continues working the console.

					TIMOR
			Yes.

	Bashir waits for a beat... sees that Timor is continuing to 
	work.

					BASHIR
			What are you doing?

					TIMOR
			Just making sure they're comfortable.  
			Checking the ion concentration, the 
			temperature, the viscosity... They 
			get very cranky if everything isn't 
			perfect.  You don't want them to get 
			cranky.

					BASHIR
				(unsure)
			No... of course not.

					TIMOR
			They're very demanding, you know.  
			Sometimes I don't know why I put up 
			with it.
				(beat)
			What's the weather like outside?

					BASHIR
			It's sunny... very pleasant.

					TIMOR
			Ah, sunshine... I miss sunshine.

					BASHIR
			Well... why don't you go up to the 
			surface?

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       34.

26   CONTINUED:	(2)

					TIMOR
			I couldn't do that.  They need me.

	He finishes working the console, and without a second glance 
	at Bashir, moves straight over to Dax.

					TIMOR
				(continuing, intrigued)
			You're Dax...

					DAX
				(surprised)
			Jadzia Dax... how did you know?

					TIMOR
				(simply)
			I know.

	He peers at her closely, studying her.

					TIMOR
				(frowning)
			Something's wrong...

	Our people react -- clearly this man is in touch with 
	symbiosis on a profound level.

					DAX
			Yes.

	He reaches out to touch her stomach.

					TIMOR
			Do you mind?

	She gestures that he go ahead... he places his hand on her 
	belly, concentrates... as if trying to sense something.

					TIMOR
			Hm... this isn't good... not good at 
			all.
				(to Dax)
			Tell me... how bad are the dreams?

					DAX
			They're not dreams... they're 
			hallucinations.

					TIMOR
			Actually... they're memories.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE      34A.

26   CONTINUED:	(3)

					DAX
				(unsure)
			Then... why don't I remember them?

					TIMOR
			The balance is off...

					DAX
			You mean the balance between host 
			and symbiont?

					TIMOR
			What other balance is there?  Someone 
			isn't playing fair...
				(considers)
			-- it wouldn't be Dax... must be the 
			host.

					SISKO
			You're saying the problem is with 
			Jadzia?

					TIMOR
			Not necessarily... it could be any 
			one of the hosts.
				(more to himself)
			Never understood why anyone would 
			want to be joined... too many 
			memories.  One life is enough for 
			me.  Though I wouldn't mind spending 
			more of it in the sunshine.  All 
			right, Dax... come with me.  Let's 
			see what we can find.

	He starts to lead her away, then stops, turns to look as 
	Sisko and Bashir.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       35.


26   CONTINUED:	(4)

					TIMOR
			You can wait here.  If any of the 
			other Guardians question you, tell 
			them Timor said it was all right for 
			you to stay.

	He starts to lead Jadzia away, but remembers something and 
	turns back.

					TIMOR
			Just make sure you don't touch 
			anything... and don't bother the 
			symbionts.

					SISKO
				(smiles)
			Dax, we'll be on the Defiant if you 
			need us.

					DAX
			That might be a good idea.

	Off this moment...

27   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits Trill.

28   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	Sisko and Bashir are working at a side console when Dax ENTERS 
	from a corridor.  SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.

					SISKO
			How did it go?

					DAX
			Timor is convinced that my 
			hallucinations have something to do 
			with one of my previous hosts.  But 
			he's not sure which one.  He wants 
			me to come back to see him tomorrow.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       36.

28   CONTINUED:

	Sisko acknowledges with a nod.

					SISKO
			We have some good news, the computer's 
			identified your music.

					DAX
			Can you play it for me?

	Sisko works the controls.  In simple tones, the computer 
	replays the MELODY we heard in the teaser.

					DAX
			That's it.

	Sisko works the controls.

					SISKO
			The piece was written by a Trill 
			named Joran Belar... eighty-six years 
			ago.

					BASHIR
			Does that name sound familiar?

					DAX
			Joran Belar... I don't think so... 
			Is there a picture of him?

					SISKO
			I'll see.

	He works the controls, and after a beat a picture of Joran 
	APPEARS on the MONITOR.

29   ON DAX

	PUSH IN on her look of recognition and --

									CUT TO:

30   SERIES OF QUICK IMAGES

	in which each cut is punctuated by a strange, jarring SOUND.

30A  SYMBIONT BURROWING ITS WAY INTO AN ABDOMINAL
	CAVITY (STOCK?)

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       37.

30B  THE MASKED FIGURE ON THE PROMENADE

30C  DAX'S FACE ON THE DEFIANT BRIDGE (REAL TIME)

30D  THE MASKED FIGURE IN THE DEFIANT CORRIDOR

									CUT TO:

31   INT. A REDRESS OF DAX'S ROOM AT THE SYMBIOSIS
	COMMISSION - NIGHT

	Its basic configuration should be recognizably "Commission 
	style," but instead of a bed there's a large desk in the 
	room.  The LIGHTING gives the room the same mysterious quality 
	as in Scene 7.  A Trill DOCTOR is sitting at the desk, working 
	intently, dressed in an old-fashioned uniform similar to the 
	men who attacked Dax in the corridor.

	Behind him, Dax sees the masked figure approaching him... 
	wearing the sinister mask.  He stealthily moves toward the 
	unsuspecting Doctor.

	Suddenly the masked figure pulls a WEAPON... it has a long 
	needle-like point.  Dax tries to shout out, to warn the 
	Doctor, but no sound comes out -- like in a nightmare.

	Without hesitation, the masked figure thrusts the needle 
	into the back of the Doctor's neck... we see a look of shock 
	cross his features, then he slumps forward onto the desk.

	The masked figure backs away... turns as if to try to 
	escape... and stops when he sees Dax.

	He looks at her, and when he speaks his voice is matter-of-
	fact, cold.

					MASKED FIGURE
			He left me no choice.

	(NOTE: WE DON'T SEE HIS MOUTH MOVE UNDER THE MASK; HIS VOICE 
	SHOULD SEEM TO COME FROM NOWHERE SPECIFIC).

	Dax fights back her fear, stands her ground.

					DAX
			Who are you?

	The masked figure ignores her, tries to go for the door... 
	but Dax steps into his way.  They scuffle, she gets her hand 
	up near his face...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT THREE       38.

31A  NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	As Dax's hand touches the mask, it suddenly shatters, 
	revealing the face underneath -- it's Joran, the composer 
	who's face we saw on the Bridge monitor.  Dax reacts and we --

									CUT TO:

32   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE

	where Dax's body suddenly tenses... her eyes close, her 
	muscles start to tremble -- she's going into some sort of 
	seizure...

					SISKO
			Dax!

	She starts to collapse and Sisko has to move fast to catch 
	her... they lower her to the ground, and Bashir quickly 
	ascertains what's wrong --

					BASHIR
			She's gone into neural shock.

	Off his grim look we...

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         


        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR        39.
                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

33   EXT. TRILL CAPITOL CITY (MATTE SHOT) - DAY

34   INT. DAX'S ROOM AT THE SYMBIOSIS COMMISSION

	Dax is unconscious on the diagnostic bed in a hospital gown; 
	a Male Nurse and a very worried Doctor Renhol are 
	administering to her as Bashir and Sisko stand nearby.

					RENHOL
				(to Nurse)
			We've got to stabilize her synaptic 
			functions...

	Renhol and a Nurse quickly put a SMALL PAD with BLINKIES on 
	it on Dax's forehead.

					RENHOL
				(to Nurse)
			Activate the neural induction field...

	The BLINKIES come on... Renhol scans Dax...

					RENHOL
				(to Nurse)
			Give her another two cc's of 
			benzocyatizine.

	As Renhol moves to a nearby panel Bashir approaches her.

					BASHIR
			Doctor...

	She anticipates his question.

					RENHOL
			Her isoboramine levels are down to 
			fifty-one percent...

	Our people react -- this is dangerously low.

					RENHOL
				(continuing)
			I don't understand it.  A decrease 
			this severe is usually a result of 
			tissue damage...

	She considers for a beat, turns to Sisko.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR        40.

34   CONTINUED:

					RENHOL
				(continuing)
			Commander... this wormhole you 
			discovered... have your people done 
			any surveys of the dynametric fields 
			it generates?

					SISKO
			Yes... In fact Dax did the most recent 
			survey herself.

					RENHOL
			I'd like to see those reports.

					BASHIR
			You think there's some correlation 
			between Dax's condition and the 
			wormhole.

					RENHOL
			Something unusual is affecting her... 
			and at this point we can't afford to 
			rule anything out.

	She regards them for a beat, what she has to tell them isn't 
	easy for her.

					RENHOL
			If we can't get her isoboramine 
			readings back up to an acceptable 
			level within forty-eight hours... 
			I'm afraid we'll have to remove the 
			symbiont.

					SISKO
			But that'll kill Jadzia...

	She's clearly no happier about this than they are.

					RENHOL
			I'm well aware of that, Commander.  
			But Jadzia would be the first to 
			tell you that our 
			primary responsibility must be 
			to the symbiont.
				(beat)
			If there's any change in her 
			condition, I'll let you know.

	She turns away from them to tend to Dax... hold on Sisko and 
	Bashir for a beat -- they're feeling frustrated and 
	helpless...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR        41.

35   INT. THE CAVES OF MAK'ALA

	One of the Guardians is tending to the pool, and occasionally 
	takes a sidelong glance at the strangers standing nearby -- 
	Sisko and Bashir.  Sisko sees Timor ENTER the cave and start 
	toward the pool, taking no notice of them.

					SISKO
			There he is...

	Sisko and Bashir approach him, and when Timor sees them he 
	seems more ill at ease than usual.

					SISKO
			Timor... we need your help -- Dax 
			has gone into neural shock.

					TIMOR
			I'm sorry to hear that...

					SISKO
			The doctors at the Symbiosis 
			Commission don't know what's causing 
			it.

					BASHIR
			You told Jadzia her condition had 
			something to do with one of Dax's 
			previous hosts.

	Timor seems uncomfortable to hear his words quoted back to 
	him.

					TIMOR
			That was just speculation...

	Sisko is surprised by Timor's change in attitude --

					SISKO
			You told her you were certain of it.

					TIMOR
			If I gave that impression I apologize.  
			Now if that's all, gentlemen, the 
			symbionts need me.

	Timor starts to move away, clearly hoping to end the 
	discussion, but Sisko blocks his path.

					SISKO
			Jadzia needs you, too.  She's dying.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FOUR        42.

35   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			All we're asking is that you come 
			with us to the Symbiosis Commission -- 
			consult with Doctor Renhol.

	Timor seems torn... between wanting to help, and some other, 
	stronger concern...

					TIMOR
			I'm sorry... but there's nothing I 
			can do.

					BASHIR
				(angry)
			How do you know that unless you try?

	Sisko pulls Bashir back with a look.

					SISKO
				(gently)
			What's going on here, Timor?  Did 
			someone tell you not to pursue this?

	Timor tenses, tries to keep his features even.

					TIMOR
			Why would anyone do that?

					SISKO
			You tell me.

					TIMOR
				(apologetic)
			I hope your friend recovers... I 
			truly do.
				(beat)
			Now if you'll excuse me, I'm very 
			busy.

	He turns and walks away...

					BASHIR
			He's not busy... he's scared.

					SISKO
				(agreeing)
			Why would anyone want him to keep 
			quiet about this?  What are they 
			trying to hide?

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR       42A.

35   CONTINUED:	(2)

					BASHIR
			Yesterday, Timor claimed the problem 
			was with one of Dax's previous hosts.  
			Today, even mentioning that 
			possibility makes him nervous.

					SISKO
			You'd think someone doesn't want an 
			investigation of those past hosts.

					BASHIR
			I can't think of a better reason for 
			conducting such an investigation; 
			can you?

	Sisko considers for a beat.

					SISKO
				(thoughtful)
			It's possible that one of the Dax 
			hosts had something to do with this 
			composer, Belar.

					BASHIR
				(agreeing)
			Jadzia did lose consciousness when 
			she saw Belar's picture...

					SISKO
			I think it's time we found out more 
			about him...

	Off Sisko's determination...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FOUR        43.

36   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits Trill.

37   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	where Sisko and Bashir are working at a side console.  N.D's 
	as needed.

					BASHIR
			I've accessed the Trill central 
			database.
				(works the console)
			Let's see what information there is 
			on Joran Belar.

	The computer works for a beat... Joran's picture and a few 
	lines of information appear on the monitor.

					BASHIR
			Here we are...
				(off monitor)
			Born on Stardate 1024.7 -- died on 
			8615.2.

	Bashir attempts to scroll down the screen but there's no 
	further information to be found.

					SISKO
			Is that all there is?

					BASHIR
			I was expecting a lot more.  When I 
			looked through Dax's files there was 
			detailed information on each host.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR        44.

37   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			Could the file have been purged?

	Bashir considers for a beat.

					BASHIR
			If part of it's been deleted, the 
			data compression ratio might be off.

	He works the console for a moment.

					BASHIR
			Look at this... the ratio is for a 
			file five times larger.  There 
			definitely used to be more 
			information here.

	Sisko stares intently at Joran's birth and death dates.  
	After a moment --

					SISKO
			Call up Dax's records... put them 
			side by side with Joran's.

	Bashir works the console...

37A  INSERT/INTERCUT

	the screen splits in two -- Joran's file on the left, Dax's 
	on the right.  Sisko reaches for a control and Dax's records 
	start scrolling backward in time, through her previous hosts.  
	He stops when he gets to Torias.

					SISKO
			Wait a minute...
				(gesturing)
			-- look at these dates.

	Bashir looks where Sisko indicates.

					BASHIR
				(stunned)
			Belar died the same day Torias Dax 
			died...

					SISKO
				(mind working)
			The same day the Dax symbiont was 
			put into Curzon.

					BASHIR
			This has to be more than a 
			coincidence.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR        45.

37A  CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			Whoever purged the main database 
			might've missed something.
				(beat; considers)
			Check the enrollment records of all 
			the Trill music academies during 
			Belar's lifetime.

	Bashir works for a beat.  After a moment, some information 
	APPEARS on the monitor.

					BASHIR
			He's not listed... but there is 
			someone with the same last name.  
			Maybe they're related?

					SISKO
				(off monitor)
			Yolad Belar...
				(to Bashir)
			Check the central database... see if 
			he's still alive.

	Bashir works the controls.

					BASHIR
			He is.

					SISKO
			Access the Trill communications 
			grid -- try and locate him.

	Bashir sets to work.

					BASHIR
			There's a reasonable chance he and 
			Joran were related... musical ability 
			often runs in families.

	Bashir works for a moment.

					BASHIR
			I've established a com-link.

					SISKO
			Put it on the main viewer.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FOUR        46.

38   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	Sisko turns to the viewscreen, where YOLAD'S face has 
	appeared.  He's a very old unjoined Trill with faded mottling 
	and grey hair.  His manner is a little cantankerous.  He's 
	standing in front of a very simple one wall set.

					YOLAD
			Yes, can I help you?

					SISKO
			I'm Commander Benjamin Sisko of the 
			Federation Starbase Deep Space Nine...

					YOLAD
			What does a Starfleet officer want 
			with me?

					SISKO
			Are you Yolad Belar?

					YOLAD
			I am.  Why?

					SISKO
			We're trying to find information 
			about a man named Joran Belar.  Did 
			you know him?

					YOLAD
			Of course I did.  He was my brother.

	Sisko and Bashir react -- this is good news.

					SISKO
				(double-checking)
			He was a composer... ?

					YOLAD
			That's right... we graduated from 
			the same music academy.

	Sisko and Bashir react --

					SISKO
			Are you aware his record has been 
			purged from the Academy's files?

					YOLAD
				(perplexed)
			That doesn't make any sense... What's 
			all this about?

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR       46A.

38   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			That's what we're trying to find 
			out.
				(beat)
			Do you know if your brother knew a 
			joined Trill named Torias Dax?

					YOLAD
			My brother died eighty-five years 
			ago.  I have a hard time remembering 
			what happened yesterday.

					BASHIR
			Then you don't recognize the name?

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FOUR        47.

38   CONTINUED:	(2)

					YOLAD
			No... but that doesn't mean Joran 
			didn't know him.  You said he was 
			joined?  They could've met when my 
			brother went off to be an Initiate.

	Sisko reacts --

					SISKO
			Joran was a candidate for joining?

					YOLAD
				(cranky)
			That's what I just said, isn't it?

					SISKO
			Was he given a symbiont?

					YOLAD
			Not according to the Symbiosis 
			Commission... they claim he was 
			dropped from the program after the 
			second year... according to them he 
			murdered the doctor who recommended 
			dropping him... and was killed trying 
			to escape the murder scene.

					SISKO
			It sounds like you're not convinced 
			that's what really happened...

					YOLAD
			I believe he killed that doctor.  My 
			brother had a violent temper...
				(a beat)
			But about six months before that 
			happened... Joran contacted me... he 
			sounded different, somehow... more 
			confident... even colder than usual.  
			When I asked him about it he 
			laughed... he told me he was 
			different... that he'd been joined.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FOUR        48.

38   CONTINUED:	(3)

	Sisko and Bashir exchange a look.

					SISKO
			Did he tell you the name of his 
			symbiont?

					YOLAD
			Maybe he did... I was so surprised 
			he'd been chosen for joining I don't 
			remember much else...

	Sisko acknowledges with a nod.

					YOLAD
			I loved my brother, Commander...

    DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/12/94 - ACT FOUR 49-50A.       

38   CONTINUED:	(4)

					YOLAD (Cont'd)
			... in spite of all the things he 
			did, I loved him.

					SISKO
			Thank you for taking the time to 
			speak with us...

	Yolad reaches to deactivate his monitor and the viewscreen 
	returns to a starfield.  Sisko and Bashir regard each other 
	for a beat.

					SISKO
			Doctor... call up Dax's records... I 
			think I'm beginning to understand 
			what's going on here...

	Bashir works a console and Dax's file appears.

38A  INSERT/INTERCUT

	Sisko scrolls through it until we see an OKUDAGRAM showing a 
	time-line of Dax's hosts -- starting with Jadzia on the right, 
	Curzon to her left, and so on back through time.

					SISKO
				(pointing)
			According to the official records, 
			after Torias died the Dax symbiont 
			was put into Curzon... what if that's 
			not what happened... what if Dax was 
			given another host before 
			Curzon... a host who should never 
			have been given a symbiont...

	Bashir realizes what Sisko is getting at.

					BASHIR
			A host named Joran Belar...

	As they both realize the implications of what they've 
	discovered we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT FIVE        51.
                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

39   INT. DAX'S ROOM AT THE SYMBIOSIS COMMISSION

	Renhol and a Nurse are running a few final scans on Jadzia, 
	who's unconscious, a neural sleep-inducer attached to her 
	forehead (a small PAD with BLINKIES on it).  Renhol checks 
	her PADD.

					RENHOL
			Her isoboramine levels have dropped 
			to forty-four percent...
				(with regret)
			Tell Doctor Torvin to prepare the 
			new host for surgery... we'll begin 
			transferring the symbiont in fifteen 
			minutes.

	The Nurse nods, turns toward the door -- and sees Sisko and 
	Bashir standing there, having ENTERED moments before.

					SISKO
				(to Nurse)
			Tell Doctor Torvin to get himself a 
			cup of raktajino... he won't be 
			needed.

					RENHOL
			Commander Sisko, how dare you come 
			in here and --

					BASHIR
			It's over, Doctor.  We know all about 
			Joran Belar.

	Renhol keeps her features even, but she realizes our people 
	know the truth, and she's not at all happy about it.  She 
	turns to the Nurse.

					RENHOL
			Wait outside.  Tell the surgeons to 
			stand by.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT FIVE        52.

39   CONTINUED:

	The Nurse is a little taken by surprise by this order, 
	but EXITS as he's told.  Bashir immediately moves to Jadzia's 
	side and starts scanning her.

					RENHOL
			I don't have time for this, Commander.  
			The symbiont is in danger.

					SISKO
			So is Jadzia.

					RENHOL
			I can't do anything for her.

	Sisko fixes her with a look.

					SISKO
			Can't?  -- or won't.

					RENHOL
			I resent that implication.

					SISKO
			And I resent having to watch my 
			friend die just so you can protect 
			your secret.

					RENHOL
			What secret?

					SISKO
			I think you know -- and the thought 
			of it becoming public scares the 
			hell out of you.

					RENHOL
			Commander, I don't know what you're 
			talking about.

					SISKO
			I'm talking about the fact that eighty-
			six years ago the Symbiosis Commission 
			mistakenly gave the Dax symbiont to 
			Joran Belar.

					RENHOL
			I don't recall ever seeing any mention 
			of a Joran Dax in our records.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/17/94 - ACT FIVE        53.

39   CONTINUED:	(2)

					SISKO
			And we both know why, Doctor.  Because 

			the Symbiosis Commission altered the 
			records -- just like they tried to 
			erase all knowledge of Joran from 
			Dax's memory.

					BASHIR
			But now after eighty years the memory 
			block is deteriorating... Dax is 
			starting to remember the Joran host.

	Renhol tries to evade the issue.

					RENHOL
			What possible reason would anyone 
			have to create that sort of elaborate 
			cover up?

					SISKO
			We wondered about that ourselves... 
			what was it about Joran that had to 
			be hidden at all cost -- the fact 
			that he never should have been 
			selected as a host?  No, that simple 
			error in judgement wouldn't be enough, 
			would it?  It had to be something 
			more... something that would shake 
			the very foundation of your society.

	Bashir turns away from the diagnostic bed to address Renhol.

					BASHIR
			Tell me, Doctor... how many of your 
			people are suitable for joining?

					RENHOL
			I don't see how that's relevant.

					BASHIR
			I understand the percentage is very 
			low -- perhaps one in a thousand?

	Renhol sees that Bashir is going to keep asking until she 
	answers.

					RENHOL
			That's right.

     DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT FIVE 53AA.        

39   CONTINUED:	(3)

					BASHIR
			Which is why the candidates are put 
			through such rigorous testing.

					RENHOL
			That's how we make sure a symbiont 
			isn't given to an unsuitable host.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/17/94 - ACT FIVE       53A.

39   CONTINUED:	(4)

					BASHIR
			What would happen if for some reason 
			an unsuitable host was given a 
			symbiont?

					RENHOL
			That doesn't happen.

					BASHIR
			What if it did?

					RENHOL
			Rejection would set in... the host 
			and symbiont would both die.

					BASHIR
			How long before rejection sets in?

					RENHOL
			That depends on a number of factors 
			I don't have time to go into.

					BASHIR
			On average -- how long?

					RENHOL
			Three, maybe four days...

					BASHIR
			Then someone like Joran Belar -- an 
			unstable personality with violent 
			tendencies -- should have rejected a 
			symbiont within a matter of days.  
			But that didn't happen.  According 
			to our information, he was joined 
			with the Dax symbiont for six months.

					SISKO
			Six months, Doctor.  If a man like 
			Joran Belar can be joined successfully 
			for that long, how many others can 
			be joined as well?  Hundreds, 
			thousands... certainly more than the 
			Symbiosis Commission would have us 
			believe.  And that's what you've 
			been trying to cover up all along, 
			isn't it?  That's why you're willing 
			to let Jadzia die.

	Renhol holds his stare, determined to stonewall... Sisko 
	moves closer, quietly pressing...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/17/94 - ACT FIVE       53B.

39   CONTINUED:	(5)

					SISKO
			I'm not intersested in exposing your 
			secret.  All I care about is Jadzia.  
			And I promise you if she dies, I'll 
			see to it this entire planet knows 
			why.

	And that is the threat that breaks her resolve... that forces 
	her to confront the truth finally...

					RENHOL
				(self-righteous)
			Do you realize what would happen if 
			you did that?

	Renhol continues, she passionately believes what she's saying.

					RENHOL
			It would mean chaos.  There aren't 
			nearly enough symbionts for that 
			many hosts.  The potential danger to 
			the symbionts would be enormous -- 
			they would become commodities to be 
			purchased... prizes to be fought 
			over.
				(beat)
			Nearly half our population is capable 
			of being joined.  That's what we 
			learned from our unfortunate 
			experience with Joran Dax.
				(softer)
			Now do you understand why you must 
			not reveal the truth?

	Sisko holds her gaze for a long beat... then makes his 
	position clear.

					SISKO
			Do you understand my terms?

					RENHOL
			It's not that simple...

    DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/17/94 - ACT FIVE 54-54A.       

39   CONTINUED:	(6)

					RENHOL (Cont'd)
			If Jadzia is going to survive, we 
			have to stabilize synaptic functions 
			between the host and symbiont... 
			Joran's memories have to be allowed 
			to surface... they have to be re-
			integrated with Dax's other memories.  
			It could be dangerous...

					SISKO
			Jadzia is a strong woman; I say we 
			give her that chance.

					RENHOL
			And what if you're wrong... what if 
			Joran's personality overwhelms 
			Jadzia... Are you willing to risk 
			that?

					SISKO
			The point is... it's not up to me... 
			or you to decide.  It's her life... 
			and her decision.

	After a beat, Renhol reaches over and removes the neural 
	sleep-inducer.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/16/94 - ACT FIVE        55.

39   CONTINUED:	(7)

	Jadzia's eyelids flutter and Bashir moves to her side, 
	helps her sit up.

					DAX
				(groggy)
			Julian...

					BASHIR
			We have a lot to talk about, Jadzia.  
			You have a decision to make...

	Off Dax's reaction we cut to --

40   INT. THE CAVES OF MAK'ALA (OPTICAL)

	Dax and Timor stand near the pool... she's wearing a simple 
	ROBE.  Dax is a little hesitant, afraid of the unknown that 
	she must face...

					DAX
			What do I have to do... ?

					TIMOR
			When you enter the pool... you'll 
			know...

	He turns to go.

					DAX
			Wait... can't you stay with me?

					TIMOR
				(gently)
			You won't be alone... the symbionts 
			are waiting for you.
				(an encouraging smile)
			Don't be afraid... this should have 
			been done a long time ago...

	Timor turns and moves away, EXITS the cave.  Dax tries to 
	collect herself, ascends up to the pool's edge...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FIVE        56.

41   OMITTED

42   NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL)

	as Dax wades into the center of the pool... we catch a glimpse 
	of a symbiont surfacing, and an ENERGY DISCHARGE forms and 
	snakes it's way toward Dax... when it makes contact she reacts --

43   NEW ANGLE

	Dax has entered into some very alien form of communication.  
	The cave LIGHTING is now different, moodier...

	Suddenly Dax catches a glimpse of something out of the corner 
	of her eye...

44   ON BELAR (OPTICAL)

	as his head and part of his torso emerge from the pool... 
	strangely, his hair, body and robe remain dry.

					DAX
			Joran...

	He looks at her, an unsettling intensity to his features... 
	but when he speaks it's softly, almost seducing.

					BELAR
			You know who I am...

	She reaches out and extends a hand to him...

					DAX
			You're a part of me...

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/15/94 - ACT FIVE        57.

	Belar moves toward Dax... takes her hand...

	Nearby, a half-dozen ENERGY DISCHARGES form on the surface 
	and snake toward them...

	Dax closes the distance between them... takes Belar into her 
	arms.  The discharges encircle them for an instant and 
	DISSIPATE...

45   CLOSE ON DAX

	as she shuts her eyes... her face floods with emotion as 
	Belar's memories come pouring into her... the pain of his 
	anguished existence.  She holds him tight for a beat and 
	we...

									CUT TO:

46   NEW ANGLE

	where we see Dax alone in the pool with her arms crossed 
	tight across her chest, her eyes closed... her features now 
	peaceful...

47   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

48   INT. DAX'S QUARTERS

	Dax is standing near the window, looking out at the starscape, 
	lost in thought.  After a moment the door CHIMES.

					DAX
			Come in...

	The door OPENS to reveal Sisko.

					DAX
				(smiles)
			Checking up on me, Benjamin?

					SISKO
			Just thought I'd see how you were 
			doing.

        DEEP SPACE: "Equilibrium" - REV. 08/11/94 - ACT FIVE        58.

48   CONTINUED:

					DAX
			Julian stopped by fifteen minutes 
			ago and said the same thing.

	A warm smile between them.

					DAX
				(continuing)
			I'm all right... it's just going to 
			take some time for me to sort 
			everything out...

					SISKO
			I can imagine... another lifetime 
			worth of memories.

					DAX
				(quiet)
			Some of them... very painful...

					SISKO
			I suppose it would've been easier if 
			you'd never found out about Joran...

					DAX
			No... I'm glad I did... if you want 
			to know who you are, it's important 
			to know who you've been.

	Sisko acknowledges with a thoughtful nod...

					SISKO
			Good night, old man...

					DAX
			I'll see you in the morning...

	Sisko takes his leave... after a beat, Dax moves to a nearby 
	table, where we see that she's gotten herself a KEYBOARD 
	similar to Jake's.

	She reaches down and sets her fingers... then begins to play.  
	She's now quite skilled and comfortable with the instrument, 
	and we quickly recognize Joran's composition that we heard 
	in the teaser.  She reaches the end of the part we've already 
	heard... and continues the piece as if by memory -- it's 
	beautiful, tinged with sadness.  Off this moment we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         
                            THE END