Both the Vulcans and the Andorians claim the planetoid Weytahn (or Paan Mokar, as Vulcans call it) in an age-old feud and military conflict erupts again. As the fighting goes on, the Vulcans are willing to discuss cease-fire terms represented by Ambassador Soval. However, Imperial Guard officer Shran believes only Captain Archer can be trusted to mediate the bloody dispute, which drags the Enterprise crew into the tense situation. 

Following a seemingly successful first contact mission, Archer and Trip are charged with smuggling and imprisoned aboard a penal vessel. When prisoners hijack the ship, Archer and Trip must pass as outlaws.