STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Return to Grace" #40510-486 Story by Tom Benko Teleplay by Hans Beimler Directed by Jonathan West 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 1995 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 November 22, 1995 STAR TREK: DS9 "Return to Grace" - 11/22/95 - CAS STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Return to Grace" CAST SISKO DUKAT KIRA ZIYAL BASHIR DAMAR DAX K'TEMANG O'BRIEN ODO QUARK WORF Non-Speaking Non-Speaking N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES STAR TREK: DS9 - "Return to Grace" - 11/22/95 - SETS STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Return to Grace" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE OPS INFIRMARY KIRA'S QUARTERS PROMENADE/SECOND LEVEL KLINGON BIRD OF PREY BRIDGE CORRIDOR CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER BRIDGE CARGO BAY KIRA'S STATEROOM DEEP SPACE NINE -"Return to Grace"- 11/22/95 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Return to Grace" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE AMLETH AM-leth BAREIL buh-RILE BREEN BREEN DETEPA dee-TAH-pa GROUMALL gru-MAL JALANDA juh-LAN-duh K'TEMANG ka-TEH-mang KOLAISH said like "collage" KORMA KORE-mah LOVAL low-VAL MARRATT mah-ROT RAKAL rah-KAL DAMAR dah-MAR SHAKAAR sha-KAR TORA ZIYAL TOR-uh zee-ALL- VOR'CHA VOR CHUH BAT'LETH BAT'leth DILITHIUM die-LITH-ee-um MEGAJOULE MEG-uh-jool DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Return to Grace" TEASER FADE IN: 1 INT. INFIRMARY KIRA lies on the bed as BASHIR prepares a hypo. KIRA Is all this really necessary? BASHIR The Klingon invasion has all but destroyed the Cardassian health system. They're suffering outbreaks of all kinds of diseases and in epidemic proportions (smiles) Besides, you only have twelve more inoculations. KIRA Twelve? BASHIR Sorry, but if you want to go to the conference... KIRA I don't want to go. I'm no diplomat. Going to some obscure Cardassian outpost to share Bajoran intelligence about the Klingons isn't exactly the kind of thing I'm good at. I'm not sure why I even agreed to go. BASHIR You agreed because it was a personal request from the First Minister of Bajor. KIRA It was a personal request all right. Shakaar took me to my favorite restaurant in Jalanda City, poured me glass after glass of spring wine, then took me back to his home, and gave me a massage with Kolaish spice oil. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 2. 1 CONTINUED: BASHIR Nice to know he keeps in touch with his constituents. KIRA (still grousing) It wasn't fair. At that point, I would have said yes to anything. Bashir applies the hypo. Kira sits up and immediately holds her head. BASHIR What is it? KIRA (frightened) I'm seeing spots... BASHIR Big, green, swirling ones? KIRA The size of Alvinian melons. BASHIR And the room is starting to spin? KIRA (panicky) Yes. Bashir smiles. BASHIR Good. Means the vaccine's working. Everything will settle down in a moment. As Kira gets her bearings, WORF ENTERS. WORF (to Kira) May I speak with you? KIRA I'm not going anywhere. Bashir steps up to Kira with another hypo. BASHIR This one might make you a little queasy. (to Worf) If you have something to say to her, you'd better make it fast. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 3. 1 CONTINUED: (2) Worf isn't pleased about being rushed, but launches into his business. WORF Major, the Federation has some concerns about your upcoming meeting with the Cardassians. KIRA So do I. WORF There are certain technological advances we have shared with both Bajor and the Klingons that we would prefer to keep out of Cardassian hands. KIRA Such as? WORF Photon torpedo guidance systems, long-range sensors, enhanced warp core overdrives. This is a complete list. Worf hands Kira a PADD. She looks it over. Kira is rather uncomfortable with all this. KIRA I think the Cardassians are going to be a little disappointed. Kira looks queasy. WORF Undoubtedly. KIRA (nauseous) Anything else. WORF No. KIRA Good. I'll be right back. She rushes off before she tosses her lunch. BASHIR (to Worf) I'm glad I'm not going to Cardassia. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 4. 2 INT. PROMENADE Kira emerges from the infirmary yawning and stretching, shaking off the effects of the hypo she was given. She doesn't get far before -- QUARK (O.S.) Major! Kira stops as QUARK catches up to her carrying a small box. Quark hands Kira the box. QUARK This is for you, Major. For your journey. It's fresh hasperat. Not replicated. I know how you hate Cardassian food, so... Kira just stares at Quark. QUARK Well, aren't you going to thank me? KIRA What do you want, Quark? QUARK Me? Why -- nothing. Kira gives him a look -- she knows better. QUARK (off her look) Don't you believe me capable of a gesture of friendship that has no strings attached? KIRA No. After a beat, Quark smiles and shrugs. QUARK Well, you're right. Now, what I need is for you to look up an old friend of mine in the Ministry of Trade. He was stationed on Bajor during the occupation... and when he left... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 5. 2 CONTINUED: QUARK (Cont'd) ... in quite a hurry I may add... he forgot to pay his very extensive bar tab. KIRA You want me to interrupt my mission to collect an old debt for you? QUARK The way I see it, you should start by demanding twenty-two bars of latinum -- which includes the interest accumulated. He'll offer you eight, you can settle for twelve. Kira hands him back his gift box. KIRA I'd rather settle for replicated hasperat. Kira turns her back on Quark and walks away. We stay on Quark as he wistfully mutters to himself: QUARK I tried... 3 ON KIRA walking down the Promenade. DAXIS COM VOICE (O.S.) Ops to Major Kira. KIRA Go ahead. DAXIS COM VOICE (O.S.) Your Cardassian escort ship -- the Groumall -- is due to arrive in thirty minutes. Upper Pylon Three. CUT TO: 4 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS Kira is packing a few belongings when the door CHIMES. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - TEASER 6. 4 CONTINUED: KIRA Come in. The door opens to reveal GUL DUKAT. DUKAT Hello, Major. KIRA Dukat. What are you doing here? DUKAT I'm to escort you to your meeting on Korma. Kira is surprised. KIRA You're commanding the Groumall? Dukat remains his arrogant self throughout this admission. DUKAT Thanks to you. (off Kira's reaction) If you hadn't convinced me to bring my half-Bajoran daughter back to Cardassia, I'd still be the chief military advisor to the Detepa Council. KIRA They demoted you. DUKAT Exactly one week after my mother disowned me, and my wife took our children and left. KIRA You still did the right thing, Dukat. DUKAT And as a reward for following your advice, I have been relegated to ferrying freight and, occasionally, various foreign dignitaries -- such as yourself. KIRA Look, if blaming me makes you feel better, go right ahead. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 TEASER 7. 4 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT (shaking his head) I blame no one but myself. I was indiscreet... I compromised myself and have been punished accordingly. If someone under my command behaved so outrageously, I'd do the same to him. Besides, I assure you, this is only a temporary setback. Everything I've lost I'll regain. It's only a matter of time. (beat) Now... can I take your bags? And as Kira looks upon her old nemesis under this new light, we: FADE OUT. END OF TEASER DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 8. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes) 5 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) A Cardassian freighter pulls away from the station. 6 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - KIRA'S STATEROOM The Cardassian stateroom may be the best room on the ship, but it's not much -- certainly not opulent. Kira is settling in for her trip when the door CHIMES. KIRA Come in. The door opens to reveal TORA ZIYAL, Dukat's eighteen- year-old daughter by his Bajoran mistress (from "Indiscretion"). Kira is happy to see her. KIRA Ziyal! I didn't know you were on board. ZIYAL Hello, Major. KIRA Please, call me Nerys. Kira and Ziyal sit, making themselves as comfortable as possible in the tight quarters. KIRA I take it living on Cardassia didn't work out very well. ZIYAL I wasn't exactly welcomed with open arms. There were some Cardassians who could see past the Bajoran ridges on my nose... but not many. KIRA I'm sorry. I know it must have been difficult for you... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 9. 6 CONTINUED: ZIYAL This may seem odd to you--but there were times on Cardassia when I almost missed being a prisoner of the Breen. At least there, the Bajoran and Cardassian prisoners accepted me for who I was. (a beat) The only good thing about living on Cardassia was being with my father. KIRA I'm glad you two are getting along. Ziyal smiles. Talking about her father makes her genuinely happy. ZIYAL He's been wonderful. (a beat) And so brave. He never tried to hide me away. He never acted like he was ashamed of me. We'd go out to dinner, take long walks together. Once he even took me to a performance of his favorite Didactic Theater group. We sat right up in front. (a beat) He was so intimidating, no one dared to challenge my right to be there. KIRA And now that he's been exiled... ZIYAL Wherever he goes, I go. He's the only family I have. (re: the freighter) And this is the only home I need. Ziyal seems at peace, but Kira knows that her life has not been easy and the future isn't much brighter. KIRA Your father isn't the only one who's brave. A loud ALARM SOUNDS OFF. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 10. 6 CONTINUED: (2) KIRA What's that? Ziyal stands calmly, ready to leave. ZIYAL It's a battle drill. KIRA On a freighter? 7 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Dukat barks orders to his crew -- two Cardassian CREWMEN and the first officer, GLINN DAMAR. From his demeanor, you'd think Dukat was on the bridge of the Potemkin. DAMAR Target at four hundred thousand kilometers and closing. Kira and Ziyal ENTER. Kira stays in the b.g., out of the way. DUKAT Shields at maximum. Maintain scan. DAMAR Engineering and Tactical, ready. Waiting on weapons, sir. DUKAT (hard) What's taking so long? DAMAR The phaser banks are still charging. DUKAT I want those weapons on-line, now! Damar works frantically for a beat then... DAMAR Phasers ready. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 7 CONTINUED: DUKAT Lock on target. DAMAR Target set. DUKAT Fire! The whole ship SHUDDERS slightly as the phaser is FIRED. 8 ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The phaser beam hits a small meteor which EXPLODES in a small explosion. 9 RESUME SCENE as Dukat steps up to Damar. DUKAT Time? DAMAR Three forty-seven. Dukat is not pleased. DUKAT Pitiful! A crew of Ferengi scrap peddlers could do better than that. (to his first officer) Select another target. We're going to do it again -- As the crew begins doing as instructed, Dukat turns to see Kira -- and off her look, feels the need to justify his actions. DUKAT This may be a lowly freighter, major, but it's still a military vessel and it will be run in a military manner. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - ACT ONE 12. 9 CONTINUED: Kira nods. She has no argument with that, but she does have something on her mind. KIRA You know, you could speed up your phaser recharge time by routing power through an anodyne capacitor. DUKAT (sarcastic) Thank you, major... that's very helpful. And if we had an anodyne capacitor, I would use it. But we don't. Dukat realizes he's being unreasonable. Kira was only trying to help. DUKAT (smiling) Forgive me, major. I appreciate your suggestion. Any anger I might have expressed was due to my frustration over the complete inadequacy of this vessel. (a beat) I hope you'll let me make it up to you. KIRA (faintly suspicious) What did you have in mind? DUKAT I was hoping we could dine together. After all, it is Cardassian tradition for the commanding officer of a ship to entertain his guests. Kira thinks it over. She's already gone on a mission with Dukat. Dinner doesn't seem too onerous. Besides, she knows he must be lonely and feels somewhat responsible for his downfall. KIRA Far be it from me to stand in the way of tradition. 10 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Cardassian freighter moving at warp. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 13. 11 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - KIRA'S STATEROOM Later. Kira and Dukat sit at a well-set table in her small quarters. Dukat has managed to procure the finest china and the best food for their meal. Kira takes a sip of wine. KIRA This is Bajoran Spring Wine, isn't it? DUKAT (nods) My last bottle. It's one of the things I miss most about Bajor. KIRA I talked to Ziyal. She's a lovely girl. DUKAT (smiles) I'm glad you convinced me not to kill her. KIRA Despite everything that's happened? DUKAT You may find this hard to believe, but when it comes to Ziyal, I don't regret anything. KIRA It's good to hear that. Dukat nods and then looks to change the subject. DUKAT By the way, major... what's this I hear about you and Shakaar? Kira stiffens a bit; this is not a subject she wants to discuss with Dukat. KIRA I don't know what you've heard. DUKAT First it was Vedek Bareil, and now the head of the Bajoran government. You do like powerful men, don't you? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 14. 11 CONTINUED: KIRA Shakaar is an old friend. Besides, what business is it of yours? DUKAT Let's just say it's further incentive for me to regain my former position. Kira can't help but laugh. KIRA I see you haven't lost your sense of humor. DUKAT I must say, I've always admired Shakaar's success with women. The intelligence file I kept on him during the occupation was filled with reports of his conquests. In fact, if you remember correctly, you were the only female in his resistance cell that he didn't "charm"... at least until now. Kira refuses to let Dukat get to her. KIRA Is that what you kept track of during the occupation? No wonder you lost. DUKAT A little more wine, Major? But Kira is spared from answering by the ALARM SOUNDING OFF once more. KIRA Another drill? But Dukat shakes his head, he's as surprised as she is. DUKAT I didn't schedule one. Dukat is halfway out the door already as Kira follows after him. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 15. 12 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Dukat and Kira arrive on the Bridge to find Damar and his men at battle stations. DAMAR Sir, we're approaching the outpost on Korma... or what's left of it. DUKAT What are you talking about? DAMAR From what we can tell, it's been attacked. The planetary defense systems have been disabled and every building has been destroyed. KIRA How many casualties? DAMAR There are no life signs. DUKAT Then we have to assume that everyone at the outpost, including the Cardassian and Bajoran dignitaries, is dead. 13 CLOSE ON KIRA as she reacts to the news. DAMAR Sir, I'm reading a subspace distortion at bearing zero-zero- one mark one-five. DUKAT On screen. 14 THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) (STOCK) As a Klingon Bird of Prey DECLOAKS. 15 ANGLE KIRA AND DUKAT as they watch the screen. DUKAT The Klingons. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT ONE 16. 15 CONTINUED: And off their reaction, we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 17. ACT TWO FADE IN: 16 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE (OPTICAL) As before. Dukat, Kira, Damar and the Cardassian crewmen are on the Bridge; the Bird of Prey looms on the viewscreen. DAMAR They're scanning us, sir. DUKAT Full power to forward shields. KIRA At this distance -- your shields won't mean much. There's a long beat of tension before something on Damar's panel puzzles him. DAMAR Sir... they've stopped their scan. DUKAT What are they doing? Damar is completely surprised by what he reads on his screen. DAMAR Nothing, sir. They don't seem in a hurry to do anything about us. KIRA They don't think we're a threat, Dukat. DUKAT Then why were they cloaked when we arrived? KIRA They detected an incoming vessel, they didn't know what it was, so they hid... now they know. And they're unconcerned. DAMAR The Klingon ship has lowered its shields. They're moving off -- at one quarter impulse. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 18. 16 CONTINUED: Dukat reacts to what he perceives as an insult. DUKAT They'll pay a price for their arrogance. Charge phaser banks. Damar nods as Kira rushes up to Dukat. KIRA (concerned) What are you doing, Dukat? You can't go up against a bird of prey! DUKAT Must I remind you, Major, that they just murdered your people as well as mine? KIRA I know that. But getting all of us killed isn't going to change that. DUKAT (hard) We're the only Cardassian ship in the area and I'm not going to let those Klingons escape unchallenged... KIRA You attack them and all you'll be doing is giving them a little target practice. They'll blow us to pieces with their first shot! DAMAR Phaser banks charged. DUKAT Lock phasers on target. DAMAR Phasers locked... Kira can see there's no dissuading Dukat. KIRA Dukat -- at least lock onto the underside of their hull. It's their weakest spot. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 19. 16 CONTINUED: (2) Dukat can't hide his pleasure that Kira is helping. He turns to Damar and orders: DUKAT You heard the Major. DAMAR (nodding) Target set. Dukat smiles grimly. It's a desperate act of defiance which suits his mood perfectly. DUKAT Fire! Again, the Cardassian freighter SHUDDERS slightly as the phaser is discharged. 17 ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The Klingon bird of prey takes the hit. It is a pathetic little hit and it has about as much effect as scratching the tail of a rhinoceros with a blade of grass. 18 RESUME Dukat and Kira stare at the viewscreen -- not a good turn of events. DAMAR Their shields were down and we didn't penetrate their hull. DUKAT Divert all power to the forward shields. 19 ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The bird of prey continues moving toward the freighter. There's a long, long beat of tension as the bird of prey fills the screen, passing overhead. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 20. 20 RESUME Damar looks at his panel, surprised. DAMAR They've gone to warp. Dukat slumps in his seat... feeling a mixture of relief and defeat. DUKAT Well, it would seem we're not worth destroying. KIRA Lucky for us. Dukat feels dejected; it pains him to have to admit to the following: DUKAT I suppose, from their point of view, there's no honor in destroying a worthless freighter. (resigned) I have to inform Central Command. These Klingons have been operating behind our lines with impunity... somebody is going to have to stop them. (crestfallen) Somebody else... KIRA How close is the nearest Cardassian warship? DUKAT Probably in the Dopa System somewhere. KIRA That's three days away. By the time they get here, the Klingons will be long gone. DUKAT True. But what can we do about it? KIRA (simply) We can go after the Klingons. Dukat can't believe what he's hearing. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 20A. 20 CONTINUED: DUKAT A few moments ago, you were advising caution. KIRA That's because a few moments ago we were in no position to fight back. But I have no intention of letting them get away with what they did. Kira looks to Damar. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 21. 20 CONTINUED: (2) KIRA You said the scanners showed the outpost's disruptors were disabled -- not destroyed, right? DAMAR That's correct. KIRA Dukat, do you think you can repair one of those disruptors? DUKAT What would be the point? I doubt we'll be able to lure the Klingons back to the outpost... KIRA Maybe not. But there's no reason why we can't make some alterations to your ship. Dukat looks at Kira skeptically. DUKAT What kind of "alterations"? 21 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - CARGO BAY The cargo hold is packed to the rafters with large crates of all kinds (Cardassia is in dire need of anything, and that's just what Dukat has loaded the ship with). Kira and Dukat stand in the middle of this huge shipment. DUKAT Here? In the cargo hold? KIRA Why not? DUKAT Because the outpost's planetary defense weapons are System Five disruptors -- they were never designed to operate aboard a moving spacecraft, and this cargo bay wasn't designed to hold them! KIRA Dukat -- you're going to have to stop thinking like a Cardassian military officer. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 22. 21 CONTINUED: DUKAT And more like you? KIRA More like a resistance fighter. You have to make use of what you have. If you need a hammer and you don't have one, use a pipe. Dukat is not a stupid man. He sees what Kira's thinking and it makes a certain, bold sense. DUKAT And you really think we can make those weapons operational on this ship? KIRA It's worth a try. DUKAT I suppose if we disable the tractor beam, we could reroute enough power to run one of the disruptors. But those weapons are huge. What do we do with all the cargo? KIRA Get rid of it. DUKAT (aghast) All of it? KIRA I realize it's traditional for a Cardassian captain to take a percentage of the haul... but you're going to have to shed a lot of traditions if you're serious about fighting the Klingons. Dukat knows she's right, reflecting: DUKAT Some traditions are hard to break. KIRA You'll get used to it. Dukat looks over the vast shipment; he knows Kira is absolutely right. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT TWO 23. 21 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT You never cease to impress me, Major... (turning to face her) I've got a lot to learn from you. And as Dukat and Kira contemplate this new shade of their relationship, we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 24. ACT THREE FADE IN: 22 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Dukat is at his Captain's Chair; Damar and the Cardassian crew are all at their posts. Kira has replaced one of the Cardassian crewmembers at the weapons station. DAMAR Target at five hundred thousand kilometers. KIRA The System Five disruptor's on- line. DUKAT Open the cargo bay doors. DAMAR Doors opening. KIRA Telemetry lock confirmed. DUKAT Are you ready? Kira nods. DUKAT Diverting all power to your station. The lights on the Bridge dim momentarily as power is sapped for the disruptors. DAMAR Target at two hundred thousand and closing. DUKAT Fire. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 25. 22 CONTINUED: The whole ship SHUDDERS VIOLENTLY from the orbital disruptor discharge. 23 ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) We see a torpedo-like bolt BLAST the oncoming asteroid into a million pieces. (In contrast to the first time we saw them blast an asteroid with their antique phaser, this explosion is really quite something. It should be obvious this is a much more powerful weapon.) 24 RESUME Dukat is pleased with the destructive power of the weapon. DUKAT Very impressive, Major. KIRA (off her console) Don't be too impressed yet, Dukat -- we still have some problems. Firing the disruptor ruptured power relays and plasma circuits all over the ship. DAMAR (confirming) We have small plasma leaks on decks two, four and five. DUKAT (to two Cardassian crewmembers) You, I want those leaks fixed immediately. The two crewmembers EXIT the Bridge. KIRA We're going to have to do something about that recoil. Dukat is not concerned; as far as he can see, everything's going along fine. DUKAT Major, I'm confident you'll have the disruptor operating so smoothly it wouldn't wake a sleeping child. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 26. 24 CONTINUED: But Dukat's buoyant mood has a deeper reason. DUKAT Ironic isn't it? Kira senses that her conversation with Dukat is about to take an uncomfortable turn. KIRA Why is it that every time you smile, I want to leave the room? DUKAT I suppose it's because my charm is overwhelming. (a beat) But you must admit, it is rather amusing. When we destroy that bird of prey, it will no doubt go a long way toward restoring my reputation. And I'll have you to thank for it. KIRA I'm trying not to think about that. DUKAT Major, why are you so reluctant to face the obvious? We make an excellent team. KIRA We're not a team, Dukat. And we have nothing in common. The only reason I'm helping you is because those Klingons killed fifteen Bajoran diplomats... DUKAT There were Cardassians on that outpost, too. KIRA Maybe. But all you care about is redeeming yourself in the eyes of the Cardassian government. You've seen an opportunity for advancement and you're grabbing it. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 27. 24 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT You judge me too harshly, Major. Maybe I am seeking to regain my former position -- one which I earned through hard work, dedication and sacrifice. But redemption is not my sole motivation... (sincerely) I care about my people and I don't intend to allow the Klingons to get away with murdering them. (a beat) I'm a much more complicated man than you give me credit for. KIRA If that's true, then I suppose I prefer simpler men. DUKAT (ratty) Like Shakaar. It amazes me how a woman as intelligent and sophisticated as you could be attracted to such a lumbering, simplistic field hand. I mean, what could the two of you possibly talk about? KIRA That lumbering field hand is the First Minister of Bajor. And he knows more about how to talk to me than you ever will. DUKAT How can you be so sure? After all, you don't know me well enough to make a comparison. KIRA I don't want to know you well enough. And if you want to keep working with me, I suggest you stick to business. DUKAT Forgive me, major. I meant no harm. I was just making conversation. (back to work) Damar, set another target. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 28. 24 CONTINUED: (3) DUKAT (Cont'd) We'll test our new weapon again as soon as the major is ready. (to Kira) Let's see if we can work out our problems... at least the ones we're having with the disruptor. After staring at Dukat for a beat, Kira returns to her work. Dukat smiles and does likewise. 25 OMITTED 26 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - KIRA'S STATEROOM Ziyal holds a Cardassian disruptor rifle, following Kira's instructions. KIRA This is a standard issue, Cardassian phase-disruptor rifle. It has a four-point-seven megajoule power capacity... three millisecond recharge and two beam settings. ZIYAL How do you know so much about Cardassian weapons? KIRA We captured a lot of them during the occupation. This is a good weapon... solid and simple. You can drag it through the mud and it'll still fire. Kira takes out a Federation phaser rifle. KIRA Now this is an entirely different animal. It's Federation standard issue. A little less powerful, but with more options... sixteen beam settings... fully autonomous recharge... multiple target acquisition... gyrostablized... the works. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 29. 26 CONTINUED: KIRA (Cont'd) It's more complicated, so it's not as good a field weapon. Too many things can go wrong. Ziyal looks at Kira with awe. ZIYAL I can see why my father likes having you around. Kira tries to keep the conversation focused on the rifles. KIRA I think you should stick with the Cardassian rifle. It's smaller and easier to use. And if we get boarded, I don't want you to have to think too much about the weapon you're using. But Ziyal won't let it be. ZIYAL You don't like my father much, do you? A beat. Kira hesitates but decides the truth is best. KIRA No. I guess I don't. ZIYAL I understand. He did some very bad things during the occupation. KIRA Yes he did. ZIYAL It bothers him, you know. Kira is only slightly skeptical. KIRA Does it? ZIYAL Very much. He talks about it sometimes. He'd never admit it to anyone else, but he thinks the occupation was a mistake. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 30. 26 CONTINUED: (2) KIRA Somehow I don't think he'd be saying that if the Cardassians had won. ZIYAL Maybe not. But maybe losing made him a better person. KIRA Then a lot of innocent people died to pay for his education. Ziyal nods thoughtfully. ZIYAL I know. I think about that a lot. But when I look at my father, I have a hard time seeing a murderer. KIRA And when I look at him, I have a hard time seeing anything else. ZIYAL My father says the two of you have a lot in common. That you both did things during the war that you regret. That's why he cares so much about what you think of him. This is a lot for Kira to ponder. KIRA Ziyal, what your father really wants from me is forgiveness. And that's one thing I can never give him. (a beat) Now I think we should concentrate on getting you comfortable with this weapon. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 31. 26 CONTINUED: (3) Ziyal smiles agreement, then picks up the Cardassian rifle and fits it against her body. 27 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Later. Kira and Dukat study a large star map. KIRA What about the Cardassian base on the fourth moon of Rakal? DUKAT (shaking his head) It's subterranean, much too fortified to be a viable target for a bird of prey. It would take a Vor'Cha-class cruiser to do any damage. (a beat) How about the station on Amleth Prime? Kira studies the map a beat before shaking her head. KIRA The Amleth system's located inside an emission nebula. The Klingons' cloaking device would be useless. Again they both stare at the map intently. Finally, Dukat smiles, triumphantly. DUKAT I know where they'll go next. Loval. Kira looks over the map, finding it in a far corner edge of the map. KIRA That's on the other side of the sector. DUKAT A long way from the Cardassian fleet. Kira taps a few keys on a panel. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 32. 27 CONTINUED KIRA (still unconvinced) From what it says here, Loval's mainly a civilian outpost with only a small subspace relay station... the Klingons have been going after much bigger prizes. But Dukat knows something... DUKAT What it says there isn't exactly true. Loval is also a weapons research installation... which is supposed to be a closely guarded secret. But considering the targets the Klingons have hit so far, I think we may have underestimated their intelligence network. Kira looks over the map and the screen one more time before deciding: KIRA Sounds like a choice target. DUKAT Loval it is, then. The question is, even if we're right, can we stop them? KIRA All we need is one good shot with the new disruptor. DUKAT Which won't be easy to get considering they'll be cloaked. Kira starts formulating a plan... KIRA We don't have to find them. We just have to make them come to us. Dukat nods. He's catching on fast. DUKAT Lure them in. Make them think we're a helpless freighter. Kira has another thought. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 33. 27 CONTINUED: (2) KIRA We have to make them think we have valuable cargo aboard. DUKAT How does refined dilithium crystal sound? I can get Damar to modify the subspace transceiver array to emit a false dilithium signal. If I know the Klingons, they'll lock their tractor beam on us and try to take our cargo. KIRA And we'll have a little surprise waiting for them. (a beat) Not bad. DUKAT (pleased) I told you we made a good team. You are as insightful a woman as you are intriguing... KIRA I thought we agreed to keep this strictly business. DUKAT Major, is it my imagination, or do you have a hard time accepting compliments? KIRA A hard time accepting them from you. Dukat shakes his head, bemused. DUKAT I'll try to restrain my enthusiasm, but I can't promise you anything. Kira decides to let that slide. KIRA We'd better get to Loval before the Klingons do. For the moment, Dukat agrees to get back on "business." He calls out to Damar. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 34. 27 CONTINUED: (3) DUKAT Damar. Set a course for Loval. Maximum warp. Then Dukat settles into his chair, very pleased with the universe. Kira returns to her station, giving Dukat her back. 28 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Cardassian freighter traveling at maximum warp. 29 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Later. As before. DAMAR The Loval System is within scanning range, sir. DUKAT Any sign of them? DAMAR No, sir. KIRA If they're not there now, they'll be there soon enough. DUKAT (to Damar) Begin modifications to the subspace transceiver array. 30 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Cardassian freighter assuming a standard orbit around Loval. 31 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Later. Kira, Damar and the crew are all silently at their posts. Dukat smiles. DUKAT We soldiers spend a lot of time waiting, don't we, major? (a beat) It's not easy to keep your mind from drifting. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 35. 31 CONTINUED: KIRA (pointed) I don't usually have trouble concentrating -- unless I'm being distracted. Dukat pays her no heed. He's in a sharing mood. DUKAT Lately, when my mind wanders, I find myself thinking more and more about Gul Marratt. Do you know him? Kira shakes her head. DUKAT Very dashing. One of Cardassia's rising stars... a graduate of the Cardassian Military Academy, a smooth-talking junior member of the Detepa Council, and like your friend Shakaar, quite a lady's man... especially with other officer's wives. KIRA Including yours? Dukat betrays no emotion. DUKAT A year ago, he wouldn't have dared... but now... (shrugs) I think the first thing I'll do when I'm returned to power is to demote him... and assign him to the Cardassian Embassy on Breen. I hear it's bitter cold on Breen. And we Cardassians do despise the cold... Kira feels a mixture of sorrow and pity for Dukat, but before she can say anything, Damar announces: DAMAR Sir, I've got something. DUKAT On screen. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT THREE 36. 32 CLOSE ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) As a bird of prey DECLOAKS directly in front of them. 33 ON DUKAT grinning at Kira. DUKAT Well, Major... it seems fate has smiled on our little plan. And on his expression of triumph, we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 37. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 34 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Klingon Bird of Prey hovers menacingly above the Cardassian freighter. 35 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE As before. You could hear a pin drop as Kira, Damar and Dukat look at the viewscreen awaiting the Klingons' next move. DAMAR They're scanning us... DUKAT Good. Let's hope they take the bait... DAMAR Sir -- they've locked their disruptors on us. DUKAT But they haven't fired. Which could mean they're "interested" in our cargo... A long beat of silence, then: DAMAR They're hailing us, sir. Demanding our surrender. Kira and Dukat exchange a look... this is good. KIRA They're interested... now, can you make them bite? 36 ON DUKAT as he calmly sits in the Captain's Chair; Dukat smiles, this development he's more than comfortable handling. DUKAT On screen. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 38. 37 ON THE VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) as K'TEMANG, the Klingon Captain of the bird of prey, comes on screen. K'TEMANG Identify yourself. DUKAT I'm Gul Dukat, Commander of the Cardassian freighter Groumall. Who are you? K'TEMANG (ignoring his question) What's your cargo and destination? DUKAT We're carrying replicator and transporter parts to the Dopa System. K'TEMANG You're lying. DUKAT I assure you, Captain -- K'TEMANG (cutting him off) I'm confiscating your ship and its cargo. DUKAT (defiant) On whose authority? The Klingon Captain LAUGHS with contempt. K'TEMANG On the authority of the Klingon Empire and the disruptors I have pointed at your vessel. The transmission ends. 38 RESUME as Dukat steps off his Captain's Chair, taking a step toward Kira and the viewscreen. DUKAT Convincing, wasn't I? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 39. 38 CONTINUED: KIRA I'll let you know. 39 OMITTED 40 WIDER (OPTICAL) to include Damar. DAMAR (pleased) They've locked their tractor beam on us. Dukat smiles -- but keeps everyone focused; he knows this is no time to get overconfident. DUKAT Wait for my signal. The freighter JOLTS as the tractor beam takes hold. DUKAT Wait... on the viewscreen, the bird of prey has come so close that its underbelly fills the screen. DUKAT Open the cargo bay doors -- KIRA (anticipating) Doors open. DUKAT Fire! 41 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The disruptor BLAST hits the bird of prey at close range. 42 INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE Damar and the crew react with jubilation. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 40. 42 CONTINUED: DAMAR We breached their hull! Their impulse engines are down. They're adrift. DUKAT Excellent. But the joy is short-lived; the bird of prey is only adrift, not destroyed. Damar glances at his panel. DAMAR They're re-locking their disruptors on us. DUKAT All power to forward shields. The Cardassian freighter ROCKS VIOLENTLY as the Klingon phaser scores a direct hit. (SMOKE, SPARKS, DEBRIS... the works!) DUKAT Damage? DAMAR Both shields are down to twenty percent -- we can't sustain another hit. Dukat has to think on his feet; he turns to Kira. DUKAT I think it's time to improvise. 43 OMITTED 44 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (OPTICAL) K'TEMANG barks orders at his crew of KLINGONS. K'TEMANG I want all power to the disruptors -- now! (then to one of the crewmen) You -- get down to the Weapons Room and find out what's taking them so long. The Klingon EXITS the bridge to do as instructed. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 40A. 44A INT. KLINGON CORRIDOR (OPTICAL) The Klingon moves through the corridor where THREE more KLINGONS work to repair a ruptured plasma line. Behind them, Kira and Dukat MATERIALIZE. Instantaneously, Kira and Dukat each FIRE one phaser blast, hitting their respective targets. The two remaining Klingons -- drawing their daggers -- pounce on the intruders. A ferocious hand-to-hand combat ensues. Kira is in her element but she has to use every one of her fighting skills to fend off the more powerful Klingon. Dukat and the other Klingon also battle hand-to-hand, but their fight is more evenly matched -- Cardassian strength vs. Klingon strength. As the fight progresses, it becomes clear that the Klingon may be a tad stronger, but Dukat is a tad wilier. Eventually, Dukat defeats the Klingon, killing him just moments before Kira kills her opponent. Out of breath, Dukat checks with Kira -- DUKAT Major... ? KIRA Just give me a minute. Using her tricorder, Kira finds an access panel and removes it. Working quickly, she begins tapping some keys on the panel and on her tricorder. Dukat moves to guard the door as Kira continues working. DUKAT Hurry, major. KIRA Be quiet. I need to concentrate. As Kira continues working... 44B INT. KLINGON BRIDGE (OPTICAL) K'TEMANG steps up to the viewscreen, where the Cardassian freighter hangs in space, vulnerably defenseless. K'TEMANG Lock target and fire! But just as he says the word "fire", he DEMATERIALIZES along with all his other men on the bridge. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 40B. 44C NEW ANGLE to see Kira and Dukat ENTER the empty bridge. Dukat looks at Kira triumphantly. DUKAT You're a magician, Major. KIRA Nothing magical about it... (a beat) ... when you know Klingon transporter codes. 44D INT. CARDASSIAN FREIGHTER - BRIDGE A very disoriented and surprised Klingon Captain and his men MATERIALIZE aboard the empty freighter. 44E INT. KLINGON BRIDGE Kira has taken a position at one of the terminals. She taps a few keys, then announces: KIRA It worked. All our people are here and all thirty-six Klingons are on the freighter. (allowing herself a smile) I can just imagine the Klingon Captain explaining this to his superiors... Dukat has stepped up to the weapons terminal and is working the panel. DUKAT He won't get the opportunity. And just as Kira realizes what Dukat means, Dukat taps the last key. 44F EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The Bird of Prey fires its disruptors and the Cardassian freighter EXPLODES into tiny particles. 44G RESUME as the red glow of the explosion lights up Dukat's face, Kira watches silently. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/595 - ACT FOUR 41. 44G CONTINUED: KIRA Was that really necessary? DUKAT You're the terrorist, Major. You tell me. The moment hangs in the air... then Damar, disruptor rifle in hand, Ziyal and two other Cardassian crewmen ENTER. A proud Damar reports: DAMAR Weapons secured, sir. DUKAT Excellent. ZIYAL So is Engineering. Dukat could not be prouder. Nor could Ziyal -- of her father. DUKAT Well done. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 42. 45 ON KIRA turning to work on one of the consoles as Dukat walks around the conquered ship -- his mind racing ahead of him. DUKAT Quite a prize we've taken, Major. The first Klingon bird of prey ever captured by Cardassia... Kira is scrolling through one of the Klingon monitors. KIRA I think I've found an even bigger prize. It looks like we have the target priorities of all the Klingon raiders in Cardassian space. That is pure gold, and Dukat is on cloud nine. DUKAT I'll contact the Central Command to inform them of our success. (smiling) I think I'll "request" that my Legate title be reinstated, effective immediately. In the meantime, Damar has also gotten on one of the terminals. Dukat asks him: DUKAT Get me the Central Command on a -- (stopping himself) On second thought... this is too important for them. I want to speak to the Chairman of the Detepa Council... on a secure channel. DAMAR I can't do that from here, sir. The communication terminals on the bridge are down -- but I can re- route it to the Captain's quarters. Dukat heads for the Captain's quarters. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 43. 45 CONTINUED: DUKAT Do so. Then complete the repairs. I want this ship fully operational as soon as possible. 46 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) The bird of prey adrift over Loval. 47 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE Later. Kira and Damar are alone on the Bridge, completing some repairs. Kira taps a console. KIRA Ziyal -- can you see the phase compensator in the backup plasma manifold? ZIYAL'S COM VOICE (O.S.) What's it look like? DAMAR (to Kira) Maybe I should go help her. Klingon technology is... KIRA (nodding) Odd. Good idea. Damar EXITS. KIRA (tapping the console again) Hang on, Ziyal. Help is on its way. 48 NEW ANGLE as Dukat emerges from the Captain's quarters. He looks extremely long-faced, dejected. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 43. 48 CONTINUED: Kira, concentrating on her work, notices only that Dukat has arrived, not his mood. KIRA You know something, Dukat... these computer logs are even more valuable than I thought. They contain status reports from Klingon ships and outposts throughout Cardassian space. With information like this, Cardassia could launch a major counterattack against the Klingons. DUKAT They could, but they won't. Kira turns to look at Dukat for the first time. KIRA Why not? DUKAT Because the Detepa Council has something else in mind... they've ordered me not to engage the Klingons in "any further conflict." The Council is looking for a diplomatic solution. (a beat, bitter) They've ordered me back to Cardassia Prime to resume my post as military advisor to the council. Kira is puzzled; Dukat's dejection seems inappropriately severe. KIRA I thought that's what you wanted. DUKAT (still not happy) It was. But what's the point of being the military advisor to a government that won't fight. KIRA You could change their minds. (beat) Try to convince your fellow Cardassians to go on the offensive. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FOUR 45. 48 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT No... I'd be wasting my breath... no one would listen. No one wants to fight. Dukat looks at Kira with piercing eyes. DUKAT There was a time when the mere mention of my race inspired fear. But now we've become a beaten people afraid to fight back because we don't want to lose what little we have left... KIRA (surprised) That doesn't sound like the Cardassians I know. 49 CLOSE ON DUKAT as he firms up the decision he's been making. DUKAT What Cardassians? Don't you see, major? They're all too paralyzed, defeated, broken... (directly at Kira) I am the only Cardassian left. (a beat) And if no one else will stand against the Klingons, I will. And on his look of determination, we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 46. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 50 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE As before. Kira faces a resolute Dukat. KIRA Look, Dukat, I know you're angry, but maybe you ought to think about what you're proposing. You can't go to war against the whole Klingon Empire with one bird of prey. DUKAT Why not? Your people fought us for fifty years with less sophisticated weaponry than this. And you beat us. KIRA It's not the same. The Bajoran people were united. We were all working for the same goal. You and your crew would be alone out there... DUKAT Maybe at first. But perhaps our actions will inspire others to join the struggle. Kira shakes her head. She's not buying it. KIRA It's not that easy, Dukat. DUKAT I know. (a beat) Which is why I need you. KIRA (surprised) Me? DUKAT Who else? You know how to organize a resistance cell. You're an expert in terrorist tactics. You have close ties with Bajoran and Federation officials. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 47. 50 CONTINUED: DUKAT (Cont'd) (a beat) Besides, it would give you a chance to do what you were meant to do. KIRA No thanks. I already have a job. DUKAT (scornful) You mean on that space station? We both know your talents are wasted there. Coordinating docking assignments and leading training exercises. On Deep Space Nine, you're nothing but a bureaucrat, an administrator. (a beat) but if you come with me, you can be a soldier again. And for a moment, just one slight moment, the possibility crosses Kira's mind. Dukat sees this and thinks he's winning her over. DUKAT Think about it, major. The chance to fight against a superior foe in a righteous cause... to protect a defeated and broken people from a cruel aggressor. (a beat) You know as well as I do that if Cardassia falls, Bajor is next. Help me stop the Klingons before you become their next target. KIRA (surprised) You're really serious about this. DUKAT Absolutely. Look, Major, I'm not asking you to like me -- or to be my friend. I'm asking you to join me. Fight at my side. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 48. 50 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT (Cont'd) (a beat) You know what I'm doing is right. And what's more... it's what you want to do as well. Dukat can see her vacillating within her defiance, but he also knows that if he presses her too far too soon, he won't get the answer he wants. DUKAT I know that our past makes it hard for you to accept me as an ally. (a beat) I know every fiber of your being is telling you to say no, no, no... but somewhere among all those "no"s is a yes. You need to listen to that yes. Not for my sake, not for Cardassia's, not even for Bajor's... but for your sake. Kira doesn't like admitting -- even to herself -- that Dukat's offer is the least bit enticing. Damar ENTERS. DAMAR We've completed the repairs on the navigational systems and the cloaking device. DUKAT Good. We'll leave as soon as you have them on-line. Dukat returns his attention to Kira. DUKAT Think about it, Major... think about the possibilities. 51 EXT. SPACE (OPTICAL) (STOCK) moving at impulse, the Bird of Prey cloaks. 52 INT. KLINGON CORRIDOR Later. Kira is headed for the Bridge when a voice calls: ZIYAL (O.S.) Nerys! DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 49. 52 CONTINUED: Kira turns to find Ziyal running up to her holding a Klingon blade. ZIYAL I want to show you something. Ziyal hands Kira the blade. ZIYAL Go ahead. Attack me. Kira is baffled; not sure exactly what Ziyal wants. KIRA What are you talking about? ZIYAL It's okay. I know what I'm doing. Damar showed me a good trick. Try to stab me with the knife -- Kira halfheartedly does as requested. Ziyal parries the thrust with her forearm, spins and grabs Kira's arm in an attempt to flip her over her shoulder. But Kira simply twists her arm away and gently kicks Ziyal's feet from under her. Ziyal ends up on the ground with Kira holding the blade at her neck. ZIYAL I guess it wasn't such a good trick. KIRA The best way to survive a knife fight is to never get into one. ZIYAL If I'm going to help my father, I have to be prepared for anything. (enthusiastic) Show me what you did again. Kira just stands there. ZIYAL Please. I know I have a lot to learn -- I've been practicing with the disruptor rifle... but I need to know how to defend myself in hand-to-hand combat. (almost embarrassed) I was lucky not to have to fight when we boarded this ship. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 50. 52 CONTINUED: (2) ZIYAL (Cont'd) Next time I may not be so lucky. A beat. Then Kira nods in agreement. KIRA Chances are you won't be. But fighting the Klingons will take more than being able to fire a weapon or use a knife. You have to learn how to be ruthless... how to hate the Klingons even more than you hated the Breen. If that's what it takes, Ziyal's game. ZIYAL Whatever it takes, I'll do it. But I'm going to need your help. A beat as Kira makes up her mind. KIRA You're right. You do need my help. Ziyal smiles, glad she's gotten through to Kira. 53 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE Kira is facing Dukat. Kira has just given Dukat her decision; Dukat is not pleased by it, but he is resigned to it. DUKAT I'm disappointed, major. KIRA But not surprised. DUKAT Tell me, were you even tempted? Kira thinks about it for a moment. KIRA Not really. DUKAT And I thought I was so eloquent. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 51. 53 CONTINUED: KIRA (smiles) You had your moments. But the fact of the matter is, I've already been where you're going. I've already lived the life you're choosing. Fighting hit and run, always outgunned, living on nothing but adrenalin and hate. It's not much of a life, and it eats away at you so that every day a little part of you dies. DUKAT (smiles) Very inspiring, Major. But I have no choice in this. No more than you did when you where fighting against us. Kira studies Dukat. He's a committed man. KIRA No, I don't suppose you do. A beat as a moment passes between them. DUKAT (with regret) Then all that's left is for you to wish me luck. KIRA That's not quite all. There's still Ziyal. DUKAT What about her? KIRA The life you're choosing isn't for her. She deserves better. DUKAT She deserves to be with her father. You taught me that. (a beat) I love her. KIRA (simply) I know you do. That's why you have to let her go. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 52. 53 CONTINUED: (2) DUKAT (angry) Go where? She's not welcome on Cardassia or Bajor. This is the only place she belongs. KIRA That's not true. She can come to Deep Space Nine with me. Dukat is completely surprised by Kira's offer. DUKAT Are you serious? KIRA She's a remarkable young woman. I'll make sure she's okay. Dukat thinks it over. DUKAT Why? Why do you care so much? KIRA Because she reminds me of myself. And I don't want her to go through what I did. (a beat) And neither do you. Dukat weighs Kira's words. The thought of losing his daughter is a painful one. But he knows keeping her would be worse. 54 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 55 INT. OPS O'BRIEN and DAX are at their stations. SISKO has just exited his office having been called to Ops. DAX Captain, a Klingon bird of prey just decloaked off the station. Sisko looks up at the viewscreen. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 53. 56 VIEWSCREEN (OPTICAL) The Bird of Prey looms ominously nearby. 57 RESUME O'BRIEN They're hailing us. SISKO Let's find out what they want. O'Brien works his panel, then reacts with surprise. O'BRIEN Sir, it's Gul Dukat. SISKO (also surprised) On a Klingon ship? O'BRIEN He's asking permission to dock. And on their reactions to this strange turn of events... 58 INT. KLINGON BRIDGE Dukat and Ziyal are embracing as Kira stands nearby. DUKAT When this is over, I'll come back for you. I promise you that. ZIYAL I know you will. Dukat turns to face Kira. DUKAT Major... KIRA I'll take good care of her. DUKAT (nodding) I know. (a beat; Dukat regains his aplomb) Well, it would appear that whether you like it or not, our lives have become deeply intertwined. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 54. 58 CONTINUED: Kira can't help but smiling. KIRA That really pleases you, doesn't it? DUKAT Pleases me? Why major, it gives me reason to live. And for this one time, Kira allows Dukat to have the last word. 59 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL Kira and Ziyal stand looking out one of the windows. 60 INT/EXT. WINDOW - KIRA'S POV - (OPTICAL) Dukat's bird of prey banks away and cloaks. 61 RESUME CLOSE on Ziyal, her eyes still focused on where the bird of prey disappeared. KIRA Come... I'll show you to your quarters. They turn to leave only to be met by ODO, patrolling the Promenade. ODO Welcome back, Major. KIRA Odo, this is Tora Ziyal. ODO Gul Dukat's daughter? ZIYAL (proudly) That's right. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Return to Grace" - 12/07/95 - ACT FIVE 55. 61 CONTINUED: KIRA (nodding) She's going to be living here on the station with us... for a while. Odo reacts -- that is not what he expected. KIRA I'll tell you all about it. Kira and Ziyal begin to move off... ODO I certainly hope so. And as Odo watches Kira and Ziyal walk away, we: FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END