Stardate 42402.7 While the Enterprise is passing through a star system that contains two inhabited planets which have a treaty that keeps a shaky peace in place, the crew receives a call from the cargo ship Erstwhile, saying it is in need of repairs. The captain of the vessel is Thadiun Okona, a handsome scoundrel, who quickly makes a reputation for himself aboard the Enterprise. However, his reputation made on the two inhabited planets catches up with him. Now, both planets demand that he be turned over to them.
When a friend of Mac's is injured in a crash, Mac agrees to test the new racing engine designed by the Phoenix Foundation. However a business rival has other plans for him, and he has someone from the inside to help him.
Murphy feels maternal pangs after visiting with a pregnant friend. She considers in vitro fertilization and talks Frank into being the donor. When that option doesn't pan out, they consider a physical union.
