Leading an exploration of an ancient weapons satellite in deep space, Major Sheppard and Dr. McKay intercept a Wraith distress signal. Deciding to investigate, the team lands on a nearby planet and finds the source of the call - a downed Wraith cargo ship. When the unseen Wraith awakens from hibernation, Sheppard and McKay become the focus of its ravenous appetite.

Engaged in combat, the Atlantis team's puddle jumper is hit with an energy wave that leaves them unharmed, but destroys their Wraith attackers. Hoping to find the source of the wave, the team lands on the planet below. There they find a civilization enjoying the utmost health and happiness, untouched by the Wraith. Their leader, Chaya, refuses to allow anyone other than her own people the sanctuary and safety from the Wraith that would be found by settling on their planet. Unwilling to give up so easily, Major Sheppard asks Chaya to reconsider. After thinking it over, Chaya surprises everyone by requesting to accompany them back to Atlantis to discuss the matter further leading the team to suspect they may be caught in a trap.