what shadows we pursue” story by will sjorensen, james ...€¦ · their warp drive was just...

"What Shadows We Pursue”

Story By

Will Sjorensen, James Sampson, and Josh Maley

Teleplay By Josh Maley

Episode #: 3x10 Published March 8, 2004

This teleplay is originally from www.startrekrenaissance.com "Star Trek" and related names are registered trademarks of Paramount Pictures, Inc. This original work of fiction is written solely for non-profit purposes. Copyright 2003 by The Renaissance Group. All Rights Reserved.

RENAISSANCE: "What Shadows We Pursue" - TEASER 1.

TEASER

FADE IN:

INT. ENTERPRISE -- SICKBAY

Controlled panic permeates the sickbay as a team of medicaltechnicians surrounds a bio-bed. Our movements are uncertain,confused, tense - perfectly mirroring the unspoken emotionsthe trained staff is suppressing. As each new tech arriveson the scene, as each new voice enters the fray, we JERK tosee the speaker. We are constantly in motion, panning aroundthe bed amidst the chaos.

MEDIC 1Heart rate down 25%.

MEDIC 2Breathing is erratic. There mightbe damage to her airways.

MEDIC 3Her blood pressure is fallingdangerously low.

TORAN (O.S.)20 cc's of tricordrazine. We haveto stabilize her heart.

Our last jump shows TORAN, steady and sure amidst the chaosaround him. A medic hands him a hypospray. We follow hishand as he moves it toward his patient and find DR. LEA ELRISlying on the bio bed. She is unconscious, her face badlybruised and bloody. He quickly injects the hypo, to noeffect.

MEDIC 1Heart rate still falling!

Toran hands the spray off to a nearby tech. His face isimpassive - the consummate professional.

TORANDouble it.

Seconds later another hypo appears in his hand. He injectsit.

MEDIC 1Heart rate stabilizing.

TORANLet's look at her airways.

The bio bed's readings drop sharply and several alarms soundall at once. The already on-edge med team reacts, but thestress is taking its toll.


MEDIC 2(off the scanner)

I'm detecting a blood clot in herhippocampus. It's growing fast.

Toran's courageous facade begins to crack. He scans herhead with a tricorder.

TORANI've located the clot. Give me 20cc's of anecitine.

Toran injects Elris with the hypo that Tech thrusts into hishand.

MEDIC 1No effect. The clot is still growing. Synaptic functions are starting tobe affected.

TORANWe'll have to dissolve it directly.

Someone hands Toran a small device which he places on Elris'paling forehead. He activates it, presses a combination ofbuttons. A steady beep emanates from the device.

Toran stares hard at her, as if willing her to pull through,willing her back to life.

MEDIC 1Pressure in the hippocampus isdecreasing. Brain wave activity isstabilizing.

TORANCome on, Lea. Come on...!

Suddenly...the beeping stops. A second passes, or maybeit's an eternity, before the medic speaks again.

MEDIC 1The clot has dissolved. No permanentdamage.

(beat)She's all right.

Toran permits himself a brief sigh of relief.

TORANI want her vitals monitored aroundthe clock. I need everyone ready toassemble immediately if she takesanother turn.

The medics go about their job, keeping track of her vitals,studying medical readings.


A visibly relieved Toran takes but a momentary breath. Nosooner is he ready to go back to work than CAPTAIN NEIL CROSSenters sickbay.

CROSSWhat happened?

TORANShe was attacked. A security teamfound her in Morn's.

CROSSAttacked by who?

TORANWe don't know.

CROSSNo one saw it?

TORANNo one's come forward.

CROSSWill she be all right?

TORANThere was a blood clot in herhippocampus but we've removed it. She's stable at the moment.

CROSS(softly)

What was she doing there...?

TORANI don't know. We may learn morewhen she recovers.

CROSSThen she will recover?

TORANI'll see to it personally, Captain.

Cross nods drifts over to the bio bed. The medics are busilymonitoring Elris, obstructing his view from time to time.

He shakes his head sadly.

CROSS(still looking atElris)

Toran, you'll...

TORANKeep you posted. Yes sir, I will.


Cross smiles glumly and withdraws from Sickbay. Toran takesa moment, gathers himself, and returns to his staff.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- CORRIDOR

We find Cross en route to the bridge, obviously a bitdistracted. As he rounds a corner, ERIK GREY appears out ofnowhere and runs into him. The startled captain disengageshimself from his Chief Engineer and regards him with concern.

CROSSI trust you have a good reason formauling the captain.

Grey nods, taking a moment to catch his breath.

GREYYes, sir. Dojar...I think he may bealive.

Cross's face is a blend of surprise and skepticism.

CROSSWhat...?

GREYDojar's alive, Captain. In the GammaQuadrant.

Off Cross's concerned expression...

FADE OUT.

END OF TEASER

RENAISSANCE: "What Shadows We Pursue" - ACT ONE 5.

ACT ONE

FADE IN:

INT. ENTERPRISE -- CONFERENCE ROOM

Cross sits at the head of the table. QUINLAN sits next tohim. Their focus is on the viewscreen, which displays footageof Liaman's ship seconds before its destruction.

GREYThis is the other ship about threeseconds before we engaged the tractorbeam. Their warp drive was justengaging.

(louder)Computer, play log.

On the viewer, the Enterprise tractor beam rips Liaman'sship to shreds as it jumps to warp.

GREY (CONT'D)Computer, reset to time index 042.

CROSSI assume there's a point heresomewhere.

Grey presses a few buttons on the panel. The display quicklysplits, with one half showing the footage and the other halfshowing a sensor readout.

GREYThe grid on the right is our subspacelog. It constantly monitors allknow subspace frequencies forcommunications. Watch what happens. Computer, play log.

Again the footage plays. Seconds before the explosion, thereis a spike on the readout.

CROSS(curious)

What was that?

GREYA subspace transporter.

QUINLANI thought those were banned in theFederation.

GREYThey are. The matrix is too unstable.


CROSSThen where did it come from?

GREYThat's what I couldn't figure out. There were no other ships in thevicinity. But sensors picked uptraces of macrochrondia a few lightyears away.

CROSSMacro-what's?

GREYMacrochrondia. It's part of Q'tamiphysiology, but it seems prevalentin their machinery as well. I riggedthe sensors to detect it a few monthsback and left the modifications inplace, just in case.

Cross shifts uneasily in his chair.

CROSSIs it a bucket?

GREYNo, sir. A monitoring station,obscured from normal sensors by aClass 3 pulsar in the Norus cluster. I believe Y'lan somehow contactedthe monitoring station and used itssubspace transporters to beam Dojarto safety. Most likely here -

(Grey indicates onthe screen)

- to this planet.

A pang of guilt furrows Cross's brow momentarily.

CROSS(softly)

I shouldn't have left so quickly. We should have stayed, searched thewreckage longer...

QUINLANThere's no point in worrying aboutit now. At least we know where heis, right? We can get him back.

CROSSThat's the problem. We CAN'T gethim back. No Federation vessel ispermitted to go through the wormhole. I can't ignore a mandate like that.

(MORE)


CROSS (CONT'D)Not now. The talks have reached acritical stage.

QUINLANWhat about ignoring Dojar? We can'tjust leave him there. If the Dominionhave done something to him...

(she trails off)We owe it to him, Captain.

Cross sighs.

CROSSI won't violate the agreement not toenter the Gamma Quadrant.

(beat)However...if two of my officers wereto work out some kind of covert rescuemission of their own volition, andhandle all the details themselves...

Grey and Quinlan share a quick smile.

GREYUnderstood, Captain.

QUINLANThank you, sir.

Cross nods solemnly as Grey and Quinlan head for the door.

CROSSJust be sure all three of you makeit back here. And if you're caught...

QUINLANRight. It's our funeral. Justremember to send some flowers. I'mpartial to roses myself.

The two quickly exit, leaving Cross to ponder his decision.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- WARDROOM

We find ourselves in the midst of fairly intense negotiations. COMMANDER TALORA and ROMULAN PROCONSUL LOVIK sit across thetable from AMBASSADOR ODO and the Vorta REES.

REESWe've reviewed your proposals fortechnological exchanges, and havefound them most satisfactory. Withon exception.

(MORE)


REES (CONT'D)You've requested detailed informationon our cranial implants, but haveoffered in return your cloakingtechnology - something we are alreadyfamiliar with.

TALORAThe technology we are offering is avast improvement over the technologyyou're familiar with. Cloakingtechnology was nearly perfectedseveral decades ago, just before acoup d'etat on the Romulan homeworld. Our new cloaks are undetectable.

REESI see. And you would be willing toarrange for a demonstration of this?

TALORAIf you wish.

Rees defers to Odo, who considers it.

ODOI think we'll take your word for it.

Odo picks up a PADD, presses a few buttons, and hands it toTalora.

ODO (CONT'D)The Dominion agrees to your exchanges.

Talora also marks the PADD.

TALORAThen we are in agreement. Thankyou, Ambassador.

The two rise, and the others nearby follow. The negotiationshave ended. Talora politely waits for the Dominion delegationto withdraw before she attempts to leave herself. Lovik,however, has other ideas.

LOVIKI must admit Commander, I amimpressed. This is the fourth roundof talks in the past week, and youhave won them over each time.

TALORAThank you, Proconsul.


LOVIKI wanted you to know, I intend tomake mention of your successes toPraetor Neral when I next speak withhim. I'm quite certain he will sharemy sentiments.

Talora is speechless.

TALORAI - I don't know what to say.

LOVIKYou've said enough already. I lookforward to seeing how you handle thenext round of talks. Good day,Commander.

Lovik respectfully departs, leaving a still surprised Talorato herself.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- ENGINEERING

Our focus falls to a computer terminal in an unusually quietengine room. A schematic of the Enterprise, DS9, and thewormhole occupies our field of view momentarily. A femininehand reaches in front of us, presses some buttons. We pullback to find the hand's owner - Quinlan - speaking with Grey. They both look tired; they've been at this for hours.

QUINLANWe could send out a false signalfrom the shuttle. Make it look likewe're just debris, nothing ofinterest.

GREY(shakes his head)

No good. The wormhole can't betriggered by debris. Even if wecould trick the Jem'Hadar sensors,the wormhole opening for a piece ofdebris would draw too much attention.

Quinlan sighs; this is obviously not her first bad idea ofthe day.

QUINLANThere has to be some way we can sneakthrough...

(beat)What about...what about retrofittingthe Pathfinder with low-observabilitysystems?


GREYDo YOU want to strip off the hulland replace it with bio-mimeticcoverings?

Quinlan sighs again, getting more frustrated. She gazesblankly a the console for a few moments.

QUINLANDamn it.

(beat)What about disabling their sensors? Couldn't we fire a torpedo rigged tojam sensors?

GREYThe Pathfinder's a type 26 shuttle,it can't be fitted with a Mark 6torpedo launcher. That's what we'dneed to fire a sensor jamming torpedo. Besides the effect doesn't last thatlong. They'd run us down in minutes.

Quinlan throws her arms up and stomps away.

QUINLANWell what the hell? Let's just beamover to a Jem'Hadar ship and convincethem to take us. Or better yet,let's steal the damn thing!

GREYI don't think that would work either.

(beat)You used to be a pirate. No ideasfrom back then?

Quinlan wheels on Grey.

QUINLANThose WERE my best tricks. And Idon't see you coming up with anythingbetter!

(beat; a calming breath)Sorry. Didn't mean to go off theboil. It's just so damn frustrating,you know? First we think he's dead,then we find him but we can't get tohim...

GREYIt's all right. It's been a stressfulfew weeks for all of us.

QUINLANThat's no excuse. I'm Chief ofSecurity now, I should act like it.


Quinlan sighs, leans against the console.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)I'm starting to wish I wouldn't haveskipped Undercover Tactics.

GREYYou never took it?

QUINLANOh it was on my schedule. I justhad - other priorities.

GREYYou don't say.

QUINLAN(proudly)

You're looking at the only Academygraduate to score in the negative onthe Covert Surveillance exam.

GREYI remember that exam.

QUINLANI'm sure you scored highest in yourclass.

GREYActually, highest in the Academy.

QUINLANWow, look at me not being surprised.

GREYPicking up on the cloaked vessel waseasy enough. The trick was toreconfigure the aft sensor array todetect...

QUINLAN(cutting him off)

Wait...what did you say?

GREYThe sensors. The aft array had tobe...

QUINLANNo, no. That's it. A cloak! Whatif we jury-rigged a phase inverter? Used it like a cloak?


GREY(off his console)

It might work...but the modificationscould take days. Even then itwouldn't completely hide us.

Quinlan rises, paces, refusing to let this one go. Her mindis working a mile a minute.

QUINLANWhat about a real cloak? Could youfit the Pathfinder with a real cloak?

GREYPossibly. Not that it does us anygood. We don't have a cloak.

QUINLANNo, we don't.

(big smile)Not yet, anyway.

Grey recognizes the gleam in Quinlan's eyes. He's suddenlya bit apprehensive.

GREYOh no.

QUINLANAre you fond of larish pie?

Off Grey's concerned look...

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- PROMENADE

The promenade is typically busy, cluttered with variousStarfleet officials, Vorta, Jem'Hadar, civilians, and membersof various delegations present for the peace talks.

Our focus falls to Talora and RICHARD MAREK, who are leavingone of the many kiosks along the promenade. Marek carries ajumja stick.

TALORAHave you heard anything regardingDoctor Elris?

MAREKI spoke to Toran an hour ago. She'sstill unconscious but showing signsof improvement. Quite a beating shetook. Any word on who did it?

TALORAUnfortunately, no.

(MORE)


TALORA (CONT'D)And with the negotiations, I've hadno time to pursue it beyond my initialreport. Still, I'm glad to hearshe's all right.

(sadly)We've already lost too many goodpeople.

MAREKDojar.

TALORA(nods)

Dojar. He was one of the firstshipmates I felt I could relate toin some capacity.

MAREKTwo outcasts on the ship of thedamned.

(off Talora's frown)Sorry.

(offers his stick)Jumja?

Talora is about to respond, but something catches her eye. We follow her gaze to just outside of Morn's, where a youngPakled boy is surrounded by three Jem'Hadar soldiers. Troubleis obviously brewing, and Talora moves swiftly to stop it.

JEM'HADAR SECONDWhat are you babbling about? Speakplainly!

YOUNG PAKLEDYou are ugly. You frighten me, Iwish to go.

JEM'HADAR THIRDThen go.

The Pakled tries to step around them, but the Second stepsin his way, causing a collision.

JEM'HADAR SECONDWatch where you're going.

YOUNG PAKLEDI wish to go. I wish to go!

The Jem'Hadar grabs the Pakled by the collar and snarls. Just as it seems he's going to rip the hapless young man intwo -


TALORA (O.S.)Your behavior is entirelyinappropriate.

The Second turns to find Talora glaring at him. He does notrelease his grip on the Pakled.

JEM'HADAR SECONDMind your tongue, Romulan. Or youwill be next.

TALORAI am not simply a Romulan. I am thelead negotiator in the Dominion peacetalks with Romulus. And I somehowdoubt your Vorta masters or AmbassadorOdo would look kindly on this eventif we they were to find out about itwhen next I see them.

(the Second hesitates)What is to be gained from defeatingan enemy so inferior to yourselves? Have the mighty Jem'Hadar becomenothing more than schoolyard bullies?

The Second considers this for a moment, then lets the youngPakled go. He scurries off quickly, lest the Jem'Hadar changehis mind.

TALORA (CONT'D)A wise decision. Though in theinterest of the peace talks, I suggestyou avoid any further altercations.

The Jem'Hadar grumble and walk away.

MAREKInteresting choice, that.

TALORAHm?

MAREKSchoolyard bullies.

TALORAIt seemed appropriate.

MAREKI've never seen someone handle theJem'Hadar so skillfully. You'requite the diplomat.

TALORAYou're the second person today tomake such an observation.


MAREKMaybe it's a sign.

TALORA(not convincing)

I do not believe in signs.

MAREKBut -

TALORA(thoughtful)

But - recently, I have been weighingthe potential of a diplomatic careeragainst continuing with Starfleet.

MAREKYou've obviously got the knack forit.

TALORAI've found it to be very fulfilling. And it would be nice to be among myown people again.

MAREKIt sounds like your mind is made up.

TALORAI didn't say that.

MAREKNot in so many words.

TALORAI haven't even been offered aposition.

MAREKYet.

TALORAThere's no reason to believe I willbe.

MAREKThe Enterprise would miss you.

TALORAThe Enterprise would be just finewithout me. I'm sure Captain Crosswould be relieved to have a firstofficer who would not push him off acliff.

Marek slows his pace. Talora does likewise.


MAREK(beat)

Your shipmates would miss you.

TALORAI would miss them. I -

Talora trails off as she notices Y'lan some distance aheadof them. Ce is walking slowly, almost at an amble. He looksaround the Promenade at nothing in particular. If we didn'tknow cim better, we'd think ce was out for a leisurely strolland some window shopping.

Talora regards the Q'tami with mild confusion as ce approachesthem.

TALORA (CONT'D)Y'lan. I wasn't aware you were upand about.

Y'lan looks at Talora for a long moment through seeminglyempty eyes.

TALORA (CONT'D)Y'lan? Are you all right?

The Q'tami continues to stare at her blankly. Ce glances atMarek, then back to Talora, then leaves, continuing down thecorridor at the same casual pace. Talora and Marek watchY'lan as ce pauses to examine several other people,storefronts, and kiosks. Ce vanishes around the curve ofthe promenade, leaving Talora and Marek to exchange confused,if concerned glances.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT ONE

RENAISSANCE: "What Shadows We Pursue" - ACT TWO 17.

ACT TWO

FADE IN:

INT. BAJORAN RESTAURANT

Our focus falls on a dirty plate splattered with various,unappetizing selections. A hand reaches down, grabs theplate, and rushes off.

A quick angle change gives us a much better look at thisrather seedy-looking joint. It is largely populated byBajoran staff and patrons.

The door opens, flooding the entrance with sunlight. Severalpeople grumble about it as Quinlan and Grey, both dressed ascivilians, enter the restaurant. The door closes behindthem, and the place resumes its former luminance.

GREYNice place.

Quinlan leads him to a table in the corner, away from mostof the crowd and even darker than the rest of the place. Ascantily clad, haggard looking waitress appears.

WAITRESSYou want food?

GREY(softly)

If that's what you call it...

Quinlan kicks Grey under the table and flashes a pleasantsmile at the waitress.

QUINLANTwo pieces of larish pie.

The waitress rushes off.

GREYWhat was that for?

QUINLANDon't complain. You'll looksuspicious.

Grey looks around the room at the various unsavory types.

GREYReally? I'm the one who lookssuspicious?


QUINLANYou're out of your element here,Erik. You're going to have to trustme.

GREYWhat are we doing here, exactly?

QUINLANHaving larish pie.

The waitress returns with two small plates, which shepractically throws on the table before departing again.

GREYCharming woman.

QUINLANCompared to the one that used towork here, she WAS charming.

Grey scrutinizes the lump on his plate and pokes at it witha dirty fork. He groans and glances up to see Quinlan alreadyeating hers. She smiles innocently.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)What? I haven't eaten in two days. Besides, larish pie is supposed tolook like that.

Grey isn't convinced. He's about to take a tentative bite,but a shadow falls over the table. Both officers look up tofind a darkly-clad Bajoran. He sports a scar under his lefteye and carries a large bundle under his arm. This is ROTAN.

ROTANJenny?

Quinlan frowns.

QUINLANYou know I hate it when you call methat.

Rotan smiles.

ROTANI know.

Rotan sits next to Quinlan and places the bundle on the floorat his feet.

ROTAN (CONT'D)Is it true what I've heard? Youwent back to Starfleet?


QUINLANThat was news two years ago, Rotan. Where have you been?

ROTANYou know as well as I, in this lineof work we don't always have time tocheck up on the latest crew manifestsfrom Starfleet. Especially with thelevel of interest Starfleet has shownin Bajor for the past decade or so. Still, it's a shame to lose someoneof your caliber.

QUINLANThere are plenty more like me outthere, and you know it.

ROTANMaybe so, maybe so.

As he speaks, Rotan subtly slides his bundle under the table,right in front of Quinlan.

ROTAN (CONT'D)Still, that raid on the Falcon...Noone's been able to pull of anythinglike that since. I'm still livingoff of what I made from the goodsyou brought in.

QUINLAN(smiles)

That was eight years ago. Sincewhen did you learn how to be thrifty?

ROTANThere's nothing wrong withdiversifying a little bit. I mayenjoy the work, but I won't be doingit forever you know. Things aregetting tougher, and too much ambitioncan get you killed.

QUINLANThrift and caution? You've changed,Rotan.

ROTANSo have you.

(rises)Good seeing you again. Jenny.

He smiles at her frown and departs as quickly as he came.

GREYWhat was that about?


Quinlan reaches under the table and produces the bundle.

QUINLANWhat we came here for.

Grey lifts the edge of the cloth. Inside is the dull silverof machinery.

GREY(dubiously)

This is a cloaking device?

QUINLANNo. But it's our ticket to gettingone. Let's go.

The two rise and leave quickly, with Grey carrying the bundle. We are left staring at the emptied table. Quinlan reappearsand scoops up Grey's untouched pie, then exits again.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- GUEST QUARTERS

We find ourselves gazing at a small computer terminal in theguest quarters that house KAI SHALA. The Kai is gazing at aFederation profile of Timin Pol. She seems very disturbedat what she's reading.

The doors slide open and in steps TIMIN POL himself. TheKai quickly switches off the viewer and turns to him.

TIMINI have received word from the Councilof Ministers. They stand ready tosupport you when you choose towithdraw from the peace talks.

SHALAIf I choose.

TIMINIf? Forgive me, Eminence, but afterthe recent terrorist attack, I thoughtwe were in agreement -

SHALAWe were. But the Federation hasdealt with the criminal responsible,and the peace talks have resumed. Isee no further reason to threatenwithdrawal from the talks.

TIMINKai Shala, now is the time to showthem that we will not back down. Ifyou give in to them -


SHALAI am not giving it to them by honoringmy word.

TIMINWe cannot afford to show weakness! If you resume the talks now, theFederation will never take youseriously.

SHALAI believe they will. The workerstrike will continue until our rightto the wormhole is acknowledged.

TIMINEminence, please -

SHALAEnough. I must ready myself for thetalks.

(he doesn't move)Now.

Surprised, Timin slowly retreats from the room.


Sickbay is fairly quiet at the moment, with no patients orstaff other than Elris in her biobed and Toran in the office. He's reading through various medical reports, but he's notfocused. His gaze keeps drifting up to Elris' bed. We cansee the fatigue in his eyes, some combination of physicalexhaustion and emotional turmoil.

The doors slide open, and in steps Quinlan. She movesswiftly, quietly to Elris' bedside and gazes sadly at herfriend. She senses Toran's presence as he appears behindher, but doesn't move.

QUINLANHow's she doing?

TORANShe's improving. She should make acomplete recovery, but it will takesome time.

(beat)Is there something I can help youwith?

QUINLANJust wanted to say goodbye to herbefore I leave.

TORANYou're going somewhere?


She finally turns and regards Toran, a bit more like theQuinlan we know.

QUINLAN(nods)

Top secret, level ten, hush-hush,tell you but I'd have to kill youkind of mission.

(beat)You look like shit.

Toran shrugs.

TORANI'll be all right.

QUINLANYou've been here the entire time,haven't you?

TORANMaybe.

QUINLANWhen's the last time you slept? Orate?

TORAN...I'm not sure.

QUINLANYou know what she'd tell you if sheknew.

TORANThe same thing I'd tell her if ourpositions were reversed. Get somerest. Eat something. Try to relax. Worrying won't do you any good.

QUINLANAnd you'd both be right.

(sighs)And neither of you would listen. Sowhat gives? You're staying at herside like a lost little puppy.

TORANShe's my patient. I'm concernedabout her.

QUINLANAnd I'm sure you'd forsake food andsleep if it were me, or Erik, orTalora lying there, wouldn't you?

(MORE)


QUINLAN (CONT'D)(Toran is silent)

Thought so.(beat)

Why do you keep doing this to her,Toran?

TORANDoing what?

QUINLANYou're always at her side, alwayswanting to help her, leading her on. But anytime she tries to draw closeyou pull away.

TORANI wasn't aware...

QUINLAN(cutting him off)

...that you're a real pain in herass? Well, now you know.

(beat)I don't know if you realize this -somehow I doubt you do - but Leagenuinely cares bout you.

Toran sadly gazes at the bed, but says nothing.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)I've known her a long time. It'snot easy for her to open herself uplike that. But for whatever reason,she has feelings for you. Can yousay the same...?

Toran swallows hard. Should he admit it?

TORANI...I don't know.

QUINLANI think it's time you figured out. Before you lose your chance.

(Toran looks to her)Starfleet isn't exactly the safestplace to be. And God knows, on thisship...

(she sighs)There are no guarantees.

She smiles at Elris once, then heads for the door. Beforeshe leaves, she turns back to Toran.


QUINLAN (CONT'D)Well, there is ONE.

(Toran turns to her)If you don't have this sorted out bythe time I get back, you'll have toanswer to me.

She smiles knowingly, and Toran forces himself to return it. Seconds later, the doors steal Quinlan from sight, and Toranis left with the unconscious Elris.


We find ourselves just across the hall from the securityoffice. We see BRADFIELD as he stops briefly to talk tosomeone, then enters the office.

Turning slightly to the left, we find Ambassador ODO in avery familiar posture - right arm across his chest, lefthand just under his chin. He gazes at the office with ahint of sadness in his eyes.

DELFUNE (O.S.)Reliving old times?

Odo doesn't move.

ODOYou can't return to your childhoodhome and not expect to see a fewghosts.

DELFUNEChildhood? Is that what you'd callyour time here, Ambassador?

ODOIn many ways, a child is all that Iwas. But that doesn't make what Iexperienced here any less meaningful.

DELFUNEThat's a surprisingly human sentiment.

ODOI worked alongside humans for manyyears, Admiral. It may have beenlong ago but here -

(taps his head)- it might as well have beenyesterday.

Delfune extends her arm, inviting Odo to join her on herwalk. He nods and the two set off.


DELFUNEI understand the Kai is ready totalk.

ODO(nods)

The Dominion delegation will bemeeting with her in two hours. We'vealso requested that the Federationbe present.

DELFUNEI'm sure Admiral Thel will appreciateit.

(beat)So long as he doesn't ask me to bethe delegate.

ODOI thought you were intent on regainingrights of passage through thewormhole.

DELFUNEOf course I am. I just can't abideall the talk of prophets and celestialtemples and following paths laid outfor us and all the other nonsensethey try to pass off legitimate.. I've never been a very religiousperson.

ODOI never would have guessed.

DELFUNE(lets it go)

I understand you've been in touchwith your people recently.

ODO(annoyed but notsurprised)

Word travels fast. Yes, I was incontact with them a few hours ago. A routine update, nothing more.

DELFUNEOf course. What's their opinionabout all of this?

ODOThey were somewhat discouraged atthe way things have gone so far.


DELFUNETake a number.

(beat)You have a great deal at stake here,don't you Ambassador?

ODOWhat makes you say that?

DELFUNEI didn't get to where I am by notknowing how to read people. There'sa lot of responsibility resting onyour shoulders.

ODOOne could say the same for everyleader involved with these talks.

DELFUNEOne could. But one could also sayit's more personal for you. If theFounders have truly changed, as yousay they have, then those changesmust have been brought about by whatyou taught them about us. I suspecttheir willingness to initiate thesetalks is spawned directly from thefaith they place in you. If thingsdon't go well, if these talks fail,then your people may have secondthoughts about placing their in faithin you again.

ODOYou're not very good at beating aroundthe bush.

DELFUNEActually, I mastered it years ago. I've just found the blunt approachto be more effective.

ODONo argument there.

(beat)Well Admiral, I hope for your sakethat I won't be seeing you at thewormhole negotiations.

DELFUNELikewise, Ambassador.

Delfune moves on ahead of him, ending their conversation. Odo pauses where he's at and looks around, taking in hissurroundings. A lifetime ago, he shared a very special momentat this exact spot with a very special Bajoran.


He closes his eyes as if to relive the moment in his mind,then sadly walks away.

INT. ROMULAN WARBIRD -- CORRIDOR

We find ourselves in the dull green and grey interior of aRomulan Warbird. The corridor is cramped and militaristic.

A Romulan sentry rounds a corner and marches by. He pausesas we hear the familiar whir of a transporter beam. He stops,as if to make sure he heard it. The sound of deck platesbeing walked on echoes through the corridor for a moment,and its enough to make him turn around to check things out.

He glances around the corner from whence he came. There isnothing there. After a brief scan of the hallway, he proceedsonward and vanishes into a turbolift nearby.

Our focus returns to the corridor he came from. Suddenly apiece of metal appears in midair. The area around it seemsto blur slightly. The blur 'walks' toward the intersection.

QUINLAN (V.O.)Is he gone?

More shuffling as more of the device appears. We recognizeit as the device Quinlan obtained from Rotan on Bajor.

GREY (V.O.)He's gone.

QUINLAN (V.O.)Good. I thought we were busted fora minute there.

GREY (V.O.)We're just lucky between the two ofus we were able to cover this up.

QUINLAN (V.O.)Yeah, about that. Sorry, I didn'tmean to jam my knee into your armpitlike that.

Silence.

GREY (V.O.)That wasn't my armpit.

More silence.

QUINLAN (V.O.)Oh.

(chuckles)No wonder you screamed like a girl. I figured you just had a low thresholdfor pain.


GREY (V.O.)Just do me a favor and turn on yourvisor so you can see me next time.

We hear a click.

QUINLAN'S P.O.V.

We see a reddish silhouette standing in front of us, armscrossed. We can't make out any details but it's obviouslyGrey.

BACK TO SCENE

QUINLAN (V.O.)It's on. Let's get going.

The device is lifted off the ground and floats down thecorridor, flanked by two vague, barely noticeable blurs.

INT. ROMULAN WARBIRD -- ENGINEERING SECTION

The device hovers into a narrow corridor off of theengineering section. It rounds another bend then stops andglides down to the floor.

Grey's head appears a few feet above it. A few seconds later,his entire body fizzles into existence. He is clad in asleek, black sneaking suit with goggles, which now rest atophis head.

QUINLAN (V.O.)What are you doing?

GREYThe suits are thermal regulated, sothey won't pick up any heatsignatures. And if that fails, theycan still trick the internal sensorsinto thinking we're just bacteria.

QUINLAN (V.O.)You trying to say we're nothing butgerms?

GREYSomething like that.

Quinlan dissolves into view a few seconds later. She removesher goggles, as Grey removes a hatch on the wall and beginsexamining various Romulan systems.

GREY (CONT'D)I hope this thing works.


QUINLANIt will. Trust me, I've lifted morethan a few Romulan cloaks in my day. Once you install this cloak emulator,their computer won't know thedifference.

GREYUnless they try to engage it.

QUINLANWhich they can't do in this sectorbecause of treaty stipulations.

(wry grin)Stop worrying so much, Erik. You'llturn gray.

Grey grunts, pulls out a PADD and works on it for a fewmoments.

GREYI was afraid of this. It's encoded,I can't get into their computer fromthis. Unless you happen to have aRomulan access code on you.

Quinlan smiles, insufferably proud of herself.

QUINLANWho do you think you're talking to? Give me that.

She takes the PADD, keys in a few things, and hands it back.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)Viola. You've got access toeverything from the ship manifest tothe mess hall menu.

GREY(working)

Let's just hope main power falls inbetween those two somewhere.

(a beat, then)All right, I'm in. I can only cutmain power for forty seconds. That'sall the time we've got to switchthese.

(puts his goggles on)Make sure the night-vision works.

Quinlan pulls down her goggles and tests them, as Grey testshis own.

QUINLANWorking.


Grey is hesitant.

GREYYou're sure this thing will beuntraceable?

QUINLANErik, I don't even know who makesthese things, and I know practicallyeveryone involved with this stuff. Even if they did discover theemulator, they won't be able to tracewho built it. Or who installed it.

GREYI hope you're right.

QUINLANI'm always right. Sometimes.

GREYHere we go...

Grey takes a deep breath and presses a button on the PADD.

All around them the lights flicker, systems flicker, and theship shuts down. In the darkness we see the soft glow oftheir night vision goggles.

Grey disconnects the large power coupling for the cloakingdevice. He and Quinlan remove the device, which is farheavier than the emulator. With some effort, it comes freeof its housing. The two nearly drop it as they try to setit down gently.

GREY (CONT'D)Nineteen seconds.

QUINLANNo pressure.

Grey and Quinlan quickly set the emulator in the cloak'shousing. Grey reaches back and connects the power coupling,finishing just as the lights come back on.

Grey and Quinlan sit quietly for a moment in complete silence.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)Well, that wasn't so difficult.

Another beat, as if she expects something to go wrong nowthat she's said that. Silence ensues.

GREYAll right, let's get this thing outof here.


Grey reaches into his belt and produces a small device - apower pack - which he connects to the cloak. He hits a fewbuttons on the cloak, and it vanishes.

The two officers reactivate their suits, and in seconds wesee the vague distortion of their movement - albeit muchslower this time.


We find Kai Shala standing by herself in a distant corner ofthe promenade's second level. She seems lost in thought -her mind is in great turmoil.

Nearby we see Cross making his way through the promenade. He catches sight of the Kai and decides to join her.

CROSSCan you hear them?

Shala turns, a bit startled.

CROSS (CONT'D)The Prophets. Can you hear them?

SHALANot so long ago, I heard them veryclearly.

CROSSBut not today.

SHALANot as clearly today, no. Theirwords are still there, but there isso much noise, so much interference. I'm beginning to wonder if it everreally happened.

CROSSI realize it's none of my concern,but I don't see how you could haveroom for doubt. Your shuttle wasdestroyed, yet here you stand. Something saved you. It might aswell have been the Prophets.

SHALAYou don't strike me as a man of faith,Captain.

CROSSI'm not.


SHALABut you sound more willing to believethan others I've spoken to in theFederation.

CROSSThe Federation and I differ about alot of things, Eminence.

SHALAThen why do you remain in Starfleet?

Cross sighs thoughtfully.

CROSSBecause whatever differences I mayhave with our leaders, I still believein what the Federation stands for. Or at least, what it once stood for. I may disagree with the people, butnot the ideals.

SHALAIt sounds to me like you do havefaith in something, Captain.

CROSSYour Prophets are living beings. They exist whether the Bajoransbelieve in them or not. But if peoplestopped believing in the Federation,in the ideals it represents...

SHALAThen it would cease to exist.

CROSSOr it would fall into corruption.

Shala is thoughtful for a moment.

SHALAYou make a convincing argument,Captain. If only I could be sure ofyour sincerity.

CROSSI'm not trying to make an argument. Just conversation. My actions willprove or disprove my sincerity.

(beat)Good day, Kai Shala.

Shala nods respectfully at Cross as the captain departs.

From across the promenade, we see a cloaked figure watchingthis conversation intently.


He withdraws into the shadows, but for a brief moment we seethe angry face of Timin Pol.

INT. ROMULAN WARBIRD -- CORRIDORS

Back where Quinlan and Grey first beamed aboard. We hearthem shuffling around and a heavy THUD as they sit the cloakon the deck. Seconds later, both reappear.

GREYIf I never have to carry one of thoseagain, I won't be the least bitdisappointed.

QUINLANYeah, but think of how good it isfor your biceps.

(removing her goggles)You know, it's funny, back when Isaid how easy this was, I halfexpected the ship to go on red alertright aft...

The red alert sounds. The lights dim and begin to flash redas a voice announces an intruder alert.

GREYYou couldn't let it rest, could you?

Grey quickly reactivates the suit. Quinlan does likewise.

QUINLAN (V.O.)Uh...shouldn't we hide?

GREY (V.O.)We're invisible! If they can detectus like this a few bulkheads betweenus won't matter. Just stay put. Maybe it's not us.

QUINLAN (V.O.)What are the odds of another intruderbreaking in here at the same time westeal their cloaking device?

A door at the other end of the corridor opens, and fourRomulan guards, all heavily armed, rush straight for Greyand Quinlan. They draw closer and arm their weapons...

...and walk right past them. They rush out of the corridorand down another.

QUINLAN (V.O.) (CONT'D)I stand corrected.

(beat)Stay here. I'll go check it out.


GREY'S P.O.V.

We can see a red form - Quinlan - moving quickly away fromour position, paying no heed to Grey's insistence she staybehind.

GREY (V.O.)Jen, don't. It's too dangerous, youmight be detected. Jen, get backhere! Jen!

(beat)Ah, damn it.

BACK TO SCENE

Two more sentries rush past Grey's position. Just behindthem, we see the telltale blur as Grey follows them aroundthe corner. We find ourselves on the Romulan side of thedocking hatch with Deep Space Nine. The door is dented andbroken.

Peering over the shoulder's of the gathered sentries, wefind a Romulan guard severely beaten and bloodied. Heldnearby at gunpoint is the attacker: The Jem'Hadar Secondthat Talora had dealt with earlier.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT TWO

RENAISSANCE: "What Shadows We Pursue" - ACT THREE 35.

ACT THREE

FADE IN:

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- WARDROOM

Almost everyone involved with the negotiations is present:Odo, Rees, Talora, Lovik, Cross, and several others. Odoand Rees sit across from Talora and Lovik.

REESYou cannot imagine how much we regretthis vicious attack against one ofyour citizens. I assure you, we inno way condoned this Jem'Hadar'sactions.

TALORAThis incident was not the first timethat particular Jem'Hadar has causedtrouble. Earlier this morning I hadto stop him from beating a youngPakled.

ODOOn behalf of the Dominion, I offermy sincerest apologies for theseunfortunate events.

TALORAYour apology is accepted. But inthe interest of continuing thesetalks, we would like certainassurances that such an event willnot happen again.

ODOOf course. What do you have in mind?

TALORA(deadpan)

A complete removal of the Jem'Hadarfrom Deep Space Nine.

Rees glances worriedly at Odo.

ODOI believe that might be premature.

REESIt would be an affront to their honor,to punish the whole for the crimesof the one. It would make it seemas though we do not trust them. Ifear it might cause more problemsthat it would solve.


Talora reacts swiftly; she was expecting this.

TALORAVery well. Then we request you removethe Jem'Hadar responsible for theattack and have him sent back to theGamma Quadrant.

ODOAgreed.

TALORAAlso, as a preventative measure, werequest an increased Vorta presenceon the station.

REESSo that we can more quickly curb anyfurther outbreaks. A wise precaution.

ODOI'll have Rees see to thosearrangements at once.

TALORAVery well. Finally, I believe itwould assuage the victim of thisattack to receive a personal apologyfrom you, Ambassador.

ODO(nodding)

I had already planned to pay him avisit.

TALORA(rising)

Thank you, Ambassador. Yourcooperation is very much appreciated. May this crisis serve only to uniteour peoples and further motivate thecause of peace.

REESWell said.

Odo and Talora shake hands briefly, ending the meeting. Several minutes of pleasantries ensue between the variousdelegates, and slowly the room begins to empty. In moments,we are down to Odo and Talora. Talora remains, caught bythe concern in Odo's expression.

TALORAIs there something wrong, Ambassador?


ODOSince the first moment we encounteredyour ship, I've been proclaiming howmuch the Dominion has changed. Howwe are only interested in peace, notviolence. And then...this.

TALORAOne incident doesn't mean anything.

ODOMaybe not. But these negotiationshave been hanging by a thread fromthe very beginning. One more incidentlike that and everything we've workedfor could be lost.

TALORAI'm not going to let that happen.

ODOIt's ironic. There was a time whenI would have responded in kind andfought back against the Jem'Hadar. And now here I am, making excusesfor them. Apologizing for them.

TALORAIt seems the Dominion isn't the onlything that's changed over the years.

ODOI guess not.

(beat; he rises)We'll be conducting a fullinvestigation of the incident. Whatever provoked this attack, Iassure you Commander, we will findit.

TALORAI have no doubt.

Odo nods and exits. Talora is about to do the same, but thedoors slide open once more. Lovik enters, a grin on hisface.

LOVIKI'm glad I caught you. We need totalk.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- CORRIDORS

Outside the wardroom. Talora emerges only to find herselfface to face with Cross.


TALORACaptain. Something wrong?

CROSSI was just heading back to theEnterprise. Thought I'd see if wantedto join me.

TALORAVery considerate of you.

The two begin walking.

CROSSI heard about what happened in there. Asking them to withdraw the Jem'Hadarcompletely - pretty gutsy.

TALORAI didn't expect them to concede onthat point. One of the first rulesof negotiation: always ask for morethan you want. Your real demandswill sound much more reasonable.

CROSSStill, it was a pretty big riskdemanding that right off the bat.

TALORAThe riskier the road, the greaterthe profit.

CROSSAnother rule of negotiation?

TALORANo. Ferengi Rule of Acquisitionnumber 62.

CROSS(amused)

I see.

TALORAOne of the few useful contributionsthe Ferengi have made to the AlphaQuadrant.

CROSSI hate to say this, but you reallywould make one hell of a diplomat.

TALORA(awkward beat)

Interesting you should mention that,Captain.


CROSSWhy is it that?

Talora takes a breath, then takes the plunge.

TALORAProconsul Lovik has just offered mea permanent diplomatic position onRomulus.

Cross stops and stares blankly at her for a moment, as ifgauging whether or not she's serious. Finally he smiles.

CROSSI hope you let him down gently.

TALORAI did not.

CROSSAh. Well, I guess letting him downpoint blank would be much more Talora.

TALORAI didn't let him down at all.

CROSSYou're accepting it?

TALORAI don't know yet. It's a verytempting offer. I would be workingdirectly for the Praetorate, dealingwith high level diplomatic -

CROSS(cutting her off)

You can't be serious.

Talora seems upset at the captain's interruption. Nevertheless, she maintains her composure.

TALORAI am very serious, Captain. This isan incredible opportunity to servethe Empire.

CROSSForget the Empire. What about theEnterprise?

TALORAThere are any number of capable officers who are more than qualifiedfor my position.


CROSSDamn it, Talora, we don't NEED someother capable, qualified officer. We need YOU.

TALORA(eyes narrow)

Has it occurred to you Captain, thatthere are other needs and wants atstake here besides those of yourship?

Before he can object, Talora turns and storms off. Cross isleft staring at the door.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- SHUTTLE BAY

The shuttle craft 'Pathfinder' sits in the center of thebay. Quinlan stands on top of the shuttle, working oninstalling one of the large launcher-pods. The rear hatchis open, and we hear Grey on the inside, fidgeting and messingaround.

QUINLANYou all right in there?

GREY (V.O.)Damn Romulan interface. I'd love toget my hands on the idiot who builtthis piece of...there!

A second later, the shuttle cloaks. Grey emerges from theback, seemingly out of thin air. His sleeves are rolled upand his hair is a mess, but his face is beaming.

GREY (CONT'D)I had to reconfigure half the powergrid, but I got it installed. Justdon't ask me how I'm going to get itback out.

(beat)How's the pod coming?

QUINLANBetween this and say, a week onRisa...I'd choose Risa.

She closes a small hatch and scoops up the tools she wasworking with.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)If we had time, I'd like to testthis thing out. But I guess we'reready.


The doors slide open and Cross enters. He's obviouslydistracted, but snaps out of it when he sees Quinlanapparently standing in midair.

CROSSNo levitating crew members on myship. Captain's standing order.

GREYSorry, sir.

Grey vanishes into the shuttle for a moment and disengagesthe cloak. The Pathfinder reappears, and seconds later sodoes Grey.

CROSS(re: the weapons pod)

Packing some extra heat, I see.

QUINLANWould you want to be caught in theGamma Quadrant with a stolen cloakingdevice and anything LESS than themaximum armament possible?

CROSSPoint taken. Everything's going allright, then?

GREYThe modifications and weaponenhancements are complete. Theproblem now is getting through thewormhole.

CROSSI think I can help you with that. Ambassador Odo is sending the rogueJem'Hadar back to the Gamma Quadrant. Since I doubt they'll want to spendeighty years getting there, it's asafe bet they plan to use wormhole.

Quinlan smiles.

QUINLANPerfect. When?

CROSSThey're scheduled to depart in fiveminutes.

GREYWe can be ready by then.


QUINLANCaptain, I take back every bad thingI've ever said about you.

(off Cross's scowl)Not that I've said a lot of bad thingsor anything. I mean it's not like Isit up in my quarters at night atthink of bad things to say aboutyou. Not anymore, at least.

(quick breath)Erik, help me out here?

Cross chuckles.

CROSSForget it. I'm sure I deserved itsomewhere along the line. Just becareful out there. Once you leavethis ship, you're on your own.

(beat)Good luck to you both. Bring himhome.

GREYThank you, sir. We will.

QUINLANYou have our word.

His farewells made, Cross exits as swiftly as he came. Quinlan doesn't waste a second; she turns to Grey and smiles.

QUINLAN (CONT'D)Ready?

He nods and they head for the shuttle.

GREYYou don't have to be so happy aboutthis, you know.

QUINLANWhat? It'll be fun.

INT. PATHFINDER -- CONTINUOUS

The two arrive in the cockpit and sit down.

GREYGetting ourselves killed in the GammaQuadrant is your idea of fun?

QUINLANYou're worried NOW? AFTER we snuckaboard a Romulan ship and stole acloaking device out from under theirnoses?


GREYI was worried then, too. But forsome reason I had a great deal ofpain to help take my mind of myworries.

QUINLAN(apologetic)

I said I was sorry.

He flashes a sidelong smile.

GREYI'm kidding.

QUINLANAnd here I always thought your ideaof humor started with, "Two phaseinducers and a plasma coil walk intoa bar."

Grey chuckles and works on the console in front of him.

GREYPer-Launch sequence initiated. I'mbringing the cloak on-line.

(gestures ahead ofthem)

Care to take the helm?

QUINLANYou better believe it. I've seenthe way you fly. You always end upstranded in some nebula somewhere.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- SHUTTLEBAY

The Pathfinder raises off the ground and cloaks. Secondslater, we see the bay's force field shimmer as the shuttlepasses through.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- DOCKING RING

A squadron of Jem'Hadar soldiers and two Vorta lead thedisgraced Second away in shackles. The look in the Second'seyes is distant, but there is just a hint of murderous intentstill present.

EXT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- DOCKING RING

The Jem'Hadar vessel slowly backs away from the station andangles sharply toward the wormhole. Moments later, thebrilliant wormhole explodes into a swirling pattern of blueand white. It swallows the vessel whole and vanishes, leavingonly the black void of space in its wake.


EXT. SPACE

Again, the wormhole appears. The Jem'Hadar vessel emergesand proceeds slowly away from the collapsing mouth of thegiant anomaly.

INT. PATHFINDER

Grey and Quinlan sit at their respective stations as thePathfinder slows down. The Jem'Hadar ship continues onward,as evidenced through the front window.

GREYOnce the ship is clear, set a coursefor Levandra.

Quinlan glances at her console, sees the heading.

QUINLANWe're going to have company. That'swhere the Dominion ship is heading.

GREYWhat?

QUINLANSee for yourself.

GREY(off her console)

We'll follow them for now. Stayback, we don't want to let them seeus.

QUINLANReally? I hadn't thought of that.

Grey lets it go and continues to monitor his station.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- BRIDGE

Cross sits in his chair, examining a PADD. Talora entersand moves to her seat. Cross doesn't acknowledge her. Thetension between them is thick. Talora finally breaks theice.

TALORAMay I speak with you, Captain?

Cross works on the PADD for another moment, then sighs, rises,and leaves his chair.

CROSS(as he passes her)

Briefing Room.

Talora follows a few paces behind.


INT. ENTERPRISE -- BRIEFING ROOM

Cross and Talora enter.

CROSSWhat is it, Commander?

TALORAI wish to apologize for my behaviorearlier.

Cross considers this for a long beat.

CROSSIt's all right. I'm just glad you'vecome to your senses.

TALORAMy senses?

CROSSAbout leaving the Enterprise.

TALORAI haven't reached a decision yet.

CROSS(irked)

I see.

TALORACaptain, I admit I lost my temperwith you earlier. That's what thisis about. I don't intend to apologizefor wanting to better myself, wantingsomething more.

CROSSEven if it means turning your backon your ship and crew?

TALORAHow would accepting this position beturning my back on the Enterprise? You've approved the transfer ofhundreds of crew members over thepast few years.

CROSSThose were different.

TALORAHow?


CROSS(quickly)

Because they weren't...(trails off)

Forget it.

Talora realizes where he's going with this.

TALORABecause they weren't me.

CROSSThe Enterprise needs you, Talora. This crew needs you.

TALORAWith all due respect, Captain, Ibelieve you're the one who needs me.

Cross looks at Talora in confused disbelief.

CROSSI see some of that old Romulanarrogance is resurfacing.

TALORAIt's not arrogance. It's the truth. You've come to rely on me so heavilythat you're not entirely certain youcan function without me. This crewdoes not need me, Captain. You do. To keep you grounded. To keep yousane.

Cross looks out the window in silence, his eyes intense.

TALORA (CONT'D)You are a good man, Captain Cross. But I cannot sacrifice my career tobe your nursemaid.

Cross's jaw bulges as he turns to face Talora. Before hecan form a response, the comm activates.

CALE'S COMM VOICEBridge to Captain Cross.

CROSSGo ahead.

CALE'S COMM VOICESir, Y'lan has just arrived on thebridge.

CROSSWhat does he want?


CALE'S COMM VOICEHe's not saying, Sir. He'sjust...staring.

CROSSWe'll be right out.

Without waiting for a reply from Talora, Cross storms out ofthe room. Talora is a step behind him.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- BRIDGE -- CONTINUOUS

Cross and Talora emerge from the room to find Y'lan standingin silence near one of the science stations. Ce is completelysilent.

CROSSSomething we can help you with, Y'lan?

The Q'tami remains silent for a few moments, then slowly andcarefully walks over to one of the science stations. Withoutwarning and with amazing speed, Y'lan begins to smash thescience stations!

The crew runs for cover as the mighty Q'tami rampages acrossthe back of the bridge. Talora reacts quickly, rushingstraight for Y'lan. Before she can get close, Y'lan wraps atentacle around her leg, rips her off her feet, and flingsher across the bridge. She lands hard against the helm andfalls to the ground.

Cross kneels at Talora's side and watches helplessly as Y'lanunleashes his fury on the bridge amidst an eruption of sparksand smoking consoles.

FADE OUT.

END OF ACT THREE

RENAISSANCE: "What Shadows We Pursue" - ACT FOUR 48.

ACT FOUR

FADE IN:

INT. ENTERPRISE -- BRIG

The ripple of a force field fills our view as a tentaclepresses into it. As we pan back, we find Y'lan testing thefield in several other places. He appears to be calm now,but there still is a strange, detached look in his eyes.

Cross stands on the outside of the cell, staring with concernat the Q'tami within. Toran stands outside of the cell, amedical tricorder in hand, scanning Y'lan.

CROSSWhat could have caused this behavior?

TORANUnfortunately your guess is as goodas mine. Maybe it's some kind ofphase. The Q'tami equivalent ofpuberty.

Cross is thoughtful.

CROSSOr maybe it's got something to dowith Dojar.

TORANThat's very possible. We know solittle about the connection theyshare...maybe being apart like thishas done something to him.

The doors slide open and Talora enters, limping slightly andholding her side.

TALORAIs Y'lan contained?

CROSSUnless he suddenly develops theability to walk through a Level 10force field.

(re: her side)What's wrong?

TALORAA bruise.

Cross motions Toran over to her. He scans her with a medicaltricorder.


TORANIt's no bruise. You've got a crackedrib. Hold still, I can treat youhere.

Toran opens his medkit and takes out a device, then goes towork on Talora's side. Talora presses onward.

TALORAWe've received a report from DeepSpace Nine. It seems an increasingnumber of Jem'Hadar are behavingerratically.

CROSSAny more attacks?

TALORANone so far. Still, I think it wouldbe a wise precaution for me to requesttheir complete removal from DeepSpace Nine.

CROSSAnd what outrageous demand are yougoing to make to soften the blow? Ask them all to shoot themselves?

TALORA(irritated)

I will deal with that when the timecomes.

CROSS(indignant)

I'm sure you will.

Toran finishes his work and replaces his gadget.

TORANYou should feel as good as new,Commander.

Talora doesn't hear him. She and Cross are still glaring ateach other.

TALORAPermission to return to Deep SpaceNine, Captain.

CROSSI wouldn't want to keep your diplomatfriends waiting.

Again the two stare at each other. Toran awkwardly glancesat both.


TORANI should probably head back tosickbay.

Talora wordlessly turns and leaves. Cross stares hard atthe door for a few moments, but is snapped back to realitywhen Y'lan tests the force field again.

The comm system activates.

MEDIC'S COMM VOICESickbay to Doctor Toran.

TORANToran here.

MEDIC'S COMM VOICEYou asked to be notified when Dr.Elris woke up. She's just comearound.

TORANI'm on my way.

Toran curtly nods to Cross and rushes out of the brig. Thecaptain steps closer to the force field and gazes intentlyat Y'lan. Y'lan stops all movement and seems to return thegaze.

CROSSDo you know where he is? Do youknow if he's all right?

(beat, then upset)Why can't you answer me?

Y'lan is silent for a moment. He raises a tentacle up andpresses it against the force field again. Cross sighs andwithdraws.


Toran rushes into Sickbay. He finds Elris still on herbiobed. She is clearly very weak and very dazed. A numberof medics run tests on her, check her various vitals out.

TORANReport.

MEDICShe's awake and doing well. A littledazed right now.

TORANVery good. I'll handle it from here.

The medic nods and withdraws. Toran moves to Elris and beginsscanning her. She seems upset that he's there.


TORAN (CONT'D)These readings are looking good. You should be back on your feet in afew days.

(beat; he looks downat her)

You scared me, you know. I didn'tthink you were going to make it. When they brought you in here, youwere in pretty bad shape.

Elris struggles to say something.

TORAN (CONT'D)You won't be able to speak for alittle while. Your vocal cords weredamaged. Actually, you werefortunate. You might have sufferedpermanent damage to your airways.

Toran goes about several miscellaneous tasks, running variousscans on Elris.

TORAN (CONT'D)I've been thinking a lot about things. About how you're always accusing meof being obsessed with Bajor. And Ialways tell you the same thing. It's my home, no one else cares aboutit.

(beat)I do love Bajor. More than almostanything else. Almost.

As Toran talks, Elris reaches for the PADD that he left onher bedside. She awkwardly, clumsily types in a messagewith one hand.

TORAN (CONT'D)But I shouldn't have thrown it inyour face like I did. I know youhave your problems with Bajor, andit was wrong of me to just rub yourface in it. I may not agree withyour approach but I shouldn't havebeen so arrogant about my own. I -

Toran is distracted when the PADD clatters to the floor. Heturns, picks it up, reads it. He seems pained by what hereads. He glances to Elris, who stares silently at theceiling.

TORAN (CONT'D)Well - all right. If that's whatyou want.

(beat)I'm sorry.


Toran sits the PADD on the bedside and walks over to thenurse. Our focus remains on the PADD, and we slide closerto it - close enough to see the message Elris wrote.

"Don't want to hear this. Get nurse. Go home."

EXT. SPACE

A large Jem'Hadar vessel - the same one which departed DeepSpace Nine - assumes a somewhat slower pace as it approachesa large planet.

INT. PATHFINDER

We find Grey and Quinlan at their respective posts.

QUINLANThis place looks familiar.

GREYThink so?

QUINLANThey've entered into orbit. Lookslike they're planning on being hereawhile.

(beat)What could they want here? LevandraIV is supposed to be uninhabited.

GREYIt's not anymore. I'm picking upstructures on the surface. Lookslike a small base.

(beat)And would you look at that. ACardassian bio sign.

QUINLANAt least we know he's still alive. Shall we beam down?

GREYNo, I don't want to risk them findingthe shuttle. We'll land.

Quinlan checks her console.

QUINLANI can get us to within twentykilometers. Any closer and therewon't be a suitable landing site.

GREYAny closer and they'd probably detectus. Twenty will do fine.


QUINLAN(smiles)

We aim to please.

INT. ENTERPRISE -- READY ROOM

Cross sits at his desk, going over some reports on his viewer. His door chime rings out.

CROSSCome in.

Talora enters. She stands in front of Cross, her arms behindher back, in a rigidly formal posture.

CROSS (CONT'D)What's on your mind, Commander?

TALORAAmbassador Odo has agreed to removethe Jem'Hadar from Deep Space Nine.

CROSSWell done. I'll have to get you totell me how you did it someday.

TALORAI don't think that will be possible,Captain.

Talora produces a PADD from behind her, which she places onthe captain's desk. Cross glances at it, then meets Talora'sgaze.

CROSSWhat's this?

TALORAIt's my resignation from Starfleet. I have decided to accept ProconsulLovik's offer. I will begin my newassignment immediately after theDominion peace talks have beencompleted.

Cross picks up the PADD, glances over it, his face movingfrom shock to anger.

CROSSSo you've decided to just walk away. Turn your back on your ship and crew. Turn your back on your captain.

TALORAIt would appear so.


CROSSI see. The fact that this ship needsyou...that I still need you...meansnothing.

Talora sighs.

TALORAI did not come to this decisionlightly. I will continue to performmy duty as your First Officer untilthese talks are over. But you mustunderstand that my decision is made,and it is final. Sending me on a -a guilt trip will not change anything.

Cross meets her gaze, his faced washed into disappointmentand barely controlled anger.

CROSSWill that be all?

TALORAYes, Captain.

CROSSThen get out.

Talora nods curtly and leaves. Cross rises, walks acrosshis desk, the PADD still in hand. He reads over it oncemore, but his anger finally consumes him. He hurls the PADDat the door. It hits the frame and clatters to the ground.


Talora has paused on the other side of the door. She hearsthe PADD hit the door and fall and she frowns. A glimmer ofsadness crosses her features, as if she wonders if she madethe right choice.

Her concern is slowly replaced with contentment. Perhapseven a glimmer of happiness. She's made the right choice,and she reassures herself of it.

EXT. LEVANDRA IV -- WILDERNESS

Judging from our surroundings, Levandra IV is a very warm,tropical like setting. Our focus is a piece of particularlymountainous terrain, which we find Grey and Quinlan traversingcarefully.

QUINLAN(re: her tricorder)

I don't know what the hell's in theserocks, but they're making it hard toget a fix on anything.


GREY(tugging his collar)

This heat's going to be the end ofme.

QUINLANI hadn't noticed.

GREYIt's forty-five degrees Celsius! How can you not notice?

QUINLANI spent six months on Behr Prime inthe middle of their warm season. Makes this look like the arctic.

(lights up)There. I think I've got it. OneCardassian, two Jem'Hadar.

(beat)Strange. They're a kilometer south *of the base.

GREYCardassians love the heat. Maybethey're letting him get some air.

QUINLANRight. Cause Jem'Hadar are knownfor their compassion.

GREYWell whatever they're doing, we'dbetter get over there. The Pathfinderwill only stay cloaked for anotherseven hours. And that's running onminimal power.

QUINLANThen let's get moving already. Don'tyou know it's hot here?

Grey chuckles and shakes his head as the two get underway.


Admiral Delfune walks purposefully down the promenade. Shepasses Cross, who is standing by himself near one of thewindows. She hesitates, moves to him.

DELFUNECaptain. I wasn't aware you werescheduled for any briefings today.


CROSS(not moving)

I'm not. I just needed to - get outfor awhile.

A beat.

DELFUNEI heard about your First Officer.

CROSSReally. Imagine my surprise.

DELFUNEYou can't blame her for acceptingthe job, can you? It's -

CROSS(cutting her off)

An incredible opportunity. So I'veheard.

(glances over hisshoulder at her)

What does any of this matter to you? You've never liked her.

DELFUNENot really. But I've never likedyou either, and yet, here we are.

Cross turns to face her.

CROSSNow is not the best time to -

He drifts off as his gaze moves to just behind Delfune.

CROSS (CONT'D)Oh no...

Delfune turns and follows his gaze. Just outside of Morn's,we find two Vortas trying to get a number of Jem'Hadar tocome with them. The Jem'Hadar do not want go, and aregrowling in rage.

One of them snarls at the Vorta, causing the smaller man tostumble backwards. The Jem'Hadar shouts a cry of defianceand smashes one of Morn's tables. When his comrades seethis, they too begin breaking things.

Cross and Delfune exchange concerned glances. Cross tapshis comm badge.

CROSS (CONT'D)Cross to Enterprise.


TALORA'S COMM VOICEEnterprise here, Captain.

CROSSI think the Dominion just lost controlof the Jem'Hadar. They're startingsome trouble in Morn's.

TALORA'S COMM VOICEI'll coordinate with as many shipsas necessary to maintain a lock onall Starfleet personnel.

CROSSMake sure you let the Romulans andthe Bajorans know as well. Tellthem to be ready to pull their peopleout if things get ugly.

TALORA'S COMM VOICEOf course, Captain.

Cross and Delfune head over to the bar.


Grey and Quinlan move swiftly through the wilderness. Bothare overheated and dirty. They've both shed their outertunics, leaving only the black sleeveless undershirts oftheir suits. Grey glances over to Quinlan.

Quickly through the underbrush they move, Quinlan in thelead with a tricorder running.

QUINLANJust over this next ridge.

They proceed with renewed vigor.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- MORN'S BAR

Things have gone from bad to worse, as a dozen Jem'Hadarbreak barstools, chairs, and tables. They shatter glasses,mirrors, and anything else they can get their hands on.

A number of Starfleet security officers show up, phasersdrawn. They begin firing at the rabid Jem'Hadar, but theirsettings are too low. They only succeed in further angeringthem.

One of the Jem'Hadar leaps up onto the bar and utters ahorrific battle cry. He grabs a nearby security officer bythe throat, hoists him up onto the bar, and runs a knifeclear through him.



They arrive at the side of an old rocky trail and drop down. A small hill hides them from sight from the road. On theroad they see two armed Jem'Hadar flanking a third person -Dojar!

QUINLANYou take the ugly one.

Grey makes to respond but catches himself.

GREYWhich ugly one?

QUINLANUm - the one on the left?

Grey nods.

A heartbeat later, he gives the signal and the two leveltheir phasers.

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- MORN'S BAR

The other Jem'Hadar have seen what their comrade has doneand echo the cry, drawing their own weapons or using theirbare hands. They begin killing anything and everything thatmoves - Starfleet, Romulans, civilians, even their Vortamasters.


Cross and Delfune watch helplessly as the house of cardscollapses and the Jem'Hadar begin their rampage.

CROSSThis isn't going to do much for thepeace talks.

(taps his badge)Cross to Enterprise!

TALORA'S COMM VOICETalora here, Captain.

CROSSEverything's gone to hell over here! The Jem'Hadar are killing everyonein sight. Beam as many people offthe station as you can and tell theother ships to do the same!


Talora is on the edge of the Captain's chair, a look ofcomplete horror washing over her.


TALORAUnderstood.

(taps her comm badge)Bridge to transporter room. Beginemergency beam-out.

Silence, then...

COMM VOICEI've lost the lock! There's somekind of dampening field interferingwith the transporters!

TALORAKeep trying! ... Did you hear that,Captain?


Cross and Delfune, as before.

CROSSI heard it. Keep on it. Cross out.

(to Delfune)Know anything about a dampening field?

DELFUNEIf I did, I wouldn't be on this sideof it.


Grey and Quinlan fire simultaneously. The Jem'Hadar stumble,caught off guard, but they don't go down.

QUINLANStubborn, aren't they?

GREYNarrow the band.

QUINLANRight.

The Jem'Hadar bring their weapons to bear and fire at Greyand Quinlan. The shots are hasty, easily avoided. Greyreturns fire and hits his target first, flattening theJem'Hadar.

The other Jem'Hadar takes aim and Grey's position, givingQuinlan a clean shot. She fires her phaser and her opponentfalls.


The Jem'Hadar rampage spills out onto the promenade ashundreds of terrified people flee for their lives.


Cross meets the flood head-on, ready to dive into the thickof the fight. He turns back to Delfune.

CROSSGet off the promenade or you'll betrampled! I'll try to control thiscrowd!

DELFUNEYou're not going to fight them!

CROSSJust go!

Delfune backs away from the oncoming stampede as Cross turnsto meet it head-on. He rushes to a nearby kiosk and shoutsabove the din. His phaser is at the ready.

CROSS (CONT'D)This way! Come on, people! Try tostay calm! This way!

The Jem'Hadar already on the promenade follow the violentprecedent set by their comrades and begin killing anythingthat moves. Cross takes aim at several with his phaser andfires to no avail. Hesitantly, he increases the setting andfires again.


Grey and Quinlan rush the road towards Dojar, who simplystands there, gazing at the bodies of the fallen Jem'Hadar.

GREYDojar, are you all right?

QUINLANAre we glad to see you. You wouldn'tbelieve what we've been through toget there.

Dojar looks at Quinlan. There's something not right aboutthe gaze, something in his eyes.

DOJARYou should not have come.

QUINLANOh, who really believes in that 'needsof the many, needs of the few crap'anymore? We're here, we found you,now let's get out of here.

DOJARDrop your weapons.

Grey and Quinlan stop short.


GREYWhat?

DOJARDrop your weapons.

Quinlan is nervous, but forces an unconvincing laugh.

QUINLANIf it's all the same to you, I thinkI'd rather not. Now come on!

She reaches for his hand as if to pull him along. Beforeshe reaches it, Dojar lashes out with his fist and strikesQuinlan across the face. She is knocked to the ground.

GREYDojar! What the hell...?


We pick up on Kai Shala as she emerges from the Bajoranshrine. A number of terrified Bajorans follow her. Sheremains between them and the crowd, protecting them.

SHALACome, my children. This way!

Nearby, a crazed Jem'Hadar begins slashing his way throughthe crowd. He is moving straight for the Kai. His attackssend a crowd of people running past the Kai, forcing her andthe crowd following her against the wall. The Jem'Hadartakes notice of them and advances, madness in his eyes.

Shala stands defiant, arms spread wide in protection of herpeople.

SHALA (CONT'D)(softly)

May the Prophets protect us.

The Jem'Hadar advances on Shala and raises his blade.


Quinlan is on her feet, more angry than anything it seems. Grey steps between her and Dojar.

GREYWhat's gotten into you?

By way of reply, Dojar lashes out at Grey and knocks him tothe ground.



Seconds before the Jem'Hadar's blade drops, he is tackledand brought to the ground. Shala looks in amazement at herunexpected rescuer. Cross affords her only a brief glance.

CROSSGet them out of here!

Shala nods and herds the Bajorans away.

The Jem'Hadar kicks Cross away. He hits the ground and hisphaser clatters away from him.

The Jem'Hadar is upon him, bringing the blade down. Crossrolls away just in time, but the Jem'Hadar is quick. Thecaptain tries to struggle to his feet, but he is met with akick to the ribs which flattens him.

Cross struggles upward as his enemy closes in. The Jem'Hadarsneers at him.

With a surge of strength, Cross explodes to his feet andcharges the Jem'Hadar. Both men are sent tumbling over anearby kiosk. They wrestle atop the kiosk, above the chaosensuing all around them.

The Jem'Hadar gains the advantage. He pins down Cross bythe neck with one hand. The other hand raises his blade. Cross struggles, defiant to the last.


As Grey struggles to his feet, Quinlan regains her phaserand levels it point blank at Dojar.

QUINLANWhat the hell is going on? Don'tyou recognize us?

Dojar smacks the weapon from Quinlan's hand, yanks her towardhim, and strikes her with a powerful blow to the temple. Quinlan collapses, unconscious.


Cross glares at the Jem'Hadar as his blade is raised. Asthe weapon begins to fall, there is a flicker of silver aboveCross's head. Suddenly the Jem'Hadar's blade comes looseand flies up to the upper level of the promenade. Thestartled soldier follows it up. We find Odo, his armreturning to its humanoid form, the blade in hand.

Cross capitalizes on the momentary distraction. He kneesthe Jem'Hadar in the ribs and breaks free of the death grip. Without a weapon, the Jem'Hadar wraps both hands around Cross's neck.


Cross does the same, though he's the weaker of the two.

As he struggles for air, he notices one of the many viewscreens set up throughout the promenade. With a surge ofstrength, Cross brings his knee into the Jem'Hadar's stomach. His enemy stumbles. Cross launches them both off of thekiosk.

The Jem'Hadar hits the wall first, and the impact weakenshis grip. Cross takes the advantage and slams the Jem'Hadar'shead into the viewscreen. There is a shower of sparks asthe Dominion soldier struggles and convulses, before fallingto the ground.

Cross stumbles back, letting the body fall. He glances upat Odo. A silent moment of gratitude passes between thembefore both men return to the crowds, trying to get peopleto safety.


As before. Dojar reaches down and grabs Grey by the throat,pulling him to his feet. The Cardassian rips the phaserfrom Grey's hand and tosses it into the forest.

GREY(struggling)

Dojar...I can't breath...

Dojar lets Grey drop to the ground next to Quinlan. A splitsecond later, he levels a Jem'Hadar disruptor at them. Greygapes in wide-eyed horror...

INT. DEEP SPACE NINE -- CORRIDORS

With the hellish chaos still in the background, AdmiralDelfune slides into one of the corridors adjoining thepromenade. She takes a moment to gather herself, then tapsher comm badge.

DELFUNEDelfune to Cross.

Nothing. She tries again.

DELFUNE (CONT'D)Delfune to Thel, please respond.

Nothing. Again.

DELFUNE (CONT'D)Delfune to anyone; please respond! The...

She trails off as a shadow falls over her. She turns quickly. Though the light from the promenade obscures his face, wecan see a Starfleet comm badge.


Delfune looks relieved, but only for a moment.

For in the next moment, the unknown officer has a phaserdrawn, aimed straight at her. It takes a second to register.

She tries to back way.

DELFUNE (CONT'D)No...

A grin crosses the officer's shadowed face.

CLOSE SHOT of the phaser as his thumb slowly presses thetrigger.

Delfune's scream echoes in our ears.

SMASH CUT TO BLACK.

END OF ACT FOUR

TO BE CONTINUED...

what shadows we pursue” story by will sjorensen, james ...€¦ · their warp drive was just...

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