STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Chimera" (fka "Untitled Odo") #40510-564 Written by Rene Echevarria Directed by Steve Posey 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 1998 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 This script is not for publication or reproduction.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 18, 1998 STAR TREK: DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - CAST STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Chimera" CAST SISKO CHANGELING KIRA KLINGON ODO DEPUTY BASHIR O'BRIEN WORF EZRI QUARK Non-Speaking Non-Speaking N.D. SUPERNUMERARIES N.D KLINGON STAR TREK: DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - SETS STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Chimera" SETS INTERIORS EXTERIORS DEEP SPACE NINE DEEP SPACE NINE CAPTAIN'S OFFICE RUNABOUT PROMENADE/LOWER LEVEL PROMENADE/SECOND LEVEL ODO'S QUARTERS SECURITY OFFICE QUARK'S KIRA'S QUARTERS/BEDROOM HABITAT RING CORRIDOR HOLDING CELLS AIRLOCK CORRIDOR REPLIMAT RUNABOUT DS9 - "Chimera" - 11/18/98 - PRONUNCIATION STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Chimera" PRONUNCIATION GUIDE VARALA vuh-RAW-luh VARALLANS vuh-RAW-luhns SPACE-DIZEN space DIE-zen LAAS LAH-z VOLG volg KORALIS kuh-RAWL-uhs DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 1. STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE "Chimera" TEASER FADE IN: 1 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL) traveling at impulse. 2 INT. RUNABOUT ODO is in the cockpit, studying a small GLASS KNICKKNACK. As he holds it up to the light, its faceted surface twinkles with color. O'BRIEN ENTERS from the back, having just woken from a nap. He's wearing his hand phaser. O'BRIEN (moving to the replicator) How long was I asleep? ODO Almost two hours. O'Brien's surprised to hear he was asleep that long, gets a MUG of coffee from the replicator. O'BRIEN (noticing) You dropped out of warp -- we must be getting close to home. ODO (nods) We entered the Bajoran system a few minutes ago. O'BRIEN (taking a seat) What's that? ODO The shopkeeper I bought it from called it a knickknack. O'BRIEN I didn't know you collected knickknacks. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 TEASER 2. 2 CONTINUED: ODO It's a present for Kira. O'Brien's features falter at hearing this. ODO (misunderstanding) You don't think she'll like it? O'BRIEN I'm sure she will. It's just... I didn't get anything for Keiko. ODO (trying to make him feel better) The conference kept you pretty busy... O'BRIEN (kicking himself) You made time to get something. O'Brien's eyes fall to a small wooden BOX sitting on the console next to Odo, labeled with alien lettering. O'BRIEN Not chocolates too? ODO Rigelian chocolates. Her favorite. O'Brien eyes them for a beat. O'BRIEN I'll buy them from you. ODO I beg your pardon? O'BRIEN I'll buy them from you. Come on, Odo, you don't need to give Kira two presents. We were only gone a day. ODO I'm sorry, but the answer's no. O'Brien is about to protest when a proximity ALARM SOUNDS and the ship goes to RED ALERT -- both men turn to their consoles to find out what it is. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 3. 2 CONTINUED: (2) O'BRIEN There's something behind us. ODO And it's gaining fast. 3 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (OPTICAL) as a spacefaring LIFEFORM rapidly approaches. Its body is smooth and cylindrical, and it propels itself with a pulsating motion. As it "swims" alongside the Runabout, we see that it's almost as big as the ship. 4 INT. RUNABOUT (OPTICAL) THROUGH THE WINDOW, Odo and O'Brien see the creature swimming in front of the runabout. O'BRIEN You think it's friendly? ODO I hope so. O'BRIEN It certainly seems to have taken an interest in us. Suddenly the creature DROPS BACK OUT OF THEIR SIGHT. A beat, then it SLAMS against the side of the runabout, JOSTLING them in their seats. O'BRIEN Uh-oh. ODO (off console) It's gone. O'BRIEN What? ODO (puzzled) According to the sensors, there's nothing out there. O'BRIEN Where'd it go? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - TEASER 4. 4 CONTINUED: A strange SOUND from behind them gets their attention. They exchange puzzled looks, move to investigate. Suddenly the SOUND again, from a different part of the runabout. It's almost like something is moving around behind the walls. The SOUND again, this time from near a VENT situated near the back of the compartment. They move to it cautiously. As they lean close to listen, a mass of changeling PROTOPLASM suddenly SHOOTS from the vent. 5 ODO AND O'BRIEN as they jump back, turn to look behind them. ODO A changeling. 6 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL) as it MORPHS into humanoid form. Although its face is similar to Odo's in that its features are smooth and somewhat ill-defined, it's modeled on a humanoid species we've never seen before. It's definitely male, and we get the sense that he's a bit more adept at mimicking faces than Odo, as his features are more expressive. He wears alien-looking CLOTHES that are more practical than decorative. O'Brien trains his weapon on him, but the changeling's attention is fixed on Odo alone. Off this moment, we... FADE OUT. END OF TEASER DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 5. ACT ONE FADE IN: (NOTE: Episode credits fall over opening scenes.) 7 INT. RUNABOUT - MOMENTS LATER O'Brien keeps his weapon trained on the intruder, whose eyes are fixed on Odo. The Changeling carries himself with a proud bearing, and when he speaks it's with a direct, urgent manner. O'BRIEN Stay where you are, or I'll fire. The Changeling ignores him, stares at Odo. CHANGELING You -- you're a Metamorph? ODO I'm a changeling, yes. The Changeling can't believe he's finally found another of his kind. CHANGELING (to Odo) Tell the mono-form to put down its weapon. Odo isn't about to do any such thing until he gets some answers. ODO Why did you board our ship? CHANGELING Because I sensed you were here. I had to see if it was true -- if I'd finally found another Metamorph. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 6. 7 CONTINUED: ODO You've never met another Shape-shifter? CHANGELING (stepping forward) I've been trying to find others of my kind for a long time. O'BRIEN (brandishing his phaser) I told you to stay where you were. O'Brien can see that Odo's starting to believe the Changeling's story, but he's not so sure. O'BRIEN How do we know he's not a Founder? The Changeling doesn't seem to recognize the word. ODO He isn't. (trusting his instincts) He's one of the hundred. CHANGELING The hundred? ODO Over the centuries, our people sent a hundred "infant" changelings out into the galaxy. We were to learn about other species, and eventually return home to share what we'd experienced. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 7. 7 CONTINUED: (2) The Changeling tries to make sense of what he's being told. CHANGELING That would explain why I was alone on Varala. (to Odo) I didn't even know what I was at first... or that I could assume other forms. Odo can't help but be drawn in by someone who shared the same experiences he did. ODO I was the same way. O'Brien can see that Odo's buying the Changeling's story, but he's not convinced. O'BRIEN Odo, I hate to interrupt... but shouldn't we get him in a containment field until we're sure he's telling the truth? Part of Odo knows he's right, but his instincts are telling him it isn't necessary. CHANGELING (to Odo) I'll allow myself to be taken prisoner to show my good faith, but only if you vouch for my safety. (eyeing O'Brien) I don't trust humanoids. Odo nods, sealing the deal. Off this moment... 8 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 8. 9 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE Odo has told SISKO about the changeling, and the captain is wary about what he's heard. SISKO Where's is he now? ODO In a holding cell. Odo sees that Sisko is understandably concerned about this mysterious changeling, does his best to put him at ease. ODO Captain, he's not a threat to us. He's just a changeling who's traveled a long way to find out where he came from. SISKO So you believe his story? ODO Yes, sir. But Sisko is unconvinced. SISKO How can we be sure he's not a Founder? ODO If he were, he'd be infected with the same disease that's afflicting the entire Link. I had Doctor Bashir scan him. His morphogenic matrix is as stable as mine. Sisko considers this for a beat... ODO Sir, with your permission, I'd like to release him. SISKO Constable, I'm sure you can appreciate why I'd have reservations about that. We're at war with your people. And the Founders have deceived us before. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 8A. 9 CONTINUED: ODO I realize that. But he's not a Founder. He's one of the hundred, I'm sure of it. (beat) Sir, I'm asking you to trust me on this. Sisko studies Odo for a beat; he can see how much this means to him. Fighting his reservations, he gives in because he feels he owes it to Odo. SISKO All right, Constable. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 9. 9 CONTINUED: (2) SISKO (Cont'd) I'm releasing him into your custody. Odo's elated, but as always, he doesn't show it. ODO Thank you, sir. Off Sisko as he watches Odo go, hoping he's doing the right thing... 10 INT. PROMENADE - UPPER LEVEL Odo and the Changeling walk and talk. ODO -- when I found out our people were the leaders of the Dominion, I realized I had no place with them. This war they're fighting is wrong. CHANGELING I can understand their distrust of humanoids, but why try to conquer them? (glancing at the passersby) Better to avoid them altogether. ODO You don't much care for humanoids. CHANGELING I know from experience they don't much care for changelings. ODO I think you'll find the people here are different. CHANGELING Oh? ODO They've accepted me. The Changeling looks skeptical. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 10. 10 CONTINUED: CHANGELING Have they? (beat) Is that why you've stayed? Odo isn't sure what he means. ODO I told you, I want no part of the Founders. CHANGELING But what about the hundred that were sent out -- haven't you ever tried to find any of them? ODO No. The Changeling seems surprised to hear this. ODO It's a big galaxy. They could be anywhere. CHANGELING I found you. Odo finds himself feeling a bit defensive. ODO I have a life here, friends. The Changeling begins to realize something... CHANGELING When did you first take humanoid form? ODO A little over thirty years ago. CHANGELING So that's it. This is all still new to you. I spent the first part of my life living among humanoids, as well. ODO How long ago was that? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 11. 10 CONTINUED: (2) CHANGELING Over two hundred years. (off Odo's surprise) I must've been sent out earlier than you. ODO (trying to make sense of it) Or it could be that I was adrift for a long time before I was found. CHANGELING Either way, it explains why you've chosen to stay here. I was fascinated by humanoid life in the beginning, too. Being treated like a "youngster" doesn't sit well with Odo. ODO But you... lost interest. CHANGELING I found it... limiting. (besides) The Varalans never accepted me as one of them. I wasn't able to fully mimic their appearance. ODO Faces aren't easy. CHANGELING No. And humanoids aren't very tolerant of difference. ODO Some of them are. There are dozens of species living on this station, and they tolerate each other's differences quite well. CHANGELING (glancing around) He has bumps on his forehead and she has a wrinkled nose -- but they're basically alike. They're bipeds that eat, sleep and breathe. You and I are nothing like them. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 12. 10 CONTINUED: (3) Odo doesn't see the problem -- ODO We're changelings. We can be like them when we choose. CHANGELING I choose to do so as little as possible. That's where we differ. Odo lets this go because he has no desire to argue with him. ODO Why don't I show you where you'll be staying? The Changeling nods, and we cut to -- 11 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR as Odo and the Changeling ENTER. ODO You haven't told me your name. CHANGELING The Varalans called me Laas. In their language it means "changeable." Not very imaginative, is it? ODO At least it's appropriate. My name means "unknown sample." The scientist who found me didn't know what I was. 11A INT. ODO'S QUARTERS They ENTER. ODO These are my quarters. I'll be staying... (with Kira, but he'd rather not get into it) -- somewhere else. Feel free to shape-shift as you please. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 12A. 11A CONTINUED: ODO (cont'd) Some of these forms are quite interesting. The Changeling runs his hand along the jungle-gym, detecting a thin layer of dust. CHANGELING This hasn't been used in some time. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 13. 11A CONTINUED: (2) For some reason Odo finds himself feeling defensive around this man, and his simple statement of fact feels to him like an accusation. ODO I've been busy. The Changeling notices a PICTURE of Kira sitting on Odo's computer console. CHANGELING Who's this? ODO Her name's Kira. The Changeling studies the picture for a beat without comment. CHANGELING I had a mate once. ODO (surprised) Oh? CHANGELING On Varala. Not long after I assumed humanoid form. ODO What happened? CHANGELING We couldn't have children. That was important to her. This is a touchy subject for Odo, something he's wondered about in his relationship with Kira. CHANGELING (with characteristic bluntness) Is it something that matters to this Kira? ODO We've never discussed it. CHANGELING Neither did we, at first. Without his meaning to, the Changeling's words twist Odo's heart. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 14. 11A CONTINUED: (3) CHANGELING Do our people reproduce? ODO It's a little more complicated than that. In our natural state, we don't exist as separate entities. CHANGELING I don't understand. ODO Our people spend most of their time in the Link. CHANGELING The Link? ODO It involves... a melding into one -- the merging of thought and form, idea and sensation. CHANGELING You're speaking in riddles. ODO It's difficult to explain. CHANGELING Then don't. Show me. ODO Of course. Odo realizes that the Changeling's right, there's no need to use words. But why didn't he think of it himself? Odo approaches the Changeling and extends his hand to him. ODO Take it. Without hesitation, he reaches and clasps Odo's hand. 12 CLOSE - THEIR HANDS (OPTICAL) Odo's hand begins to MORPH around the Changeling's. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 15. 13 THE CHANGELING reacts to the sensation. Then as if by instinct, he allows -- 14 HIS HAND (OPTICAL) to go to a GELATINOUS state and merge with Odo's. 15 ODO His features are calm, almost solemn, as if he understands that it's a sacred trust to share the Link with a changeling who hasn't experienced it before. 16 ODO AND THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL) As their bodies start to come together into A SINGLE MASS OF ROILING SHAPESHIFTER ENERGY... DISSOLVE TO: 16A INT. ODO'S QUARTERS - LATER (FORMERLY SCENE 17) The Changeling is standing at the window staring out at the stars. Odo watches from a discreet distance, knowing he's gone through a profound experience. CHANGELING For the first time in my life... I understand how I was meant to exist... The Changeling turns to look at Odo. CHANGELING You've given up a great deal to stay here. For the first time ever, Odo's met someone who can fully understand that fact. ODO I have. (beat) But I won't have anything to do with the Founders and their war. The Changeling fixes him with a knowing look. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT ONE 15A. 16A CONTINUED: CHANGELING Odo, we Linked. I know the truth. You've stayed because of Kira. If it wasn't for her, you'd be with our people. War or no war, you'd be a Founder. Ode's never had to face this truth about himself, never had to hear it put into words. Off his face as he struggles with what it means, we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT ONE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 16-17. ACT TWO FADE IN: 17 OMITTED 18 INT. SECURITY OFFICE Odo is sitting at his desk, lost in thought, a few PADDs all but ignored in front of him. A moment, then KIRA ENTERS. KIRA Hi. Odo snaps out of his reverie, offers her a smile. ODO Hello, Nerys. KIRA (happy for him) I can't believe it. Another changeling. What's he like? ODO He's... complicated. KIRA (gently teasing) Like you. She takes his hand, smiles. A beat, then she senses something. KIRA Are you all right? ODO I'm fine. KIRA You seem... far away. A beat, then Odo tells her why. ODO We Linked. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 18. 18 CONTINUED: This is the first Kira's heard of it, and she's not sure what to make of it. KIRA I see. Odo realizes why she might be worried about it. ODO There's nothing to worry about. He's not a Founder, he's not trying to lure me to the Dominion. She nods, trying to shake off the unease she feels. ODO The Link is part of what we are. It comes as naturally to us as talking does to humanoids. Kira can't help feeling a little insecure about the fact that she's not capable of sharing it with him. KIRA It's a little more... personal than talking, isn't it? ODO I suppose... KIRA So. Do I get to meet him? Odo has the uneasy feeling that this meeting may not go well. ODO If you like. KIRA I would. ODO Then I'll arrange it. And off this moment... 19 INT. QUARK'S Kira is at the bar with BASHIR, EZRI and O'Brien. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 19. 19 CONTINUED: KIRA There they are. Odo and the Changeling approach from the entrance to the Promenade. The Changeling seems less than thrilled to be here, but he's going along for Odo's sake. ODO This is Laas. KIRA BASHIR Nerys. Julian. EZRI Ezri. O'BRIEN Miles. CHANGELING (even) We've met. O'Brien tries to put what happened behind them. O'BRIEN Look, I'm sorry. We didn't know who you were at first. You gave us a bit of a scare when you rammed the runabout. The Changeling says nothing to let O'Brien off the hook. A beat, then Ezri tries to keep things going. EZRI I've always wondered how it would feel to be able to fly through space like that. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20. 19 CONTINUED: (2) CHANGELING (matter of fact) It's a shame you're incapable of experiencing it. EZRI (put off) Guess so... Odo stares at the Changeling, wishing he'd try a little harder to make conversation. Another uncomfortable silence, then Kira steps into the breach. KIRA Tell us about Varala. BASHIR No Federation ship's ever been there. CHANGELING It's just like any other planet that's overrun with humanoids. Cities and farms everywhere -- other lifeforms displaced from their habitats. I once migrated to the southern continent with a herd of volg. By the time we returned to the breeding grounds the next summer, they'd been fenced off. The herd died out within two generations. Our people don't know quite what to say. CHANGELING It's the same on any planet where humanoids thrive. They disrupt the natural balance. Just then, Quark arrives with a plate. QUARK Who ordered the vilm-steak? An awkward moment... BASHIR Just... keep it warm for me. QUARK Whatever you say... Quark moves off. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20A. 19 CONTINUED: (3) CHANGELING The truth is, I prefer the so- called primitive lifeforms. They exist as they were meant to, following their instincts. No words to get in the way, no lies or deceptions. O'BRIEN We're not the ones who can disguise ourselves as anything we want. After all the things the Changeling's said to him about humanoids, Odo finds that he's not sure how to take this. ODO Meaning? CHANGELING Meaning Shape-shifters aren't to be trusted. An uncomfortable moment as O'Brien chafes at having his words twisted around. O'BRIEN I trust Odo. CHANGELING Of course you trust Odo. Look at him. You've convinced him that he's as limited as you are. ODO Laas. EZRI (playfully) He's seen through our evil plan. BASHIR Foiled again. KIRA It's not funny. CHANGELING No, I'm worried for him. KIRA Odo can take care of himself. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 20B. 19 CONTINUED: (4) Odo decides to pull the plug on the evening before it gets any worse. ODO Well. Thank you, colonel. It's been interesting. We should be going now. If you'll excuse us, colonel, counselor, chief, doctor. (standing) I'm glad we came by. (turning to the door) Laas... With a last look our people's way, the Changeling heads for the door. Odo glances at Kira apologetically, then follows. 0'BRIEN (can't resist) Nice to see you again. And off our people as they exchange what-was-that-all- about looks... 20 INT. PROMENADE - SECOND LEVEL Odo is confronting the Changeling over what happened in Quark's. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 21. 20 CONTINUED: ODO Was it really necessary to insult my friends? CHANGELING I was merely speaking my mind. ODO You could call it that. CHANGELING Humanoids are tragic creatures. They've lost the ability to take joy from simply existing... yet they haven't evolved to the next level -- where consciousness exists independent of form. ODO You're certainly not afraid to make grand generalizations. CHANGELING I've been many things in my time. I speak from experience. The Changeling turns to Odo, sees that he's unconvinced. He smiles, extends his hand. CHANGELING Enough talk. Link with me. ODO Here? CHANGELING Why not? ODO I don't think that's a good idea. The Changeling sees Odo glance at some passersby, realizes the problem. CHANGELING You're embarrassed. It's true, but Odo doesn't want to admit it. ODO No... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 22. 20 CONTINUED: (2) CHANGELING You don't want to do anything to remind them that you're not truly a humanoid. ODO I don't go out of my way to point it out, no. CHANGELING Why? Are you afraid they'll reject you? ODO (defensive) I don't like to confront people with something that might make them uncomfortable. CHANGELING So you deny your true nature in order to fit in. ODO You're reading too much into it. CHANGELING Before I came here, when was the last time you assumed another form? Odo hesitates, and that's answer enough for the Changeling. CHANGELING You can't even remember. You've been pretending to be a humanoid for so long, it doesn't occur to you that you can be anything else. ODO That's not true. I've been involved with other things lately. CHANGELING Like what? Courting Kira? She can't even Link with you. ODO Leave her out of this. CHANGELING It won't last. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT TWO 23. 20 CONTINUED: (3) ODO The fact that your relationship failed doesn't mean mine will. CHANGELING True. If you're lucky, you'll get to watch her grow old and die. ODO I think you should stay out of my affairs. CHANGELING Odo, I don't want to see you make the same mistakes I made. You're wasting your time trying to be a humanoid. You're limiting yourself. The Changeling takes him by the shoulder, tries to convince him that there's a better way. CHANGELING Let's leave, Odo. Let's find the others. A hundred were sent away -- they're out there somewhere, and if we can find even a few of them, we can form a new Link. Think of it. We can exist the way we were meant to. As Changelings. And off Odo's face as he grapples with what he's being offered, we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT TWO DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 24. ACT THREE FADE IN: 21 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS Since her promotion to colonel, Kira has taken up residence in a larger set of quarters, the three window kind. Her belongings from her old quarters are in evidence here, as well as some recent acquisitions, including the knickknack Odo gave her. Odo and Kira are sitting close on the couch, sharing an intimate moment. KIRA I can't believe he actually thought you'd drop everything and leave with him. ODO He just can't understand why I'd want to stay. KIRA How'd he take it when you said no? (off Odo's hesitation) You did say no, didn't you? ODO I told him I'd think about it. (quickly pointing out why) I didn't want to dismiss it out of hand. He would've taken offense. Kira studies his face... ODO Why are you looking at me like that? KIRA It bothers me that he thinks you're not happy here. (troubled) It makes me wonder if he knows something I don't. ODO What makes you say that? KIRA He Linked with you. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 25. 21 CONTINUED: Odo realizes what she's getting at, and that it troubles her deeply. KIRA Something about it must've given him the impression that you might want to leave. ODO It was just wishful thinking on his part. The thought of the two of us going off together to find the others -- (getting caught up in it) -- exploring the galaxy as changelings, it's very alluring. (catching himself) To him. KIRA Sounds like it's alluring to you, too. ODO (gently reassuring her) I'm happy here. A moment, then he pulls her close. Kira snuggles against his chest for a quiet moment. KIRA I'm sorry I can't Link with you. Even as she says it, she knows the answer -- how could he not want that? Odo doesn't see any point in saying it out loud and hurting her feelings, and so he says the only thing he can say. ODO It doesn't matter, Nerys... I love you... And it's answer enough. Off the image of them holding each other close, each lost in their own thoughts... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 26. 22 INT. HABITAT RING CORRIDOR as Odo approaches the door to his quarters. 23 INT. ODO'S QUARTERS (OPTICAL) as Odo ENTERS and stops short when he sees a FLAME burning in the center of the room, suspended about a few feet off the ground. ODO (instinctively) Computer, activate fire suppression sys-- He trails off when the FLAME FLICKERS brightly, almost as if in reaction to his words. Then it hits him -- fire doesn't float in the air, the flame is the Changeling. ODO Laas... ? 24 CLOSE - THE FLAME (PRACTICAL EFFECT) as it FLICKERS again in response. 25 ODO stares at it, takes a step closer. ODO I need to talk to you... We hear the SOUND of an off-screen morph, then cut to -- 26 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL) as he just finishes MORPHING into humanoid form. He studies Odo for a beat with a knowing smile. CHANGELING You didn't realize it was me. Did you even know we could exist as fire? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 27. 26 CONTINUED: In truth, Odo didn't. CHANGELING I didn't think so. No matter. Once we're away from here, I'll teach you to become things you've never even dreamed of. He smiles, relishing the thought of the quest they're about to embark on. ODO I'm not leaving. I'm staying here. The Changeling can't believe Odo would make such a mistake. CHANGELING (anger flaring) Why? So you can keep pretending to be one of them? Odo doesn't rise to the bait, he's not going to defend his life here because he doesn't feel he has to. ODO I'm sorry if you're disappointed. The Changeling dismisses this with a wave of his hand. CHANGELING I'll survive. (beat) When I find some of the others, I'll send for you. (sure of it) You'll change your mind and join us. ODO It could be a long time before you find another Changeling. CHANGELING Is that supposed to discourage me? ODO All I'm saying is that you don't have to leave right away. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 27A. 26 CONTINUED: (2) ODO (cont'd) I wouldn't mind the company of another Changeling. I'm sure you wouldn't either. Odo's right, but the Changeling can't resist needling him. CHANGELING All right, Odo, I won't abandon you to these mono-forms. (wry smile) As a favor to you, I'll stay for a while. ODO (dry) You might as well. If you can't get along with me, what makes you think you'll get along with any other Changeling? This elicits a rare smile from the Changeling. CHANGELING True enough. (beat) Just remember, I have no interest in mono-forms, even if they are your "friends." ODO After what happened in Quark's, I don't think you have to worry about an overcrowded social schedule. CHANGELING Good. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 26. 26 CONTINUED: (3) A moment between them, then he extends his hand to Odo, who reaches and takes it. 27 CLOSE - THEIR HANDS (OPTICAL) as they begin to MORPH together... 28 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 29 INT. SECURITY OFFICE Odo is working at his desk, studying a PADD. A beat, then something catches his attention out on the Promenade. 30 INT. PROMENADE The area is covered with a thick GROUND FOG. TWO BAJORAN CHILDREN run and play in it, until their MOTHER rushes out and pulls them away. TWO KLINGONS can be seen surveying the goings on suspiciously. 31 O'BRIEN AND BASHIR stand in the center of the Promenade, puzzled by the mist swirling around their feet. O'BRIEN (annoyed) Great. The environmental system's out again. BASHIR There goes our holosuite reservation... DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 29. 31 CONTINUED: O'BRIEN I'm going to find out what the problem is. Odo steps toward them. ODO Don't bother, Chief. There's nothing wrong with the environmental system. O'BRIEN Then where's this fog coming from? ODO It's not fog. It's Laas. O'BRIEN (unnerved) Laas? Bashir and O'Brien exchange an uncomfortable look -- there's something creepy about knowing there's a lifeform swirling at your feet. BASHIR What's he doing? Odo's annoyed with Laas for doing this, but even so, he's a little irked by their reactions. ODO Being fog, what's it look like? O'BRIEN Can't he be fog somewhere else? BASHIR Or at night, when no one's around? ODO He's not hurting anyone. O'BRIEN Still. It's... creepy. BASHIR (re: the fog) Careful, Miles. He might hear you. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 29A. 31 CONTINUED: (2) O'BRIEN Good. With that, they move off. Odo frowns at the fog, addresses it. ODO Laas. The fog ignores him. ODO Laas. 32 THE FOG (PRACTICAL EFFECT) as it starts to SWIRL and COALESCE at a single point on the Promenade. DEEP SPACE NINE: "'Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 30. 33 ODO notices the two Klingons watching this with scowls on their faces. 33A THE FOG (OPTICAL) as it starts to come together to form a humanoid shape. 33B ODO as he crosses away from the Klingons, toward the point where the fog is coming together. 34 THE CHANGELING (OPTICAL) as he just finishes MORPHING into humanoid form. Odo approaches him with a frown. ODO Congratulations. You managed to disrupt the entire Promenade. CHANGELING I was just relaxing. ODO If you want to "relax," do it in private. CHANGELING Did I embarrass you? Suddenly a voice rings out KLINGON Ka'vek! (You there!) Odo and the Changeling turn to see the two Klingons standing nearby. KLINGON What is that Founder doing here? ODO He's not a Founder. Now move along. The Klingon knows better than to tangle with Odo, but he can't resist a parting shot the Changeling's way. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 31. 34 CONTINUED: KLINGON Don't change form in my presence again. CHANGELING I change form where I please. The Klingon bristles, glaring at the Changeling. CHANGELING (to Odo) Look at him. Look at the hate in his eyes. ODO Laas. KLINGON Your hands are stained with the blood of Klingon warriors. CHANGELING (raising his hands palm up) But then, the stench would still be on them. KLINGON P'tak! The Klingon unsheathes the KNIFE hanging from his belt, brandishes it threateningly. The moment hangs in the air for a beat, then the Changeling holds up his hand and -- 34A A KNIFE MORPHS (OPTICAL) into his grip. CHANGELING Mine's bigger. KLINGON (defend yourself!) Ke'chaw! Odo lunges forward, disarming the Klingon. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT THREE 32. 35 THE SECOND KLINGON goes for his belt -- from which hang both a KNIFE and a DISRUPTOR. 36 THE CHANGELING reacts instinctively, snaps his arm toward the second Klingon. We hear a sharp metallic SOUND and cut to -- 37 THE SECOND KLINGON impaled on the BLADE of the Changeling's knife, which he's extended by a few feet. 38 ODO reacting to this deadly turn of events. 39 THE SECOND KLINGON (OPTICAL) as the BLADE quickly RETRACTS to its former length and he falls to the ground dead. 40 ODO turns to Laas, who's standing over the dead Klingon. Off this moment we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT THREE DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 33. ACT FOUR FADE IN: 41 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE Sisko, Odo and WORF are discussing what happened. SISKO (grim) Doctor Bashir wasn't able to save the Klingon's life. General Martok has asked that Laas be detained until the magistrate has determined jurisdiction. ODO Jurisdiction? SISKO The Klingons want to extradite him. ODO That's ridiculous. He killed that Klingon in self-defense. WORF That is in dispute. ODO He was about to draw his disruptor. WORF According to the other Klingon, he was reaching for his dagger. SISKO (to Odo) Are you saying that's not true? ODO It happened too fast. But their intentions were obvious. One of them put a knife in his chest. SISKO The Klingons are arguing that since Laas knew he couldn't be harmed by a knife, he wasn't justified in responding with deadly force. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 34. 41 CONTINUED: Odo's heard enough -- it's clear to him what's really going on. ODO Since when do Klingons resort to legal quibbling? They get involved in fights all the time and never file charges. It isn't "honorable." Odo's right, but neither Sisko nor Worf seem too interested in questioning their motives. SISKO In this case, they're choosing to exercise their rights under the law. ODO Sir, they're only doing this because they distrust changelings. WORF He should not have provoked them. ODO Provoked them? They attacked Laas. SISKO (off a PADD) They're claiming that he "surrounded them menacingly." It takes Odo a moment to realize what they mean. ODO They felt menaced? By fog? But Sisko doesn't dismiss it that easily. SISKO They weren't the only ones. Twelve other people filed complaints. ODO Is it a crime to shape-shift on the Promenade? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 35. 41 CONTINUED: (2) SISKO It may not be a crime, but obviously it's not a good idea. Odo stares at Sisko in disbelief. All the things Laas has said to him about how humanoids hate changelings are echoing in his head. ODO You're going to allow the Klingons extradite him... knowing they won't give him a fair trial... SISKO It's not my decision. It's up to the magistrate. ODO But you'd just as soon be rid of him. You didn't want him on the station in the first place. I practically had to beg you to let him out of that holding cell. SISKO (sharp) That's enough, Constable. Odo stiffens, holds his tongue. SISKO Now. General Martok has expressed concerns about our security arrangements. ODO Meaning? SISKO He doesn't feel it's appropriate that you be in charge of the prisoner. Odo bristles at hearing this. ODO May I ask why? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36. 41 CONTINUED: (3) They both know why, because Odo's a changeling. But the official legal reason is this: SISKO Because you're a witness to the alleged crime. ODO (sardonic) That's a relief. For a moment I thought you were going to say it's because I'm a changeling. And with that, he turns and EXITS. Off Sisko and Worf as they watch him go... 41A INT. PROMENADE/SECURITY OFFICE Odo is heading for his office when Quark calls out to him. QUARK Odo. (approaching) I heard about your friend. Rumor has it the Klingons want to put him on trial. ODO (heading inside) They're the ones who should be on trial. If they'd attacked anyone other than a changeling, they would be. Odo is expecting Quark to disagree with him, but instead -- QUARK You're probably right. Odo looks at him with surprise. QUARK That fog episode certainly didn't help matters. ODO He was only doing what comes naturally to us. QUARK You've never pulled a stunt like that. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36A. 41A CONTINUED: QUARK (Cont'd) You're smart enough to know people don't want to be reminded that you're different. (with a shiver) Who wants to see someone turn into goo? I hope you don't do that around Kira. ODO Why shouldn't I? QUARK If she's anything like me. She'd rather you didn't. We humanoids are the product of millions of years of evolution. Our ancestors learned the hard way that what you don't know might kill you. They wouldn't have survived if they hadn't jumped back when they encountered a snake coiled in the muck. And now millions of years later, that instinct is still there. Quark has an agenda here -- he's worried for Odo, but he's not about to come out and say so. QUARK It's genetic. Our tolerance for other lifeforms doesn't extend beyond the two arm, two leg variety. I hate to break it to you, but when you're in your natural state, you're more than our poor old genes can handle. ODO (dismissive) What are you saying, Quark? That the Klingons couldn't help what they did because of their genes? QUARK I'm not trying to excuse what they did. I'm only telling you why it happened. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 36B. 41A CONTINUED: (2) QUARK (Cont'd) (concerned for his friend) Watch your step, Odo. We're at war with your people. This is no time for a changeling pride demonstration on the Promenade. And with that, Quark turns and EXITS. Off Odo's face as he watches him go... 42 INT. HOLDING CELLS A BAJORAN DEPUTY mans the security console. Odo ENTERS and approaches him, chafing at having to ask one of his own people for permission to see a prisoner. DEPUTY Constable. ODO I'd like to have a few minutes alone with the prisoner. The Deputy is loyal to his commanding officer, and embarrassed about having to do this. DEPUTY Sorry, sir. I have my orders. Odo nods, moves to the Holding Cell. 43 THE CHANGELING is sitting on the back bench. He looks up at him as he approaches, regards him with a resigned air. ODO I don't know what to say... CHANGELING You could say that you were wrong. That the people here are no different from any other humanoids. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 37. 43 CONTINUED: Odo doesn't have the heart to defend them anymore. ODO Hopefully this will all get straightened out at your hearing. CHANGELING (dry) I'm sure it will be fair and impartial. ODO Just tell them exactly what happened. CHANGELING My word against a humanoid's? Who do you think this magistrate is going to believe? Considering what happened, Odo's afraid the answer is all too clear. ODO I shouldn't have convinced you to stay here. If I'd let you go, none of this would've happened. CHANGELING My only consolation is that this may finally make you understand you don't belong here. You saw the hatred in that Klingon's eyes. Maybe now you'll recognize it when you see it hiding in the faces of your so-called friends. He moves close to the plain of the forcefield, trying to drive home his point. CHANGELING They tolerate you because you emulate them. What higher flattery is there? "I, who can be anything, choose to be like you." (beat) But even when you make yourself in their image, they know that you aren't truly one of them. What you appear to be doesn't reflect what you really are. It's only a mask. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 38. 43 CONTINUED: (2) CHANGELING (Cont'd) What lies underneath is alien to them. So they fear it... and their fear can turn to hate in the blink of an eye... And off Odo's face as he ponders his words... 44 INT. ODO'S QUARTERS Kira is trying to calm an agitated Odo. ODO They're going to extradite him. KIRA You don't know that. ODO Yes, I do. And no one's going to do anything to stop it. KIRA There's not much anyone can do. ODO If he weren't a changeling, the captain would find a way to intervene. KIRA That's not fair. ODO Isn't it? KIRA You're starting to sound like Laas. ODO Maybe that's because I'm starting to see things more clearly now. KIRA What does that mean? ODO (taking her by the shoulders) Look at me, Nerys. What do you see? Kira's not sure what he's getting at. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 39. 44 CONTINUED: KIRA I see you. ODO No. This is just a form I've borrowed. I could just as easily be someone else or something else. KIRA I know that. But... (taking his shoulders) ... this is what you've chosen to be. A man whose good and honorable. And who I fell in love with. (pained) Are you telling me that man never really existed? ODO (anguished) I don't know... He turns away, trying to sort out what he's feeling. ODO I care about you more than anyone I've ever known... these last few months have been the happiest of my life. (a difficult admission) But even so, a part of me wishes that Laas and I were out there right now -- searching for the others, existing as changelings. Because that's what I am. Not a humanoid, a changeling. He turns away from her, not knowing how to deal with the turmoil inside him. After a long moment... KIRA (softly) You're right. Maybe you should be out there... And with that, she turns and EXITS. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 40. 44 CONTINUED: (2) Off Odo as he gazes out at the stars... 45 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. 46 INT. HOLDING CELLS (OPTICAL) Kira ENTERS and approaches the Guard at his console. DEPUTY Can I help you, colonel? KIRA I need to talk to the prisoner. (beat) Alone. DEPUTY Aye, sir. He heads for the door and EXITS. Kira moves to the Holding Cell, looks in on the Changeling. They regard each other for a long beat, then Kira reaches and works the control PANEL on the wall and the forcefield FRITZES OFF. He looks at her with surprise. KIRA Go to the third planet in the Koralis System. There's an orbital tether running down to an abandoned mining complex. I'll tell Odo to meet you there. He stares at her suspiciously. CHANGELING Is this some kind of trick? Kira shakes her head in disbelief. KIRA Do you want to get out of here or not? He decides she's telling the truth, steps toward the entrance to the holding cell. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FOUR 41. 46 CONTINUED: KIRA (pointing it out) That vent. It'll lead you through some conduits to an airlock. Before going, he studies her face for a beat, trying to make sense of her unexpected gesture. CHANGELING Why? A beat. KIRA Because I love him. He stares at her as if she's belying everything he's ever thought about humanoids. And off the moment between them we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FOUR DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 42. ACT FIVE FADE IN: 47 INT. CAPTAIN'S OFFICE Sisko, Odo, and Worf are reacting to Kira's news. SISKO Escaped? How did he get through the containment field? KIRA I can't explain it, all I can tell you is what I saw. He turned himself into some kind of... plasma energy and forced his way through. ("kicking herself") Before I could stop him, he disappeared into an air vent. Odo has to fight to keep from showing that he's privately pleased about the changeling's escape. WORF According to the operations log, one of the airlocks was activated shortly after that. SISKO If he left the station, why didn't our sensors detect him? WORF A Corvallen Freighter was leaving at about the same time. He must have shadowed it to keep from being spotted. KIRA He could be anywhere by now. Sisko takes this in with a grim nod. SISKO General Martok's not going to be happy about this... WORF By fleeing, the changeling has demonstrated his guilt. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 43. 47 CONTINUED: ODO (sardonic) Either that, or his lack of faith in our justice system. Worf stiffens, but ignores Odo's remark -- WORF He must be apprehended and brought to trial. SISKO (to Worf) Have all available runabouts begin a sector-wide search. WORF Aye, sir. ODO (under his breath) Good luck... Sisko shoots Odo a pointed look. SISKO It may be a long shot, but I'm sure you agree that we should do everything we can to find him. ODO Of course. SISKO Dismissed. Off Sisko as he watches the others file out... 48 INT. OPS Odo and Kira are stepping into the turbolift as Worf returns to his console. 49 INT. TURBOLIFT ODO Level Nine. As the Turbolift starts to descend, Kira turns to study Odo's face. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 44. 49 CONTINUED: KIRA You didn't hide it very well. (off his look) That you're glad he got away. Odo feels he can be honest with her now that they're alone. He allows himself a small smile, almost proud of what the changeling did. ODO I should've known he'd be able to escape. What's a forcefield to a changeling with his abilities? Kira takes a beat, decides it's time to tell him the truth. KIRA You said you wish you were out there with him. It's not too late. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 45. 49 CONTINUED: (2) ODO I don't understand... KIRA He's waiting for you. At an abandoned mine on Koralis Three. Odo stares at her, realizing there's only one way she could know this. ODO You helped him escape... Kira doesn't deny it. Odo stares at her, trying to understand what she did. KIRA I don't want you to stay here out of some sense of obligation. (beat) Good luck. I hope you find what you're looking for. The lift slows to a STOP, and with a last look Odo's way, Kira EXITS. Off Odo's face as he grapples with what to do... 50 EXT. SPACE - RUNABOUT (STOCK OPTICAL) as it orbits a PLANET. 51 INT. CAVES A few SUPPORT BEAMS are visible, as well as some abandoned mining EQUIPMENT. A faint LIGHT filters in from a jagged hole in the rockface above. Odo ENTERS with a PALM BEACON, shines it around the gloomy cave. ODO Laas... ? The Changeling steps out from the shadows, breaks into a grin. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 46. 51 CONTINUED: CHANGELING I knew you'd come. This is a new beginning for us, Odo. A new beginning for our people. (relishing the thought) You and I are about to embark on the adventure of our lives. The Changeling sees something in Odo's face. CHANGELING What's wrong? ODO I'm not going with you. CHANGELING (anger flaring) Then why are you here? ODO I came to say good-bye. CHANGELING Don't be a fool. What are you holding on to? Kira? Even she knows this is what's best for you. Why else would she have helped me escape? ODO You really don't know, do you? You don't have any idea of what it means to love someone enough to let them go. CHANGELING She let you go so you could find out where you belong. ODO I know where I belong. (beat) Humanoids aren't the petty, limited creatures you perceive them to be. What Nerys did should prove that even to you. CHANGELING (dismissive) Love conquers all, is that it? DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 47. 51 CONTINUED: (2) ODO I'm sorry you don't understand. You've done many things, been many things -- but you've never known love. CHANGELING Compared to the Link, it's a pale shadow -- a feeble attempt to compensate for the isolation mono-forms feel because they're trapped inside themselves. ODO Maybe the fact that it's not easy is what makes it worthwhile. CHANGELING Odo, the Founders are dying. This could be your last chance to exist as you were meant to. Don't throw it away. But Odo's made his decision. ODO You'd better go. They're looking for you. The Changeling searches Odo's face, sees that there's nothing more he can say. ODO Good luck... Odo extends his hand to him, offering one final Link. But the Changeling will have none of it. CHANGELING And to you, Odo. You'll need it more than I. And with that, he turns and heads for the surface. Off Odo's face as he watches him go... 52 EXT. SPACE - DEEP SPACE NINE (OPTICAL) Re-establishing. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 48. 53 INT. KIRA'S QUARTERS Kira is standing before the Bajoran Altar in her room, praying softly. She looks like she's been crying -- the resolve with which she said good-bye to Odo gave way to tears in the privacy of her quarters. KIRA Watch over him... help him find his way. A moment, then the door CHIMES. KIRA Yes. The door OPENS, revealing Odo. Their eyes lock across the room for a long moment... KIRA I didn't think I'd see you again... ODO I couldn't go... A long beat, then they move into each other's arms, hold each other close... KIRA (softly) Odo, if I've ever made you feel that you can't be yourself when you're with me, I'm sorry. I want to know you -- the way you really are. A moment as they look into each other's eyes. Odo looks at her questioningly, and she nods as if to say go ahead. A beat, then... 54 ODO (OPTICAL) quickly MORPHS upward in a SWIRL of motion. DEEP SPACE NINE: "Chimera" - REV. 12/16/98 - ACT FIVE 49. 55 KIRA as she reacts, looks up toward the ceiling. INTERACTIVE LIGHT plays on her face. 56 NEW ANGLE (OPTICAL) revealing that Odo has become a gossamer cloud of plasma-like ENERGY, an aurora borealis of golden color and light. She watches in wonder, then the cloud descends around her, wrapping her inside its dancing light. She reacts to the sensation... her eyes close, and we get the sense that she and Odo are communing on a level they've never been able to share before. A moment, then she smiles... the lights subtly change in hue and tone as if in response. Off this image, we... FADE OUT. END OF ACT FIVE THE END