En route to the eye-catching Arachnid Nebula, the crew encounters an obsolete Vulcan vessel manned by the Vahklas, a Vulcan sect that embraces emotional impulses. Despite her misgivings, T'Pol allows her curiosity about their lifestyle to get the best of her.

The Enterprise is invaded by Ferengi marauders, who knock out the crew with sleeping gas and pillage the ship for gold, equipment and slaves.