 First Minister
Shakaar arrives at Deep Space Nine to negotiate for Bajor's
early admittance into the Federation. The dignitary creates
quite a stir around the station — especially with Kira, a friend
since she worked for him in the Resistance. Soon after his
arrival, Odo learns that "The True Way," a Cardassian extremist
group, is planning to assassinate Shakaar. Security is beefed up
throughout the station, and Odo personally shadows him. But when
Shakaar takes a leisurely stroll with Kira, Odo's hidden
affection for her leaves him with an uncomfortable feeling.
After a tough round of
negotiations, Shakaar asks Odo to accompany him back to his
quarters. Once there, Shakaar awkwardly admits that he's falling
in love with Kira, and wonders if Kira has any similar thoughts
about him. Since Odo's own feelings for Kira go beyond mere
friendship, he realizes that he now has a rival for her
affections.
At their weekly security meeting, Kira is distracted, which
concerns Odo. She begs off early to give Shakaar a tour of the
station, and Odo has to follow them as part of his security
duties. He sees the two grow closer and almost kiss before
remembering they're not exactly alone. Soon after, the three
enter the turbolift, and Worf announces over the com that they
must be re-routed. Odo asks Worf to verify his security code
before control is transferred — just as Shakaar makes a dinner
date with Kira. Distracted, Odo releases the turbolift before
verifying Worf's code, and the turbolift suddenly goes into
freefall.
Thinking quickly, Odo is able to morph into metal rods and stops
the turbolift, saving their lives. Afterwards, he admits to
Sisko with embarrassment that he allowed the saboteur to act by
turning over control of the turbolift without verification.
Realizing that he has to do something, Odo heads for Kira's
quarters and guards reveal that Shakaar has been inside with her
since returning from dinner — three hours ago. Odo relieves a
guard and stands outside her door until morning, when Shakaar
finally departs. She happily tells Odo of her developing
relationship with Shakaar, after which Odo leaves, only to
discover that Worf has apprehended the saboteur without his
help. Hurt and frustrated, Odo returns to his quarters and in an
uncharacteristic fit of rage, demolishes everything.
Disturbed by the noise, Quark comes to Odo's quarters and is
surprised by what he sees. He tells Odo that he has to resolve
his feelings for Kira one way or another in order to regain
control of his life. Odo returns to Kira's quarters and tells
her he wants to stop their weekly meetings. She's puzzled, but
doesn't push him, and Odo forces himself to get his mind back on
his job — and nothing else.
See Also: Image Captures |
