STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Looking For par'Mach in All the Wrong Places" #40510-501 Written by Ronald D. Moore Directed by Andrew Robinson 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 1996 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 July 25, 1996 STAR TREK: DS9 - "Looking for... " - 07/25/96 - CAST STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Looking for... " CAST SISKO GRILKA KIRA THOPOK ODO TUMEK BASHIR DAX QUARK O'BRIEN WORF KEIKO Non-Speaking Non-Speaking N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES STAR TREK: DS9 - "Looking for... " - 07/25/96 - SETS STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Looking for... " SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE HABITAT RING CORRIDOR HOLOSUITE/ DEFIANT EMPTY HALL OF WARRIORS INFIRMARY O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS KIRA'S ROOM LIVING AREA OPS PROMENADE QUARK'S REPLIMAT SECURITY OFFICE SURGERY RUNABOUT DEFIANT BRIDGE MESS HALL WORF'S QUARTERS DEEP SPACE NINE -"Looking for... " - 07/25/96 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE BARAK-KADAN bah-ROCK-ka-DON BASAI bah-SIGH FORSHAK FOR-shak GRILKA GRILL-ka HOLANA ho-LA-nah KAHLESS KAY-less KELDAR. KEL-dar LINGTA LING-tah LUKARA LOO-kar-uh MAKARA MAH-kar-uh MAPARIAN mah-PAIR-ee-an MEKRO'VAK MEH-kro-vak MOGH Mowgh MUSILLA MOO-sill-ah PARIMACH PAR-mock PAZAFER PAH-zuh-fer QAM-CHEE KAHM-chee SEPAR suh-PAR TAKEO tuh-KAY-oh TARG TARG THOPOK THO-pock TUMEK TOO-mek DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking for... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Looking for par'Mach in All the Wrong Places" TEASER FADE IN: 1 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR BASHIR is walking down the Corridor when he passes the door to O'Brien's quarters. We can hear barely audible SHOUTS coming from inside -- a man's voice and a woman's voice -- but too faintly to make out anything they're saying. Bashir stops, tries to listen, but can't. He glances quickly around. No one. He moves closer to the door and cocks his head closer to the door. At that moment, QUARK comes down the hall in the b.g. and stops as he sees Bashir. QUARK Doctor? Bashir starts a bit, then puts a hand to his neck as if massaging it. BASHIR (covering) Quark. Hello. QUARK Let me guess: eavesdropping on the battling O'Briens? BASHIR Don't be ridiculous. Quark cocks his head and listens to the shouting. QUARK (listening) Such language. I hope Molly isn't around. BASHIR You can hear what they're saying? QUARK (re: his ears) How could I not? BASHIR What are they saying? Quark steers Bashir a few steps away from the door and down the hall. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER 2. 1 CONTINUED: QUARK Let's use a little discretion, shall we? (he cocks his head) He did something... she's outraged... he thinks she's overreacting... she thinks he's trying to run her life... (beat) Pretty boring actually... but to hear them you'd think it was a matter of life and death. KEIKO'S VOICE Hi, Julian. They look up to see KEIKO heading toward them on the way to the O'Briens' quarters. BASHIR (surprised) Oh. Hello. KEIKO Quark. QUARK (not surprised) Mrs. O'Brien. Keiko passes them and EXITS to her quarters. BASHIR I thought you said the O'Briens were arguing in there. QUARK Not Miles and Keiko -- the other O'Briens -- Miles and Kira. BASHIR What do they have to argue about? QUARK Miles hid Kira's springball racket because she's carrying his baby, and he doesn't want her taking risks, and she doesn't want him controlling her life. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER 3. 1 CONTINUED: (2) Quark hears something and reacts with an annoyed expression. BASHIR What? QUARK (disgusted) Keiko made them stop. Now they're in the "let's talk this out and share our feelings" part of the fight. Show's over. Bashir tries to cover his own disappointment. BASHIR Oh. Well. Good. QUARK If I happen to walk by here later... and I happen to hear anything... BASHIR Call me. They head off in separate directions. CUT TO: 2 INT. REPLIMAT WORF and DAX are having drinks at one of the tables. Mid-conversation. WORF It is the power of his voice... the strength of his intonations that makes Barak-kadan a great singer. There are none like him. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER 4. 2 CONTINUED: DAX None as boring anyway. He never varies his performance by even a half-tone. WORF I prefer traditional opera performed in the traditional manner. DAX You know, for a Klingon who was raised by humans, wears a Starfleet uniform, and drinks prune juice, you're pretty attached to "tradition." (beat) But that's okay. I like men who are riddled with contradictions. She gives him a flirtatious smile and Worf rolls his eyes and looks away. Worf suddenly sees something which literally makes his jaw drop open. 3 WORF'S POV A group of Klingons are ENTERING the Promenade from the Airlock: GRILKA and TUMEK, who were both established in "House of Quark," and THOPOK, a powerfully built Klingon warrior in his prime. Grilka is definitely in charge here and the others are members of her entourage. 4 RESUME WORF & DAX Worf turns in his seat as the Klingons head off down the Promenade. He's just been hit with the Klingon equivalent of a thunderbolt. To Worf, Grilka may well be the most beautiful woman he's ever seen. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER 5. 4 CONTINUED: Dax follows his gaze and sees the Klingons as they walk away. DAX Well, that's a welcome sight. The peace talks must be going well if Klingons are visiting the station again. She notices the look on his face. DAX Worf? He turns back around with an excited expression. WORF Did you see her? DAX The Klingon woman? WORF She was... glorious. Before Dax can pursue this any further, Worf is up and heading out onto the Promenade to follow the Klingons. After a beat, Dax follows him. 5 INT. PROMENADE Worf is moving through the crowd, but he's momentarily lost sight of the Klingons. Finally, he spots the last member of the entourage EXITING to Quark's. Worf moves to the window and looks inside, careful not to draw attention to himself. 6 WORF'S POV Grilka seats herself at a table, Tumek remains standing and Thopok sits nearby. Grilka looks regal, confident and desirable... a woman in command of her own destiny and comfortable with her position. 7 RESUME WORF As Dax catches up with him and looks through the window at Grilka. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - TEASER 6. 7 CONTINUED: DAX (re: Grilka) Her? She's okay. WORF I have never seen such a woman. Who is she? What house is she from? I do not recognize her family crest... He trails off as Grilka suddenly stands and smiles at someone in the bar with open arms. Dax and Worf shift their positions to see who she's greeting so warmly. It's Quark and he's happy to see Grilka too. WORF She's a friend of the Ferengi. But Worf's disgust turns to stunned surprise when Grilka not only embraces Quark, but gives him a genuine kiss, which Quark is only too happy to return. This jogs Dax's memory. DAX Now I remember who she is. Her name's Grilka. And she's not just Quark's friend... she's his ex-wife. Off Worf's face as he reacts to this news... FADE OUT. END OF TEASER DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 7. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes) 8 INT. QUARK'S A few minutes later. Quark and Grilka are sitting at her table, while Tumek stands patiently nearby. Thopok is at an adjacent table, watching the crowd warily for any threats and occasionally giving Quark a contemptuous look. Quark is pouring Grilka a drink, and they are obviously at ease with one another. In fact, there are some sparks between these two -- some chemistry that they're both aware of and that they might consider acting on. QUARK Maparian ale... (drops in a mixer) ... with a hint of Pazafer as I recall. GRILKA You remember. I'm honored. QUARK How could I forget? You're the only Klingon I know who drinks something besides bloodwine or prune juice. GRILKA Prune juice? QUARK Forget it. (raises a glass of his own) To the House of Grilka. May it continue to be as strong and proud as its Lady is beautiful. Grilka smiles, touched by the sentiment and they clink glasses. Grilka sips her drink and reacts with pleasure. GRILKA (re: drink) You may not have been the ideal husband... but you are an excellent bartender. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 8. 8 CONTINUED: QUARK I know of no greater compliment. (beat) So what brings you to my humble establishment? Business or pleasure? Grilka glances up at him and then pauses... she doesn't answer him directly for some reason. GRILKA The recent hostilities between the Empire and the Federation have been... very costly to my family. We've suffered great losses in ships, lands, warriors... QUARK War -- what's it good for? That's what I always say. Absolutely nothing. GRILKA The financial cost was... significant. Grilka looks away for a moment and Quark begins to realize that this is the reason she's come to his bar. But he knows that Grilka isn't going to ask for his help, so he steers the conversation so she doesn't have to. QUARK I see. But financial matters are... the last thing on your mind. As a Klingon, you're far more interested in honor and glory, than in something as mundane as... money. GRILKA You understand us so well. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 9. 8 CONTINUED: (2) QUARK I'm a very understanding man. There's a beat, and then Quark pretends to suddenly get a new thought. QUARK I've got an idea: why don't I take a look at your financial records? I know that's not why you're here -- I'm sure this is simply a social visit -- but maybe I could help. GRILKA The money is of little consequence. QUARK I'm sure it is to you... but as a Ferengi businessman, it's hard for me to forget about such things. I'd really like to help. GRILKA Perhaps... QUARK (smiling, but he means it) I won't ask again. GRILKA Very well. If it pleases you, I'll allow you access to the records. QUARK Thank you. He puts a hand on her thigh. QUARK (suggestive) We'll talk about my "fee" later. Grilka notices the hand, and then looks up at Quark. But instead of reacting with a threat, she gives him a look that might just be an invitation. GRILKA Yes. We will. Quark is surprised, but Grilka just smiles and then stands and heads for the EXIT. Tumek goes with her, but Thopok lags behind. Just as Quark is savoring the possibilities inherent in Grilka's answer, Thopok shoves him back in his seat and glares into his face. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 10. 8 CONTINUED: (3) THOPOK Hear this, Ferengi. Help Grilka and you will live. Fail and I will kill you myself. QUARK (unfazed) Should I write that down? No, I think I can remember it. Thank you. Thopok doesn't appreciate Quark's humor. He lets go of Quark and then stalks out of the bar, leaving Quark with something to think about. CUT TO: 9 INT. OPS Worf and Dax are riding the turbolift into Ops. Worf is still dealing with his shock as Dax explains the Grilka/Quark backstory. DAX ... and even though it was an accident, Quark took the credit for killing Grilka's husband. WORF Why? DAX As a way of boosting business at the bar. And it worked. But then Grilka kidnapped Quark, took him back to the Klingon Homeworld and married him. WORF Why!!? DAX I'm getting to that. As a woman, Grilka was forbidden to lead her House. So, by marrying Quark she was able to retain control through him. Worf understands the reasoning, but doesn't like it. He glares at his console and punches a few buttons. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 9 CONTINUED: DAX (continuing) Eventually, Grilka convinced the Council to give her control and she divorced Quark on the spot. As far as I know, that was the last time they saw each other. WORF Then it was a marriage of convenience? DAX Certainly for Grilka. I'm not sure how convenient it was for Quark. WORF His opinion is of no consequence. He is unworthy of such a prize as she. Dax leans on a console and looks at Worf with an amused expression. DAX Worf... you sound like you've got a bad case of par'Mach. SISKO'S VOICE Is that contagious? They look up as SISKO walks over with a PADD. Worf looks instantly uncomfortable and moves off to busy himself with work. DAX (to Sisko) Par'Mach is the Klingon word for love, but with more... aggressive overtones. SISKO Love? Worf? DAX Stranger things have happened. SISKO Especially around here. They both look at Worf as he works at a console. CUT TO: DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 10 INT. INFIRMARY Bashir is assembling a small respirator-type device while O'BRIEN looks on. BASHIR This should alleviate Kira's sneezing... O'BRIEN Should? BASHIR Bajoran women have sneezed their way through pregnancy for a hundred thousand years. You can't expect me to cure it overnight. He hands the device to O'Brien, who looks it over. Bashir then moves to a large container of PILLS and begins tapping them into a small bottle. O'Brien continues to toy with the device throughout the scene. BASHIR You know, I heard a rumor that the Jerries might be coming over the Channel tonight. Should we have a little surprise waiting for them? O'Brien takes a sniff from the respirator and immediately sneezes. BASHIR Serves you right. O'BRIEN (rubbing his nose) I can't go to the holosuite tonight. Kira and I have to work some things out. BASHIR Still fighting, eh? O'BRIEN Who said we were fighting? Bashir has to cover quickly, not wanting to admit he was eavesdropping. BASHIR Word gets around. It's a small station. O'BRIEN It's a huge station. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 13. 10 CONTINUED: BASHIR Obviously not huge enough. O'BRIEN Well, for your information we're not fighting. Bashir hands O'Brien the pill bottle. BASHIR Glad to hear it. Bajoran takeo herbs for Kira's swollen ankles. She'll need to dissolve these in some kind of fruit juice before ingesting them. O'Brien opens the bottle and taps out a couple of pills into his palm. O'BRIEN I hope these taste better than those makara herbs. BASHIR Are you sampling all her medications? O'Brien gives him a look. O'BRIEN Kira didn't like the taste. (beat) Oh, and I almost forgot -- she has a rash on the back of her thighs. Do you have some kind of salve? Bashir moves to a shelf to get some ointment. BASHIR How long's she had it? O'BRIEN I noticed it yesterday when I was helping her out of the tub... so at least a day. Bashir hands him the salve and cocks an eyebrow. BASHIR "Helping her out of the tub?" O'BRIEN She's living with me and she's having my baby. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 14. 10 CONTINUED: (2) BASHIR So... did you look? O'BRIEN Get your mind out of the gutter. I was holding a towel up in front of her. BASHIR How does Keiko feel about you... helping Kira out of the tub? O'BRIEN (unruffled) Keiko feels just fine about it. We're all adults and we've developed very close and mature relationships. BASHIR I'm sure that Keiko and Kira have. But you... O'BRIEN What about me? BASHIR I bet you looked. O'Brien gives him a dirty look and then EXITS, much to Bashir's amusement. CUT TO: 11 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing the station. 12 INT. QUARK'S Grilka and Quark are seated at one of the tables. They're having drinks and going over some Klingon records on PADDS, while Tumek and Thopok sit nearby. 13 WORF is watching Grilka and Quark from across the room. As he watches, Quark says something to Grilka, then picks up two of the PADDS, and EXITS toward the back. Grilka takes a pull from her drink. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 15. 13 CONTINUED: Worf hesitates for a moment, not sure if he should do this... but then looks at Grilka again and decides that he must. He gathers himself and then heads across the room toward the bar. 14 ANGLE ON BAR MORN is sitting at the bar as Worf approaches. Grilka's table is nearby and has a good view of the bar. Worf looks around and is a little dismayed to find that all the other seats at the bar are empty, but he's determined to go forward anyway. He stands next to Morn. WORF (sotto, to Morn) I will apologize for this at another time. Morn is confused, but before he can say anything, Worf suddenly snarls at him. WORF (snarls at Morn) You are in my seat! He FLINGS Morn off the barstool and he CRASHES to the floor. This gets everyone's attention, including Grilka, whose eyes narrow with interest. Morn picks himself up and heads for a safer location. Worf sits down and then pounds the bar for attention as he plays the alpha male for all it's worth. WORF Bartender! Bloodwine! The Alien Bartender scurries to get Worf a bloodwine as Worf glowers around the bar. Worf sniffs the air as if suddenly offended. WORF What is that smell... ? Is there a pile of rotting forshak in here? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 16. 14 CONTINUED: Worf turns around and his eyes land on Thopok, who is watching Worf with a cool contempt. WORF Or perhaps it is you. Thopok glances at Grilka, and then moves in his seat a little, making a conscious effort to restrain himself. The bloodwine arrives in the b.g., but Worf ignores it. He moves closer to Thopok. Grilka leans over and whispers something to Tumek, who nods understanding. WORF Stand when I speak to you. Thopok smirks. Worf knocks aside a chair and snarls at him. WORF Do you think this is a joke? At this clear challenge, Thopok jumps to his feet, ready to take on Worf, but Tumek's voice freezes him in place. TUMEK Mev'Yap! (Stop!) Tumek stands and moves to Worf. TUMEK (continuing) Worf, Son of Mogh... join me. Both Tumek's dignity and age command Worf's respect. Worf steps away from the confrontation with Thopok and follows Tumek to an area of the room where they can talk more privately. TUMEK (quiet) Challenging Thopok to a fight is a waste of time. Grilka cannot mate with you, now or ever. Your House is dishonored and your name is a curse. That is exactly what Worf was afraid of hearing. He's crestfallen. WORF I... meant no disrespect. TUMEK You showed none. I'm sure your motives were honorable. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT ONE 17. 14 CONTINUED: (2) Worf looks over at Grilka and Tumek follows his gaze. TUMEK Do not let it trouble you too much. In truth I doubt it would've been a good match. WORF Why? TUMEK Have you ever pursued a Klingon woman? WORF (a difficult admission) No. TUMEK (with pity) There is no shame in that. You were raised by Humans, you wear their uniforms, you accept their values. How could you know anything about our women? WORF You would be surprised at what I know. Worf is earnest and Tumek isn't trying to be condescending, he just doesn't believe him. TUMEK Perhaps. But we will not find out here. (more formally) It is the wish of the Lady Grilka that you leave us now, Son of Mogh... and do not return. Worf bows his head in acquiescence. Worf turns and walks away, his head held high, but his expression tells us that his heart is breaking. 15 thru OMITTED 16 FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 18. ACT TWO FADE IN: 17 EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL) Docked at the station. 18 INT. DEFIANT - MESS HALL Worf is sitting at a table with a glass of prune juice in front of him, miserable after his rejection by Grilka. Dax is standing nearby, commiserating with him. WORF I... am a fool. DAX You're in love. (considers) Which I suppose is the same thing. Worf stares at the prune juice. DAX You're making too much out of this. Tumek said Grilka wasn't offended... she was probably flattered. WORF There is no flattery in a great lady being courted by a traitor. Dax gives him a more jaundiced look. DAX Is that what's really bothering you? Or is it that Tumek said you didn't know anything about Klingon women... and you're afraid he's right? Worf gives her a dirty look as the door OPENS and Quark ENTERS. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 19. 18 CONTINUED: WORF (irritable) What do you want? QUARK I want to talk to Dax if that's all right with you. (to Dax) I need help. (before she can say it) Save the witticisms. Grilka invited me to dinner and I need to brush up on Klingon manners and protocol and all that. WORF She invited you to dinner? QUARK (lascivious) In her quarters. A private dinner. A very private dinner. Worf growls and glares at his prune juice. QUARK (to Dax) What's wrong with him? DAX He's having a bad day. QUARK That's a shame. Now, when Grilka and I were "married," there wasn't a lot of... affection involved. So, what does a Klingon woman expect from a man? Are there some secret Klingon phrases I need to know? Or do we just leap on each other like a pair of crazed voles? Worf growls again. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 20. 18 CONTINUED: (2) DAX Quark, Klingon mating rituals are very... involved. It's not just a one night affair. QUARK Two nights? Dax rolls her eyes. QUARK Whatever. Look, I'm serious. Grilka and I, we have... something. I'm not sure what, but I want to pursue it. DAX For sex? QUARK No. Well, that too, but there's more... she's... (groping) ... glorious. Worf looks up at that and Dax smiles a bit. DAX So I hear. (beat) Look... if you're serious about this, then you'll have to go slow at dinner. No innuendo, no staring at her cleavage, and no grabbing her thigh. QUARK You grab one thigh... (beat) So what do I do? DAX Tonight, you talk. Ask about her family's history and their accomplishments. She'll consider it a sign of respect. QUARK Respect. Okay, I can do that. Anything else? She thinks about this for a moment and then Worf chimes in. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 21. 18 CONTINUED: (3) WORF Grilka is from the Mekro'vak region. It is customary among her people for the man to bring the leg of a Lingta to the first courtship dinner. Bring it fresh, as if you had just killed it. And as Worf talks, he stands and forgets about Quark for a moment... he's envisioning himself doing this with Grilka... savoring the mental image of courting her. WORF (continuing) Then use the leg to sweep aside everything on the table... and declare in a loud voice, "I have brought you this. From this day, I wish to provide food for you and your House, and all I ask is to share your company... and do honor to your name." There's a beat before Worf pulls out of his reverie. QUARK Then what? DAX Then either she accepts your offer... or she has her bodyguard shatter every bone in your body. Quark thinks about that for a beat. QUARK Sounds reasonable. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 22. 18 CONTINUED: (4) He EXITS. CUT TO: 19 INT. O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS - KIRA'S ROOM KIRA is lying on her side on the bed, with some pillows tucked around her body. She's wearing a short, comfortable nightshirt while O'Brien (in civvies) is giving her a massage. The setting and the mood could be taken as romantic, but the intention is relaxation. O'Brien pours out some oil on her leg and begins kneading the muscles. KIRA So did your father just sit you down one day and say, "Miles, it's time to teach you about massaging pregnant women." O'BRIEN It's an O'Brien survival technique. My mother hated being pregnant. My father's massages were the only thing that kept her from killing everyone. KIRA Sounds like me. O'BRIEN Pretty much. She didn't curse in Bajoran... but she did use what she liked to call "descriptive phrases." Kira smiles and at this moment, Keiko ENTERS from the other room, carrying some clothes. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 23. 19 CONTINUED: In almost any other context, O'Brien would be embarrassed to be caught with his hands all over a half- naked woman's body when his wife walks in, but no one even bats an eye. This is literally an everyday occurrence in the O'Brien household and Keiko barely notices as she starts putting the clothes away. KIRA Are those my uniforms? KEIKO (nods) Garak finished the alterations. And... (she holds out a pair of boots) ... he sent these. He guarantees the insoles will help your feet. KIRA (in pain) Ohhh... KEIKO That wasn't very convincing. I think she's actually enjoying it, Miles; you're going to have to press harder if you want her to suffer. O'BRIEN Harder it is. Kira groans again. Keiko smiles and EXITS. KIRA You're a sadist, Miles Edward O'Brien. Was your father this cruel to your mother? O'BRIEN Worse. I'd swear sometimes you could hear her scream halfway across Ireland. our neighbors didn't know whether to be worried or titillated. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 24. 19 CONTINUED: (2) KIRA Do you miss Ireland? O'BRIEN You know, it's funny... if you'd asked me that a year ago, I would've said no. But lately -- and I don't know why -- I've been doing a lot of daydreaming about home. Maybe I'm getting nostalgic in my old age. KIRA You've got leave coming. Take three weeks and go. O'BRIEN And if I left, who'd give you foot massages? Kira's response is said casually, as if it were the most natural thing in the world. KIRA (a throwaway) So take me along. I can think of worse things than spending three weeks in Ireland with you. O'BRIEN (a throwaway) Me too... O'Brien smiles as he rubs her leg. Then they both realize what was just said. They look at each other in surprise... and are even more surprised to see that, in a way, they both meant it. There's an electric moment as they lock eyes and what was a casual remark suddenly is heavy with meaning. But before either one can react further, Keiko ENTERS again, carrying more clothes. They quickly look away -- frightened, worried... and intrigued. KEIKO (putting the clothes away) Don't stop on my account. O'BRIEN Oh. Right. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 25. 19 CONTINUED: (3) He goes back to his massage, but from the expressions of Kira and Miles we can see that the dynamic between them has definitely changed. CUT TO: 20 INT. DEFIANT - BRIDGE Worf is alone on the Bridge, listening to KLINGON OPERA, which is playing VERY LOUD over the com system. This piece is a duet between a man and a woman (think Klingon "La Boheme"), and Worf is not only singing along with the male part, he's acting out the role as well -- it's a strange sight here on the Bridge, but Worf tends to think of the Defiant as his private domain. FEMALE KLINGON (V.O.) BOOOOW-cha-daaay... WORF & MALE VOICE KEEEY-cha-daaay... FEMALE KLINGON (V.O.) Me-YO-ca-BEEN-evaaa-kaa-MOOOOR... WORF & MALE VOICE LIIING-tomaaa... Quark ENTERS in the b.g. and winces at the volume level in here. Worf doesn't notice him. FEMALE KLINGON (V.O.) (building) Oh-ma-do-VEE-kos...... ZOOOOOOO! WORF & MALE VOICE (overlapping & building) Oh-ma-do-VEE-ko...... ZOOOOOOO! The crescendo builds... and then the piece ENDS. Worf relaxes, feels purified by the experience and only then notices Quark standing on the Bridge, watching Worf with a surprised expression. Worf is annoyed, but not embarrassed. WORF Yes? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 26. 20 CONTINUED: QUARK I'm not going to ask. (beat) Look, I came here to thank you for last night. Grilka loved it. All of it. Everything I did, everything I said... it was perfect! Despite the fact that it was Quark who received the plaudits instead of him, Worf is still pleased. WORF (to himself) So, I don't know anything about Klingon women? QUARK She said I had the heart of a Basai Master, whatever that is. WORF It is a... poet. QUARK A poet? I guess I can live with that. WORF What else happened? QUARK She spent about an hour talking about her family history -- a rather long and bloody tale, but what else is new? -- then we ate the Lingta -- which tasted really bad -- listened to some noise she called Klingon music and then I left. WORF A perfect evening. QUARK Almost. Her bodyguard was giving me threatening looks all night. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT TWO 27. 20 CONTINUED: (2) WORF It is to be expected. The idea of a Ferengi courting a great Lady is... offensive. QUARK You know, it's attitudes like that that keep you people from getting invited to all the really good parties. WORF (ignoring him) The heart of a Basai Master... (beat) She said that? QUARK Could I make it up? I'm telling you Worf, she responded perfectly. You really have the key to this woman's heart. The question is... can you help me unlock it? Worf thinks for a moment, then makes a decision. WORF Yes. I can. (beat) We have work to do. Worf strides off the Bridge with determination, and Quark follows him out. FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking for... " - REV. 08/08/906 - ACT THREE 28. ACT THREE FADE IN: 21 INT. HOLOSUITE - KLINGON HALL OF WARRIORS This is an earlier version of the set seen in "Apocalypse Rising." There are very few statues in evidence and no pieces of modern technology or decoration. The brazier and central platform are missing. This is how the Hall probably looked a thousand years ago when it was simply an assembly hall and banquet chamber. At the moment, two N.D. Klingon Warriors are fighting Quark and Dax in a heated contest with bat'leths. There are a FEW DEAD KLINGONS lying around the Hall. Dax and Quark are both wearing Klingon outfits and we'll soon learn that each of them is playing a role here -- Quark is Kahless, the legendary Klingon hero, and Dax is Lukara, his first bride. 22 thru OMITTED 23 24 WORF Is standing off to one side watching this contest and holding a control PADD. He rolls his eyes at Quark's poor fighting skills. 25 NEW ANGLE As Dax kills the Klingon and looks over at Quark, who's still having trouble. Dax and Worf exchange a look, and Worf makes an adjustment on his control PADD. The Klingon facing Quark raises his bat'leth high over his head, preparing for a killing stroke. Quark cringes, but the Klingon doesn't bring the weapon down... he hesitates -- not frozen -- and glares at Quark, while leaving himself wide open. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 29. 25 CONTINUED: DAX Quark! She pantomimes a slashing motion with her bat'leth and after a beat, Quark takes the hint. He SLASHES the Klingon across his unprotected chest and the Klingon drops to the floor, dead. Worf is disgusted with Quark's ineptitude, but holds his tongue. Dax looks across the Hall of dead bodies as if seeing it for the first time. She raises her bat'leth high over her head with one hand and shouts -- DAX MoVas ah-kee rustak! (Today was a good day to die.) Quark is still catching his breath and doesn't respond. WORF (prompting) "Kosh tomah... " Quark tries to remember his lines as he turns toward Dax. QUARK Kosh tomoh -- I mean -- tomah ehpaq Lukara kaVeir. (The day is not yet over, Lukara.) DAX (surprised) Ish-tovee chuCH thling nuq? (Would you kill me too?) QUARK (trying to remember) Besh... besh-opar gree uchan -- no, gee urchun omaH te... te... te- doQ maugh-shta. (No, but I would gladly die by your hand if you will not mate with me this day.) It's not a very good recital of the lines and Worf finally steps in with irritation. WORF (annoyed) Enough. You say the words, but there is no... feeling behind them -- no passion. Quark rolls his eyes. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 30. 25 CONTINUED: (2) QUARK Having to learn all this Klingonese is not helping my performance. WORF Do not think of this as a performance. Believe in where you are... put yourself in this time and place... Worf picks up a bat'leth and takes a few steps around the room, painting the scene with his words and trying to inspire Quark. WORF (continuing) A thousand years ago... the dawn of the Empire. Five hundred warriors storm the Great Hall at Qam-Chee. The city garrison fled before them. (indicates Quark) Only the Emperor Kahless... (indicates Dax) And the Lady Lukara stood their ground. It was here that they began the greatest romance in Klingon history. QUARK This is ridiculous! I'm surrounded by corpses, my shoes are dripping with blood, and you want me to feel romantic? Why am I putting myself through this? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 31-32. 25 CONTINUED: (3) DAX Because later that night, Kahless and Lukara jumped on each other like a pair of crazed voles. Beat. QUARK One more time. Quark picks up his sword and gets ready to try it again. CUT TO: 26 OMITTED DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 33. 27 INT. SECURITY OFFICE ODO and Kira are going over some PADDS. ODO This is the fourth theft of equipment from Upper Pylon Three this month. KIRA I don't know how they keep doing it. We've changed the security protocols up there three times. ODO It's not the security arrangements that are at fault, it's our friend the chief of operations. KIRA Miles? What'd he do? ODO It's what he's not doing. He still hasn't finished upgrading the structural integrity field on Upper Pylon Three, so half the bulkheads are torn open. A child could find a way into those cargo bays. KIRA Look, Miles is a very busy man. He can't be everywhere at once. ODO There are times when it seems as though he's not anywhere at all. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 34. 27 CONTINUED: KIRA (with an edge) He's doing a superb job under very difficult circumstances. Odo considers her for a moment. ODO Ah... growing fond of the chief, are we? KIRA What are you talking about? I've lways liked Miles. ODO You've always liked the chief, but Miles is a different story. Now it's Kira's turn to be a little red-faced, but she stands her ground. KIRA I am living with him and carrying his baby. Don't you think that would change things a little? ODO Such as? KIRA We're... closer. I'm like a part of his family now. ODO Which part? KIRA What? ODO Which part of his family are you? Sister? Daughter? Cousin? KIRA Can we just concentrate on the criminal activities report? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 35. 27 CONTINUED: (2) ODO Of course. And I'll refrain from making any further disparaging remarks about the chief... I mean, Miles. Kira scowls and picks up the PADD, but Odo is clearly enjoying himself. CUT TO: 28 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 29 INT. QUARK'S Tumek is sitting patiently at a table while Thopok angrily paces nearby. Thopok keeps glancing up at the second level holosuites. THOPOK This... consorting with a Ferengi is outrageous. TUMEK (cold) You forget yourself, Thopok. You are the commander of the Lady's guard, nothing more. Do not presume to judge her. Thopok is still angry when he suddenly sees 30 QUARK & GRILKA coming down the stairs, each of them wearing Klingon outfits. They look happy and obviously have had a good time together, which does nothing to improve Thopok's temper. Tumek stands and offers her a seat. TUMEK Mistress... GRILKA Tumek. Maparian ale... for two. She only has eyes for Quark and she indicates that he should sit down across from her. Tumek nods obedience and goes to the bar. Thopok stands glowering nearby. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 36. 30 CONTINUED: GRILKA (to Quark) You... are an interesting man. QUARK I've always thought so. GRILKA Not much of a fighter, of course... fortunately for you they were only holo-warriors. QUARK Well, it's the thought that counts. Grilka gives him a very direct look. GRILKA Yes, it is. And what are your thoughts, Quark? Why play out one of the most romantic scenes in Klingon literature for me? Why learn to speak Klingon and observe our customs? (beat) Why do you pursue me? Quark leans forward and gives his most charming and sincere look. QUARK I pursue only those things I wish to acquire... GRILKA Acquire? Now you sound like a Ferengi again. QUARK I am a Ferengi. That means I have a talent for appreciating objects of great value. (beat) And I believe you may be worth more than all the latinum in the quadrant. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT THREE 30 CONTINUED: (2) Quark smiles and Grilka smiles back. They share a moment together as Tumek brings the glasses of ale and sets them on the table. Thopok is about to blow a fuse as Grilka and Quark lift their glasses in a toast. GRILKA My Kahless... QUARK My Lukara... They clink glasses and at that moment, Thopok finally loses it. He knocks over the table with a roar of rage... Grilka is on her feet instantly, but Quark gets overturned with the furniture. GRILKA Mev'Yap Thopok! (Stop it, Thopok!) THOPOK Forgive me, mistress. But I cannot watch this any longer. (to Quark) I will not protect a House where you are welcome, Ferengi. You are a coward and a liar and you have no honor. So tomorrow you will kill me, or I will kill you. Thopok turns and storms out, leaving Quark on the floor with a new problem. FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 38. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 31 EXT. SPACE - THE DEFIANT (OPTICAL) Docked at the station. 32 INT. DEFIANT - MESS HALL Quark, Dax and Worf have gathered to discuss Quark's latest difficulty. QUARK He's going to kill me. WORF (not a bad idea) That would be unfortunate. QUARK Dax? DAX I'm thinking. QUARK What if I just... do what I did the last time a Klingon wanted to kill me. I'll throw my sword away, kneel down in front of him, and dare him to execute me. He'll be humiliated and slink away like a scalded targ. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 39. 32 CONTINUED: WORF The only reason that worked was because Gowron stepped in and restrained your opponent before he could kill you. No one will stop Thopok. Dax and I will not even be allowed to attend. QUARK So my choices are... to not show up, be branded a coward and lose Grilka... or die. WORF Yes. QUARK Come on! There has to be another way out of this! You people have rituals for everything except waste extraction... you must have a ceremony or a secret handshake or something I can do. Dax suddenly gets an inspiration. DAX I've got an idea. She smiles and immediately Quark has second thoughts. QUARK Somehow I liked it better before she smiled. OFF Dax's mischievous expression... CUT TO: 33 INT. O'BRIEN'S QUARTERS - LIVING AREA Keiko and O'Brien are sitting on the couch, relaxing and listening to JAPANESE MUSIC with a couple of glasses of wine. O'Brien has his arm around her and the mood is serene. KEIKO Home early two days in a row... You better watch it, I'm starting to get used to this. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 40. 33 CONTINUED: O'BRIEN (teasing) They don't need me anymore. It's home at seventeen hundred from now on. KEIKO You're such a bad liar. Kira ENTERS, looking tired and rubbing her neck. She and O'Brien exchange a quick look, and the mood in the room subtly alters -- O'Brien is a little tense, Kira wants to avoid his gaze, and only Keiko keeps the two of them in the room together. Kira and O'Brien are trying to act normal, which of course means that they're a little abnormal as a result. KIRA Hi. KEIKO Hi. Sit down. You look exhausted. Bad day? KIRA No... just the usual... KEIKO Sit down. Relax. Do want some tea or juice? Kira shakes her head. There's an awkward beat, but then Kira decides to do the "normal" thing and she sits. Kira cranes her neck and Keiko notices. KEIKO Miles, I think that woman needs one of your famous neck massages. An awkward look between Kira and O'Brien -- the last thing either of them wants right now is for him to be rubbing her neck in front of Keiko. O'BRIEN Uh... my hands are pretty cold. KIRA I'm not in the mood anyway. KEIKO I can see the tension in your muscles from here. KIRA No. Thanks. Really. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 41. 33 CONTINUED: (2) A quiet beat. KIRA (as if remembering) Oh. I'm going to Bajor tomorrow. I'll only be gone a couple of days. KEIKO Bajor? KIRA Yes. I just wanted to take some time and... relax. A friend of mine has a house in Musilla Province. It's quiet... remote. No distractions. O'BRIEN Perfect. When do you leave? KIRA First thing in the morning. KEIKO Wait a minute. You can't go alone. What if you went into labor? KIRA Julian doesn't think that's going to happen for at least another month. KEIKO But he's not sure. (beat) Miles, maybe you should go with her. O'BRIEN (startled) What? KEIKO I can't go, I have a botanical pathology seminar tomorrow. But, you said yourself things have been slow in Ops. KIRA I don't think that's such a good idea. O'BRIEN (quickly) Me neither. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 42. 33 CONTINUED: (3) KEIKO (stern) Miles Edward O'Brien. Are you going to let the woman carrying your unborn child go off on a trip by herself? O'Brien doesn't have a good answer to that and he looks at Kira for help, but she doesn't know what to say either. KEIKO (you better not be) Are you two fighting again? O'BRIEN No. KIRA Not at all. KEIKO Good. Then it's settled. Miles, let's go pack your bag. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 43. 33 CONTINUED: (4) She turns and EXITS to the bedroom, leaving O'Brien and Kira with shocked looks on their faces. They exchange a look, and then O'Brien follows Keiko into the bedroom. OFF Kira's expression... CUT TO: 34 INT. HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Quark and Dax are facing off with a pair of bat'leths. We might notice that Quark is wearing a Ferengi headband on the back of his head for once. Unlike his last battle, Quark holds his weapon comfortably, and with confidence. Dax makes a quick, slashing attack, and Quark easily parries it, then begins an attack of his own. 35 WORF Is standing off to one side, holding a bat'leth of his own and fighting an invisible opponent. He is wearing a VIRTUAL CONTROL DEVICE that is attached to the base of his neck and has two thin wands that project out in front of his face, with special tips that point directly into his eyes. Quark's actions precisely mimic those of Worf and we can now see that Worf is actually controlling Quark's body. The device allows Worf to see through Quark's eyes and lets him fight Dax through Quark. This odd fight continues until Quark disarms Dax and puts his bat'leth to her chest. Dax bows her head in defeat and then looks up with a smile. DAX (to Quark) Congratulations. Quark and Worf put their weapons away with a flourish. Worf reaches around and taps a control on his device (Quark mimics this action too) and then they're disconnected from each other. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 44. 35 CONTINUED: Dax moves to Quark and removes his headband, revealing a similar Virtual Device attached to the back of his head. She begins scanning it with a tricorder. DAX (to Quark) How do you feel? QUARK Like a puppet. (to Worf) And I've got a few complaints about the puppeteer. You nearly wrenched my arm out of its socket. WORF The movement would not have hurt if you were in better physical condition. QUARK Exercise makes me sweat. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 45. 35 CONTINUED: (2) DAX You should get some sleep. If your body's tired tomorrow, even Worf won't be able to save you. QUARK (beat) Bedtime. Quark EXITS as Dax removes the device from Worf's neck. WORF I do not believe the lengths I am going to for that Ferengi. I am practically giving him Grilka. DAX What is it you see in her, anyway? I mean she's attractive, but other than that... ? WORF It is... everything about her. Worf looks off into the distance and for once allows himself to indulge in waxing poetic about a woman. WORF (continuing) The way she carries herself -- confident and strong. She commands those around her. (beat) The proud tilt of her head. The way her face betrays none of her true feelings. The power of her voice. And her eyes... hard as separ gemstones... and twice as sharp. DAX It sounds like you're describing a statue. What would you do with a woman like that? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 46. 35 CONTINUED: (3) DAX (Cont'd) Put her up on a pedestal and clean her once a week? WORF You do not understand. DAX I guess not. Because if I were in your shoes, I'd be looking for someone a little more entertaining... a little more fun... maybe even a little more attainable. She says this with only the slightest bit of suggestion... but Worf doesn't take the hint. WORF You are not in my shoes. DAX Too bad. You'd be amazed at what I can do in a pair of size eighteen boots. And with that, she EXITS. CUT TO: 36 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 37 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS (OPTICAL) Grilka, Thopok and Tumek are waiting in the center of the Hall as the Holosuite doors MATERIALIZE and then OPEN, allowing Quark to ENTER. Quark is wearing his Klingon outfit again and has a bat'leth in his hand. Thopok has his own bat'leth and eyes Quark with anticipation. 38 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Dax is checking something on a tricorder, while Worf waits patiently nearby. Worf is wearing the Virtual Device and has a bat'leth. DAX (off tricorder) He's in position. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 47. 38 CONTINUED: She moves to the Virtual Device on Worf's head and ACTIVATES it. 39 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS Quark is looking around with a little anxiety as Tumek steps forward. TUMEK Quark, son of Keldar, why are you here? QUARK (nervous) To... to answer the... Suddenly, his whole body language changes as Worf takes control. Quark stands a little taller, his eyes narrow, and his voice steadies. QUARK (continuing, confident) To answer the Challenge of Thopok... to prove my honor... and to win the favor of the Lady Grilka. Quark looks over at Grilka, who sees a strength in him she never suspected. Quark then whips the bat'leth up and to the ready position with a smooth and fluid gesture. He takes up a defensive posture, waiting for Thopok to come at him. TUMEK (to Thopok) The challenge has been given and accepted. Let no one interfere. (beat) Mok! (Begin) Quark and Thopok circle each other cautiously... 40 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Dax is watching her tricorder as Worf circles around in the Holosuite with his own bat'leth, his movements precisely matching those of Quark. 41 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS As before. Thopok and Quark are still circling. Thopok finally makes the first move -- a quick series of slashes and thrusts. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FOUR 48. 41 CONTINUED: Quark parries each of them as if he were born to do this. Thopok drops back, suddenly wary. THOPOK Where did you learn to fight with a bat'leth? QUARK (confident) I'm a man of many talents. Quark is almost enjoying his prowess. Thopok shifts the weapon from hand to hand... Quark counters smoothly and then whips the weapon around his head in a showy move... 42 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Worf is executing the same move, but suddenly, the tip of the bat'leth accidently catches one of the wands on the device and YANKS it off of his head, sending it crashing across the room. 43 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS Quark blinks and stumbles, nearly dropping the bat'leth. He suddenly realizes that Worf is no longer controlling his actions. He looks up at Thopok with fear as it occurs to him that Thopok can kill him at any moment. Off his expression... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 49. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 44 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS Continuous from Act Five. Thopok is still circling Quark, unaware that Quark has lost his skill with the bat'leth. Quark knows he can't keep up the pretense for even a moment if Thopok decides to attack, so he has to make a move to delay. QUARK Wait! Everyone stops. A long beat passes. 45 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Dax is working feverishly on the device with a hand tool as Worf waits anxiously. DAX You damaged the optronic relay. WORF (urgent) Can you repair it? DAX I don't know. 46 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS As before. Everyone is waiting for Quark to say something. So is Quark, who needs to come up with something. THOPOK Well? QUARK I claim the right of... Proclamation. Grilka and Thopok exchange puzzled looks and then turn to Tumek, who seems equally mystified. TUMEK I have never heard of the "right of proclamation." QUARK It's a Ferengi custom. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 50. 46 CONTINUED: THOPOK Then it has no place here. He moves forward with the bat'leth. Quark steps back and holds up a hand, stopping him again. QUARK I beg to differ. I am as proud of my heritage as you are of yours and I will not be denied the opportunity to express myself according to Ferengi custom. GRILKA He has shown respect to our traditions... we will do the same. (beat) What is it you want to do? QUARK I must... make a speech. GRILKA About what? QUARK About... you! Thopok looks annoyed, but wants to get this over with. THOPOK Get on with it. As Quark tries to think of what to say... 47 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Dax is still working and Worf is scanning the wall with a tricorder. WORF I do not know how, but he is still alive. You must work faster. DAX I'm going as fast as I can. 48 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS As before. Quark is vamping, trying to be poetic, stirring, and most of all, verbose. The bat'leth is in his hand. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 51. 48 CONTINUED: QUARK ... to this end my blade... soars through the... aquarium of my soul seeking the... kelp of discontent which must be severed so that the... rocky bottom of love lies in waiting, with fertile... sand for the coming seed of Grilka's... affection. (beat) And yet, does this explain my need for her? No. It is like... oh, a giant... cave of emptiness waiting for... the bats of love to hang by-- Suddenly Quark whirls around and raises the bat'leth in the defensive position. Quark is caught off-guard, but tries to recover. QUARK (continuing, quickly) Well, I guess that's enough talk. Back to the fighting. Thopok raises his own bat'leth and the Hall is soon echoing to the sounds of clanging bat'leths as the two of them go at each other with a ferocity only hinted at earlier. INTERCUT: 49 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY As Worf does his shadow-fighting with Dax looking on. DAX No showing off this time, Worf. Just get it over with. WORF (fighting) I wasn't... showing off... Worf snarls and concentrates on the battle... Quark and Thopok struggle... the advantage changes hands a few times... and then finally Quark DISARMS Thopok and SWEEPS his legs out from under him. Quark puts the point of the bat'leth to Thopok's chest... Quark is pumped up on adrenaline and is certainly ready to kill him... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 52. 49 CONTINUED: Worf looks down at his invisible opponent... THOPOK (defiant, to Quark) End it! QUARK If you insist. Quark tries to run the blade through him... but Worf won't let him. Worf pulls away the blade... and Quark's body obeys. QUARK Maybe not. Worf then walks Quark over to where Thopok's bat'leth is laying. He picks it up, but Quark clearly has no idea what Worf's intentions are. QUARK Maybe I'll pick up your sword... Worf moves Quark to Grilka. He kneels down and then... offers her the bat'leth of Thopok. END INTERCUT . QUARK (awkward) And... give it to you... I guess. Grilka smiles and takes the sword from him, she then looks up at Thopok, who is now standing in the b.g. GRILKA Thopok, your honor is satisfied. I return your weapon and discharge you from my House. She throws the sword to Thopok, who catches it, bows his head and then EXITS. Tumek bows to Grilka and also EXITS. Grilka steps forward and grabs Quark ROUGHLY by the lapels with a snarl -- as if she were about to tear him apart. GRILKA Do-MACH ah chee ghos eh-PAGH? (Can you be a victor of the heart as well as the sword?) Quark/Worf breaks her hold on his clothes and then reaches out and seizes her by the THROAT. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 53. 49 CONTINUED: (2) Grilka puts a hand to Quark's throat and the two of them glare into each other's eyes and squeeze the other's windpipe in a struggle of wills. The tension builds... and then they both release their grip and they collide in a kiss filled with as much aggression as passion. 50 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY Worf is embracing thin air when Dax PULLS the device from his neck. Worf snaps out of it with a start. 51 INT. HOLOSUITE - HALL OF WARRIORS Quark reacts as Worf releases him by folding under Grilka's superior strength. He crashes to the floor and Grilka lands on top of him. There's a breathless pause as she gazes down at him, a feral look in her eyes. QUARK All I ask... is that I live through it. GRILKA No promises. As she gives him a ferocious kiss that is almost an attack... 52 INT. ANOTHER HOLOSUITE - EMPTY (OPTICAL) Worf stands there for a moment, breathing heavily, still caught up in the passion and violence of the moment he was yanked out of. DAX Congratulations. You did it. WORF (breathing heavy) What does she see in that... parasite? DAX Who knows? But they're on the same wavelength. And at least Quark can see an opportunity when it's standing in front of him. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 54. 52 CONTINUED: WORF He would have to be a blind fool not to see it. Dax eyes him for a moment, then lowers her head with a feral look of her own... DAX MoVas ah-kee rustak. (Today was a good day to die.) Worf turns in surprise at the Klingonese words -- it's as if someone started quoting the balcony scene from "Romeo & Juliet" (Klingon style) -- and Worf suddenly begins to see the opportunity that is standing in front of him. Dax raises a hand high over her head. DAX Computer -- bat'leth. A bat'leth APPEARS in her hand and she gives Worf a challenging look. DAX (louder) MoVas ah-kee rustak! Worf finally answers, the fire of the moment beginning to make itself felt in both of them. WORF Kosh tomah... ehpaq Lukara kaVeir. (The day is not yet over, Lukara.) DAX (surprised) Ish-tovee chuCH thling nuq? (Would you kill me too?) Worf takes a quick step toward Dax... she swings the bat'leth toward him... he blocks the move and they stand there, locked together glaring into each other's eyes. Worf breathes in her scent and she responds, it's like two wolves eyeing each other and breathing in the heady aroma of sex. WORF (aroused) Meklo boH ka Mech. (I smell the burning of your blood.) DAX (responding) Te-doQ roos ka... Mech-TOH. (The fire is your doing.) DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 54A. 52 CONTINUED: (2) Worf twists the sword away from her and it flies away. But Dax uses her quicker reflexes to THROW Worf to the ground and then pins him there by the throat with a move that is similar to the one Grilka used on Quark. Worf instinctively reaches up and grabs Dax by the throat too... they struggle for a moment, both of them straining to force the other into submission... their eyes full of aggression... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 52 CONTINUED: (3) and then they too let go of each other and embrace like a pair of ravenous wolves. CUT TO: 53 INT. RUNABOUT Kira is sitting in the cockpit with a depressed look on her face when O'Brien ENTERS, carrying a suitcase. They look at each other awkwardly for a moment as O'Brien pauses on the threshold. O'Brien comes inside and the door CLOSES behind him, isolating the two of them for the first time. He sets his luggage down and moves a little closer. O'BRIEN So... I guess we're going. KIRA Looks that way. O'Brien sits in the other piloting seat. O'BRIEN Tell me about this... house we're going to. Kira looks at him and begins to describe a gorgeous, romantic place in a tone of voice more suited to describing an impending execution. It soon becomes clear to them both that if they go... they're doomed. KIRA (downbeat) It's a gorgeous two-hundred-year- old cottage filled with antiques sitting in the middle of a deep, dark forest. It has three fireplaces... two balconies... O'BRIEN (worried) I see... KIRA (even worse) And it's twenty kilometers to the nearest neighbor... thirty to the nearest town. O'BRIEN (getting down himself) Why am I not surprised? KIRA It gets worse. There's a view. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 56. 53 CONTINUED: O'BRIEN Of what? KIRA (getting more depressed) The Holana river. You can see it from every room in the house. And at night... when the stars are out and all you can hear is the rushing water... it may be one of the most romantic spots on all of Bajor. That tears it for O'Brien -- he jumps out of the pilot's seat with determination. O'BRIEN That's it! I don't care what Keiko says, I'm not going. (beat) You go. I'll wait an hour and then tell Keiko that... you left without me... that there was a miscommunication about the time you were leaving. KIRA (hopeful) Think she'll buy it? O'BRIEN She'll probably accuse us of having another fight and behaving like children, but I can handle that. The important thing is to make sure that we don't get anywhere near that... that place together. KIRA (relieved) You're absolutely right. In fact, I'll go to the capital and see Shakaar. O'BRIEN That's the best idea you've had all week. O'Brien picks up his suitcase and gets ready to go. He moves to Kira and gives her a kiss on the cheek. She hugs him and he hugs her back. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 07/30/96 - ACT FIVE 57-58. 53 CONTINUED: (2) O'BRIEN Have a good trip. KIRA Thanks. They let go of each other and there's a moment as they look into each other's eyes. O'BRIEN It would've been nice... KIRA In another life. O'BRIEN Let's not even think about that. KIRA Forget I brought it up. They smile at each other and pause again, lost in the moment as they lock eyes. KIRA Miles... ? O'BRIEN Yes, Nerys? KIRA Get out. O'BRIEN Right. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 59. 53 CONTINUED: (3) O'Brien finally EXITS. Kira lets out a long, relieved sigh when he's gone. CUT TO: 54 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 55 INT. INFIRMARY Quark is lying on the table, his right arm in a makeshift sling, his face bruised and scratched, and almost every movement is painful, but he's a happy man nevertheless. Bashir is scanning him with a tricorder as Grilka and an N.D. Bajoran Nurse look on. BASHIR (off tricorder) Compound fracture of the left radius... two fractured ribs... torn ligaments... strained tendons... numerous bruises, contusions, and scratches. (closes tricorder) What have you been doing? QUARK (lascivious, re: Grilka) You mean, what have we been doing? Quark looks at Grilka and Grilka returns his smile with a predatory look of her own. BASHIR Never mind. I don't need that particular image running around in my head. I'll just... treat you. He moves to a console and begins preparing hyposprays and medical instruments. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking ... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 60. 56 NEW ANGLE As Dax and Worf ENTER, each of them leaning on the other for support. Their clothes are torn and ripped, and they're also covered in bruises and scratches. Worf is limping slightly and Dax has a hand on a painful rib. BASHIR What happened to you two? They exchange a look, not sure what they should tell him, or how to say this. WORF We... DAX Well... if you must know... BASHIR (quickly catches on) No. No. I don't need that image either. In fact, I'm going to stop asking that question altogether. People come in and I'll treat them, that's all. (beat) Have a seat in the Surgery. I'll... be with you in a minute. Worf and Dax EXIT to... 57 INT. SURGERY - CONTINUOUS Dax and Worf ENTER and Dax helps Worf ease onto the edge of the biobed. Dax smiles at him and at first he smiles back... then frowns as he begins to contemplate the future. WORF You realize that... according to Klingon tradition... DAX According to tradition, we have to get married. WORF But as you keep insisting, you are not a traditional woman. DAX And the truth is, Worf... at heart, you're not much of a traditional man. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 61. 57 CONTINUED: WORF You may be right... (beat) How... do you wish to proceed? DAX I don't know. WORF You must have some idea. You were the... DAX Aggressor? WORF Yes. And now there are many questions that must be answered. DAX I don't feel like answering questions. Why don't we just take it one day at a time and see what happens. WORF I do not like the... uncertainty of that arrangement. DAX Well, one thing's for certain... (beat) You've stopped thinking about Grilka. She looks at him and he looks at her for a moment. Then Dax smiles and Worf finally lets out a genuine burst of LAUGHTER. 58 INT. INFIRMARY Where Bashir is working on Quark. They both react to the sound of Worf's o.s. laughter. BASHIR Is he... laughing? QUARK I didn't think he knew how. Bashir moves away for another medical instrument. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Looking... " - REV. 08/08/96 - ACT FIVE 62. 58 CONTINUED: GRILKA I will take my leave now, Quark. Thank you for your... financial advice. QUARK My pleasure. I hope it was worth the trip. GRILKA The trip... had its own rewards. They smile at each other for a moment, savoring the memory. QUARK Will I see you again? GRILKA I'll be back. QUARK Don't come back too soon. I need time to heal. She looks at him for a beat, then cuts loose with her own LAUGHTER. Quark starts laughing too, but carefully because of his injuries. Bashir reacts, then another Klingon LAUGH echoes out of Surgery, this time with Dax's laughter providing a melodic counterpoint. Bashir stands there trapped between two rooms of mirth that he'd rather not think about. BASHIR There're days I really hate this job. 59 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) The station hangs in space. FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END