STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE - "Secret Recipes"

STAR TREK: DEEP SPACE NINE

"Secret Recipes"

TEASER

FADE IN

INT. GARAK'S SHOP - DAY

ODO stands in front of GARAK, his Bajoran uniform wrinkled and bunched across his torso.

ODO

Fix it, or-

Garak kneels to check the hem.

GARAK

Now, Odo, would I be foolish enough to annoy the local constabulary? I don't spit where I eat, after all. Ah-ha...hmmmm....

Garak grips the bottom of the uniform's tunic and gives one sharp tug. Everything falls into place.

ODO

But I tried that....

GARAK

We all have days, Odo, in which our clothes fit poorly, our hair is no longer oily, our skin is moist and pliable. Welcome to the humanoid condition.

DAX (OS) (FILTERED)

Constable Odo to Shuttle Bay Four. 

ODO

(Into communicator)

I'm on my way.

Odo leaves. Garak trails behind.

                                                                  

INT. SHUTTLE BAY FOUR - DAY

An enormous crowd of fat men dressed in vivid bad taste parade out of the airlock - a fashion black hole. They are the BUYERS.

GARAK

And you thought you had style problems.

BUYER IN PLAID

(To Odo) 

You! Boy! Take me to your best hotel!

Garak grins at Odo's expression as we...

                                                        FADE OUT.

END OF TEASER

ACT ONE

FADE IN

INT. QUARK'S BAR - DAY

Packed with Buyers. Huddled in a corner, O'BRIEN and BASHIR stare slack-jawed at the weirdness.

BUYER IN FLORAL CAPE

...so I said, "You must have me confused with a humanoid who gives a damn". So she said-

BUYER IN TASSELS

Don't be an idiot. Deneb Four is dead. Completely...no, its star didn't explode. No, no viral plague. No. Tourists. Yes, the whole Proxima crowd.

A KLINGON BUYER with horns sticking out all over his tunic grabs a FERENGI WAITER by the throat.

KLINGON BUYER

HALF-CAP DOUBLE-LID ESPRESSO RAKTAJINO WITH A TWIST! DECAF.

MAJOR KIRA and FIRST MINISTER SHAKAAR enter. Behind them are ADIL FIREZE, Shakaar's aide, and two BAJORAN GUARDS.

KIRA

This is insane.

FIREZE

We need the export credit, Major Kira. That's why the First Minister is here. 

SHAKAAR

Please, just be polite.

PLAID BUYER

(To Kira)

You! Young lady! Can I have a menu, please?

SHAKAAR

Nerys....

          

Kira plasters a painful smile on her face.

INT. QUARK'S OFFICE - DAY

ROM helps his brother QUARK into a fancy dress jacket. Quark is on edge.

QUARK

Today's the day, Rom. No more kow-towing to the Grand Negus. No more heart-to-heart "chats" with the FCA. No more listening to Cousin Gayla's munitions stories. "Oh, if you'd only stuck with me, Quark, you could have been a sub-director of trigger assemblies by now." This time tomorrow, they'll be listening to me.

ROM

To us.

QUARK

To the Ferengi with one-tenth of one percent of the royalties of an entire planetary cuisine! A new height in catering! How's my clip-on?

ROM

Perfect.

QUARK

Let's kick some lobe.

They exit.

     

INT. AUCTION HALL - DAY

Quark walks to the dais. Behind him is a long table filled with elegant entrées. Behind each item stands a BAJORAN CHEF.

QUARK

Ladies, gentlemen, and others, 

welcome to the first annual copyright auction of Bajoran foodstuffs. You've come from the far corners of the Alpha Quadrant to bid for the right to duplicate Bajor's finest cuisine in restaurants and private replicators across the Federation and beyond. When I think of the profit distribution involved here, the licensing agreements, the careful royalty structure we've arranged...well, I can't help but get a little emotional. So, without further ado, let the tasting begin!

                                                                  

INT. AUCTION HALL - DAY

WAITERS circulate with plates of samples. Quark schmoozes the BUYERS. Rom surveys the crowd with a scanner.

On the far side of the room, an OBNOXIOUS BUYER grabs a plate of samples from a Waiter and starts to gobble.

CARDASSIAN BUYER

Philistine.

OBNOXIOUS BUYER

So's your mother.

ROM

Wait a second...check his pockets, brother!

Rom hands Quark the scanner. From Quark's POV, the scanner reveals the Obnoxious Buyer slipping bits of food into his jacket. Quark nods to a squad of husky (well, husky for Ferengi) GUARDS. GUARD #1 approaches the Obnoxious Buyer.

GUARD #1

Sir, we have been offered the sum of two strips of gold-pressed latinum for your arrest. Do you wish to outbid?

Rom stares at Quark, who shrugs.

QUARK

I didn't want to pay him up front. I had to save money somewhere.

OBNOXIOUS BUYER

Go bankrupt yourselves, you greasy little trolls.

Guard #1 shrugs and turns away. GUARD #2 sneaks up behind the distracted buyer and jabs him with a stunner. The Guards grab the Obnoxious Buyer as he goes limp.

QUARK

Not bad for two strips.

Quark rips open the Obnoxious Buyer's jacket, revealing dozens of plastic pouches filled with food.

OBNOXIOUS BUYER

(Gasping in pain)

They're...for... my...cat.

QUARK

Take him away.

SISKO walks by, carrying a plate of food.

SISKO

Good work, Quark. I'm impressed.

QUARK

Thank you, Captain. Nog tells me your father runs a restaurant on Earth. What does he do about this sort of thing? Customers stealing food for replication?

SISKO

Well, he posts a sign.

QUARK

A sign? That's all? What does it say?

SISKO

"Please don't copy my food."

Long pause.

QUARK

I don't understand.

SISKO

I know.

Sisko leaves.

QUARK

Humans.

                                                                  

INT. QUARK'S BAR - DAY

Kira and Shakaar sit at a table.

KIRA

I still can't understand what all the fuss is about.

SHAKAAR

You've been living in the Federation economy too long. Five thousand people died last year...of starvation. They couldn't buy food to feed their families.

KIRA

I don't believe it.

SHAKAAR

It's the price we're paying for independence, Nerys. The Vedics agree. If we joined the Federation tomorrow, there'd be a replicator in every home...but we'd lose our strength. We'd be a dependent people. Our Pah would be destroyed, in ways the Cardassian could never have achieved.

KIRA

But starvation...

SHAKAAR

It's vital we build our exports. And the only thing we have to export is our culture. Our music, our works of art...our cooking. If the auction goes well, it could net us 50 million mega-credits a year, and lay the groundwork for more to come. It could buy us medicines, fertilizers, technologies. It's our future. Even the recipe for steamed graat weed is precious. So if one of those food buyers thinks you're a barmaid, humor him.

KIRA

Couldn't I just take a disruptor bolt, instead?

Shakaar laughs. Rom enters.

ROM

If you will all come this way, the bidding is about to start!

As Kira gets up, the Plaid Buyer bumps into her.

PLAID BUYER

Good help is impossible to find, obviously.

INT. AUCTION HALL - DAY

The bidding is fast and furious. Buyer ARRIS POLO, overweight and decadent, dominates the auction. 

AUCTIONEER

...five hundred thousand-

BUYER #1

Five-fifty!

BUYER #2

Five-sixty!

ARRIS

Six-fifty.

Silence from the crowd.

AUCTIONEER

Do I hear seven? Seven? Going once. Going twice-

PLAID BUYER

Seven.

AUCTIONEER

Seven. Do I hear seven-fifty --

ARRIS

Seven-fifty.

PLAID BUYER

Eight.

ARRIS

(Murderous)

Eight-fifty.

PLAID BUYER

Nine.

ARRIS

One million.

Tense silence. Then the Plaid Buyer shrugs. The noise starts again.

AUCTIONEER

SOLD, contract #14 for baked hasperat, to the Pan-Orion Catering Syndicate for one million mega-credits per annum!

Quark and Rom have been studying this interplay from one side.

QUARK

You're sure he's not one of ours?

ROM

Yes, brother. We only paid for two shills to drive up the price, and they're over-

QUARK

Don't point, you idiot! All right. He drives up the price, but he never buys. Why?

ROM

Maybe he just wants to feel important.

QUARK

You don't pay a ten-bar entrance fee just to feel important. Scan him.

ROM

But brother, I scanned him yesterday-

QUARK

So scan him again.

Rom re-calibrates and then scans the Plaid Buyer.

ROM

Nothing, brother. Nothing at all.

QUARK

Nothing? What about heat?

ROM

Nothing.

QUARK

Not even the 98.6 degrees of body heat he should put out normally?

Rom gulps.

ROM

No, brother.

QUARK

And no electromagnetism? Not even his body's natural electric field?

ROM

He's wearing a scan-cloak!

QUARK

Damn right!

But the Plaid Buyer senses something's wrong. He heads for the exit.

QUARK

GET HIM!!

Quark and the Guards chase the Plaid Buyer, plowing through the crowd, stepping on toes, making a scene. The Plaid Buyer grabs a bowl of stew and throws it at the Klingon Buyer...and the hall erupts in chaos. 

QUARK

Call Odo!

Quark ducks a flying pie. A BUYER falls, bleeding and covered in meringue.

QUARK

And see if you can get a line on some medical supplies.

INT. CORRIDORS (ODO AND DEPUTIES) - DAY

Odo strides through the corridors, trailed by BAJORAN DEPUTIES and  STARFLEET SECURITY.

ODO

Search every side corridor on this level. I want men in the air- and power-conduits. 

(Into his com-badge)

Commander, Doctor, take your men clockwise from the A4 intersection.

BASHIR (OS) (FILTERED)

Acknowledged.

INT. CORRIDORS (WORF AND BASHIR) - DAY

WORF leads a SQUAD through the tunnels. Bashir follows with a scanner. The guards are armed, but Worf leads bare-handed.

BASHIR

Where's your phaser?

A Klingon dagger appears in Worf's hand. He spins it around a few times before making it disappear.

BASHIR

R-i-i-g-h-t.

Bashir goes back to studying his scanner.

                                                                  

INT. CORRIDORS (ODO AND DEPUTIES) - DAY

Odo holds up his hand.

ODO

Quiet.

We can hear FOOTSTEPS in the distance.

ODO

That way!

They take off.

INT. CORRIDORS (THE PLAID BUYER) - DAY

The Plaid Buyer gives a squad of DEPUTIES the slip, and keeps going. As he runs, he unbuttons his clothing. Odo leaps out-

ODO

GOT YOU!

INT. CORRIDORS (WORF AND BASHIR) - DAY

Worf and Bashir hear a SCREAM.

BASHIR

THAT'S ODO! COME ON!!

They pound down the corridor.  

INT. CORRIDORS (ODO, WORF, BASHIR) - DAY

Worf and Bashir find Odo on the floor, bleeding from a knife wound in the shoulder.

ODO

It...hurts....

Worf follows a trail of blood down the corridor.

                                                                  

INT. ALCOVE (THE PLAID BUYER) - DAY

The Plaid Buyer waits for the pursuit to die down. Then he takes a deep breath, raises his knife....and cuts off his head.

INT. ALCOVE (WORF, BASHIR, ODO) - DAY

Bashir, Worf and Odo arrive at the alcove. They find the Plaid Buyer's clothes...and his body: a prosthetic fat suit. Underneath the skin we can see the gleam of CIRCUITRY. 

BASHIR

Well. I guess they were right.

WORF

What? WHO!?

BASHIR

"Inside of every fat man, there's a thin man screaming to get out."

                                                         FADE OUT

END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO

FADE IN

INT. MEDLAB - DAY

A NURSE works on Odo's bandage. Sisko enters.

SISKO

Odo, how are you feeling?

ODO

Foolish.

SISKO

You mustn't blame yourself-

ODO

I don't.

BASHIR (OS)

We're ready.

The fat suit is stretched out on a med-couch. O'Brien is going over it with a scanner.

BASHIR

As far as we can tell, the outer layers are living skin cells, grown over layers of polymer plastic and attached to the circuitry the man needed for the scanner and the emissions cloaking device.

ODO

Expensive.

BASHIR

Very. I know of only eight worlds that can do this kind of bionic engineering, and it's restricted to military applications on most of them.

ODO

I'll need a list-

Bashir hands him a notepad. O'Brien stands up.

O'BRIEN

Found it.

They approach the prosthetic. O'Brien points to an INTERNAL SLOT, surrounded by glistening circuitry.

O'BRIEN

That's where the data chip was. The suit would scan the food to be replicated, and store the data on the chip. This circuit here, that's your Heisenberg stabilizer, here's your magnetic resonance imager, this one's a quantum spin recorder-

ODO

What does the chip look like?

O'BRIEN

Standard isolinear chip, so big by so big...

(indicating with his hands)

...probably a Nakamura-Sordak 5000 series.

ODO

Is it a particularly recognizable component? Does it have any special characteristics?

O'BRIEN

Nah, we use hundreds of 'em. Transporter bays, replicators, computer systems, nav and com, you name it. It's their motto: "Where there's a subspace quantum flux, there's a Nakamura-Sordak."

ODO

How many food samples could he have stored on it?

O'BRIEN

All of them.

ODO

(To the Deputy)

Get all the deputies and the StarFleet security personnel in my office. Tell them full-scale, station-wide search, level one...and we're going to seal the station.

INT. QUARK'S BAR - DAY

Quark enters the bar to find the entire place has been taken apart. Rom sits in the middle of the wreckage.

QUARK

Odo?

ROM

He had a warrant. He said he'd better find the chip soon, or-

QUARK

Yeah, yeah.

Quark walks off-camera. We hear a SHRIEK, OS. He comes rushing back.

QUARK

They took the toilets! They took the whole set of toilets!

ROM

Odo said the replicator chip might have been embedded in the porcelain. He said he'll be back to check the sinks tomorrow. 

QUARK

What's a bar without a toilet!?  What will the Klingons throw up in? Why doesn't he just shoot me and finish the job?

KODOS

He would have to wait his turn.

Quark and Rom turn to see that KODOS THE SHARK - a cadaverous Vulcan with even less warmth than the Vulcan norm - has entered the bar. He is accompanied by a bunch of THUGS.

ROM

Brother, what's he doing here?

QUARK

What do you want? You'll get your money.

KODOS

Merely to offer..."moral support"... to a client in distress. I find that this gives our relationship a... "personal touch".

QUARK

I see.

KODOS

At this time, it is traditional for me to remind you of the consequences of default.

Quark tries to hide his fear.

QUARK

Don't worry. It's taken care of.

KODOS

The probabilities against that are now-

QUARK

You'll get your money. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to open my incredibly successful bar and start the day. 

Kodos stands.

KODOS

You have good managerial skills, Quark. When I seize your assets, I might allow you to remain as bartender...without your legs, of course. Live long and prosper, Quark son of Keldar.

Kodos turns to leave.

QUARK

Die broke and homeless, you son of a-

Rom claps a hand on Quark's mouth until Kodos and his Thugs exit onto the Promenade.

ROM

Brother, how could you?

QUARK

How do you think I paid for the auctioneer, or the extra security, or rented the hotel rooms for the buyers?

ROM

But Kodos the Shark! They say Karz, the Negus' second cousin, defaulted on a Kodos loan and reappeared as a series of medical prosthetics on four different planets.

QUARK

It was only three planets, and besides, it was Karz's finest hour.

ROM

What are we going to do?

QUARK

Odo wants my lobes. Kodos wants my assets. I might as well be dead.

Long beat. Quark's eyes open wide.

INT. ODO'S QUARTERS - NIGHT

Darkness. An alarm RINGS. Odo turns on the lights-

Someone has broken in, trashed everything, and painted a message across his wall. "WE CAN TOUCH YOU ANYWHERE. LET THE CHIP GO." Odo grabs his uniform and storms out of the room.

                                                                  

INT. PROMENADE - DAY

Sisko and Shakaar march down the Promenade toward the shuttle bay.

SHAKAAR

Is this really necessary?

SISKO

If Odo says it is.

The two men enter the docking area, followed by Shakaar's Guards.

                                                                  

INT. SHUTTLE DOCKING AREA - DAY

Odo and his DEPUTIES stand between a crowd of TRAVELERS and a shuttle. The Travelers are in an ugly mood. Odo still wears a bandage.

ODO

...a full quarantine. As soon as the thief is caught, you will all be able to leave.

A BIG, ANGRY MAN pushes to the front.

B.A.M.

I'M A FEDERATION CITIZEN, AND I KNOW MY RIGHTS!

ODO

I'm a Bajoran, and I don't. Now get back in line, or I'll show you just how ignorant I am.

The Deputies flick off the safeties on their rifles. The B.A.M. backs down.

SHAKAAR

Blessed Prophets. Has the man no tact at all?

ODO

If you wish to file legal actions, appropriate applications can be found in the station mainframe in the "legal affairs" sub-directory-

Odo sees Sisko and Shakaar at the back of the crowd, waiting for him. They signal him. He steps down.

ODO

Carry on.

Odo approaches Sisko and Shakaar.

SHAKAAR

Are you insane? Those people are honored guests-

ODO

Don't lecture me about crowd control unless you want my job. Sir.

He unconsciously raises his hand to his shoulder.

SISKO

Odo....

SHAKAAR

I will not have you settling personal scores at the expense of the food project-

ODO

If free movement is restored, there is no way to stop the replicator

(MORE)
ODO (CONT'D)

data from leaving the station. It's stored on a common isolinear chip, and it can be broadcast via sub-space. It's very easy to smuggle. And then what will you have to show for your auction?

DEPUTY (OC) (FILTERED)

Constable Odo. Disturbance at Quark's.

ODO

On my way. 

(To Shakaar)

The chip is mine.

He adjusts his uniform, which has started to ride up on him again. Then he leaves the docking area.

INT. QUARK'S BAR - DAY

QUARK

IT'S ALL YOUR FAULT!!

Quark stands on the second-level staircase, yelling at Rom. He looks drunk.

ROM

Brother, what did I do?

QUARK

YOU MISERABLE HALF-WIT, YOU STUPID, HONEST EXCUSE FOR A FERENGI-

O'BRIEN

Wow. He's really mad.

ROM

Brother, no!

QUARK

You cost me the bar!

Quark screams and leaps on Rom, who shoots a phaser. Quark goes limp. Odo arrives just in time to see it.

ROM

Get a doctor! Get a doctor!

Odo pushes through the crowd and checks Quark's pulse. He tries CPR and mouth-to-mouth. No good.

ODO (INTO HIS COM-BADGE)

Bashir to Quark's. Congratulations, Rom. You're the new owner.

ROM

This is the happiest moment of my life.

The Ferengi Waiters crowd around to congratulate Rom. As they do, Odo works his mouth as though he tastes something funny. He examines Quark's tongue and checks Rom's phaser. 

He nods to himself. As he leaves, the Waiters lift Rom on their shoulders and parade him around the bar.

FERENGI

Wives serve, brothers inherit!

Wives serve, brothers inherit!

                                                                  

INT. GUEST QUARTERS OF ARRIS POLO - NIGHT

Two Deputies hold Arris Polo at gun-point while Odo and other deputies search the quarters.

POLO

This is outrageous! I'm protesting to the First Minister!

ODO

You do that.

(To a Deputy)

Take the chip from his personal replicator. We'll examine it at Security.

A RECORDING DEPUTY marks all of Polo's possessions on a notepad, which he gives to Odo, who holds it in front of Polo.

ODO

Thumbprint here.

Polo does.

ODO

Thank you for your cooperation. All right, next apartment.

Odo and the Deputies stream out, leaving Polo standing in the wreckage.

EXT. QUARK'S BAR - NIGHT

Arris Polo approaches the bar. A BIG SIGN reads "GET 'EM WHILE THEY'RE HOT! QUARK'S FINAL REMAINS! FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY!" Underneath, the words "ten strips of latinum" have been corrected downward to "five strips".

INT. QUARK'S BAR - NIGHT

DISCS OF QUARK'S REMAINS are stacked on a table. Another sign says they've been marked down from five to three. Still no takers.

Polo passes the table, ignoring the discs, only to confront a FERENGI WAITER staring daggers at him.

FERENGI WAITER

Aren't you going to buy a disc?

That voice - it's Quark, in disguise.

QUARK THE WAITER

It's a mark of respect!

Quark advances on the stunned Polo. He's wearing a waiter uniform, some lobe make-up, and a fake nose.

QUARK

Five hours they've been there! Five hours, and not ONE-

ROM

BLEFUS!!

Rom comes hurrying up.

ROM

Blefus, they want drinks at table six.

He shoves Quark away.

ROM

I'm terribly sorry, sir. Death always upsets him so. Here, have a free raktajino.

QUARK

FREE?!

INT. REAR OF QUARK'S BAR - NIGHT

Quark confronts Rom.

QUARK

How dare you give away drinks in my establishment?

ROM

Brother-

QUARK

What do you think he is, a regular? He'll be leaving in a week, and he'll never come back.

ROM

Brother-

QUARK

You know, Father was right. You've got no lobes. No lobes at all. Now get OUT there and TRY to drum up some business. I leave you alone for one minute, and this is the thanks I get!

Quark stalks upstairs to the holo-suites. Rom thinks for a minute. Then he jumps onto the bar.

ROM

EVERYONE, COULD YOU PLEASE LISTEN TO ME? IN HONOR OF MY DEAR BROTHER, FOR THE NEXT TWO HOURS, DRINKS ARE ON THE HOUSE!!

Quark does an about-face and runs toward Rom, intent on murder. But before he can reach his brother, the crowd goes wild.

CROWD

LONG LIVE ROM! LONG LIVE ROM!

On Rom's face we can see an expression of surprise and then of delight...he's beginning to realize just how much power he has. And, judging by his expression, so is Quark.

                                                         FADE OUT

END OF ACT TWO

ACT THREE

FADE IN

INT. SISKO'S OFFICE - DAY

Sisko and Odo are confronted by furious Food Buyers, led by Arris Polo and Shakaar.

ARRIS

...the middle of the night. He ransacked my quarters, tore up my travel bags and refused to even sign a receipt.

ODO

I'd be happy to do that right now, Citizen Polo. Should I include the fifteen ounces of neo-morphine I found in your luggage?

SHAKAAR

Mr. Polo's personal habits are not the issue here! Constable Odo, you've exceeded your authority and treated these men like criminals!

ODO

One of them is. At least.

SHAKAAR

That is enough. I am telling you Odo, in my capacity as First Minister, that I will relieve you of duty if there is another incident like this one. Is that clear?

There is a long pause. 

ODO

Yes.

SHAKAAR

Good.

(To the Buyers)

Gentlemen, please, come with me. Let's see what sort of entertainment we can find for you....

Shakaar and the Buyers leave Sisko's office. For a moment, neither Sisko nor Odo say anything. Then-

SISKO

What's going on with you, Odo?

ODO

I don't know what you mean.

SISKO

This...heavy-handed trash. Rousting people in the middle of the night. Unwarranted search and seizure. That's not you.

ODO

I just want to do my job. Sir. If you and First Minister Shakaar will let me.

SISKO

You're treading on thin ice, Constable.

Odo says nothing.

SISKO

I think you're afraid.

ODO

Of what?

SISKO

This is your first major case since you...became human. And so far you've failed. I think you're afraid that you're not as good a cop as you were when you were a changeling.

ODO

Thank you for your analysis, Captain. 

     

SISKO

Sarcasm, Odo? That's a sign of weakness, don't you think?

ODO

May I go?

SISKO

Dismissed.   

INT. QUARK'S BAR - DAY

Quark/Blefus scurries from table to table, carrying stacks of dirty dishes under his chin, a dishrag hanging from his apron.

ROM

BLEFUS!!

Quark spins around and heads toward Rom. Rom has changed - he seems more confident, more expansive. He's talking to Kodos.

ROM

Clean table six, more drinks for table three, and make sure there are enough chips for the dabo table.

QUARK

(Muttering)

Just you wait.

ROM

What was that? Why don't you speak up, so Mr. Kodos can hear?

Quark scuffles off. He passes the table with his discs on it... they're now "One strip per OR BEST OFFER".

ROM

I'm sorry, it's so hard to get good help these days.

KODOS

I am not interested in your waiters, except marginally. I am interested in your debt.

ROM

My debt?

KODOS

"Wives serve, brothers inherit." That includes obligations.

ROM

But...but my brother told me nothing! I don't know where he kept his money, or his books, or even the key to his bathroom! 

KODOS

Do you expect me to believe that?

Rom draws himself up proudly.

ROM

We're Ferengi!

Kodos glances at one of his Thugs, who nods slightly.

KODOS

That is unfortunate for you, Rom. If you have no money, your only worth to me is as an example.

ROM

Give me time! I've been looking for his money night and day. What's another month to you?

KODOS

Longer than I am willing to wait. However, I will give you two weeks to settle your account.

ROM

But that's impossible! That's inhumanoid!

KODOS

Good day, Rom son of Keldar.

ROM

Wait! Maybe we can make a deal. Have you ever heard of silent partners?

Quark, listening from behind a pillar, chokes back a sob.

                                                                  

INT. PROMENADE - DAY

Packed with humanoids. All in plainclothes, Odo, Kira, and the Deputies scan the crowd.

ODO

It would be more effective to interrogate them one by one until we find a man who can't account for how he got on the station. 

KIRA

For some reason Shakaar feels that the buyers won't come back if they have to endure a month-long captivity, culminated by a full-scale interrogation by you. If we can find the chip before it's copied, the criminal is not as important.

ODO

Being out of uniform is completely unnecessary.

KIRA

It's called a low profile, Odo. Get used to it.

Odo raises his scanner, checks it, and moves on.

KIRA

This is like looking for a needle in a haystack.

They continue scanning. They pass a restaurant with tables in the Promenade. As they do, Kira hears a familiar voice.

PLAID BUYER'S VOICE

Waitress! This coffee is unacceptable!

Kira turns to look. A completely unfamiliar THIN MAN is chewing out a WAITRESS - in the voice of the Plaid Buyer. 

KIRA

YOU!!

The Thin Man locks eyes with Kira, and bolts from his chair. Kira follows.

KIRA

Waitress! I'll give you waitress! I'll give you more waitress than you can handle, you limp-boned son of sthondat!

Odo fires a phaser straight into the air. The battle-trained Bajorans drop to the floor, giving Odo a clear shot at the Thin Man/Plaid Buyer.

ODO

Got you.

Adil Fireze, Shakaar's aide, watches as they drag away the Plaid Buyer. He presses a button on a small silver BOX, and then leaves.

INT. HOLDING CELL - DAY

Odo confronts the Plaid Buyer.

ODO

Name?

PLAID BUYER

Valentin- aaaagghhh....

He slumps to the floor of his cell, drooling.

ODO

(Into com-badge)

Medic!

INT. MEDLAB - DAY

Bashir examines the Plaid Buyer, who is practically catatonic. 

BASHIR

He's a vegetable.

ODO

How?

With a laser scalpel Bashir carefully removes a small METALLIC CUBE from the back of the Plaid Buyer's head.

BASHIR

Radio-controlled implant. Press a button, wait thirty minutes, and it releases an RNA polymerase enzyme into the cerebral cortex. Scrambles short- and long-term memories.

ODO

Is it permanent?

BASHIR

Well, I think we can rehabilitate him.

ODO

I'm not interested in his potential for basket-weaving, doctor. Will I be able to question him?

BASHIR

No. That part of his personality is gone.

The Plaid Buyer spasms and tries to talk.

ODO

Yes? Yes? What is it?

The Plaid Buyer smiles and grabs Odo's nose.

PLAID BUYER

Tummy. BIG tummy.

ODO

Wonderful.

SISKO'S COM VOICE

Odo. Come to my office immediately.

INT. SISKO'S OFFICE - DAY

Sisko is waiting for Odo. He's not happy.

SISKO

Constable, I've just heard something that I have difficulty believing. The First Minister told me that you opened fire on the Promenade. Is this true?

ODO

I used the stun setting to catch the thief-

SISKO

You jeopardized the lives of everyone on the Promenade! You could have started a panic! What were you thinking?!

Odo says nothing.

SISKO

Odo, what's happened to you?

ODO

I'm just trying to do my job.

SISKO

Shakaar was going to relieve you of duty, until I told him the Emissary would resist. But now...Give me your com-badge.

ODO

Captain-

Sisko holds out his hand. Slowly, Odo hands him the badge.

SISKO

This is only temporary, until-

Without waiting to listen, Odo leaves.

                                                                  

INT. ODO'S QUARTERS - NIGHT

Out of uniform, Odo sits unmoving...except for a long KNIFE that he holds in his hand, caressing the blade with his thumb. The door CHIMES. 

KIRA

(O.C. filtered)

Odo?

Nothing.

KIRA

(O.C. filtered)

Odo! Let me in!

Nothing.

KIRA

(O.C. filtered)

COMPUTER! DOOR-SEAL OVER-RIDE, KIRA VOICE-PRINT ALPHA 2311!

COMPUTER

Confirmed.

The door slides open. Odo snaps out of his fugue and tosses the knife away before Kira can see it.

ODO

Major. What can I do for you?

KIRA

Are you all right!?

ODO

Of course.

KIRA

Of course? Of course!? Are you crazy? Do you know how much you've scared us? You disappear, don't return your com-calls-

ODO

Since I'm currently off-duty, Major, my time is my own.

KIRA

You're my friend, Odo. I care about you.

ODO

Then tell your boyfriend to give me back my job.

KIRA

You know I can't-

ODO

No. Of course not. If you'll excuse me, Major Kira, I need to place a call. I understand Deneb Five is looking for a Chief of Security. 

KIRA

Of...of course. I'll go.

She leaves. Odo stands for a moment. Then he sees the blood on his thumb. He covers his face and, for the first time, Odo weeps.

                                                         FADE OUT

END OF ACT THREE

ACT FOUR

FADE IN

EXT. QUARK'S BAR - NIGHT

Except it's not "Quark's" anymore. A big sign reads "ROM'S PLACE - NEW CONTENTMENT TIME-PERIOD FROM 21:00 TO 23:00 EVERY DAY!!"  Worf shakes his head and walks inside.

                                                                  

INT. QUARK'S BAR - NIGHT

It's packed. The crowds are three deep at a FREE hors d'oeuvres table. Worf adjusts a new BAJORAN COM-BADGE and passes the table on which rest Quark's supposed remains. Now the sign reads ONE FREE WITH EACH SYNTHALE.

Rom is playing Mr. Big among the local Ferengi. Worf approaches.

ROM

I'm sorry, Dimmik. Fifteen cases of beetle snuff at six bars a case. Take it or leave it.

Rom takes in a big pinch of snuff and sneezes on DIMMIK.

ROM

No charge.

DIMMIK

(Wiping himself off)

Thank you!

WORF

Where is he?

ROM

Oh. Over there.

He points to Odo, who is drinking alone at a table littered with bottles. A Waiter approaches.

ODO

More whiskey. 

ROM

He's been like that for hours.

WORF

I will handle it.

Worf sees a large BLACKBOARD that reads "MANHUNT POOL - ODO TO FIND THE DATA-CHIP...." The previous odds have been erased, and "75-to-1" has been chalked in their place.

WORF

You let him see this!?

Worf strides over to Odo's table.

ODO

(To the Waiter)

Well? Get moving!

WORF

You have had enough.

ODO

Have I? And who are you to watch my drinking, you wrinkle-headed freak?

WORF

I am the temporary constable.

Odo stands up and shoves the table out of the way.

ODO

Say that again.

Worf grabs at Odo. Odo grabs Worf, and a BRAWL ensues - a battle between Worf's size and savagery and Odo's police training. 

Odo puts Worf into hold after hold, only to have Worf break free. Finally, Odo gets Worf down, and waves Worf's dagger above him.

ODO

CHANGELING OR HUMAN, I'M THE BEST DAMN COP ON THIS STATION!!! AND IF ANYONE WANTS A PIECE OF ME, THEY... CAN....

And Odo passes out.

                                                                  

INT. SECURITY BAY - DAY

Odo, bruised and battered, sits in the holding cell. He's smiling. Worf enters. He is in even worse shape than Odo.

WORF

I have come to tell you that Rom will not press charges.

ODO

He's learned something from Quark, then. I suppose I should apologize to you now.

WORF

I found our conflict to be... therapeutic. Much superior to the holo-suite. I was impressed by your knowledge of holds and pressure points.

ODO

It's the "come-along". I teach it to all my deputies.

WORF

Perhaps you could show me, later.

ODO

Release me and I'll show you now.

WORF

I think not.

There's a brief silence.

WORF

You are an effective enforcement officer. I believe Captain Sisko was mistaken in suspending you from duty.

ODO

I do, too.

WORF

Then why are you smiling?

ODO

Because I didn't, before.

WORF

Later, I wish to consult with you about the replicator-chip theft.

ODO

I'll be here.

Worf nods and leaves. Odo waits. Then-

ODO

Computer. Voice ID Constable Odo. Open Security Bay Four.

COMPUTER VOICE

Authorization Odo, Constable, temporarily suspended.

ODO

Of course. Computer, security over-ride code gamma-5-gamma, ID Odo.

COMPUTER

Over-ride access code deleted.

Odo sits back and thinks for a moment.

ODO

Computer. General systems query. Are any Cardassian systems still active?

COMPUTER

That information is classified.

When Odo speaks again, it's in Cardassian. English subtitles flash on the screen.

ODO

(In Cardassian) 

Computer, password "Obsidian". This is a Terok Nor security system activation command. Authority Ital, Odo. Grade Nine. Internal Affairs Liaison Officer.

COMPUTER

(In Cardassian) 

Internal Affairs Liaison Officer Odo Ital, you are recognized by this system.

ODO

Unseal security bay four. Do not display this over-ride on any monitors. Delete the previous and next ten minutes from your video records. Maintain AI presence on this system to respond to my voice alone. Await further instructions.

COMPUTER

Acknowledged.

Odo walks out of his cell and examines his immaculate uniform.

ODO

Well, at least I won't have to get a new tunic.

He leaves the security bay.

                                                                  

INT. HOLO-SUITE - DAY

Garak enters. 

GARAK

Summer garden program.

The room DISSOLVES into-

EXT. GARDEN - DAY

Seated at a table is a BEAUTIFUL WOMAN, haloed by sunlight. Garak approaches her and sits down.

GARAK

Darling, it's been so long since I've had your charming-

The Woman speaks...IN QUARK'S VOICE.

QUARK/WOMAN

Shut up, Garak. It's me. Quark.

This is not a pleasant effect. Garak swallows, and then recovers.

GARAK

Well. I'm glad you're not dead.

QUARK/WOMAN

If Kodos finds me, I will be.

GARAK

I understand. May I congratulate you on your choice of hiding place? I'll have to remember it, next time I need one.

QUARK/WOMAN

Yeah, whatever. 

GARAK

Quark, how long are you planning to remain here? Not to seem selfish, but I did pay for this hour.

QUARK/WOMAN

How long do you think Kodos will be out there?

GARAK

He seems to have taken up permanent residence.

QUARK/WOMAN

Gaaahhh....

GARAK

Quark, surely you don't plan to remain here forever?

 QUARK/WOMAN

Why not? It's got atmosphere. Nice scenery.

GARAK

You should be looking for the chip.

QUARK/WOMAN

Why? Rom's doing fine without me. Kodos has half the bar. Remember Rule of Acquisition #37.

GARAK

"Know when to walk away, know when to run." Well. Speaking in my capacity as a... tailor...I'd suggest that a man of your prominence must have some useful contacts in the smuggling game, contacts that might have heard about a certain data-chip. But....

QUARK/WOMAN

But....

GARAK

Well, Quark...you'll never find what you're looking for if you take time out to smell the roses.

Garak takes one of the roses and twines it in Quark's hair.

GARAK

Can I buy you a drink, lovely lady?

                                                                  

INT. PROMENADE - DAY

Quark, as "Blefus", leaves the bar. Odo sits nearby, casually studying his notepad. He approaches Quark.

ODO

Blefus! Blefus, is that you?

Quark tries to scurry away, but Odo grabs him by the jacket.

ODO

Don't worry, Blefus, I'm not arresting you. I'm just glad to see you're well. Rom said you were sick.

Odo pats Quark on the back.

QUARK

(Hiding his face)

Got...better. Going home now.

ODO

You do that.

Odo smiles. As Quark walks away, we can see the LISTENING DEVICE Odo has planted on Quark. Garak joins Odo.

GARAK

Success?

ODO

Yes. But keep "encouraging" him.

GARAK

So that little documentation problem of mine is-

ODO

Yes, yes. But you still have to fix this tunic. It's riding up again.

                                                                  

INT. CELESTIAL GARDEN RESTAURANT - DAY

A dark, tasteful restaurant. Quark waits at a table in the back.

WAITRESS

May I take your order?

QUARK

A female server. That's a good idea. But why aren't you naked?

WAITRESS

Because my boyfriend doesn't like it. He's a Klingon.

QUARK

Of course. I'll have a synthale.

The Waitress nods and leaves. Quark is joined by DALIK, a half-machine creature of indeterminate species.

QUARK

Do you have it?

DALIK

Oooh, possibly, maybe, perhaps. Because I am wired, fired, and inspired and who could take my place?

QUARK

No one. You are the information man. The rest...mere imitations.

DALIK

Perception and a keen eye, no one sees these gifts of yours...except Dalik the Info Man!

QUARK

So...do you have a recording of the thief?

DALIK

Indeed. And his friend. 

QUARK

His friend?

DALIK

Listen!

Dalik presses a button, and a HOLOGRAPHIC SCENE plays out on the table top: The Plaid Buyer and Adil Fireze at a table.

PLAID BUYER

I've got the chip. I want the sum we agreed on.

ADIL FIREZE

Soon. Soon. The funds are being-

                                                                  

INT. CORRIDOR - DAY

Odo listens to Quark and Dalik. 

ADIL FIREZE (OC)

-transferred even as we speak.

ODO

Where have I heard your voice before?

INT. MEDLAB - DAY

Bashir is prescribing some medicine to a PATIENT.

BASHIR

No more than twice a day. If it doesn't clear up by the end of the week, call me again.

The Patient nods and leaves.

ODO

Hello, Doctor.

Bashir looks up, visibly startled.

BASHIR

Odo! They're looking everywhere for you-

ODO

You can alert Security if you like. I won't stop you. I just thought you might want this opportunity.

BASHIR

Opportunity?

ODO

Yes.

(Holding up a data-chip) 

I need a voice-print identification of the persons on this recording. My own files are temporarily unavailable. I thought you might like a chance to do a little intelligence work.

There's a long pause. Bashir is tempted.

BASHIR

I can't, Odo. I won't report you, but if Captain Sisko found I was helping-

ODO

I thought you'd be interested in a little real intrigue. I see I misjudged you. I'm sorry, Doctor.

He turns to leave.

BASHIR

Wait...this could get me in a lot of trouble....

ODO

Or it could be a coup, when we catch the real replicator thief. Covert operatives are trained to accept this sort of risk.

Bashir takes the chip from Odo.

                                                                  

INT. HOLO-SUITE - DAY

Quark and Garak watch miniature 3D versions of the Plaid Buyer and Adil Fireze discuss the chip theft.

QUARK

I knew it. No way could he afford the fat suit on his own. He had to be working for someone.

GARAK

Yes, but that's Adil Fireze, Shakaar's right-hand man.

QUARK

Oh.

GARAK

These are deep waters, my friend. May I suggest, before you go any further, that you record your information and put it in a timed-release message for Captain Sisko?

QUARK

That's not a bad idea.

                                                                  

INT. CORRIDOR - DAY

Looking around to make sure the corridor is empty, Odo addresses a wall-mounted computer terminal.

ODO

...to be released to Captain Sisko's eyes only if I do not enter the counter-command in the next three hours. "Captain: My investigation - see attached file - reveals that Adil Fireze is currently in possession of the replicator data. If you receive this message, it means that I have failed..."

                                                                  

INT. QUARK'S QUARTERS - NIGHT

Quark searches through his closet, tossing burglary tools onto the bed - a PHASER, a MASK, an electronic LOCK-PICK, etc. Meanwhile, Garak guards the doorway.

GARAK

Are you sure this is wise, Quark? This may be a little...out of your league.

QUARK

My offer still stands. Come with me, and I'll cut you in for ten percent.

GARAK

No, thank you. If money were my motivation, I'd have chosen the legal profession, instead of custom alterations.

Garak sees Quark's tunic - with Odo's listening device - lying unnoticed on the couch. Garak talks directly into the bug.

GARAK

I'd like to dissuade you from going to Adil Fireze's apartment alone. It's on the third level of the habitat ring, isn't it?

QUARK

No, it's L16, Arc B.

Quark leaves the closet, carrying what he needs under a long coat. Garak palms the listening device.

QUARK

You coming?

GARAK

No. I believe I shall have a prior engagement, instead. Good luck.

QUARK

Here's latinum in your eye!

As Quark exits, Garak inconspicuously re-attaches the bug to Quark's coat.

INT. CORRIDOR - NIGHT

Making sure he isn't watched, Quark unscrews a door panel, short-circuits the wiring, and shoves open the door...in less then ten seconds. A thing of beauty.

                                                                  

INT. FIREZE'S APARTMENT - NIGHT

It's dark. Quark cautiously shines a light. He starts to search - and then a SHAPE leaps on Quark! He thrashes desperately, but he's no match for the opponent, who quickly pins him down and turns on the lights. It's Odo.

ODO

Why, Blefus, what a surprise-

A FORMLESS SHADOW engulfs them, and we...

                                                         FADE OUT

END OF ACT FOUR

ACT FIVE

FADE IN

INT. FIREZE'S APARTMENT - DAY

Odo wakes up in his underwear, tied to a chair. Quark is tied up nearby.

ODO

I thought you were dead.

QUARK

I got better. So, how did you figure Fireze?

Odo shakes his head, and then winces.

ODO

It's not Fireze.

A DOOR opens, and in walks "Adil Fireze".

FIREZE

Very good, Odo. What gave me away?

ODO

Anyone who could afford the prosthetic suit had better ways of making money than theft. And Fireze is personally loyal to Shakaar. So the real agent had to be someone with an interest in keeping Bajor poor, and weak, and divided. Someone like-

"Fireze" MORPHS into a duplicate of Odo.

ODO & CHANGELING

A changeling.

The Changeling paces around Odo. He runs his fingers across Odo's face and through his hair. He is clearly FASCINATED.

CHANGELING

Do you sweat?

ODO

Yes.

CHANGELING

And cry, and eat, and urinate.

ODO

You should know.

CHANGELING

Abomination.

He loses shape for a moment, menacing Odo, and then regains control.

CHANGELING

Did you know that you have destroyed your family? The Great Link has ended your line and your clan. None of your conjugates shall ever divide or share genes.

ODO

Conjugates? I have...brothers?

CHANGELING

Not any more.

The Changeling takes a phaser from his desk.

CHANGELING

And now, the Adversary will be found by the solids he loves, dead at the hands of a Ferengi, a species so vile it's despised even by other solids-

QUARK

Hey! Just a minute there, buddy!

CHANGELING

And Fireze will be permanently compromised-

Odo spots the LISTENING DEVICE planted on Quark's collar. 

ODO

A very effective plan...brother.

CHANGELING

I'M NOT YOUR BROTHER!!

ODO

Of course you are. Why else would you pursue me, even after the Great Link made its judgment?

CHANGELING

You...are...a...solid.

ODO

Now I am. Don't you want to know why? I'm at your mercy. You can ask me anything you want, and I have to answer. You won't get a chance like this again.

The Changeling wavers, clearly torn.

QUARK

"Take it if it's free." Rule of Acquisition #49.

The Changeling decides.

CHANGELING

All right, then. Why did you leave us?

Odo plays for time.

ODO

The Founders abandoned me. What was I supposed to do?

CHANGELING

Obey your genome! We were your people!

ODO

You didn't act like it.

CHANGELING

Because we demanded sacrifice? All of us sacrifice, every moment we are away from the Great Link. All of us are ready to die for the Race.

ODO

That's a choice I was never given. How can I be forced to be a hero?

CHANGELING

You're playing with words.

ODO

If you like. Ask another question, then.

CHANGELING

Why-

The Changeling spots the bug on Quark's collar.

CHANGELING

Why are you talking to me at all?

The Changeling raises the phaser-

-And a Security Team bursts in, with Sisko and Garak in the lead, phasers firing. A stray BOLT hits Odo, and we...

                                                     CUT TO BLACK

INT. MEDLAB - DAY

Odo wakes up on a med-couch, bandaged, fully clothed in his uniform. Bashir, Kira, and Garak are waiting. Kira hugs him. Odo endures it sourly.

ODO

I'm glad to see you too, Major.

(To Garak) 

Cut it a little close, didn't you?

GARAK

Dramatic last-minute rescues were not part of our original agreement, Constable. I think you should be grateful.

ODO

Perhaps after I adjust to this wonderful healing process. What is it called, Doctor? Bruising?

Odo stands gingerly and stretches.

KIRA

We have to go.

ODO

Sisko?

KIRA

And Shakaar. I asked...to walk with you-

ODO

Let's go.

He straightens his uniform and follows Kira.

INT. THE BRIDGE - DAY

Sisko's door is guarded by Shakaar's PERSONAL GUARD. As Kira and Odo approach, O'Brien, Dax, and others stare at Odo with sympathy. Worf intercepts him.

WORF

Remember. No warrior can defeat destiny.

ODO

Thank you. I'll bear that in mind. Major?

KIRA

This is as far as I go. Shakaar-

ODO

I understand.

Kira smiles. Odo straightens up, pulls down his tunic, and enters.

                                                                  

INT. SISKO'S OFFICE - DAY

Sisko and Shakaar are waiting. 

ODO

Captain Sisko. First Minister.

SISKO

Please, Odo. Sit down. 

Odo does.

SISKO

How are you feeling?

ODO

The bruises are a little painful, but the knife-wound....

Odo stops. His hand rubs his shoulder where the knife went in. Something is puzzling him, but he hasn't figured it out yet.

ODO

I'm fine.

SISKO

Good. Odo...Odo....

Sisko turns on Shakaar.

SISKO

This is your idea. You tell him.

SHAKAAR

Odo, I want you to resign your commission in the Militia.

ODO

That's foolish. You need me to catch the changeling.

SHAKAAR

Bajor needs trade more. The only way I can persuade the buyers to return next year is to give them assurances that this will not happen again. You're one of them.

ODO

I'm a scapegoat, you mean.

SHAKAAR

I won't argue with you. I thought a long time about this. Nerys said...I want to see your resignation by 23:00 hours. I'm sorry, Odo.

ODO

No, you're not. You're a politician. If I'd been a real Bajoran, you might have thought twice. But a freak? A Terok Nor security officer? You didn't even hesitate.

Odo stands.

ODO

At least this will give me an excuse to get rid of this uniform....

Odo stops for a moment, and then continues.

ODO

You'll have the resignation by six. Good-bye.

The door opens. As Odo walks past Shakaar's Guards, he snatches one of their phasers, points it at himself, and FIRES.

Odo goes down, but he isn't dead. His UNIFORM writhes under the beam, turning gelatinous, becoming the Changeling.

ODO

SHOOT! SHOOT!

Sisko and the Guards open fire. The Changeling writhes, twists, and slumps. Odo stands up in his underwear, coated in goo. 

Triumphantly, he sticks his hand into the puddle that is the Changeling and pulls out a glistening ISOLINEAR CHIP - the replicator data. Then he crouches down by the puddle.

ODO

You're under arrest!

                                                                  

INT. AUCTION HALL - DAY

It's packed. Everyone looks happy. Station Security has taken the place of the Ferengi Guards. Shakaar stands at the dais.  

SHAKAAR

And with the security of our data ensured, the bidding can continue. The Provisional Government has also asked me to announce, that in gratitude for your heart-warming patience, we are extending to all of you the hospitality of Bajor. An all-expense paid tour of our most scenic resorts-

The crew watches from the rear. Odo is not present. Quark sidles up to Sisko.

QUARK

I told him. "Everybody loves a junket." Rule of Acquisition #231.

SISKO

It was a very clever idea, Quark.

QUARK

Oh, just good public relations. And I did re-stage the rest of the auction, at my own expense.

SISKO

We're quite grateful. And in return, we've paid off your debt to Kodos.

QUARK

Well, yes, but there is still the question of a percentage of future profits-

SISKO

Why look! There's Kodos now. Should I tell him the funds won't be paid to his account?

QUARK

We can discuss it later.

SISKO

After my retirement, perhaps.

INT. SECURITY BAY - DAY

Odo stares at the Changeling, a mute, swirling mass in a holding cell. Kira enters.

KIRA

How is it?

ODO

I don't know. It hasn't spoken since we captured it.

KIRA

How did you know?

ODO

When I was stabbed, the knife went through my uniform, but the uniform wasn't torn. It never got dirty. And it never fit right. Garak's a terrible spy, but he's a very good tailor.

KIRA

Why don't you come with me to the auction party? I know Shakaar wants to-

ODO

Thank you, Major, but I have work to do here.

KIRA

Odo, please. I want you and Shakaar to be friends.

ODO

Why? Shakaar is usually nine million miles away. How can it possibly matter whether we like each other or not? 

KIRA

I love him, and you're my... closest...friend. I want you to get along.

ODO

Major, I'm amazed. You and I have survived war, occupation, plague, and famine. But now that things are looking up, it's not enough for you to be happy; everything has to be perfect. 

KIRA

I didn't say that-

Odo turns away from Kira to stare at the Changeling.

ODO

Major, there are some things in life that will never be perfect. And you just have to accept it.

For a moment, Kira is reflected in the force field separating Odo from the Changeling. Then she leaves. Odo stares at the enigmatic Changeling as we

                                                         FADE OUT