Low on food and desperate to replenish their supply, the U.S.S. Voyager crew discovers a planet abundant in healthful vegetation. In order to get the much-needed food, however, the crew must trade technology with the inhabitants of the planet, the Kirse. The Kirse seem friendly, enough, yet practice certain values that make the crew uncomfortable. Before the trade agreement can be settled, the Andirrim, enemies of the Kirse, show up and launch an attack. Now, Captain Janeway is forced to join a battle with an ally she's not sure she can trust.