Star Trek: Deep Space Nine is one of the most popular and well-loved shows within the franchise, and for good reason. The blend of serialized and episodic storytelling, often morally gray with a diverse cast, makes for excellent binge-watching on rainy days.
One element DS9 fans particularly enjoy is the constant verbal sparring between Odo the Changeling and Quark, the Ferengi, who runs a bar on the station. They're DS9's very own odd couple, so let's take a look back at a few of their best moments together!
(Can two aliens share a space station near a stable wormhole without driving each other crazy?)
1. Odo and Quark locked in inside Odo's office in "Civil Defense"
In "Civil Defense" (S3E07), Sisko, Chief O'Brien, and Jake accidentally touch off a system that closes down the station in the same way it would if it were under Bajoran occupation, even though Deep Space Nine is now fully under Bajoran control, with the assistance of the Federation. During the security trigger, Odo and Quark find themselves locked in Odo's office.
The interaction between Odo and Quark during the lockdown is especially hilarious because Quark had invited himself into the office, believing it was the safest place to be during the lockdown (and to annoy his co-worker like a time thief who lingers at your desk to talk about his kids, grandkids, and the dog).
When Quark and Odo realize they're trapped together, Quark is shocked and starts to complain about being stuck there. When the former security code to unlock the security office doesn't work, Quark scoffs that when the station was under Cardassian control, it's obvious they didn't trust Odo because he always has to do the right thing.
"It's because they knew you were an honorable man - the kind of person who would do the right thing regardless of the circumstances. And now, your integrity is going to get us both killed. I hope you're happy," as Quark said.
Never mind that he didn't leave the office when he could have!
2. Quark claps back at Odo after Odo calling him a thief in "Emissary"
In "Emmisary," (S1E01/02) Deep Space Nine comes back under Bajoran control. Sisko is tasked with assisting them in recovering from the Cardassian Occupation. He all but blackmails Quark into staying on DS9, as his nephew Nog was in Odo's custody for looting. Odo is bewildered over Sisko's invitation that Quark stay on DS9 and run his bar:
Odo: "I'm curious myself. The man is a gambler and a thief."
Quark: "I am not a thief!"
Odo: "You are a thief!"
Quark:" If I am, you haven't been able to prove it for four years!"
You know it's a severe clap back when a shapeshifter puts his foot in his mouth!
3. Quark and Odo's parting words
When Odo prepares to leave Deep Space Nine and heal the Great Link in "What You Leave Behind" (S7E26/27), Quark catches up with and confronts him, asking Odo if he was going to leave without saying goodbye.
Odo nods and turns to walk into the runabout, as Kira Nerys is returning him to his planet and people. When Kira tells Quark not to take it personally, the Ferengi just grins and says, "What do you mean? That man loves me! It's written all over his back."