Advas, Lt. Cmdr. Vulcan

(Robert falls asleep momentarily afterwards.)

(The following day. Robert walks into Dakum's office. Dakum is talking to Dukat on the big screen.)

DUKAT

(on screen)

Make sure the Renegade Project goes along as planned.

DAKUM

The Obsidian Order will not be displeased, Gul Dukat.

DUKAT

I hope so for your sake. I will contact you again soon. Dukat out.

(Screen turns OFF. Dakum turns around and sees Robert waiting.)

DAKUM

Ah, Commander Banks. I hope you enjoyed a good night's sleep?

ROBERT

Yes, and if I didn't know any better, you were trying to bribe me.

DAKUM

Ha, we are holding our end of the bargain. Now, what is it you ask of me?

ROBERT

Yes. I still haven't seen my brother...

DAKUM

(interrupting)

You will find him in the mess hall. You will also be addressing the prisoners as their new captain. Any subterfuge, captain... will be responded with swift rage.

ROBERT

I know my end of the bargain. (pause) So... you want me to feel closer to my... roommate so that you can add a new target on my conscience?

DAKUM

(disappointed)

Oh, come now, Banks! Stop your psycho-analysis. Quite simply, she's extra insurance to make sure you do your job... and also a reward for helping us.

(Robert bites his lip and backs up a little.)

ROBERT

(acting brave)

Then it seems I've no choice.

(Robert leaves the room and heads towards the mess hall, with three guards present in the hallway. They sneer as he passes by them. Exiting the corridor, he notices a huge circular area that houses prisoners putting together the hull of the Renegade. After a long walk, he enters the mess hall.)

RICHTER

(sitting at an 8-man table with Storm, Rhiannon, Grant, Graves, Styles, and Yar)

Robert!

(Robert makes his way through the crowd. He sits next to his brother.)

GRANT

How are you, Robert?

ROBERT

Fine...and all of you?

RICHTER

So far, so good. What's going on, brother?

ROBERT

They want us to cooperate and build the Renegade. I'm not totally sure why, but I have a feeling they're using it for some kind of trap.

GRANT

That's crazy! We're Starfleet officers, not Dominion warriors!

ROBERT

If we don't, they'll kill those closest to me.

GRAVES

So...'captain,' do you have a plan?

ROBERT

Affirmative, but we can't talk about it here. Tonight...I'm issuing a speech. Don't say anything to the crew.

STYLES

Nothing at all?

ROBERT

Right. If my plan is to work, it must be of the upmost secrecy.

GRANT

Well, I trust you, sir. But it won't be easy. The majority of the survivors will think you're a traitor.

ROBERT

(hand on Grant's shoulder) I know, my old friend. But it's the only way.

(Dakum's office. Dakum is going over roster procedure when his security chief, Marek, enters the room.)

DAKUM

(annoyed)

What is it now, Marek? I'm a bit busy right now.

MAREK

Outer hull completed, Gul Dakum. Inner systems construction commencing.

DAKUM

Good. Is that all?

(Marek stands there uncomfortably. Dakum glances at him and slowly rises out of his chair.)

MAREK

I don't understand why you agreed to the humans' requests.

DAKUM

This operation is very important to our government. This will allow us to crush Deep Space Nine and totally contain the Gamma Quadrant. To succeed, they must think they're treated well.

MAREK

Will they be killed after the mission is completed?

DAKUM

Only AFTER the mission is completed.

MAREK

It's not that I doubt you, Dakum, but we need more men!

DAKUM

(walking around his desk) Gul Dukat assured me that a detachment is on its way here. Until then, I suggest you oversee the operation and keep them on schedule. Do I make myself clear?

(Marek slightly nods and exits, noticeably angry by Dakum's response. Meanwhile, two Cardassian guards escort him into a closed room. He sits in a chair with a large monitor in front of him. One guard sets it up for intercom transmission.)

GUARD #1

(pushing buttons)

Ready for transmission.

(Robert's image and voice are transferred simultaneously throughout the planetoid. During his "speech," most of the personnel watch with great interest.)

ROBERT

By now all of you are aware of the... "project" that we are forced to work on. I am Commander Robert Banks, formerly of the USS Cavalier. The Cardassians have picked me out as your representative and as your... captain of the Renegade. (crewman are shocked and/or outraged.) I know all of you are wondering why I agreed to this, but the reality is that your safety is my utmost concern. If we cooperate, we will be treated fair and released upon the mission's completion.

(O'Neal in the audience says, "Who does he think he's kidding?")

ROBERT

That is all for now, and please... don't worry.

(Red Alert klaxons engage; the two Cardassian guards draw weapons and Robert rises, worried.)

(Zhane throws a Cardassian soldier over the railing. An off-camera voice says, "Disturbance in Section C. Alert! Alert!" Zhane darts a few feet ahead and fires his disruptor, disabling another soldier. He ducks around a corner, barely evading two disruptor blasts. Meanwhile, Robert enters a large engineering section where the transwarp core is being modified. Grant, Rhiannon, and Storm acknowledge Robert's presence.)

GRANT

What in blazes is going on?

ROBERT

(pauses and scans the room) Wait, where's my brother? He was just here modifying the transwarp core.

RHIANNON

They took him away once the alarms went off.

ROBERT

WHAT?!

STORM

Dakum "requested" his presence.

ROBERT

Shit!

(They run into the open control center that splinters into different sections. Zhane is on the second floor, evading five Cardassian shots from the floor level.)

ZHANE

Alright, you son of a bitch...

(Zhane snaps a Cardassian's neck clean in the next room. Zhane rummages through the clothing and stealthily takes something out. He doublebacks and is surrounded by six soldiers. Feeling the adrenaline rush, he darts down an adjacent corridor, narrowly escaping a head shot. He eyes a manual set of stairs and rushes down. At the bottom level he is stunned swiftly by a Cardassian disruptor rifle. Lying on the ground, still aching in pain, he is surrounded by six soldiers. Robert, Rhiannon, Grant, and Storm enter the scene. Grant holds Robert back.)

GRANT

Dammit Robert, I know you want to help him, but... the poor bastard did himself in!

MAREK

(entering scene)

You're right about that, human. (looks down and kicks Zhane in the face.) Worthless Maquis.

ROBERT

What are you going to do with him?

MAREK

He will be brought into Dakum's office. As well as you.

(Marek escorts a groggy Zhane and Robert into Dakum's office. Richter stands next to Dakum, held at gunpoint by a sentry.)

ROBERT

Brother, are you alright?

RICHTER

I'm fine, Robert. You?

DAKUM

(raising hand) Captain Banks, I've been very patient with you. I wanted no more outbursts.

ROBERT

(pause) I...have no excuse to give you.

DAKUM

You've breached our contract.

(Marek slams Zhane in front of Dakum's desk. Marek then aims his rifle at Richter. Robert looks concerned.)

DAKUM

I did not want to do this, Robert. But I must think of the morale of my men.

(Zhane yells and slams his fist onto Dakum's desk. Marek's attention and aim turn to Zhane.)

ZHANE

You bastard, I'm the one you want! I did this on my own!

DAKUM

Then why did you invade the computer center?

ZHANE

(pause, recomposing himself) I...tried radioing for help.

DAKUM

(suspicious)

Why are you so concerned about Richter Banks' welfare? Why do you care if I kill him?

ZHANE

Because I work alone. And I sure as hell want to die alone.

DAKUM

(looking him over) I believe you to be an unbalanced, unprincipled scoundrel. And you're also of Bajoran blood, the most inferior form of life in the universe. (to Marek) Marek. Escort Zhane and Richter to the Blackout Chambers. Twenty days.

(Marek nods and ushers them out.)

DAKUM

Captain Banks. Don't let that happen again.

ROBERT

Yes, Gul Dakum. I won't allow it to happen again.

(Zhane and Richter are thrown into separate Blackout Chambers. Zhane is noticeably upset about the tight, dark space.)

ZHANE

Twenty days... son of a bitch.

RICHTER

You alright in there, Zhane?

ZHANE

It's fucking tight in here, how the hell do you think I am?!

RICHTER

Calm down, we'll get through this. So...did it work?

ZHANE

I-I think so. I don't have the disc anymore.

(Meanwhile, in the Science Lab. A large conference table exists. Grant walks in and hands Rhiannon the data disc.)

ROBERT

Alex, did Phase One work?

GRANT

Aye, it barely registered below normal scanning screens. I suggest we keep the portable transporters to minimal use for now.

ROBERT

Rhiannon, see what you can read off of it. It should have the Renegade plans on it.

RHIANNON

(smiles)

My pleasure, captain.

ROBERT

(as Rhiannon leaves)

Alex, I think it's time to initiate Phase Two. Discreetly, of course.

GRANT

I'll, uh, "discreetly" have the word out. What about Richter and Zhane?

ROBERT

Dakum will need them. Once they've been released, Phase Three can begin.

GRANT

Aye...captain.

(As Grant leaves, Robert smiles, growing used to the idea of being captain.)

(In Robert's quarters, Robert overlooks the PADD which has a layout for the Renegade.)

ROBERT

How many of these weapons have been installed thus far?

RHIANNON

According to Storm, they installed the plasma relay today.

ROBERT

(flipping through the plans)

They're not stopping with Deep Space Nine. This is a genuine war machine.

RHIANNON

And the new quantum beams will make the Defiant-class ships nothing more than flies.

ROBERT

I'll talk to my brother about installing a fail-safe system. What about the transwarp drive?

RHIANNON

Already installed, and it's modified from the Excalibur's original warp drive. We're looking at probably two and a half more months before it's fully operational.

ROBERT

(climbing onto top bunk)

We don't have much time.

(Robert lies down, trying to go to sleep.)

RHIANNON

(lying on her side)

Robert.

ROBERT

(dozing off)

Yeah?

RHIANNON

Where are you from?

ROBERT

I was born on Dramodon, but spent most of my life on KL-4. You?

RHIANNON

Risa, but my mother's Bajoran.

ROBERT

(dozing deeper)

Heh, nice. I hear it's good on Risa.

RHIANNON

What is?

ROBERT

(turning to his side)

I'll tell you when you're older, kid.

RHIANNON

(chuckles)

Good night for now, silly man.

(Next day. Robert and Dakum are walking along the railing to oversee the production of the Renegade. The tension between the two is understood through dialogue and body language.)

DAKUM

Your men haven't caused any problems lately.

ROBERT

(pause) You've made such a persuasive argument.

DAKUM

(chuckles) Believe me, I'd rather not kill anyone. I'm just a soldier, swept up in the Dominion wind. I must carry out my duty. And what about you?

ROBERT

My..."duty" is to the safety of the crew.

DAKUM

You don't enjoy working for our cause. I don't blame you. But I do wonder when you might betray it.

ROBERT

(smirks)

Like hell, the first chance I get.

DAKUM

(laughs) Funny how we joke about it. It might well be seriously possible.

ROBERT

It also works in the reverse, Gul Dakum.

(Dakum suddenly steps in front of him, a little suspicious. Robert maintains his composure.)

DAKUM

Let's not bicker around tension, Mr. Banks. Are you threatening me?

ROBERT

I am in no position to threaten you. However, you NEED me. You need this ship, and you need my crew. On top of that, your security ship is running behind, thereby leaving you undermanned. So... I suggest you cease your underhanded attack on me if you still want your precious ship.

DAKUM

(nods, bites lip) I see... Just keep your end of the agreement. Do not betray me.

(Robert nods and begins to walk away.)

DAKUM

Robert. How is Rhiannon? You two getting along okay?

(Robert stops and halfway glances back, holding his inner anger back.)

ROBERT

(winks) If I told you, I'd have to kill you.

(Robert walks away, leaving Dakum to wonder how much of that really is joking; Dakum walks the opposite direction to his office. A large BEEP sound is heard, and Dakum sits down. He presses the button beneath his desk and Dukat appears on the screen.)

DAKUM

Gul Dukat!

DUKAT

Greetings again, Gul Dakum. Project Renegade going along as scheduled?

DAKUM

Estimated time for completion... seventy-five solar days.

DUKAT

Excellent. The quicker, the better.

DAKUM

What about my reinforcements?

DUKAT

(pause) Delayed. Please be patient. The combined Federation forces have intercepted and destroyed the relief ships... and they've taken over the planet Chintoka.

DAKUM

(outraged)

But I need more men! I've barely the manpower to supervise all the prisoners!

DUKAT

(enraged)

Then kill a few of them if you have to! Don't disappoint our people, Dakum. Get that ship operational. Dukat out.

(Elsewhere, Graves and Grant are listening in through a medical hotwire.)

GRAVES

Does this mean he'll start killing off personnel?

GRANT

I don't think so with the stakes being so high... we'd better tell the captain.

(Zhane is brought out of Blackout Chamber #1. Three Cardassian guards are standing by; Marek approaches. Zhane remains standing, still shaken by the experience. Richter's chamber opens.)

MAREK

Welcome back, Maquis. Have you anything to say?

ZHANE

(spits) Go to Hell.

(Marek backhands Zhane, knocking him to the floor. Richter steps between them.)

RICHTER

Stop it!

(Richter pulls Zhane to his feet. Zhane wipes the blood off his lips.)

MAREK

(laughs) Only disbelievers go to Hell, inferior. You should be thankful I didn't kill you earlier.

ZHANE

You're lucky I didn't fuck you up earlier...

DAKUM

(approaching) Marek, enough! What have I told you about mistreating the prisoners?

(They glare intensely at each other.)

DAKUM

Take him to his quarters and hold him there. Understood? (pause) Do you understand??!

MAREK

(frowns) Yes, Gul Dakum.

(Marek and two guards grab Zhane and escort him. Dakum approaches Richter.)

DAKUM

I understand you have the highest engineering rating.

RICHTER

I try not to brag.

DAKUM

Then your services are needed. Your brother is waiting for you... you are to oversee the weapons and impulse engine installations. Make any modifications you feel are necessary. Now, go.

(Small conference room. Robert is seated with Grant, Graves, Rhiannon, Yar, Storm, Styles, Strauss, and Runa. Richter walks in.)

ROBERT

Welcome back, brother.

RICHTER

No need to worry, but what are you really up to? Everyone thinks you're a traitor!

ROBERT

Alex, the dampening field?

GRANT

In effect now, captain. And they're too busy monitoring the ship and fixing some..."problems" made by yours truly.

ROBERT

We're still low on time. I'm sure you all know who I am by now... but seated around you is Commander Alexander Grant, next to him Lieutenant Commander Jonathan Graves...over here, Lieutenant Sonya Yar, Lieutenant Commander Matthew Storm, Ensign Eric Styles, Lieutenant Jason O'Neal, Ensign Runa Yamauchi, and Lieutenant Commander Rhiannon Morrisan. Moving onto the next subject. Why we are building the Renegade.

O'NEAL

It HAD crossed our minds.

STORM

What's the plan, sir?

ROBERT

If I hadn't compromised, they would've executed more personnel, including those closest to me. I couldn't have that, but I also saw an opportunity. Richter, is there a way to install a dampening field to be activated on voice command?

RICHTER

Aye, it's possible. Safety precaution?

ROBERT

(smiles) Yep.

RICHTER

I'll get right on that.

ROBERT

Doctor Graves, can you come up with a communication device that can be implanted beneath the skin?

GRAVES

It's possible. Using my medical scanner. You know, to keep things under the table.

ROBERT

Good. Ensign Yamauchi can assist you with that.

RUNA

(nervous) M-me, sir?

ROBERT

Runa... I know that you're fairly new to space, but this is do or die. I'm going to need everyone to be on their toes.

RUNA

Yes, sir. I will do what must be done.

STORM

Oh, I see where you're going with this. You're planning a takeover.

ROBERT

(smiles) Yes. You, Lieutenant Yar, and Ensign Styles will work on the necessary security measures that'll allow us to take over the ship. Be very discreet. They will be very watchful of your department. (pause) O'Neal, I need you to program the astronomical data from Rhiannon into the ship's mainframe. The escape is only our first battle.

O'NEAL

Consider it done, el capitan.

RHIANNON

I can assist you in building the mainframe.

(All rise from seating.)

ROBERT

We've a lot to work to do. Don't tell the crew. The less they know, the better. We have only one chance to pull this off. Dismissed.

(Everyone walks out of the room except for Richter, Grant, and Robert.)

RICHTER

Brother... I know you're trying to do the right thing. But when we enlisted in Starfleet, we both knew the risks involved. Please, Robert. Don't risk yourself over my behalf.

ROBERT

Richter, now's not the time for that. I need your help in pulling this off.

RICHTER

(nods) Yeah, I know. For what it's worth, Robert...

ROBERT

(waves) Richter, it's ok. I don't want to lose you either. Now get the hell out of here.

(Richter nods and leaves. Grant approaches Robert.)

GRANT

I don't mean to pry, but...

ROBERT

What is it, Alex?

GRANT

Your brother has a point.

ROBERT

(a little stressed) Alex, make it fast.

GRANT

(hand on Robert's shoulder) I'm just wanting you to keep your head on straight, alright? If you're going to lead us to the "promised land," you better damn well be thinking clearly. If I die, I'm going to die fighting. And before I die, I'll raise hell. Don't put your feelings ahead of the mission. Ok?

(Robert nods. Grant starts walking away.)

ROBERT

Grant.

(Grant turns around.)

ROBERT

(sarcastic)

You're a real smartass.

GRANT

You're welcome.

(Sonya and Storm are typing/inputing security measures aboard the Renegade. They are watched by three guards.)

STORM

(typing away)

So...you're not a Vulcan.

YAR

(working on a panel)

That is correct.

STORM

Where are you from?

YAR

(inputing code)

My mother was Romulan. My father...human.

STORM

(smartass)

Interesting. Is that a possible topic for discussion, or are you content with leaving Pandora's Box closed?

YAR

(hint of sarcasm, programming tricorder)

I'll be sure to neck pinch you if you say anything wrong.

STORM

(joking)

So you ARE a Vulcan after all!

YAR

(stops working)

Tell me. Are you always this sarcastic?

STORM

I don't know. Do you always peg people without getting to know them?

(Styles interrupts their exchange by entering the scene. He hands Yar the PADD.)

STYLES

Here's the security measures you requested. They've been approved for installation. (pause) So, uh... were you two being... fascinating again?

YAR

(counter attack)

He has a problem with getting to know me.

STORM

That's her "logical" story.

(Styles chuckles.)

GUARD #3

Less chatting, more working!

(The Red Alert klaxons go off, and a rumbling occurs. The guards turn intense.)

GUARD #2

Don't move! Keep your heads down!

(The three look around in defensive position, wondering what's going on.)

(A Cardassian military freighter attacks the planetoid. The planetoid fires back, damaging the ship somewhat. A trading of blows occur, causing the ship to spiral somewhat. A beam shoots out of the freighter, causing the planetoid's shields to be temporarily disrupted.)

MAREK

They've totally disrupted our shields!

DAKUM

Armory, fire proton barrage!

(The planetoid fires a spread of updated photon torpedoes, which decimate the freighter. The freighter begins to spiral downward to the western side. It crashes violently near the huge prison complex. Meanwhile, Marek and ten Cardassians wield disruptor rifles and are piloting a low-ground hovercraft. Graves and Dakum rush to them before they can take off.)

DAKUM

Marek, stop! Take the doctor with you!

MAREK

(hesitant)

Alright, hop aboard.

(Elsewhere, Richter is working on the transwarp drive components. O'Neal and three ensigns are working on the outer core container.)

RICHTER

You know, if this actually works, we'll be making history.

O'NEAL

Depends on what kind of history we're making.

(Richter climbs down to the next level. He approaches O'Neal, showing modifications.)

RICHTER

(whispers) Have you been uploading the cartography charts?

O'NEAL

(whispers) Don't worry. I'm on it.

(Meanwhile, Runa is working on the scanners in the medlab. Grant enters the scene.)

GRANT

Runa, where's the doctor?

RUNA

(still working)

He's on a dispatch team to recover survivors from the enemy ship.

(There's a long pause as Grant approaches her.)

RUNA

Forgive me, I'm...

GRANT

Why are you so damn nervous? There's nothing to be afraid of.

RUNA

(activating a scanner)

Commander, it's just... I didn't expect to be thrown into this mission. This was my first deep space assignment.

GRANT

(massaging her shoulders)

Shh. Just do your job, we'll be fine. You going to be ok?

RUNA

(pause) I think so, sir.

GRANT

(walking away)

Alright then. I'll be back upon the doctor's return. Be good.

(As Grant exits, Runa works implants the node into her wrist. Biobed #1 begins reacting, showing her pulse, heart rate, etc. etc. She smiles, looks back at the empty doorway, then proceeds into creating another node.)

(Zhane sits in his quarters, an intense look upon his face. He lies down, trying to sleep. The forcefield to his room turns OFF and he looks over his shoulder to see a Cardassian soldier entering his room.)

SOLDIER

Zhane! You are needed in the medical lab.

ZHANE

Ha! Turn your head and cough.

(In the medical lab, the badly injured Advas is rushed in by four Cardassian guards and Graves. Grant follows immediately, helping Graves put Advas on Biobed #3. Graves immediately runs the biobed, showing a screen and evaluating his life signs.)

GRAVES

He's in bad shape. Leave! Inform your superior!

(The four guards leave, the last one hesitating before exiting the scene.)

GRAVES

Grant, start coordinating the crew for exams. Runa will assist me. (pause, working) I don't have time to explain, just hurry!

GRANT

Alright, alright, doctor. (winks at Runa) Parting is such sweet sorrow.

(Meanwhile, Robert is lying on his bed, concerned over his mission. He narrates the Captain's Log.)

"PERSONAL LOG"

Commander's Personal Log, coded entry. It's just a mere twenty solar days until the Renegade is fully spaceworthy. This is without a doubt the most dangerous mission that I've ever undertaken. Well over half the crew believe me to be a traitor, and I've had Gul Dakum breathing down my neck almost every step of the way. I struggle to maintain serenity over this plan... and I find myself falling for one of the most beautiful women I've ever met. Question is, will I be able to live within myself if the plan fails, knowing we've created a practical war machine? If those closest to me perish, will I still feel guilty over their passing? I must keep my focus on the mission.

(Rhiannon enters the room, causing Robert to sit up.)

RHIANNON

I didn't mean to wake you.

ROBERT

No, Rhiannon, it's alright. I wasn't asleep.

(Rhiannon sits next to him on the bottom bunk.)

RHIANNON

The final phase is underway. The Renegade will be completed on schedule.

ROBERT

(noticeably bothered)

Good. So far, so good.

RHIANNON

Yeah... what's wrong? You're very quiet tonight.

(Robert gets up and climbs to the top bunk.)

ROBERT

It's nothing.

RHIANNON

Liar. I'm not even Betazoid and I know something's wrong.

(Robert rolls to his side.)

RHIANNON

You won't tell me?

ROBERT

(pause) At ease, turbo. Never perform psycho-analysis on a psychologist.

(Rhiannon lies down, disappointed by the response. Robert looks noticeably disappointed in his response and bites his lip. He peers down to look at her.)

ROBERT

Forgive me... I'm not on my game tonight.

RHIANNON

(smiles) You're fine, Robert. I just want my strong, courageous captain back.

ROBERT

(chuckles) Tell you what... when we get out of here, we'll go to Risa for some R and R.

RHIANNON

(nods) Yeah, you're getting there.

(The next day. Robert and Dakum enter the medical lab. Graves is overlooking Advas' condition. Advas has some burns in healing mode and some battle scars on his face.)

DAKUM

How is he, Dr. Graves?

GRAVES

He'll pull through. Couldn't have done it without his Vulcan stamina, either. He's healing from some radiation burns and a mild concussion. He's got a hard head.

ROBERT

Was he the only survivor?

DAKUM

Yes, there were twenty other Federation operatives. He was the only one alive upon arrival.

GRAVES

He's Lieutenant Commander Advas, a Federation mission specialist. I'm afraid that's all we could find out.

DAKUM

In other words, a spy. Do you oppose me executing a spy, Captain Banks?

ROBERT
(pause) Yes, although an interrogation would prove to be more beneficial.

DAKUM

I take it you don't want me to execute him, captain?

ROBERT

I won't let him ruin the plan.

(Later on, Marek walks into the computer lab where Yar and Storm are inputing data. Marek, noticeably perturbed, begins interrogating the two.)

MAREK

What is this I hear of installing security measures?

YAR

(working)

Captain Banks felt it necessary to organize some security programs in case someone tried to take over.

STORM

(hint of sarcasm)

Your people DO want to feel safe, right?

(Marek grabs the PADD near Yar and rudely peruses it. The screen shows all the defense phasers and the quantum fields stationed in various sections.)

MAREK

(suspicious)

Effective. Nevertheless, this must be discussed with Captain Banks and Gul Dakum.

(Marek walks into Dakum's office. Dakum is talking to Dukat on the screen.)

DUKAT

Status on the Renegade.

DAKUM

Seventeen solar days until it is manned and spaceworthy.

DUKAT

Good. Three Jem'Hadar warships are headed to the planetoid as we speak. They will escort the Renegade through the Venetian Wormhole. Once through it, proceed to Terok Nor and disable it. Do not destroy it.

DAKUM

Of course.

DUKAT

One final note. I want the prisoners executed before the ship enters the wormhole.

DAKUM

(sighs) Yes, Gul Dukat. Dakum out. (pushes button)

Ah, Marek. You have something to report?

MAREK

Yes, some behavior I find suspicious, Gul Dakum.

(Elsewhere, the Bridge of the Renegade. Rhiannon and Richter are overlooking the panels. Richter gazes at the engineering panel and goes through some diagrams.)

RICHTER

Phaser banks, quantum torpedoes, transporter rooms, transwarp drive. Almost everything looks operational. All that's left is inputing the computer data and power all systems.

RHIANNON

And populate the ship. Have the transporters been tested yet?

RICHTER

Once the data is fed into the mainframe, we can begin testing.

(They retrieve the data onto PADDs and exit the Bridge. As they're exiting, they pass a few guards. Meanwhile, Robert runs into Zhane on the way to Dakum's office.)

ROBERT

Zhane! Good to see you alive and well.

ZHANE

Well, "cap'n," it's been a while. Got a date with the commandant?

ROBERT

Aye, and you?

ZHANE

I just had a physical. Too bad our chief medical officer's not a woman.

ROBERT

(chuckles) I need you to see Commander Grant right away. He will give you further instructions.

(Guard #1 motions for Robert to continue onward.)

ZHANE

Ha! If you're smart, you'll give me the right job.

(Dakum's office. Robert walks in, noticing a curious Dakum and a contentious Marek.)

ROBERT

You wanted to see me, Gul Dakum?

DAKUM

Yes, captain. Do sit.

ROBERT

No thanks. I'd prefer to stand.

DAKUM

(disappointed)

I see. I understand you authorized your crew to install security measures aboard the Renegade?

ROBERT

Yes. I believe we already discussed this, sir?

DAKUM

(slightly perturbed)

Correct, but these particular measures were not passed by me first.

ROBERT

You've overlooked them. They should be satisfactory, according to your needs, and besides... we've been under constant watch. You shouldn't feel threatened.

DAKUM

Don't banter with me, captain. I don't believe your intentions are as you say they are.

ROBERT

Why the suspicion now?! You're allowed to view every modification!

DAKUM

And I will, captain! Don't you dare disappoint me!

(Robert nods, and leaves. Marek approaches Dakum.)

MAREK

The Scrambler?

DAKUM

Aye. And after he's done, do the Vulcan.

(The Medlab. Graves is monitoring Advas' vital signs. Advas awakens, slightly frazzled by the circumstances.)

GRAVES

Easy there, commander. You're out of danger now.

ADVAS

(lying up)

I trust I am on Cornara Seven?

GRAVES

Yes. I am Dr. Graves, soon to be chief medical officer of the newly constructed Renegade.

ADVAS

(aware)

Then it is true? The ship is being constructed?

GRAVES

Yes, now lie back down. I'm going to sedate you.

ADVAS

I don't require rest.

GRAVES

(hypospraying Advas)

You do now. Just rest. The captain will be with you shortly.

(Graves exits the lab and puts the monitors on Advas. The next scene shows Graves sitting down in the mess hall, which is noisy from all of the Starfleet prisoners. Robert, Grant, Rhiannon, Graves, Runa, and O'Neal sit at an 8-man table, leaving two seats open. They're all eating slowly.)

ROBERT

We're getting down to the wire. Have all of the crew been fitted with transponders?

RUNA

Yes, and so far, they've gone undetected.

GRAVES

I just put one in our Vulcan friend. He's under sedation right now, but he'll be wide awake in a couple of hours.

ROBERT

Good. You swear the transponders work?

GRAVES

I swear it on my English blood.

ROBERT

(smiles)

Good, we're going to need it. Dakum's been very suspicious lately.

RHIANNON

We're going to have to scrutinize our every move from now on.

GRANT

Agreed. They still don't have any proof of any pre-meditated plans on our part.

ROBERT

True, but let's not get overconfident. I still don't believe they'd let us pilot the ship. We may have to... rush our escape plan a bit.

RUNA

That's what worries me.

GRANT

Relax, girl, with me around you're safe.

(Yar and Storm sit in the remaining two seats.)

YAR

Captain, we overheard something just moments ago.

STORM

We intercepted a communique between Marek and Gul Dakum. They are planning on interrogating you very soon.

ROBERT

(concerned)

What do you mean? Gul Dakum already talked to me.

STORM

No, this is different. They've got something called a Scrambler. I think it's a mind penetration device. We don't know when, but...

RHIANNON

Damn! We've only fifteen days left!

GRANT

And they'll execute every damn one of us if they find out our plan!

O'NEAL

Captain, we've got to think of something...and fast! I mean, I've heard of mind probes before and how they can destroy people...!

ROBERT

Jason, enough! I know what they're capable of... and I know that I'm only human.

GRAVES

And as skilled as I am, this may be an operation that I can't patch back together.

RHIANNON

(holding Robert's arm)

What now, Robert?

YAR

There's one thing that can be done. But first, we're going to need some cover.

GRANT

What thing?

YAR

Captain, you are suddenly sick. Dr. Graves must examine you. Quickly, sir.

ROBERT

(playing along)

My, I, uh...think I'm coming down with something. Must've eaten something bad.

(coughs) Damn, I...

YAR

(helping him stand)

Dizziness. You're not well.

ROBERT

(feigning illness)

Strange, I'm...actually good at this...

(Yar slips in a quick neck pinch.)

YAR

Doctor!

(Graves rushes in to help an unconscious Robert. They begin helping him out of the crowded mess hall.)

GRAVES

You don't mean to...?

YAR

Advas is still unconscious. I'm the only one available.

(They come upon two guards posted at the double doors. Sentry #1 steps forward.)

GRAVES

He must've eaten something bad. I've got to get him to the Medical Lab.

SENTRY #1

Proceed.

(All four proceed down the hallway. They enter the Medlab. Graves and Yar cradle him onto Biobed #2, right next to Advas.)

GRAVES

Inform your superior. I'll attend to him.

(Sentry #1 quickly leaves. Yar places her fingers over sensor areas on Robert's face.)

GRAVES

I didn't know a Romulan could do that.

YAR

(stern)

Shh. I must prepare him.

(Dakum and Sentry #1 are walking down the corridor. They run into Storm and O'Neal, who act concerned about Robert's condition.)

O'NEAL

Captain Banks is in the Medical Lab, Gul Dakum.

DAKUM

(not amused)

I know, Lieutenant O'Neal. What happened to him?

STORM

I don't know if it was the stress or the lousy food, but he seemed to have an anxiety attack and keeled over. Graves is looking at him right now.

(Dakum pushes past them with Sentry #1. Storm and O'Neal follow.)

DAKUM

How is he, doctor?

GRAVES

He'll recover. I gave him twenty millileters of triox-cordrazine to calm him down and a protein shot for nourishment. High stress combined with infected food is not my idea of a healthy diet.

DAKUM

Pity. How long until he's on his feet?

GRAVES

Two hours at most.

DAKUM

Better make it one hour. He is to be interrogated.

STORM

Can't that wait until tomorrow?!

DAKUM

I have my orders. The Obsidian Order is not entirely... comfortable until I've retrieved most information from him.

(Dakum and Sentry #1 exit the lab. Rhiannon enters the room.)

RHIANNON

How is he?

GRAVES

He'll be alright.

RHIANNON

O'Neal, Storm. You're needed in Engineering.

(to Robert) Hang in there.

(Yar is noticeably bothered by Rhiannon's affection towards Robert. Yar tears up a little and exits the room. Storm, about to leave, stops upon seeing Yar run out.)

STORM

Sonia! Wait!

(Storm follows her out of the medlab. He chases her down the corridor, leading back into the mess hall, which is now less crowded. Storm grabs her by the arm.)

YAR

Let me go!

(Yar punches Storm in the gut. Storm falls to one knee, gasping and cradling his stomach. Yar looks mortified as the other personnel divert their attention towards her. Four of the Cardassian guards aim their disruptors at the two, but O'Neal and Styles intervene, stepping in.)

STYLES

Hold it! It's no big deal. Let them talk it out.

O'NEAL

Matt! You ok?

(The guards lower their weapons, annoyed by the scene.)

STORM

(coughs) Stay back. It's alright.

(Yar helps him up. She is still teary-eyed, holding back a flood of emotions that came during the mindmeld.)

YAR

(disturbed)

I'm... really sorry, Matt.

STORM

(chuckles) (coughs) You, uh, pack quite a punch.

YAR

I-I don't know how to...

STORM

The mindmeld?

YAR

(nods) Yes.

STORM

I figured since you've mastered the neck pinch... you were capable of other things.

YAR

(welling)

I never mastered the mindmeld. I touched his mind... without discipline, I... can't control these... feelings.

(Storm holds her shoulders.)

STORM

It's alright, Sonia, just...

STYLES

(shooing personnel)

It's ok, people. Move along. Return to your duties. Nothing special here, just move on.

YAR

(bothered)

This wave... I can't handle it... I'm not a Vulcan!

STORM

Sonia, snap out of it!

YAR

Safety for the crew... his friends, his brother... Rhiannon... it's all very strong!

(Yar hugs him right. Storm reciprocates.)

STORM

Let it all out. I'm here for you.

(Robert awakens, finding himself in a chair. He looks around and sees his room otherwise unoccupied. In the control room above has Dakum, Marek, and two Guards. Dakum is using the computer.)

DAKUM

Captain Banks! Welcome to the Scrambling Room. That light above you will shoot an invisible beam right into your mind, enabling us to scan for abnormalities. In other words, you will tell me what I want to know.

ROBERT

Oh, what fun.

DAKUM

Don't get testy with me. I do not wish to damage you, but I must know if you're lying to me.

(The light intensifies as Robert gazes away from it.)

DAKUM

Don't resist. Why did you install those security measures?

ROBERT

(slightly stressed)

Wh-why do you think?! I already told you!

(Beam's light increases; Robert grunts, feeling the increase in pressure.)

DAKUM

(angry)

What are you planning, captain? What do you have to hide?

ROBERT

(struggling)

No...!

(Beam's intensity increases. Robert begins twitching in pain.)

DAKUM

Every man, every race... has their breaking point. You are no different. I ask again... what are you hiding?!

ROBERT

(writhing in pain, screams)

I... don't know what you're talking about!

(Dakum turns the dial up another notch, nine out of eleven. Critical stage. Robert turns to his side in agony. Shortly thereafter, Robert falls to the floor.)

DAKUM

This would all be easier if you just confess. Do you want me to harm your crew?

ROBERT

N-N-No.

DAKUM

They will die, starting with that spy, Advas. Or perhaps someone closer? Rhiannon, for example.

ROBERT

ACK! Don't!

(Robert rolls onto the floor, the pain increasing. It's established by this point that the dial is on eleven, highest beam setting. Even Marek looks concerned.)

DAKUM

Yes, Banks, unless you cooperate. You do love her, don't you?

ROBERT

(rolling) DON'T...DO THIS...TO ME!

DAKUM

Tell me what I want to know!

MAREK

Gul, you going to finish him?!

GUARD #1

Gul Dakum, he won't survive long on that intensity!

(Robert kneels, fighting the beam. Dakum looks agitated, as if unsure of what's next. Dakum composes himself.)

DAKUM

Last chance, captain. When will you betray us?

ROBERT

(screams)

I...DON'T...!!!

(Robert falls to the ground. Dakum panics and shuts off the device. Marek is upset.)

MAREK

I don't trust him! Finish him!

DAKUM

Fool! We still need him! I've shorted his neural network, and he still hasn't said anything. No man has ever survived the Scrambler.

GUARD #1

You think he's telling the truth?

DAKUM

He's either immortal or has no pre-meditated plans. Take him back to the Medical Lab.

(Two guards bring in an unconscious Robert back into the Medlab. Graves helps them put Robert on Biobed #2. Graves begins scanning Robert.)

GRAVES

His brainwaves have been disrupted! Inform your superiors that it'll be a few hours.

(Both guards leave.)

GRANT

Seriously. Will he be alright?

GRAVES

Slowly, but surely. Sonia's mindmeld actually worked.

(Graves places a head scanner on Robert's forehead. The device begins to remap Robert's brainwaves.)

RHIANNON

(sigh) That was a huge risk.

(Zhane enters.)

ZHANE

Hail the conquerin' hero! How's the grand ol' captain?

GRANT

What in the hell are you doing here? You're not escorted!

ZHANE

I'm playing hooky, commander. I'm just a tad upset at the captain for giving me the crappiest job ever!

GRAVES

(stimulating)

Zhane. Not now.

RHIANNON

What is your assignment, lieutenant?

ZHANE

(disappointed)

Guard duty. I'm the greatest pilot in the galaxy, and he has me pulling guard duty!

GRANT

Look, youngin'... we'll discuss it later.

ADVAS

(awakening)

Doctor, did I overhear... a mindmeld?

GRAVES

The captain's fine. The mindmeld worked.

ADVAS

Who performed it? A Vulcan?

GRAVES

Actually, Sonia Yar did. A Romulan.

ADVAS

(surprised)

Fascinating. Where is she? Is she alright?

GRAVES

Resting. This doctor's orders.

ROBERT

(groans, awakening)

UNGH!

RHIANNON

Robert! How are you feeling?

ROBERT

(groaning)

Like having the worst hangover of all time... but I didn't touch a single Canadian beer. I barely...

RHIANNON

You were tortured.

ROBERT

But it worked. I had... a whole army in front of me.

(Robert sits up, still healing.)

GRAVES

Captain, you'd better stay here for at least a couple of hours. You had a severe disruption...

ROBERT

(groggy) I know. Alex... you and Zhane... go over the crew manifests and finalize them. The final phase is upon us. And Zhane... you've got a special assignment. Get to work.

(Zhane and Grant exit the scene. Rhiannon sits next to Robert.)

ADVAS

Captain Banks, I presume?

ROBERT

Commander Advas?

ADVAS

Yes. What is this... "phase" all about?

ROBERT

I'm afraid I've got to keep you in the dark. They're planning on using the Scrambler on you... a "spy" apparently.

ADVAS

Logical, as irreverant as that might be. I understand.

(Onboard the Renegade, the main computer center. O'Neal is punching in code while Richter and three background personnel are working on separate panels.)

O'NEAL

Richter. I've punched in all data to the memory core. This ship is fully operational.

RICHTER

Although we can't test the transporters without drawing attention.

O'NEAL

You sure?

RICHTER

I KNOW so. Especially after their interrogation of the captain.

O'NEAL

(concerned)

You're probably right. Hopefully, the captain's got an alternate plan.

(Elsewhere, Rhiannon is crutching Robert on their way back to quarters. Graves is walking behind them. Marek shows up, angry and resentful.)

MAREK

Captain Banks, I see that you're recovering. That is too bad.

GRAVES

What kind of inhuman monster are you?!

ROBERT

(still groggy)

Jon, enough. I can fight my own battles.

MAREK

(approaching)

Funny. You're in no condition to even lay a finger on me, captain.

RHIANNON

Let him be!

(Zhane taps Marek's right shoulder from behind. Marek turns around, right in time for his jaw to be slugged by Zhane's right fist. Marek crumbles to the floor and Zhane stands over him.)

ZHANE

(picking up a dazed Marek)

That was for throwing me in the cooler, you Cardassian son of a bitch. Go ahead and cry to your boss. You started it.

(Marek leaves, embarassed and dejected. Graves glares at Robert sarcastically.)

GRAVES

Fight your own battles, huh?

ROBERT

(chuckles)

You were the one that obeyed orders.

(Rhiannon takes Robert into their quarters. Graves and Zhane walk further down the corridor, essentially exiting the scene. Rhiannon lays him down on the bottom bunk.)

ROBERT

(groggy)

Rhiannon.

RHIANNON

(helping him get comfortable)

Just shut up and sleep, alright?

ROBERT

You were bothered today.

RHIANNON

Nah, don't worry. I can take care of myself. Just go to sleep.

ROBERT

(tired)

Ha! I see right through you...you don't have to tell me a damned thing.

RHIANNON

(smirks)

Do you now?

ROBERT

(falling asleep)

Oh yeah...but I forgive you...for...being so...

(Robert is fully asleep. Rhiannon tucks him in. She kisses him on the cheek.)

RHIANNON

You're not so bad yourself.

(Six Cardassian soldiers patrol a corridor near Engineering. Behind them, several feet away, Zhane appears out of an access tunnel. He dashes into another access point. He enters Transporter Room One.)

ZHANE

(pressing wrist)

Richter, where are you?

(Meanwhile, Richter is creeping through a Jefferies tube.)

RICHTER

Jefferies tube, Deck Nine. Give me a few minutes.

ZHANE

(voice)

You'd better hurry. I've seen some Cardassians patrolling the corridors.

RICHTER

Keep your pants on, shorty.

ZHANE

(voice, amused)

My influence is spreading. Ha.

(On the Bridge, three Cardassian guards patrol. Moments later, the phaser nodes stun them. Storm, Yar, and O'Neal enter the Bridge via turbolift. They each take a station.)

YAR

(using wrist)

Commander Grant. Bridge is secure.

GRANT

(voice)

Good. Power only transporters and scanners. We don't want to be detected... yet.

YAR

(wrist)

Acknowledged. Yar out.

O'NEAL

(using science station)

Star charts and navigational systems are already operative.

STORM

How long will it take to transport everyone onboard?

YAR

A good twenty minutes. 781 people is a hell of a lot.

STORM

That's cutting it fine, lieutenant.

(Storm gathers all three disruptors from the fallen guards.)

O'NEAL

Transporter Room Two?

STORM

(near turbolift)

Yes. I'll call once I'm there.

YAR

Matthew. (pause) Be careful.

STORM

(pause) Don't worry, babe. I'll handle fine.

(Transporter Room Three. Grant and Runa quickly enter the room. Grant is wielding a disruptor rifle. Runa has a regular disruptor.)

RUNA

We're here.

GRANT

Nervous?

RUNA

I'm alright, Alex.

GRANT

(surprised)

Want to go by a first name basis, huh?

RUNA

(sighs) I suppose you've grown on me. Just a bit.

GRANT

As much as I want to jump in the air and shout "Hot Damn," we've still got a job to do. Are you ready?

RUNA

(charging disruptor)

Ohhh yeah.

(Transporter Room Four. Styles drags two guards into the room; he takes their disruptor rifles. Looking over the console, he touches his wrist.)

STYLES

Styles here. The dark horse has conquered Transporter Room Four.

GRANT

(voice)

Good. Be on guard. This next part might be a bumpy ride.

(Transporter Room Five. Richter enters through a vent. He has his disruptor ready and touches his wrist.)

RICHTER

Richter here. Transporter Room Five is clear.

(Meanwhile, in the corridors. Storm makes his way down the seemingly vacated corridor. He has a disruptor belt and wielding two disruptors in hand. Peaking around the corner, he sees two guards conversing in front of Transporter Room Two. He calmly looks concerned.)

STORM

(softly)

Shit, they're right in front. Why did I get the difficult job?

(On the Bridge, Yar is tapping into computer control. She notices the readout on the area around Transporter Room Two.)

YAR

Sensors indicate five Cardassian soldiers within the vicinity of Lieutenant Commander Storm. Two of them are directly in front of the transporter room.

O'NEAL

Two of the nodes are in range, but it'd be a delicate proposition.

YAR

We need to shut off the onboard alarms, if Matt is to infiltrate undetected.

O'NEAL

We've got no choice then.

YAR

(nods)

Agreed.

O'NEAL

You're no Vulcan, but you sure are cold-hearted.

YAR

(interrupting)

We don't have time for that, O'Neal. We'll switch off the alarms for just ten seconds.

(Storm awaits word from the Bridge. As the guards glance around, O'Neal resumes communication with Storm.)

O'NEAL

(voice)

Matt, sit tight. We're briefly turning off all alarm procedures long enough to... (pause) kill the two guards. You'll have ten seconds to dash into the transporter room.

(Moments later, the guards are vaporized. Storm dashes past the intersection and enters the Transporter Room.)

YAR

(voice)

Alarms re-engaged.

STORM

Transporter Room 2. Fully conquered.

YAR

(voice)

You're the last one. Now, the captain's signal.

(Dakum, Marek, and two guards are in the Scrambling Room. Advas is sitting in the chair, half-conscious. Dakum raises the beam intensity to four. Dakum motions for one of the guards to exit the room. The scene cuts to Guard #1 turning off the forcefield in Rhiannon/Robert's room.)

GUARD #1

Captain Banks! Wake up!

ROBERT

(waking up)

Wh-what?!

GUARD #1

You and Commander Morrison. Come with me.

(They follow the guard down the corridor. The scene cuts again to the Scrambling Room. Guard #1 escorts the two in, where Dakum is still interrogating Advas.)

DAKUM

Let's put your Vulcan stamina to the test.

(raises the intensity to five.)

You are a Federation spy. Tell me what I want to know.

(Two more guards enter the room, disruptors in hand.)

ROBERT

What do you plan on doing? Torturing me again?

DAKUM

Ah, Captain Banks. I brought you here because I've got a very interesting situation here. In orbit around the planet are three Jem'Hadar warships ready to escort the Renegade, yet I have almost six hundred crewmen missing. Would you care to enlighten me?

(Guards #1 and #2 grab Rhiannon and bring her behind Dakum. Robert pauses, concerned.)

DAKUM

I'm awaiting your answer.

ROBERT

(tapping wrist stealthily)

I...have no explanation.

DAKUM

(backhanding Robert)

LIAR!

(Meanwhile, Advas is slowly moving towards the entrance to the chamber, aware that all concentration is off him for the moment.)

RHIANNON

(struggles)

Leave him alone!

DAKUM

I don't know what kind of man you are to have shielded your mind from me. And you're certainly not a highly trained Vulcan spy to have withstood the pain I dealt you. But I'm onto you now.

ROBERT

(defiant)

Really now?

DAKUM

Since Grant and Richter are nowhere to be found, the other piece of the puzzle remains. You will watch her be put to death.

ROBERT

(concerned)

Gul Dakum!

(Robert punches Gul Dakum in the gut. Rhiannon arm drags Guards #1 and #2 while Robert chickenwings Dakum. Guard #1 is about to attack Rhiannon, but Advas advances and neck pinches him. He grabs the disruptor and aims at Guards #3 and #4.)

ROBERT

Drop your weapons, or I'll kill him!

(Guards #3 and #4 drop their disruptors. Guard #2 remains lying on the ground, helpless.)

DAKUM

You fool! UNGH! Do you... really think you'll make it out of here alive?!

ROBERT

Even so, you're coming with me! Grant! Energize!

(Dakum, Robert, Advas, Rhiannon, and Guards #1-#4 are beamed onboard the Renegade. Transporter Room One. Zhane, Runa, and Grant await.)

ZHANE

That was cutting it too close for even me, captain.

ROBERT

Have them held in the Brig.

RUNA

The last of the crew are being beamed up now, captain.

ROBERT

Very well, ensign. Take your station on the Bridge. Grant?

GRANT

(smiling)

I think I'll escort her.

(They exit the scene, clearly flirting. Robert smirks.)

DAKUM

(disappointed)

You won't make it past the Cardassian fleet, captain. I regret that you will die for nothing.

ROBERT

Zhane, you have your orders. Join me on the Bridge afterwards.

ZHANE

With pleasure! Say... you didn't do so bad, 'Bob.'

(Zhane motions for the Cardassians to move forward, holding two disruptors.)

ADVAS

I am in your debt, captain.

ROBERT

Trust me, I didn't want to cut it that close.

ADVAS

In any event, you are the captain. What are your orders?

ROBERT

Go help Zhane escort our prisoners to the Brig. Then join me on the Bridge.

(Advas leaves. Rhiannon stands before Robert.)

RHIANNON

I have to admit. I almost thought I lost you.

ROBERT

You needn't worry. You'll never lose me.

(They get a little closer.)

ROBERT

Ready for the final act?

RHIANNON

Will you just shut up and kiss me, ok? We've got an escape to finish.

ROBERT

Why thank you... "Captain" Rhiannon.

(They kiss.)

(Rhiannon and Robert enter the Bridge. Zhane is at the navigation console. Storm is on tactical. Grant is at the secondary science station next to the captain's chair. O'Neal is at the astronomy station. Runa is at communications. Rhiannon takes the seat next to the captain.)

GRANT

Captain on the Bridge!

STORM

Captain, they've raised the planetoid's shields.

GRANT

(using scanner)

Confirmed. They're locking weapons onto us.

(Robert sits down in the captain's chair. A random background personnel takes the engineering console.)

MAREK

(on screen)

Captain Banks! A fleet of Jem'Hadar warships are within range of this planetoid. You can't escape.

ROBERT

Haven't you done enough crying, Marek?

(Zhane smirks.)

MAREK

Fool! Surrender now, or we'll open fire!

ROBERT

I've got a better idea. Commander Grant, arm the self-destruct device.

MAREK

You're bluffing.

(Red Alert klaxons engage. Computer voice says, "AUTO SELF-DESTRUCT SEQUENCE A: SAFETY PROTOCOL HAS BEEN ACTIVATED. Marek appears apprehensive.)

GRANT

One minute countdown engaged.

(Marek ends transmission.)

STORM

Do you think they know it's a trick?

ROBERT

Let's hope not.

(pushes intercom button)

This is your captain speaking. Many of you thought I betrayed the Federation out of your safety, but certain things had to be concealed. Right now, we are engaging a security measure. Stay at your posts. Remain calm. If this works, we'll make a grand exit. Banks out.

STORM

Multiple transport signatures detected.

GRANT

Confirmed. They've taken the bait! They're evacuating their personnel to the warship in orbit!

ROBERT

Are their shields lowered?

GRANT

Do I REALLY have to answer that?

ROBERT

(laughs) In that case...Zhane, get us the hell out of here!

ZHANE

(pushing buttons)

With pleasure!

(The Renegade shoots for the top, where the sky is visible. Moments later, the Renegade is in high orbit. The safety protocol automatically disengages and the ship is on yellow alert.)

ROBERT

Zhane, set course for Deep Space Nine. Go to Red Alert. We're going to have company.

RUNA

Shall we raise Deep Space Nine? Warn them?

ROBERT

No, they may intercept our transmission.

RICHTER

(intercom voice)

The transwarp circuits are powering up, but there's some fluctuation. Bless me if it actually works.

ROBERT

Make it work!

(The Renegade swoops around to go into high warp, but nothing is happening.)

STORM

The Cardassian warship is tailing us.

ROBERT

Richter, what the hell's going on down there?

RICHTER

(in Engineering)

Captain, the transwarp circuits aren't responding! Give me...(pause)...five minutes to sort it all out!

ROBERT

(intercom)

Richter, we need that transwarp drive! We've got a Cardassian ship on our tail!

GRANT

(back on the Bridge...)

Robert, three Jem'Hadar warships approaching on long range scanners.

ROBERT

Please tell me we have weapons.

STORM

(interjecting)

Aye, sir. We can give 'em a few bloody noses.

ROBERT

(pause) Wait, Storm. The dampening field. Prepare to activate it. On my order, we'll blanket them.

(The Cardassian warship moves within range of the Renegade.)

ROBERT

Richter, the transwarp drives...

RICHTER

(intercom)

I'm working as fast as I can! Give me three more minutes!

ROBERT

(frustrated)

We don't have three more minutes!

STORM

(interjects)

Jem'Hadar warships, bearing... 108 Mark 3. Disruptor range in just under three minutes.

RUNA

They're hailing us again, sir.

(Marek appears on the screen again. This time, he's very furious.)

MAREK

You're surrounded, Captain Banks. Lower your shields and power down your weapons. I won't ask again!

ROBERT

We'd rather blow ourselves up. We might take you down with us.

MAREK

(frustrated)

I'd rather you be destroyed by my disruptor fire. You've humiliated me for the last time.

(Marek's screen turns off, and his ship fires on the Renegade. At this point, the Jem'Hadar ships come into range.)

ROBERT

(rocked a little bit)

Hard about! Circle his flank! Matt, fire when ready!

(Renegade fires onto the rear of Marek's ship, disrupted by a barrage of quantum torpedoes. The three Jem'Hadar ships move in and start firing on the Renegade.)

(Engineering. Richter is working on the transwarp core.)

RICHTER

Robert! The transwarp circuits have been rerouted!

(Back on the Bridge...)

ROBERT

Zhane, punch it!

(Renegade goes into high transwarp, avoiding the third round of Jem'Hadar fire. They break into transwarp.)

ZHANE

We did it!

ROBERT

Let's not celebrate too soon... how long 'til we reach Deep Space Nine?

O'NEAL

EYA... two hours and fifty-three minutes. This ship's pretty damn fast.

STYLES

No ship's been able to hold warp twelve before without hull disintegration! Amazing!

ROBERT

(hitting intercom button)

Sonia, how are our Cardassian friends holding up?

YAR

(intercom)

Very irate, but still in the Brig.

ROBERT

I'm on my way down. Make sure it's not too rowdy down there. Banks out.

(Robert rises from his chair.)

ROBERT

Alex, you have the conn. I'm going to... interrogate our former captor.

STORM

Permission to tag along, captain.

STYLES

I can take over tactical, sir.

(Robert glances between the two of them and smirks.)

ROBERT

(smiles)

Alright, Matt. Let's go.

(Yar and ten guards are holding Cardassian rifles. Gul Dakum is alone in his own cell. Storm and Robert enter the scene.)

YAR

Gul Dakum is in his own unit, sir.

(Robert faces Dakum's cell. Storm attends to Yar.)

STORM

You ok?

(Yar nods. Robert approaches Dakum, the cell forcefield still on.)

ROBERT

How does it feel to be a prisoner?

DAKUM

I shouldn't have underestimated you. You have beaten me. (pause) Well, captain. If we make it out of here, what will you do with us?

ROBERT

I think the better question is, where is the fleet that's headed for Deep Space Nine?

DAKUM

(laughs) Your interrogative methods will prove ineffective, captain. I may have failed my people, but I will not betray them.

ROBERT

We'll see about that. Sonia... are you well enough for the mindmeld?

STORM

No disrespect intended, captain, but is that really necessary?

YAR

Matt, it's ok...

(Advas enters the Brig and approaches Robert.)

ADVAS

Captain, I believe I'm better qualified to perform it.

ROBERT

Advas, have you been cleared by the doctor?

ADVAS

Yes, captain, I assure you. I was informed the Gul was here.

(Dakum looks at him suspiciously. Storm nods at Advas, who reciprocates; Storm has his arm around Yar, who doesn't mind.)

ROBERT

Alright, Advas. Use the mindmeld.

(As security turns off the forcefield, Advas approaches Dakum.)

DAKUM

You won't like what you see, Vulcan. I've...seen things even a Romulan would find repugnant.

(Yar is slightly phased by the comment. Advas places his hands on Dakum's face, who shows little restraint. Advas begins to phase into the mindmeld trance.)

ADVAS

Our minds are merging, Dakum...our minds are one...

GRANT

(intercom)

Bridge to Captain Banks.

(Robert hits a side panel near the entrance to Sickbay.)

ROBERT

Banks here.

GRANT

(intercom)

Long range scanners are picking up wormhole activity 97.5 light years from our current position. It has to be a Dominion fleet, sir.

ROBERT

On my way. (pushes panel) Matt, you remaining here, or...?

STORM

If you don't mind, sir...

ROBERT

It's ok. Keep an eye on the mindmeld. Join me on the Bridge once it's complete.

(A whole fleet of Dominion ships are spaced near a wormhole. A Cardassian ship enters the scene, which is indicated later to be Marek's ship. On the Bridge, Robert enters and immediately assumes command.)

ROBERT

Report!

RHIANNON

About twenty Jem'Hadar warships and three Cardassian vessels are near a wormhole. Now ranging about 93 light years.

ROBERT

(sitting in the command chair) Grant, how much damage can the Renegade withstand if we engage them?

GRANT

Captain, even with the amount of firepower we have, we wouldn't be able to stand up to that many ships alone!

RUNA

(interrupting)

Captain, Marek is transmitting a signal to all of the Dominion vessels. They're arming weapons.

ZHANE

(a little upset)

I should've killed that son of a bitch when I...

ROBERT

(interrupting)

Not now, Zhane. Plot an evasive course, just in case.

ZHANE

Aye, sir.

ROBERT

Ensign Styles, the dampening field?

STYLES

We have it at our disposal, captain. I predict... 20% power loss for each use.

ROBERT

Let's make it count, then. Once we get into range, blanket them.

RUNA

Marek's hailing us, sir.

ROBERT

(smirks) Put him on.

MAREK

(on screen)

You've gone too far, Banks! Last chance! Surrender immediately or we will destroy you.

STYLES

Sir, we're in range.

ROBERT

Marek, you're beginning to sound like a broken record.

(Crew looks at him funny, and even baffles Marek.)

ROBERT

Old Earth term, meaning you're boring the hell out of me. Engage dampening field.

(Renegade fires blue field which catches eight of the Dominion ships, including Marek's ship.)

ROBERT

Zhane, bring us about for another pass!

(Renegade zooms past several missed torpedoes and disruptor fire. Renegade blankets ten more ships.)

GRANT

(looking at his scanner)

We've lost 25% power. Not too dangerous.

ROBERT

You underestimated, ensign.

STYLES

(shrugs)

I'm a tactical officer, not a fortune teller.

ROBERT

(hitting button)

Transporter Room. Lock onto the lead Cardassian ship and beam Marek directly to the Bridge.

(Moments later, Marek is beamed right inbetween Zhane and Robert. Grant, Zhane, and O'Neal pull out disruptors on Marek. Marek looks around, bewildered.)

MAREK

(pissed off)

How...DARE you!

ZHANE

Doesn't feel good to be the prisoner, does it, asshole?

ROBERT

Never underestimate the power of the human spirit. Rhiannon, take navigation. Zhane is going to escort our prisoner.

ZHANE

(smirks)

I reckon so.

(As Zhane grabs Marek and takes him off the Bridge, Rhiannon takes the navigation console.)

ROBERT

Let's take that shortcut. It's going to be a bumpy ride.

STORM

(intercom)

Captain! They should be attacking Deep Space Nine now...and it's definitely no small fleet!

(Renegade storms through the wormhole. It starts getting bumpy for the crew. The Renegade rocks around; in the corridor leading up to the Brig, Zhane and Marek crumple to the floor from turbulence. Marek punches Zhane. Zhane grabs his leg as Marek attempts to get to the fallen disruptor. Zhane attempts an ankle lock combination, keeping Marek grounded. As Marek inches towards the disruptor, Zhane lets go and goes after Marek's head. Marek claws Zhane's head, and the two grapple. Zhane smacks Marek across the face.)

(On the Bridge...)

ROBERT

Estimated time for arrival to DS9.

O'NEAL

If this wormhole is correct, I'd say ten minutes.

(Back to the fight, Marek uppercuts Zhane. As Marek grabs the disruptor, Zhane grabs his wrists. Both stand, fighting to retain control of the weapon. As they struggle, they briefly share words.)

MAREK

If you succeed, what then?! Do you think they'll take you in with open arms? A Maquis dreg??! Face it. You will be tried and convicted. Traitor!

(Zhane slams him into the ground, angrily. Zhane then holds him at gunpoint.)

MAREK

Well, you've beaten me. What will you do with me now, huh? Kill me? No. I don't think so. Even if you did, you'll be nothing more than a prisoner. A Federation traitor.

ZHANE

(holding disruptor at point blank range.)

You know, you might be right. On the other hand, you also talk too goddamn much.

(Zhane fires, knocking Marek to the floor. Zhane holds his head up as Marek dies. Zhane smirks and slams him to the floor.)

(Renegade emerges on the other side of the wormhole. Up ahead is Deep Space Nine. On the Bridge, Storm enters and takes tactical, relieving Styles of that duty.)

STORM

We're here.

ROBERT

It would appear so. And apparently, there's hardly any defenses here.

GRANT

What the hell...?! There's only two starships defending DS9...the Farragut and the Belmont. If we hadn't disrupted that one fleet...

ROBERT

How long til we reach full power for the dampening field?

STORM

One more shot wouldn't hurt, captain, but I'd definitely limit its use afterwards.

ROBERT

Well, then. We'll have to do this the old-fashioned way. Runa, try to contact Starfleet Command and inform them of our situation.

(presses button) Attention. This is your captain speaking. We are about to engage the Dominion fleet, quite possibly our last battle. But I have confidence in your abilities, and we've been through thick and thin together. We built this starship from practically our bare hands, and I'll be damned if they stop us here. I wouldn't give up this crew for any other in the Starfleet. Just in case we don't survive this, it was an honor to serve with you. Captain out. (sits back down) Storm, power up all weapons. O'Neal, ready that dampening field. Rhiannon, full speed ahead.

(Renegade speeds ahead towards the fleet of Dominion ships attacking DS9. Zhane enters the bridge, noticeably beaten up somewhat.)

ROBERT

What in the hell happened to you?

GRANT

You never do anything easy, do you?

ZHANE

Hell of a time for a reprimand...

ROBERT

Never mind that, Zhane. Take navigation. I'm going to need you on this one.

(Rhiannon sits next to the captain's chair while Zhane takes navigational control.)

ROBERT

Fly inbetween the vessels, Zhane. Never leave us wide open. Storm, conserve on firing as much as possible...make each shot count. Runa. Any contact from Starfleet Command or Deep Space Nine?

RUNA

I can barely read Deep Space Nine. There's too much subspace interference...

(Renegade flies inbetween two Cardassians. One Cardassian fires, just as the Renegade pulls away. The Cardassian fire damages its own sistership. Renegade then fires at a Jem'Hadar vessel that was passing its port side. The Renegade fires a barrage of quantum torpedoes, nailing another Jem'Hadar ship's warp nacelles. The Jem'Hadar crashes into a Cardassian warship.)

ROBERT

O'Neal, the dampening field!

(Renegade engages the dampening field, short-circuiting seven Jem'Hadar warships. Deep Space Nine fires at the others while the Renegade saves the Belmont from a three-on-one assault.)

STORM

The Dominion ships are scattering...the Belmont is staying near Deep Space Nine while the Farragut is moving towards four of the Cardassian vessels.

ROBERT

Move in to help the Farragut. What about communications?

RUNA

I'm picking up Deep Space Nine now. I'm filtering out the interference.

(Captain Sisko appears on screen. He appears to be confused by the situation.)

SISKO

Captain Benjamin Sisko of Deep Space Nine. Identify yourselves.

ROBERT

(now standing)

This is Commander Robert Belmont. Captain of the experimental starship Renegade...formerly second-in-command of the U.S.S. Cavalier.

SISKO

Cavalier, you say? That's one of the missing ships from the tactical fleet we sent to the Gamma Quadrant...

ROBERT

There are many survivors, captain.

SISKO

(smirks) I take it you've got quite the story to tell?

ROBERT

(exhausted sigh) A very, very... long one.

(The Renegade docks next to DS9, within distance of the Farragut and the Belmont's positions. The Starships Valkyrie, Bozeman, and Nelson enter the sector and approach DS9. Robert begins his Captain's Log.)

ROBERT

(voiceover)

Captain's Log. Supplementary. We've driven off the attack on Deep Space Nine. The crew is deserving some much-needed shore leave, and I've met with Captain Sisko of Deep Space Nine, and told him of our account...

(Robert walks into Quark's Bar, noticing Zhane at the Dabo tables talking to three exotic women.)

ROBERT

(continued)

However, there are some loose ends to tie up...and a certain Cardassian of which I will have some final words with.

(Grant walks up to Robert.)

GRANT

There you are, fearless leader! I would say we had a successful great escape.

ROBERT

Except with no daring motorcycle chase scene. (pause) I'll show that movie to you sometime...

ZHANE

(surrounded by women)

Hey, Bob! Wang Chung! I gotta tell you this...!

GRANT

(interrupting)

The name's Grant, you jackass.

ZHANE

(jokingly)

I'm just joking with ya, commander! But that's not important right now. This lovely, exotic lady just told me that on her home planet of Zentraeda, it is considered taboo for a man to have less than two women in his bed at the same time...

QUARK

(annoyed, at the bar)

Captain, can you get him out of here?! He keeps stealing my valuable customers!

ZHANE

Ah, stop being jealous, shorty! And get all four of us shots of Rigelian whiskey!

GRANT

Think you can handle all of them by yourself?

ZHANE

Well, I might be able to teach you a thing or two, but...

ROBERT

(interjects)

Don't get too caught up in fun, Zhane. You are to report to debriefing in 1400 hours.

ZHANE

(turned off; the women around him puzzled)

What for?

ROBERT

To discuss your future. Don't worry, you still have plenty of time.

(Robert and Grant walk away as Zhane continues associating with the three exotic women. Grant looks back, wondering about Zhane. Quark sits at the bar, still annoyed by Zhane stealing the customers.)

GRANT

Want me to put a guard on him?

ROBERT

Nah. He's got his hands full.

(Debriefing Room. Three Security Guards are near the door. Sisko sits to the right of Robert; Grant is to his left, and O'Neal to Grant's left. They sit at a crescent-shaped desk. Zhane walks in rather begrudgingly.)

ZHANE

Just when I was learning the positions. You had to give me just a small amount of...

ROBERT

Didn't you get their numbers?

(Zhane remains standing, astounded.)

ZHANE

Why, Bob, I do declare my sarcasm is growing on you.

ROBERT

Not too much. (winks) However, we must get down to business.

(Zhane sits down.)

SISKO

You were once a Starfleet Lieutenant, Mr. Zhane. You defected to join the Maquis. You've stolen a Starfleet shuttlecraft, smuggled illegal goods, from Sherman's Planet, injured personnel on Starbase 18...

O'NEAL

And hacked into Federation security using the Starship Xavier's mainframe. You've commited a serious breach that the Federation may not just ignore.

GRANT

What do you have to say for yourself, Zhane?

ZHANE

Why don't you pull up my speeding tickets while you're at it?

GRANT

(shaking his head)

Sorry I asked...

ROBERT

Captain Sisko, as commander of Deep Space Nine and the highest ranking officer present, is here to approve of my decision.

ZHANE

(interrupting)

What is it, a penal colony?

ROBERT

Despite your record, you've taken great risk in aiding our escape. You've endangered your own life for the safety of the mission and for the crew. You've played an invaluable role in our escape. (pause) You've two choices, Zhane.

SISKO

What choices might those be, commander?

ZHANE

Multiple choice, Bob?

GRANT

Zhane, you're going to be the death of me!

SISKO

(chuckles) Gentlemen, please.

ROBERT

I cannot speak for Starfleet Command, so the charges may or may not be dropped. But you may leave here today without vindication from us. Or you may join my crew as head navigator. What do you say...Lieutenant Commander Zhane?

ZHANE

(smiles and rises)

Lieutenant Commander, huh?

ROBERT

Yes. You will be part of my responsibility now. Captain's perrogative.

ZHANE

Well, in that case, captain...you got yourself a deal.

(Zhane and Robert shake hands.)

GRANT

(semi-joking)

Better watch yourself, smartass. I'm still your commanding officer.

(Grant and Zhane shake hands.)

ZHANE

Sometimes I wonder if you like some of those moments.

(The Promenade. Yar is overlooking the corridors below her. Storm walks up to her.)

STORM

You ok?

YAR

(halfway turned around)

Oh, I'm fine, Mr. Storm...

STORM

It's Matt. My name's Matt.

(Storm gets closer to her.)

STORM

Sonia, I'm asking you. What's wrong?

YAR

I wish I could explain it all to you...

STORM

Try me. I may not be Vulcan, nor Romulan... but you do owe me an explanation.

YAR

(exhales) The blood within me flows with an ancient savagery. Sometimes, I feel I might frighten you.

STORM

(smirks) Mindmeld. Do it.

YAR

(off-guard)

No.

STORM

If I am to understand you and accept whatever terms are allowed, I'm entitled to it.

(A long pause develops between the two.)

YAR

You are the most stubborn man I've ever met.

STORM

And that's why you like me.

(Yar places her hands on Storm's face. She stares into Storm's eyes.)

YAR

You may not like what you see.

STORM

Just do it.

(Both close their eyes. Moments later, they become entraced by the mindmeld. Yar slightly smiles.)

(In Sisko's Office.)

SISKO

Are you disregarding Starfleet's orders, if you find them not to your liking?

ROBERT

If necessary. These people were willing to sacrifice their lives under my command. We battled the Cardassians for three long months before our escape.

SISKO

(smiles) Don't worry, commander. You have my word. I'll file a detailed report and request that you and your crew retain ownership of the Renegade. In the meantime, some R and R will do you good.

ROBERT

I agree. In that case, we won't overstay our welcome.

(presses button on Sisko's desk.)

Attention, crew of Starship Renegade. Begin beamup procedures tomorrow at 0800 hours. Banks out.

(Robert walks into the Brig Area, where Odo, Doctor Graves, and Styles are observing Gul Dakum. Dakum is waking up.)

ODO

Doctor Graves just gave him a hypo. He's coming around from all the beating your ship took.

DAKUM

(groggy)

Well, well...Captain Banks. It seems you got your wish.

GRAVES

Orders, captain?

ROBERT

Relax. You don't have to beam up to the ship until 0800 hours.

GRAVES

I'm thinking I'll have me an English stout before I go. Excuse me, Robert.

(Graves leaves, and Robert smirks. Odo has two security guards remain with Robert as he leaves. Robert approaches the forcefield.)

ROBERT

If I could say anything of sympathy, I would...but I can't.

DAKUM

Spare me, captain. I'd rather be dead than to take your pity. I wish you would've killed me like you did Marek.

ROBERT

(ignoring the comment)

I don't kill unless I have to. And as for pity, I give you none. You are my enemy...you've threatened my crew, my loved ones. I've been through hell and back because of your Scrambler. I know that it was your duty, and I don't hate you for it. Beating you is enough.

DAKUM

(nods) I don't blame you, captain. We are both soldiers of war. War wasn't kind to either of us.

ROBERT

War's never kind, Gul Dakum. But it only takes one group to start it...and I hope your people will live on despite what I think will eventually happen... the downfall of Cardassia Prime.

DAKUM

Maybe you're right. Robert, please do me a favor.

ROBERT

(raises eyebrow) Such as?

DAKUM

Send a message to Cardassia Prime. I don't care how you do it. Just send one to one named Mukad. Tell him... tell him his father died bravely.

ROBERT

(momentarily feeling remorse; nods.)

Very well.

(Robert sits in front of Ten Forward. Grant and Runa sit at the bar, enjoying a round of Asian saki. Storm sits in front of Yar near the back of Ten Forward. Graves, a little tipsy, tells Richter and O'Neal some funny "back home" stories.)

RHIANNON

So...what now?

ROBERT

(sipping his Canadian beer)

Once all of the crew have been beamed aboard, we're going for some immediate R and R.

RHIANNON

(intrigued)

Oh?

ROBERT

"Risa and Relaxation."

RHIANNON

(smiles) I was hoping you'd say that. Think you can keep up with me?

ROBERT

(winks) Through the Andromeda Galaxy and beyond. Just don't get lost.

(Both look up as Styles' voice on the intercom says "All Bridge personnel to the Bridge! All Bridge personnel to the Bridge!")

ROBERT

Care to join me?

RHIANNON

Oh, I think so, oh humble one.

(On the Bridge...Robert and Rhiannon arrive, followed shortly by O'Neal, Grant, and Runa.)

STYLES

All crew present and accounted for, captain.

(Advas enters the Bridge.)

ROBERT

Commander Advas. We're about to leave Deep Space Nine...

ADVAS

Yes, and while Vulcans don't normally require rest and relaxation... I thought perhaps I could help relieve you of duty for such an occasion.

ROBERT

Good Samaritan, eh, Advas?

ADVAS

(cocks head) I don't believe I'm aware of the expression...

ROBERT

Never mind. I'll explain it to you later.

(Robert notices the second console next to Navigation. Storm enters the Bridge and takes the Tactical position. O'Neal takes Conn.)

ROBERT

I'm liking the classic set-up here.

ZHANE

Conn, huh? Think you can keep up with me?

O'NEAL

(pushing buttons)

I don't know, can you?

(Zhane chuckles for a moment. Robert and Rhiannon hide their smirks.)

ZHANE

Better watch yourself... I'm the best in the galaxy.

GRANT

Give the word, captain.

ROBERT

Engine Room... give me full power.

RICHTER

(in Engineering, looking over his section with pride)

Power given, brother.

ROBERT

Zhane, take us out. Destination... Risa.

(The Renegade goes into transwarp. Robert gives off the final monologue.)

Space...the final frontier. These are the beginning voyages of the Starship Renegade. Built with our own hands, we explore strange, new worlds... to discover new life, and new civilizations... boldly going with freedom... where no being has gone before.

Screenplay by Ariel Paul Melin

From characters created by Ariel Paul Melin and Michael Nelson

Based on STAR TREK created by Gene Roddenberry