Odo consults Vic Fontaine, a self-aware holographic lounge singer, about his romantic relationship with Kira.

On their way to Ferenginar, Jake and Nog's runabout comes under attack from the Jem'Hadar, and they are rescued by the Valiant, a ship manned by an elite group of over-eager Starfleet cadets who have bitten off more than they can chew.