STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                              
                          "Meridian" 
                          #40513-454 
                              
                           Story by 
              Hilary Bader and Evan Carlos Somers 
                              
                          Teleplay by 
                     Mark Gehred-O'Connell 
                              
                          Directed by 
                        Jonathan Frakes 

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 This script is not for publication or 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
                       September 20, 1994

          STAR TREK: DS9 - "Meridian" 09/20/94 - CAST 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                          "Meridian" 
                             CAST 

          SISKO                    SELTON
          KIRA                     TIRON
          ODO                      DERAL
          BASHIR                   YONEB
          DAX                      CHILD #1
          QUARK                    
          O'BRIEN                  

          Non-Speaking             Non-Speaking
          N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES     

    STAR TREK DEEP SPACE NINE: "Meridian" - 09/21/94 - SETS 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                          "MERIDIAN" 
                             SETS 

        INTERIORS                     EXTERIORS
        DEEP SPACE NINE                 DEEP SPACE NINE
          REPLIMAT                      
          QUARK'S                       THE DEFIANT
          PROMENADE/SECOND LEVEL        
          SECURITY OFFICE               
          HOLOSUITE                     
                                        MERIDIAN SETTLEMENT
        DEFIANT                         VILLAGE COMMONS
          BRIDGE                        MERIDIAN GARDEN
          DAX'S QUARTERS                

       STAR TREK: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - PRONUNCIATION 

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE 
                          "Meridian" 
                      PRONUNCIATION GUIDE 

          DERAL                    deh-RAL
          KANDORA                  kan-DOR-ah
          KYLATA                   KIE-lah-tuh
          MERIDIAN                 muh-RID-ee-uhn
          QUINTANA                 KEEN-tahn-nya
          R'EPAL                   ree-PALL
          RAKAL                    ruh-KALE
          RIXX                     RICKS
          SELTIN                   SELL-tin
          SERILIAN                 suh-RILL-ee-uhn
          SOLA                     SOE-lah
          TIRON                    TUH-ron
          TRIALUS                  TRY-uh-lus
          YONEB                    YOE-neb
          VAJHAQ                   VAH-jock
          VERDION                  VER-dee-on

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - TEASER              1.

                  STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE                    
                              "Meridian"                               
                            TEASER                              

	FADE IN:

1    INT. REPLIMAT

	where ODO is standing by a table waiting for KIRA to get a 
	CUP of coffee from the replicator.  SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.

	She turns away from the machine, mug in hand, and they sit.  
	She lifts the mug up to her lips and blows on the liquid to 
	cool it, then takes a small sip -- from her reaction we can 
	tell it's hot, and she blows on it again before taking another 
	sip.  Odo watches, intrigued.

					ODO
			Too hot?

					KIRA
			A little.

					ODO
			Why don't you specify a lower 
			temperature?

					KIRA
			No, no... coffee should be too hot 
			to drink right away...

	This makes no sense to him.

					ODO
			Why?

					KIRA
			It... slows down the experience... 
			gives you time to savor the taste.

	Odo nods, fascinated.

					ODO
			Ah, yes... taste.

	Kira has a sense Odo may not be comfortable with what she 
	wants to ask him, but she decides to go ahead anyway.

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - TEASER              2.

1    CONTINUED:

					KIRA
			Odo, I know you don't need to eat... 
			but have you ever tried to anyway?

	Odo takes a beat, as if this were a slightly uncomfortable 
	topic.

					ODO
			Once... not long after I was first 
			able to assume humanoid form.

	Kira waits for him to continue; when he doesn't.

					KIRA
			And?

					ODO
			Since I don't have taste buds, it 
			was very unsatisfying... not to 
			mention messy.

					KIRA
			Messy?

					ODO
			I'd rather not talk about it.

	Before Kira has time to continue, an alien male, TIRON, 
	approaches their table.  He's tall and nattily dressed, with 
	jeweled RINGS on more than one of his fingers.  While he 
	comports himself with what he probably believes is a certain 
	suaveness, he comes off a bit arrogant.

           DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - TEASER           3.

1    CONTINUED:	(2)

					TIRON
			Major Kira, how nice to see you again.  
			KIRA
				(unenthused)
			Tiron...

					TIRON
			You left Quark's last night just 
			when I was about to buy everyone 
			another round.  I was devastated 
			that you didn't say good-bye... and 
			we were having such a pleasant 
			conversation.

					KIRA
			As I recall you were doing most of 
			the talking.

	Tiron smoothly rephrases her comment.

					TIRON
			In that case you have me at a 
			disadvantage... you know all about 
			me, but I know next to nothing about 
			you.

	He smiles gamely.  Odo feels like an intruder.

					ODO
			Perhaps I should be going.

	He starts to stand, but Kira reaches and grabs his arm, 
	desperate to keep him there.

					KIRA
			No, stay.
				(all smiles)
			This is Tiron, a business associate 
			of Quark's.
				(to Tiron)
			And this is Odo, my... lover.

	Odo freezes, unsure what to do.  Kira reaches and takes his 
	hand.  Tiron is not at all happy to hear she's involved.

					TIRON
				(to Odo)
			Well... you're a very lucky man.

	Odo doesn't know what to say, so Kira intercedes.

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - TEASER              4.

1    CONTINUED:	(3)

					KIRA
			And I'm a lucky woman.

	She looks to Odo for confirmation.

					ODO
				(uncomfortable)
			Yes... we're... both very lucky.

	Tiron's tone conveys the fact that he doesn't think Odo is 
	good enough for Kira.

					TIRON
			And you make a most... interesting 
			couple.
				(to Odo)
			So, Mister Odo... what is it that 
			you do?

					ODO
			I'm chief of security here on the 
			station.

					TIRON
			A station this size, it must be a 
			very challenging job...
				(a false smile)
			I hope you're well compensated... ?

					KIRA
			Oh, that doesn't matter... all we 
			need is each other.  Isn't that right, 
			sweetheart?

	She squeezes Odo's hand.

					ODO
			Yes... sweetheart...

					KIRA
				(to Tiron, all smiles)
			You see?  Money isn't everything.

					TIRON
			No... but it can buy you everything.
				(smiles)
			Well, I'm afraid I have to be going.  
			Good-bye.

	And with a nod he takes his leave, EXITS to the Promenade.

           DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - TEASER           5.

1    CONTINUED:	(4)

					KIRA
				(sotto)
			And good riddance...
				(to Odo)
			Thank you, Odo.  I wish you'd been 
			around last night.

	Kira lets go of his hand and takes a last sip of coffee.

					KIRA
			I better get back to Ops.

	Odo acknowledges with a nod and Kira stands to go.

					KIRA
			See you later...
				(joking)
			-- dear.

	She moves away... off Odo's face as he looks down at his 
	hand, still palm up on the table... he hasn't moved it since 
	Kira let go...

2    EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it moves at impulse.

					SISKO (V.O.)
			Commander's log, Stardate 48423.2.  
			Despite the continuing threat posed 
			by the Dominion, I've convinced 
			Starfleet that we must continue our 
			exploration of the Gamma Quadrant.

3    INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (VPB)

	SISKO is in the command chair, DAX at the conn, and O'BRIEN 
	at a side console.  SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.

	BASHIR ENTERS from the corridor and approaches Sisko; he 
	seems excited about something.

					BASHIR
			I've run a preliminary analysis of 
			our sensor sweeps... the second planet 
			in the Kylata system is definitely M-
			class.

           DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - TEASER           6.

3    CONTINUED:

					DAX
			I wish we'd had time to beam down to 
			the surface for a closer look.

					O'BRIEN
				(lightly)
			I'd hate to have run into a Jem'Hadar 
			patrol while we were down there 
			picking flowers.

					SISKO
				(smiles)
			Fortunately there's been no sign of 
			Dominion activity in this sector.

					BASHIR
			Let's hope it stays that way.

	Suddenly Dax reacts to something on her console.

					DAX
			I'm picking up very unusual 
			gravimetric distortions in the Trialus 
			system.

					SISKO
			Any idea what's causing them?

					DAX
			It's hard to tell at this range.

					SISKO
			Let's take a closer look.

	Dax works her controls.

4    EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it flies by.

           DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - TEASER           7.

5    INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL, VPB)

	Sisko is now standing near Dax's console.

					O'BRIEN
			The system's coming into visual range.

					SISKO
			On screen.

	On the VIEWSCREEN we see the Trialan sun hanging in space.

					DAX
			The gravimetric distortions are 
			intensifying...
				(puzzled)
			-- but they don't seem to be coming 
			from the star itself.

					O'BRIEN
			Where else could they be coming from?  
			There aren't any planets in this 
			system.

	Suddenly the ship JOLTS... and on the VIEWSCREEN a startling 
	sight unfolds -- a PLANET SHIMMERS into existence near the 
	Trialan sun, appearing out of nowhere.

					DAX
			There are now...

	Off their stunned reactions we...

									FADE OUT.

                         END OF TEASER                          

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT ONE           8.
                            ACT ONE                             

	FADE IN:

	(NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes)

6    INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (VPB, OPTICAL) - CONTINUOUS

	Sisko, Dax, O'Brien, Bashir and SUPERNUMERARIES as before.  
	They all look at the viewscreen, still stunned by the 
	appearance of the planet.

					DAX
				(off console)
			The planet seems to have settled 
			into a stable orbit.

					BASHIR
			But where did it come from?

					SISKO
			Could the entire planet have been 
			cloaked?

					O'BRIEN
				(off console)
			If it was, there should be residual 
			ionization traces... but I'm not 
			reading any.

					DAX
				(surprised, off console)
			Commander, we're being scanned.  The 
			beam is coming from a settlement on 
			the southern hemisphere.  I'm reading 
			approximately thirty humanoid 
			inhabitants.
				(continuing to work 
				console)
			They seem to be the only humanoids 
			on the planet.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT ONE           9.

6    CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
				(off console)
			They're hailing us.

					SISKO
			Open a channel.
				(beat)
			This is Commander Benjamin Sisko of 
			the Federation Starbase Deep Space 
			Nine.

	After a beat, the VIEWSCREEN engages.  A humanoid woman of 
	about fifty APPEARS on the Viewscreen, SELTIN.  She is dressed 
	in simple clothing, and is standing in front of a simple one-
	wall set.

	She seems to study our people's faces for a beat before saying 
	anything; her face is kind, with an open countenance.

					SELTIN
			I am Seltin Rakal of Meridian.

	Sisko nods a greeting.

					SISKO
			We were studying this star system 
			when your planet appeared.

					SELTIN
				(smiles gently)
			I expect it must have come as 
			something of a surprise.

					SISKO
			You could say that.  It seemed to 
			come out of nowhere.

					SELTIN
			Not nowhere, Commander -- it came 
			from a dimension that intersects 
			with this one.

	She sees the intrigued looks on our people's faces.

					SELTIN
			I could explain it in greater detail, 
			if you're interested.  We were just 
			about to sit down for First Meal -- 
			why don't you join us?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT ONE          9A.

6    CONTINUED:	(2)

					SISKO
			We'd like that.

					SISKO
				(smiling)
			I just need to know your planet isn't 
			going to disappear in the middle of 
			dessert.

					SELTIN
				(smiles)
			Don't worry... we'll be here for 
			a while.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          10.

6    CONTINUED:	(3)

	Sisko acknowledges... off this moment...

7    EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	Where a long table is set out for a feast.  Our people sit 
	near the table's head, and the rest of the Meridians, 
	representing a wide range of ages, sit along its perimeter.  
	They're checking out our people, casting them curious looks 
	and friendly smiles.

	Sisko is seated next to Seltin, Dax next to DERAL, a male 
	Meridian of about forty.  Bashir and O'Brien sit nearby.

	From the head of the table, Seltin addresses the group, which 
	falls silent.

					SELTIN
			It's good to be together again around 
			this table after so long.  What's 
			more, we're fortunate to have visitors 
			to share First Meal with us.

	There are nods and murmurs of assent, then everyone begins 
	to eat with great relish... they eat slowly, with great 
	deliberation, as if savoring every moment.

7A   ON DAX AND DERAL

	Dax is taking a sip of something when she notices Deral 
	looking at her.  She meets his eyes.

					DERAL
			I was just admiring your...
				(he gestures to her 
				temple)
			-- markings.  Are they decorative?

					DAX
			No...
				(she gestures to his)
			-- are yours?

					DERAL
			No...

	They share a smile.

					DERAL
			If you don't mind my asking, how far 
			down do they go?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          11.

7A   CONTINUED:

					DAX
			All the way...

	Deral nods thoughtfully.  They hold each other's eyes for a 
	beat...

8    OMITTED 

9    RESUME SCENE

	Seltin sees that Sisko is taking in his surroundings, hasn't 
	touched his plate yet.

					SELTIN
				(lightly)
			You're not eating, Commander.

					SISKO
				(smiles)
			I guess my curiosity is bigger than 
			my appetite.

					SELTIN
			I hope we can satisfy both.

	She smiles and hands him a plate...

					SISKO
			You said Meridian emerged from a 
			dimension that intersects with this 
			one... ?

					SELTIN
			Yes, you see... our planet has a 
			dual existence... it shifts between 
			this dimension and another.

					DAX
			What causes these shifts?

					SELTIN
			We're not entirely sure.
				(gestures to Deral)
			Deral has been studying the 
			phenomenon.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT ONE          12.

9    CONTINUED:

					DERAL
			With only limited success, I'm afraid.  
			My theory is that the dimensional 
			shifts are caused by fluctuations in 
			Meridian's quantum matrix... 
			fluctuations that are somehow 
			triggered by our sun.

					BASHIR
			This other dimension of yours, what's 
			it like?

					SELTIN
			It's hard to explain... it is... 
			without form.  We exist as pure 
			consciousness...

	Our people take this in, fascinated.

					SISKO
			And Meridian?

					SELTIN
			It becomes non-corporeal as well, 
			but when we return to this dimension, 
			everything is just as we left it.  
			The buildings, the trees... even our 
			bodies.

	Our people are genuinely intrigued by what they're hearing.

					O'BRIEN
			Are you saying that when you return 
			here, it's as if no time has passed?

					SELTIN
			Yes... we only age when we're in 
			corporeal form.

					BASHIR
				(smiles)
			Sounds like this other dimension has 
			its advantages...

	Deral turns to Dax.

					DERAL
			Yes... but we always look forward to 
			this existence... and its many 
			pleasures.

	Dax is trying to get a scoop out a spoonful from the core of 
	a meaty looking FRUIT.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          13.

9    CONTINUED:	(2)

					DERAL
			Here, let me help you with that...

	He takes the fruit and deftly scoops away the meat.

					DERAL
			The trick is to remove the pulp and 
			eat the thin layer inside the rind.

	He holds out a spoonful for her.

					DERAL
			Here, try some...

	Dax tastes it -- and clearly finds it to her liking.

					DAX
			It's delicious...

					DERAL
				(smiles)
			Especially if you've been looking 
			forward to it for sixty years...

					DAX
			Sixty years?

					O'BRIEN
			That's a long time between meals...

	Dax notices that Deral is watching her as she tries to scoop 
	out another fruit.

					DAX
			How am I doing... ?

					DERAL
			Much better...

	They share a smile, and we get the feeling their conversation 
	will continue...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          14.

10   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	hanging in space.

11   INT. QUARK'S

	where QUARK is working behind the bar, polishing some glasses.

	Tiron, the alien who we met in the teaser, descends from the 
	staircase that leads from the upper level.  Quark seems a 
	little surprised to see him.

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - ACT ONE            15.

11   CONTINUED:

					TIRON
				(to Quark)
			A glass of Andorian ale...

	As he serves him.

					QUARK
			Done so soon?  You were barely in 
			the holosuite ten minutes...

					TIRON
			There was no reason for me to stay 
			the full hour...

	Quark thinks he's dealing with another satisfied customer.

					QUARK
			I understand, it's a very... effective 
			program.

					TIRON
			On the contrary.  I found it dull -- 
			boring, boring, boring.

					QUARK
			I'm sorry to hear that, but if you're 
			asking for a refund, forget it -- 
			the contract specifically says that 
			satisfaction is not guaranteed.
				(beat)
			But for a valued customer such as 
			yourself, I'll make an exception and 
			let you try a different program.  No 
			extra charge.

	Quark takes out a PADD, studies the screen.

					QUARK
			Let's see... something a little more 
			unique.
				(finding it)
			Ah, I have just the thing.  "A picnic 
			with the pleasure Goddess of Rixx."  
			I can even provide real food -- for 
			a small fee, of course.

					TIRON
			I don't like picnics, Quark... and 
			the food here is terrible.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - ACT ONE          16.

11   CONTINUED:	(2)

					QUARK
			All right, forget the food.  But 
			believe me, you've never had a picnic 
			like this one.

					TIRON
			What I want isn't in your catalog.

					QUARK
			Tell me what it is and I can order 
			it for you.  It may take some time, 
			but if it exists I'll get it.

					TIRON
			That's just it, Quark, the program I 
			want doesn't exist.  Not yet, anyway.

					QUARK
			A custom program?  It'll be expensive.

	Tiron slaps an entire BAR of latinum on the countertop.

					QUARK
			For that kind of money you could 
			move into a holosuite.  Now, what is 
			it you want?

	Tiron leans in for emphasis.

					TIRON
			I want Major Kira.

					QUARK
			Kira?  What are you going to do with 
			Kira in a holosuite?
				(thinking better of 
				it)
			No, don't tell me.  I don't want to 
			know.

					TIRON
			Can you do it, Quark?

					QUARK
			It's not going to be easy.  I'd have 
			to get her into a holosuite and record 
			her image.  And she hates 
			holosuites...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          17.

11   CONTINUED:	(4)

					TIRON
			Spare me the details.  Do we have a 
			deal, or do I take my business 
			elsewhere?

					QUARK
			Consider it done.
				(re: the bar)
			I'll just keep this here as a deposit.

	But Tiron takes the bar before Quark can grab it.

					TIRON
			You'll get payment on delivery, not 
			a moment sooner.

	Quark acknowledges with a nod.

					TIRON
			And don't disappoint me, Quark.  
			When I walk into that holosuite and 
			see Kira standing there, I'd better 
			believe it's really her.

					QUARK
			Leave it to me.

	Tiron turns and moves away.

					QUARK
				(to himself)
			The things I do for money...

	Off Quark's expression as he contemplates his task...

12   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	The meal has drawn to a close; Dax and Deral are walking 
	together across the square.  Sisko, Bashir and O'Brien can 
	be seen in the background still at the table, talking with 
	Seltin and the others.

13   ON DAX AND DERAL

	as they walk.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          18.

13   CONTINUED:

					DERAL
				(gesturing)
			-- just beyond that forest there's a 
			little garden with a small pond.

					DAX
			It sounds lovely.

					DERAL
			It is.

	They reach a corner of the square, Deral settles onto a bench, 
	and Dax leans against a nearby wall, looks out across the 
	compound.

					DAX
			Deral, our scans showed that there 
			are only about thirty of you on the 
			entire planet...

					DERAL
			There were never many of us... we're 
			the descendants of an expedition 
			that was stranded here millennia 
			ago.

					DAX
			And your population hasn't increased 
			since then?

					DERAL
			It did, for a time... but over the 
			last few centuries our numbers have 
			dwindled.

	She hears the gravity in his tone, realizes that something's 
	wrong.

					DERAL
			You see, we only reproduce when we're 
			in humanoid form... and our time 
			here keeps growing shorter.  In twelve 
			days, Meridian will shift back into 
			it's non-corporeal state.

	Dax reacts -- it seems so short a time.

					DAX
			And stay there for sixty years... ?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT ONE          19.

13   CONTINUED:	(2)

					DERAL
				(nods)
			Eventually we'll only be here for a 
			matter of minutes... when that happens 
			Meridian will become too unstable to 
			successfully shift back to the other 
			dimension.

					DAX
			And then what?

					DERAL
			The planet, and all its inhabitants, 
			will cease to exist... in either 
			dimension.

	Off Dax's reaction we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT ONE                          

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT TWO          20.
                            ACT TWO                             

	FADE IN:

14   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY


	As we PAN across the activity in the square, we see children 
	playing with a ball, a family with a picnic basket, heading 
	out of the city, people carrying baskets of fresh flowers, 
	etc.  A Meridian is showing O'Brien how to play a MUSICAL 
	INSTRUMENT.   Bashir is scanning someone with his tricorder.

	FIND Sisko and Seltin in mid-conversation, standing near the 
	door to a building.

					SELTIN
			We deeply appreciate your offer of 
			help, Commander... 

					SISKO
			If there is a way to stabilize the 
			dimensional shifts, we'll do 
			everything we can to find it.

					SELTIN
				(grateful)
			That's all we can ask...

	Suddenly Sisko reacts to something --

	A light, metallic ball whizzes into frame toward them -- 
	Sisko expertly snatches it from the air.  Two young Meridian 
	CHILDREN come running up after the ball.

					SISKO
			Here you go...

	He tosses the ball back to one of them, LITO. 

					LITO
			Do you want to play vajhaq with 
			us?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT TWO          21.

					SISKO
				(smiles)
			Maybe later.

	The kids run off.  The door to the building OPENS and Dax 
	and Deral emerge.

					DAX
				(to Sisko)
			Deral and I are beaming up to the 
			Defiant.  We're going to run a series 
			of helio-seismic scans on Meridian's 
			sun.

					SISKO
			I'll join you...

	As they move off to stand ready for beam out...

					SELTIN
			Good luck.

	Hold on her hopeful expression as she watches them go...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT TWO          22.

15   OMITTED

16   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

17   INT. QUARK'S

	where Quark is pacing.  SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.  Quark 
	keeps glancing out into the Promenade, as if waiting for 
	someone.  Suddenly he reacts as if he saw who he was waiting 
	for.  He ducks back inside the bar and begins busily cleaning 
	some glasses.  A beat later, Kira ENTERS.

					KIRA
			Quark, I got a message that Morn 
			wanted to see me.

					QUARK
			I'm afraid you just missed him.

	Suddenly one of the FERENGI WAITERS hurries up to Quark and 
	excitedly gestures to Kira.  He whispers something in Quark's 
	ear, causing Quark to smile brightly.

					QUARK
			Really?  So soon?

	The waiter holds up a PADD, shows Quark a readout.

					QUARK
				(to Kira)
			Stay right there.  Don't move.

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - ACT TWO            23.

17   CONTINUED:

	Before Kira can protest Quark grabs a stirrer and starts 
	banging on some glasses to get everyone's attention.

					QUARK
			Listen up everyone, I have wonderful 
			news.  It's my pleasure to announce 
			that my one millionth customer has 
			just walked through the doors -- and 
			here she is ladies and gentlemen, 
			Major Kira Nerys!

	Quark begins applauding, and the patrons enthusiastically 
	join in.

					KIRA
			Quark, I don't have time for this.

	A Bajoran CIVILIAN ENTERS the bar from the Promenade and 
	Kira gestures to him.

					KIRA
			Why don't you let him be your 
			millionth customer.

					QUARK
			But, Major, that would be dishonest.

					KIRA
			That's never stopped you before.

					QUARK
			This is a special occasion.  An event 
			like this only happens once in a 
			barkeep's lifetime.  Now let me tell 
			you about your prizes.

             DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - ACT TWO            24.

17   CONTINUED:	(2)

					KIRA
			You mean... I won something?

					QUARK
			Of course you won something, it's 
			part of the celebration.

					KIRA
			I've never won anything before...

					QUARK
			Well now you have.  Congratulations.

	He holds up a hand and snaps his fingers.  A Ferengi waiter 
	hurries over with bottle and glass on a tray, festooned with 
	appropriately festive decorations.  The patrons applaud 
	approvingly.

					KIRA
			You're really serious about this.

					QUARK
			My customers are my livelihood, Major.  
			This is a chance for me to give 
			something back to them.  Now let's 
			see what we have for you.
				(points at tray)
			A bottle of Kandora champagne... 
			vintage twenty-three sixty-eight -- 
			a very good year.

	As the waiter pops the cork and serves her, Quark hands her 
	some latinum coins.

					QUARK
			These are good for five free spins 
			at the dabo wheel...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/20/94 - ACT TWO          25.

17   CONTINUED:	(3)

	The patrons applaud again, and Kira can't help but be a 
	little swept up.  With a flourish, Quark presents the PADD 
	he showed Tiron in Act One.

					QUARK
			And last but not least, one free 
			hour in a holosuite -- with the 
			program of your choice.

					KIRA
			A visit to a holosuite... ?

					QUARK
			Offer good today only.

					KIRA
			That's perfect.

					QUARK
				(gesturing)
			Right this way.

	But Kira doesn't move --

					KIRA
			It's Ensign Quintana's birthday... 
			he'd love a free trip to a holosuite.

					QUARK
			But, Major, what about you?

					KIRA
			You know how I feel about holosuites, 
			Quark.  But thanks for the champagne.

	And with that Kira takes her glass and gambling chips, and 
	heads for the dabo wheel.  Off Quark's sigh of 
	disappointment...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT TWO          26.


18   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	orbiting Meridian.

19   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (VPB)

	where Dax, Deral and Sisko are working at a side science 
	station.  O'Brien is working at the back engineering console.  
	SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.

					DAX
			These are the Defiant's sensor 
			readings from when we first entered 
			this system.
				(indicating)
			Take a look at the spectral scan.

	Sisko and Deral study the screen.

					SISKO
			It indicates that your sun was giving 
			off modulated gamma bursts right 
			before Meridian appeared.

					DERAL
			My people have no record of that 
			phenomenon...

					SISKO
			That's not surprising, since Meridian 
			was in a non-corporeal state when it 
			occurred.

					DAX
			Gamma activity would seem to indicate 
			an anomaly in your sun's fusion 
			cycle...

					SISKO
			Let's find out for sure.

	He turns to O'Brien.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT TWO         26A.

19   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			Chief, I want to send a probe into 
			the sun's corona to scan the core.

	O'Brien turns to a panel, acknowledging.

					O'BRIEN
				(working)
			It'll take a minute to modify its 
			shield configuration.

19A  ON DAX AND DERAL

	Dax is intently studying a monitor...

					DAX
				(to herself)
			How could modulated Gamma bursts 
			cause a dimensional shift?

	After a beat, Deral looks up from his work and regards her.  
	He studies her look of concentration, clearly finding it 
	endearing.

					DERAL
			Do you always do that when you're 
			concentrating?

					DAX
				(unsure)
			Do what?

					DERAL
				(smiling)
			Bite your lower lip.

	She thinks about it for a beat, and then bites her lower lip 
	again as she concentrates.

					DAX
			I guess I do...

	They share a smile...

19B  INCLUDE SISKO AND O'BRIEN

					O'BRIEN
			The probe's ready, Commander.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT TWO          27.

19B  CONTINUED:

					SISKO
				(working console)
			Target it to these coordinates and 
			launch.

19C  EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as the probe shoots out from its hull and zooms toward the 
	SUN...

19D  INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE

	O'Brien and Sisko are monitoring the probe's status on a 
	monitor.

					O'BRIEN
			Shields are holding...

	Dax turns to Deral.

					DAX
			It's going to be a while before the 
			probe starts sending back any 
			telemetry...

	They look at each other, realizing they have time on their 
	hands... and both wondering if the other would like to spend 
	it with them.

					DERAL
			Well... I'm sure you have things you 
			need to do.

					DAX
			Not really...

					DERAL
			What a coincidence...
				(smiles)
			-- neither do I.

	Dax smiles... it's clear they both want to spend time 
	together...

20   EXT. MERIDIAN GARDEN - DAY (LOCATION)

	where Dax and Deral are strolling through a lush landscape.  
	Deral glances at Dax, who seems lost in thought.  After a 
	beat.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT TWO         27A.

20   CONTINUED:

					DERAL
				(wry)
			This isn't exactly turning out the 
			way I planned...

					DAX
			What do you mean?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT TWO          28.

20   CONTINUED:	(2)

					DERAL
			You've barely said a word since we 
			left the settlement.

					DAX
			I don't know if you noticed or not... 
			but Seltin didn't seem too happy 
			when she saw us leave together.

					DERAL
				(smiles)
			She'd probably prefer if I was walking 
			with Keshara... or Renar.
				(beat)
			Ever since my wife died... everyone's 
			been wondering when I'd find myself 
			another companion.

					DAX
			Why haven't you?

					DERAL
				(smiles)
			I guess I've just been waiting for 
			the right woman to fall out of the 
			sky...

					DAX
			That probably doesn't happen very 
			often.

					DERAL
			It only has to happen once.

	They glance at each other both knowing he's talking about 
	her.

					DERAL
				(continuing)
			Don't worry about Seltin.  After 
			all, we both know this is just a 
			harmless little walk.

					DAX
			Absolutely.

	He stops, looks at a nearby tree.

					DERAL
			With a brief stop to climb a tree.

	He moves to the base of the tree...

					DERAL
			Come on.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT TWO          29.

20   CONTINUED:	(3)

	He sees her skeptical look.

					DERAL
			Don't tell me that in eight lifetimes 
			you've never climbed a tree?


					DAX
			That's how I know I'm afraid of 
			heights...

					DERAL
			Don't worry... I won't let you fall.

	He gets a foothold, and starts to climb up the tree's lower 
	branches.  He reaches a hand down to Dax, and after a brief 
	hesitation, she takes it.  He helps guide her up to where he 
	is.  When she's securely perched, he gestures that she look 
	in one direction.

21   DAX'S POV - A SCENIC VIEW OF THE GARDENS

					DERAL (O.S.)
			This is one of my favorite views.

22   ON DAX AND DERAL

					DAX
			It's hard to believe it might all be 
			gone in two weeks...

					DERAL
			I hope not...

					DAX
			So do I...

	He hears that she means this on a deeper, personal level.  
	They look at each other... lean just a hint closer... but 
	the movement causes Dax to momentarily lose her balance... 
	she steadies herself... and they both smile at the flash of 
	fear on her face...

					DAX
			We'd better climb down...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT TWO         29A.

22   CONTINUED:

	He deftly makes his way down to the ground, and then waits 
	there to grab hold of Dax, easing her to the ground gently.  
	From a moment they stand there, his hands still around her 
	waist... and then almost reluctantly he lets her go.  He 
	leads her off again, and they walk without speaking for a 
	ways.

       DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT TWO 30-31.         

23   NEW ANGLE

	as they approach a small stream cutting through a glade.  
	It's perfectly beautiful.

					DAX
			It's as beautiful as you said.

					DERAL
			I knew you'd like it.

	He steps down to the water's edge, reaches into the stream, 
	and pulls out a cluster of ripe BERRIES.

					DERAL
			Try one...

	She pops one in her mouth, and her face tells us how delicious 
	it is.

					DAX
			It's wonderful...

					DERAL
			I knew you'd like that, too.

					DAX
			You know me pretty well for someone 
			who just met me.

					DERAL
			I'm glad you noticed...

	He settles onto the grass by the shore, and motions for Dax 
	to join him.  They take in the view for a beat... the sun on 
	their faces...

					DAX
			I can't remember the last time I did 
			this...
				(off his look)
			Stroll through a garden... climb a 
			tree... eat fresh berries by a pond...
				(beat)
			What comes next?

	He holds her gaze for a beat... then leans toward her and 
	softly kisses her... he pulls back, looks at her...

					DAX
			I think I'm starting to 
			remember...

	She leans in, kisses him... as it grows more passionate we...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT TWO                          

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT THREE         32.
                           ACT THREE                            

	FADE IN:

24   EXT. MERIDIAN SETTLEMENT (MATTE SHOT) - DAY

	from a distance.

25   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	A few days later.  As the Meridians go about their activities, 
	Dax and Deral are seated side-by-side at a table, a few PADDS 
	spread out around them.  They've been working for hours.  
	After a beat, she looks up from her PADD.

					DAX
			How are those calculations coming... ?

					DERAL
			I'm checking them now...

	A beat as he works.

					DERAL
				(frustrated)
			It's the same as before... there's 
			nothing to indicate that gamma bursts 
			are causing the quantum fluctuations.

	He tosses his PADD down.  Dax sees how frustrated he is, 
	leans closer to him, caresses his face with her hand...

					DAX
			Then something else must be triggering 
			the dimensional shifts.  Whatever it 
			is, we'll find it.

	He looks at her for a beat, then nods... takes her hand -- 
	they're in this together.  Dax's combadge SOUNDS.

					SISKO'S COM VOICE
			Sisko to Dax.

					DAX
			Go ahead, Commander.

					INTERCUT AS NEEDED:

      DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT THREE 33-34.        

26
thru   OMITTED
28

29   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (VPB)

	where Sisko and O'Brien have been working.

					SISKO
			Good news... we were able to get the 
			probe down another thousand kilometers 
			into the sun's corona.

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT THREE         35.

29   CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			We picked up some additional 
			telemetry... I'll download it to 
			you.

					DAX
			Thank you, Chief.

	Sisko smiles to himself.

					SISKO
			If all that fresh air and sunshine 
			starts getting to you, you're welcome 
			to come back up to the Defiant.

					DAX
				(smiles)
			We're managing all right.

					SISKO
			I'm sure you are.  Sisko out.

									END INTERCUT.

30   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	Dax picks up her PADD and studies it... Deral watches her 
	for a moment.  She notices he's not working.

					DAX
			Don't you want to take a look at the 
			new telemetry?

					DERAL
			I'd rather just sit here and look at 
			you.

					DAX
			How about this... we work for a few 
			more hours... and then we go back to 
			your room and count each other's 
			spots.

					DERAL
				(liking this)
			Can I go first?

					DAX
				(smiles)
			We'll see...

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/28/94 - ACT THREE         36.

30   CONTINUED:

	He picks up his PADD, gets to work.  After a moment Dax 
	sees something that strikes her as odd.

					DAX
			Take a look at the fusion reactants 
			in the core...

	Deral looks at his PADD for a moment, not seeing it yet.

					DERAL
			They're out of balance...

					DAX
				(off PADD)
			That's right, and the imbalance is 
			building toward a cascade reaction 
			on the quantum level...
				(realizing)
			-- that's what's triggering the 
			dimensional shifts.

	Deral sees it now; elated...

					DERAL
			If we can stabilize that reaction...

					DAX
			We can keep Meridian here longer...

	They give each other a quick, hard kiss of triumph.

					DAX
			I'll get this to Commander Sisko and 
			Chief O'Brien.
				(smiles)
			And then we can count each other's 
			spots...

	Off this moment...

            DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - ACT THREE           37.

31   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

32   INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL - OUTSIDE QUARK'S

					(OPTICAL)
			Through a 24th century camera 
			VIEWFINDER we see Kira and Odo talking 
			near one of the windows.  Telemetry 
			information runs up one side of frame 
			and along the bottom.  From this 
			POV, Odo is blocking most of Kira 
			from view.

					QUARK (O.S.)
				(under his breath)
			Odo... move out of the way...

33   NEW ANGLE

	where we see Quark peering through a HOLO-CAMERA, trying to 
	keep from being seen.

					QUARK
			You're ruining my shot...

34   NEW ANGLE

	CLOSE ON Odo and Kira as they talk.  She's looking over a 
	PADD.

					KIRA
			These security protocols look fine, 
			Odo.  Let me know when the Serilian 
			Ambassador arrives.

	Odo doesn't answer, he seems to be looking away.

					KIRA
			Odo... ?

					ODO
			Major... why is Quark trying to take 
			a holo-picture of you?

	Kira follows Odo's line-of-sight and sees Quark huddled behind 
	a column.

					KIRA
			Looks to me like he's pointing it at 
			both of us.

            DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - 09/20/94 - ACT THREE           38.

34   CONTINUED:

					ODO
			True, but every time I stand in front 
			of you he seems to get very upset...

35   NEW ANGLE - CAMERA VIEWFINDER POV (OPTICAL)

	as Kira storms across the crossover bridge, Odo not far 
	behind.  She's getting closer, closer --

					QUARK (O.S.)
			Uh-oh...

36   NEW ANGLE

	Quark tries to hide the camera behind his back as Kira 
	approaches.

					KIRA
			What do you think you're doing, Quark?

					QUARK
			Nothing...

	She pulls his arm from behind his back to reveal the camera.

					KIRA
			Then what's this?

					QUARK
			You mean this holo-imager?  I was 
			just recording an image of the 
			Promenade to send home to my mother...

	Odo harumphs skeptically.

					KIRA
			You're trying to take a holo-scan of 
			me and I want to know why.

					QUARK
			Of you?  Not at all, you just happened 
			to be in the frame.

	Odo harumphs again.

					QUARK
				(continuing)
			Will you stop doing that?

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - ACT THREE         39.

36   CONTINUED:

					ODO
			Not until you start telling the truth.

					QUARK
			You want the truth?  I'll tell you 
			the truth.
				(to Kira)
			I was trying to get your image for a 
			special holosuite program I'm 
			designing.

					ODO
			I can just imagine what kind of 
			program that would be.

					QUARK
			I'm sure you can, but you'd be 
			mistaken.  The fact is that I'm 
			working on a simulation of the 
			station's Operations Center.  People 
			want to know what goes on up there -- 
			they want to imagine themselves 
			fending off a Cardassian attack, or 
			facing a fleet of Jem'Hadar ships.

					ODO
			Naked, I assume.

					QUARK
				(to Odo)
			Isn't there some petty thief you can 
			harass?

					ODO
			Just you.

	Quark ignores him, turns back to Kira.

					QUARK
			What do you say, Major?  Give the 
			public what they want.  They're not 
			asking for much -- just the chance 
			to work side-by-side with you.

					KIRA
			They want to work with me, let them 
			apply to the Bajoran Military Academy.
				(pointed)
			That way I can be sure everyone in 
			Ops will be wearing their uniform.

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT THREE         40.

36   CONTINUED:	(2)

					QUARK
			Is that a no?

					KIRA
			Let me put it this way, if I ever 
			see you pointing a holo-imager at me 
			again, you'll end up eating it.

	She and Odo walk off...

					QUARK
				(to himself)
			That's definitely a no...

	Off Quark's frustration...

37   EXT. MERIDIAN GARDEN - LATE AFTERNOON (LOCATION)

	Deral is sitting alone by the stream, taking in the end of 
	the day.  After a moment, he hears Dax approach.

					DERAL
			Jadzia...

	He moves to her... takes her in his arms.

					DAX
				(softly)
			I've been looking for you...

	He kisses her... she responds, and the kiss is long and 
	deep.

					DERAL
			You found me...

					DAX
			I have... good news...

	She continues, but her tone is a little subdued.

					DAX
			It's going to work... we can equalize 
			the time between dimensional shifts...

	This is overwhelmingly good news to him -- his people will 
	survive.

					DERAL
				(interrupting)
			Jadzia... that's wonderful.

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT THREE         41.

37   CONTINUED:

	Dax nods, smiles... but isn't as ebullient as the news 
	would suggest.  He gestures with his arms outstretched, as 
	if to take in part of the clearing.

					DERAL
				(continuing, with 
				enthusiasm)
			Do you know what I'm going to do?  
			Build a house -- right here.  Nothing 
			extravagant...
				(smiles)
			-- just big enough for two...

					DAX
			Deral...

	He sees that she's hesitant to share in his enthusiasm.

					DERAL
			I know what you're thinking... this 
			man who just met me is talking about 
			building a home for us.

	He takes her in his arms.

					DERAL
			I realize you have a life back on 
			Deep Space Nine, but now you'll have 
			a place here as well... for when you 
			visit.

					DAX
			I won't be able to visit for a while.
				(off his reaction)
			It's going to take a long time to 
			stabilize the sun's cascade reaction.

					DERAL
				(beginning to 
				understand)
			How long?  Meridian is going to shift 
			in five days.

	He sees the look on her face, realizes.

					DERAL
				(stricken)
			Jadzia...

	Dax feels as badly as he does, she's just had a little longer 
	to think about it.  She manages a small smile.

					DAX
			We'll see each other again...

         DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/23/94 - ACT THREE         42.

37   CONTINUED:	(2)

					DERAL
			In sixty years...

	They move into each other's arms.

					DERAL
			I want you with me now...

	She holds him close...

					DAX

			That's what I want, too... but there's 
			nothing we can do...

	A beat.

					DERAL
				(decisive)
			Yes, there is.  I can leave 
			Meridian... go back to the Alpha 
			Quadrant with you.

	She looks at him, can't believe he'd be willing to leave his 
	home for her.

					DERAL
			If you'll have me.

	She breaks into a smile.

					DAX
			What do you think?

	They hold each other close... realizing that they can be 
	together after all... off this moment...

									FADE OUT.

                       END OF ACT THREE                         

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/29/94 - ACT FOUR         43.
                           ACT FOUR                             

	FADE IN:

38   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits Meridian.

38A  EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	Seltin and a handful of Meridians are heading for the door 
	to one of the buildings -- they're all in an upbeat mood, 
	having heard the news that Meridian can be saved.  Dax and 
	Deral approach.

					SELTIN
				(seeing them)
			Deral... we've been looking for you.
				(smiles)
			Commander Sisko told us the good 
			news.

	She and Deral share a hug of happiness...

					SELTIN
				(to Dax)
			I can't thank you enough for all 
			you've done...

					DAX
			I'm glad we were able to help.

					SELTIN
			The next time Meridian returns here, 
			we'll have thirty years for our people 
			to get to know one another better.

	Deral knows that what he has to tell Seltin might spoil her 
	mood... but he knows he has to do it.

					DERAL
				(to Seltin)
			I need to discuss something with 
			you.

					SELTIN
			Of course...
				(gesturing to the 
				door)
			I've called a meeting... now that we 
			have a future again, we need to start 
			planning for it.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/29/94 - ACT FOUR        43A.

38A  CONTINUED:

					SELTIN (Cont'd)
				(smiles)
			And you have decisions to make as 
			well.

	Seltin isn't making it any easier for Deral to tell her that 
	he's leaving.

					DERAL
			That's what I want to talk to you 
			about.

					SELTIN
				(gently teasing)
			The person you really need to talk 
			to is Keshara... she's not going to 
			wait for you forever, you know.

	Dax looks down, realizing this is going to be difficult for 
	Deral.

					DERAL
			I was going to speak to her, as well.

					SELTIN
				(pleased)
			I'm glad.

					DERAL
			Seltin...

	But Seltin is too caught up in the moment to notice his 
	troubled expression.

					SELTIN
			Think of it, Deral... people can 
			start having families again.  
			Eventually we may have to expand the 
			settlement.

	Deral manages a small smile... Meridian's future is important 
	to him, even if he's not planning to be a part of it.

					SELTIN
				(to Dax)
			As you can see, Jadzia, we have a 
			great deal of planning to do.
				(to Deral)
			I think we've kept the others waiting 
			long enough...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/29/94 - ACT FOUR        43B.

38A  CONTINUED:	(2)

	Seltin starts for the door.  Deral looks to Dax... there's 
	an awkward beat between them.

					DAX
			You'd better go inside...

					DERAL
			I'll meet you back on the ship.

	She nods, and then he follows Seltin inside.  Off Dax... 
	this hasn't gone quite the way they'd planned...

39   OMITTED

39A  INT. DEFIANT - DAX'S QUARTERS

	where Bashir and Dax are talking.  The mood is easy and 
	casual.

					BASHIR
			The person I feel sorry for is Quark.  
			You know he thinks the two of you 
			were made for each other.

	Dax smiles to herself.

					BASHIR
			He probably won't let you win at 
			tongo, anymore.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FOUR         44.

39A  CONTINUED:

					DAX
			What are you talking about?  He 
			doesn't let me win.

	Bashir shrugs a smile, as if he knows something she doesn't.  
	Before Dax can press the issue there's a CHIME at the door.

					DAX
			Come in.

	The door OPENS and Deral ENTERS.  Dax moves to him, gives 
	him a kiss.

					DERAL
			Well... it's done.  I told Seltin 
			and the others I'm leaving Meridian.

					DAX
				(sympathetic)
			What did they say?

					DERAL
			They asked me not to go... Seltin 
			feels the settlement can't afford to 
			lose anyone.

					DAX
			What did you tell her?

					DERAL
			I told her I understood her concern... 
			but that my mind was made up.

	She touches his arm, tries to reassure him.  Deral smiles, 
	tries to shake off his mood.

					DERAL
			So... what were you two talking about 
			before I interrupted?  Not me, I 
			hope?

	Bashir and Dax try to take Deral's mind off his troubles.

					BASHIR
			Actually, I was just telling Jadzia 
			she isn't as good a tongo player as 
			she thinks she is.

					DERAL
			Tongo?

      DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FOUR 45-46.         

39A  CONTINUED:	(2)

					DAX
			It's a game.  And I'm very good at 
			it.

					BASHIR
				(smiles)
			We'll find out next Tuesday night.

					DAX
			And I want you there to see for 
			yourself.
				(smiles)
			I'll clean you and Quark out.

	Dax glances over at Deral... and sees he's distracted, his 
	mood subdued.  He stands, addresses her.

					DERAL
			Jadzia... I have to go...

					DAX
			But you just got here.

					DERAL
			There are some things I need to do 
			before we leave Meridian...

					DAX
			Do you need any help?

					DERAL
			No... I just have to say good-bye 
			to a few people...

	She sees how hard this is for him.  He manages a small smile, 
	squeezes her hand goodbye.

					DERAL
			I'll see you later tonight.

	Deral nods a goodbye to Bashir and EXITS.  Off Dax's concerned 
	features as she watches him go...

40   INT. QUARK'S

	SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.  A sour looking Tiron waits 
	impatiently at the bar.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - ACT FOUR         47.

40   CONTINUED:

	Quark ENTERS, looking surprisingly jovial.

					QUARK
			Tiron, I was just thinking about 
			you.

					TIRON
			And I was thinking about you.  About 
			your reputation as a man who can get 
			anything for a price.

	Quark waves this off with false modesty.

					QUARK
			Stop, you're embarrassing me...

					TIRON
				(a threat)
			I'll embarrass you even more if you 
			don't get me my program.

					QUARK
			Not to worry.

	Quark brandishes an ISOLINEAR ROD he pulls from his pocket.

					TIRON
			Is that it?

					QUARK
			No... It's a high-level decryption 
			protocol... and I'm going to use it 
			to get the final information I need 
			for your program.
				(a beat)
			It cost me dearly.

					TIRON
			If it works, it'll be worth whatever 
			you paid.

					QUARK
			I was hoping you'd say that.  I'll 
			put it on your bill.

					TIRON
			Fine.  Just get me my program.  I 
			leave in two days.

					QUARK
			You'll have it.  And I assure you 
			it'll be worth the wait.  I'll stake 
			my reputation on it.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - ACT FOUR         48.

40   CONTINUED:	(2)

					TIRON
			You have already.

	Tiron fixes him with a look and EXITS.  Unconcerned, Quark 
	goes behind the bar and opens a panel, revealing some slots.  
	He places the rod in one of them...

					QUARK
			Now... where to begin...

	Off Quark's look of subversive concentration...

41   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

42   INT. SECURITY OFFICE

	where Odo is sitting at his desk.  After a beat, Kira ENTERS.

					KIRA
			You wanted to see me?

					ODO
			Yes, someone's been illegally 
			accessing the station's personnel 
			files... your file, to be exact.

					KIRA
			Mine?

					ODO
			They downloaded your voiceprint, 
			your retinal scan, even your 
			psychiatric profile.

	Kira can't believe it; she feels violated.

					ODO
			I managed to trace the data-path 
			back to its source.

					KIRA
			Let me guess... Quark.

					ODO
			Was there any doubt?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FOUR         49.

42   CONTINUED:

					KIRA
			With all that information he'll have 
			no problem generating a holo-image 
			of me.

					ODO
			So, shall I arrest him, or would you 
			prefer to do it yourself?

					KIRA
			No.  I have a better idea.  Could 
			you spare a few hours?  I want to 
			prepare a little surprise for Quark.

	Odo nods, happy to oblige.  Off this moment...

43   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - NIGHT

	Deral and Dax are reclined on a bench, his arms around her.  
	Deral is quiet as Dax speaks; he's looking up at the sky, 
	thinking...

					DAX
			-- you see, the key to tongo is to 
			confront when you're sure you're in 
			a better position than the other 
			players.  And if your cards match 
			the roll of the dice, you win.

	There's a beat as Dax waits for Deral's response.

					DAX
			Deral... ?

					DERAL
			Go on, I'm listening.

					DAX
			You haven't heard a word I've said, 
			have you?

					DERAL
			I'm sorry... I just have so much on 
			my mind...

	Dax knows what he's thinking about.

					DAX
				(softly)
			You don't want to leave Meridian, do 
			you?

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/27/94 - ACT FOUR         50.

43   CONTINUED:

					DERAL
			I said I would... and I will.

					DAX
			I know what you said... but what do 
			you want?

					DERAL
				(a sad smile)
			To be with you...

					DAX
			But you're worried about your people.

					DERAL
			There are so few of us, Jadzia... 
			and now that Meridian has a future 
			again, they need me.

	Dax sees that Deral is faced with an impossible decision... 
	and that there's only one solution.

					DAX
			Then you have to stay.

	He looks at her, not understanding.

					DERAL
			And lose you?  No.

					DAX
			What if you didn't have to lose me?
				(off his look)
			What if I stayed here with you?

	Deral looks at her, touched by the offer.

					DERAL
			I wish you could... but it's not 
			possible... your molecular structure 
			wouldn't survive the dimensional 
			shift.

					DAX
			We could use the transporter buffer 
			to match my quantum matrix to yours.

	Deral hears the certainty her voice.

      DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FOUR 51-52.         

43   CONTINUED:	(2)

					DAX
				(smiles)
			I discussed it with Julian after you 
			left my quarters.

	He can't believe this good news.

					DERAL
			Jadzia... are you sure you're willing 
			to do this?

					DAX
			It's the only way we can be 
			together... and I don't want to lose 
			you, either.

	They move into each other's arms... hold each other close... 
	off this moment we...

44
thru   OMITTED
45

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FOUR                         

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         53.
                           ACT FIVE                             

	FADE IN:

46   INT. DEFIANT - DAX'S QUARTERS

	where Dax is working on a PADD.  After a beat, the door 
	CHIMES.

					DAX
			Come in.

	The door OPENS revealing Sisko.

					DAX
			Benjamin...

	She gestures that he come in.  He ENTERS and the door shuts 
	behind him.

					DAX
			I was just finishing up my request 
			to Starfleet for a leave of absence...

					SISKO
			I bet this is the first time anyone's 
			ever requested a sixty-year leave...

	They share a quiet smile.  She offers him the PADD.

					DAX
			You'll see that it gets to them?

	After a beat, he accepts the PADD from her.

					SISKO
			If you're sure this is what you really 
			want.

					DAX
				(lightly)
			What I really want, Benjamin, is for 
			you to say you're happy for me.

	Sisko is thoughtful for a beat.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         54.

46   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
			I guess I just need to know that 
			you've thought this through.  If 
			Curzon told me he wanted to go off 
			with a woman he just met, I would've 
			tried to talk him out of it.

					DAX
				(smiles)
			And you would have been right; he 
			fell in love with someone new every 
			other week...
				(beat)
			But I'm not Curzon.

	Sisko has to admit to himself that she's right.

					SISKO
			No... and I can't say I've ever seen 
			Jadzia do anything without thinking 
			it through first.

	Sisko manages a small smile.

					SISKO
			I am happy for you... it's just... 
			I'm going to miss you, old man.

	She moves to him, takes his hand.

					DAX
			You've been a friend to me for two 
			lifetimes... and I can't imagine 
			what it's going to be like not having 
			you around.

	She looks at him, sadness in her eyes.

					DAX
			Leaving Deep Space Nine is the hardest 
			thing I've ever had to do... but I 
			know it's the right thing.

	After a beat, Sisko acknowledges with a small nod.

					DAX
			Besides, after eight lifetimes as a 
			humanoid, existing as pure 
			consciousness might be an interesting 
			change.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         55.

46   CONTINUED:	(2)

	They share a smile.

					SISKO
			Next time we see each other... I'll 
			probably be a great grandfather.

					DAX
				(smiles)
			Good, then I can start calling you 
			"old man."

					SISKO
			I'll look forward to it...

	They hold each other's eyes for a beat... off this moment...

47   EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL)

	as it hangs in space.

48   INT. QUARK'S - UPPER LEVEL - OUTSIDE HOLOSUITE

	where Quark has just brought Tiron up to the door.  He's 
	looking very pleased with himself.  Tiron steps toward it, 
	but Quark stops him.

					QUARK
			Now, I believe we agreed that I'd be 
			paid on delivery... ?

					TIRON
			I haven't seen the merchandise yet.

	Quark is about to object but Tiron continues.

					TIRON
			You know, if this program is as good 
			as you claim, I might just purchase 
			it from you to use at home.

					QUARK
				(awestruck)
			You... have your own holosuite... ?

					TIRON
			Just a little present I bought 
			myself...


          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/21/94 - ACT FIVE         56.

48   CONTINUED:

	And with that he EXITS to the holosuite.  Quark watches 
	the door shut behind him.

					QUARK
				(to himself)
			His very own holosuite... it's good 
			to have money...

	Quark shakes his head, then heads back down to the lower 
	level.

49   INT. HOLOSUITE

	A four-poster bed surrounded by gossamer hanging curtains.  
	Tiron stands outside the curtains, and through them he can 
	barely make out Kira's form; she's reclined seductively on 
	the bed, her head and shoulders in shadow.

	He takes in the sight he's waited so long to see... moves 
	forward... parts the curtains...

50   TIRON'S POV (OPTICAL)

	He sees Kira's naked leg first... the camera travels up her 
	thigh, and along her torso, which is wrapped in a flimsy, 
	pink nightgown.  The camera continues to travel up, past her 
	shoulders, until it comes to rest on... QUARK'S HEAD, perched 
	atop her body!

					QUARK (KIRA'S VOICE)
				(seductively)
			I've been waiting for you...

51   NEW ANGLE

	as Tiron reacts -- his eyes go wide with disgust.  He averts 
	his eyes, backs away...

									CUT TO:

52   INT. QUARK'S

	where a smug-looking Quark stands near the bar.  
	SUPERNUMERARIES as needed.  Quark's eye is caught by the 
	unexpected sight of Tiron coming down the stairs from the 
	upper level; his face a mask of controlled anger -- he thinks 
	he's been made a fool of.  He comes up to Quark, his eyes 
	filled with hate.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         57.

52   CONTINUED:

					TIRON
				(even)
			I'll ruin you for this, Quark.

					QUARK
				(perplexed)
			You mean, you didn't like the program?

					TIRON
			I don't know how, and I don't know 
			when -- but I'll ruin you.

	And with that, he turns and moves toward the door.

					QUARK
			Wait, what about my money...

	But Tiron ignores him, EXITS to the Promenade... passing Odo 
	and Kira, who have just ENTERED the bar, and are standing 
	there with satisfied smiles.

					KIRA
			Another satisfied customer, Quark?

	Quark takes one look at her face and he knows he's in 
	trouble... off this moment...

53   OMITTED

54   INT. DEFIANT - TRANSPORTER ROOM

	O'Brien is near the control panel as Dax is preparing to 
	step onto the Transporter.  Bashir is scanning her with his 
	TRICORDER, and Sisko stands nearby.

					BASHIR
			How do you feel?

					DAX
			Pretty good...
				(wry)
			-- considering I spent six hours 
			having my molecule's scrambled in 
			the transporter.

	Dax leans into Julian and kisses him on the cheek.

					BASHIR
			I... don't know what to say...

					DAX
				(lightly)
			That's a first...

	He smiles, but it's tinged with sadness.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FIVE         58.

54   CONTINUED:

					O'BRIEN
			According to Deral's calculations, 
			the dimensional shift should occur 

			within the next forty-seven minutes.

					DAX
				(to O'Brien)
			Think you'll be done overhauling the 
			station by the time I see you again?

					O'BRIEN
			I doubt it...

	They share a smile.  She squeezes Sisko's hand as she moves 
	past him and onto the transporter pad.  When she's in 
	position:

					DAX
			Tell Quark I'll be back to collect 
			the three strips of latinum he owes 
			me... with sixty years interest.

	They all smile, but it's bittersweet.  After a beat.

					SISKO
			Energize.

	O'Brien works the controls.

55   ON SISKO AND THE OTHERS

	as they watch her DEMATERIALIZE... knowing they won't see 
	her again for a very long time.

56   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	where Dax has just MATERIALIZED.  Deral sees her, and 
	approaches, a smile on his features.

					DERAL
				(wry)
			I was beginning to think you were 
			having second thoughts...

	Dax smiles, still feeling the sadness of leaving her friends.

					DAX
			No... just saying good-bye.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/26/94 - ACT FIVE         59.

56   CONTINUED:

	He senses her sadness, takes her hand.

					DERAL
			You missed Last Meal... but I saved 
			you some of these.

	He produces a small cluster of the berries they picked from 
	the stream.  Dax smiles, her spirits beginning to lift.

	Seltin approaches from another part of the square.

					SELTIN
			Jadzia... I just want you to know 
			how happy we are that you've decided 
			to join us...

	Dax acknowledges Seltin's words with a small nod.  People 
	have started to come together in the square.

					SELTIN
				(re: the activity)
			Everyone's beginning to gather... 
			it's almost time...

	She moves away... Dax turns to Deral...

					DAX
			Is there anything I have to do to 
			prepare?

					DERAL
				(wry)
			Nothing I can think of...

					DAX
			How about I just hold onto 
			you... ?

	They move into each other's arms, hold each other close...

					DAX
			After all, we're not going to be 
			together like this again for a long 
			time...
				(smiles)
			-- and I was just getting used to 
			it.

					DERAL
			We'll still be together, Jadzia... 
			in a way you can't even imagine...

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         60.

56   CONTINUED:	(2)

	She smiles full of anticipation... off this moment...

57   EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL)

	as it orbits Meridian.

58   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE

	O'Brien is at the Conn, Sisko and Bashir stand nearby.  
	They're looking at the viewscreen.

59   INCLUDE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL)

	where we see Meridian begin to shimmer.

					O'BRIEN
			There she goes...

					BASHIR
				(softly)
			Good-bye, Jadzia...

	We hold on their faces for a beat as they watch...

60   EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY

	as Dax, Deral, Seltin, Yoneb and the others stand in the 
	center of the square.  Their faces are inclined toward the 
	sky... their features peaceful... expectant...

	Suddenly, we hear a RUMBLE... it builds, and the ground begins 
	to TREMBLE.

	The Meridians react, look around as if they weren't expecting 
	this.  Dax sees the concern on their faces, hears hushed and 
	worried exchanges...

					DERAL
			Something's wrong...

	Off his growing concern...

61   INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	where Sisko and the others are watching the planet on the 
	viewscreen.  Bashir has moved to a console.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE         61.

61   CONTINUED:

					BASHIR
			Commander, I'm reading intense seismic 
			activity throughout the planet's 
			crust...

					O'BRIEN
				(off console)
			It better shift soon, or it's going 
			to tear itself apart.

	Off their realization that Meridian is in danger...

61A  EXT. VILLAGE COMMONS - DAY (OPTICAL)

	The TREMORS have intensified.  As Dax watches, everything 
	around her begins to SHIMMER and FADE until the Meridians 
	lose cohesion, turning into ghost-like misty energy figures -- 
	but Dax remains solid.  Deral extends a shimmering hand to 
	Dax...

					DERAL
			Jadzia...

	Dax tries to take hold of Deral's hand, but their hands pass 
	through each other.  Everything around Dax seems to be trapped 
	in an intermediate state between matter and energy... In his 
	last moment of cohesion, Deral looks at her... their eyes 
	say it all.  And then he slips away... Dax can't breath 
	without an atmosphere, begins to drift helplessly as the 
	ground, the environment, loses cohesion around her... gravity 
	disappears...

61B  INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

					O'BRIEN
				(off console)
			I'm picking up some kind of 
			singularity in the planet's quantum 
			matrix... it's interfering with the 
			dimensional shift...

					BASHIR
				(off console)
			It's functioning almost like an 
			anchor...

					O'BRIEN
			Commander, it's Dax -- her presence 
			there is destabilizing the matrix.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/22/94 - ACT FIVE        61A.

61B  CONTINUED:

					SISKO
				(to com)
			Sisko to Dax.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/29/94 - ACT FIVE         62.

61C  EXT. ENERGY MIST (OPTICAL)

	Dax is unable to answer... she writhes in anguish... grabbing 
	at her throat...

61D  INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE (OPTICAL)

	On the viewscreen Meridian continues to SHIMMER.

					BASHIR
			Get her out of there, Chief...

	O'Brien rushes for the door.

61E  EXT. ENERGY MIST (OPTICAL)

	Mist energy that used to be the Meridians are still trapped 
	between dimensions... They're twisting in the wind, as it 
	were... we must assume they are in distress too...

	After a moment, Dax begins to DEMATERIALIZE.  A moment later, 
	the process on the ground is able to continue and the energy 
	eclipses into space.

62
thru   OMITTED
63

64   EXT. SPACE - DEFIANT

	On its way home.

65   INT. DEFIANT - DAX'S QUARTERS

	Dax sits quietly morose as the door CHIMES... She doesn't 
	respond...

					SISKO (O.S.)
			Dax?

	After a beat, she moves to the door and hits the panel that 
	opens to reveal Sisko...

					SISKO
			I thought you'd like to know, Meridian 
			shifted normally once we beamed you 
			away.

					DAX
			Good.

          DEEP SPACE: "Meridian" - REV. 09/29/94 - ACT FIVE        62A.

65   CONTINUED:

					SISKO
				(starts)
			Jadzia, I'm sorry...

					DAX
			Don't Benjamin.  There's nothing you 
			can do.  I just need a little time...

	Sisko nods, understands, EXITS.

	After he's gone, to herself...

					DAX
			... Just sixty years or so.

	On her still expression...

									FADE OUT.

                        END OF ACT FIVE                         
                            THE END