The Federation continues to lose the war with the Dominion/Cardassian Alliance — and morale is sinking fast. Realizing that the Federation needs a major victory, Sisko launches a plan to retake Deep Space 9, using a task force comprised of ships throughout Starfleet. Meanwhile, Odo continues to struggle with reconciling his thoughts for the Female Shapeshifter and remaining loyal to his friends, especially Kira. Despite his mixed feelings, he cannot resist linking — joining physically — with the fellow Changeling.

Andrew J. Robinson (Garak)
Jeffrey Combs (Weyoun)
Marc Alaimo (Gul Dukat)
Max Grodénchik (Rom)
Aron Eisenberg (Ensign Nog)
J.G. Hertzler (General Martok)
Melanie Smith (Tora Ziyal)
Casey Biggs (Gul Damar)
Chase Masterson (Leeta)
Barry Jenner (Admiral Ross)
Salome Jens (Female Shapeshifter)
Mark Allen Shepherd (Morn)

• This episode is continued in the next episode.
  
• Odo links with the Female Shapeshifter for three days straight.
  
• Rom is to be executed.
  
• Nog is promoted to Ensign (from Cadet 3rd Class) before graduation.
  
• Kira kicks Damar's ass when he tries to force Ziyal into visiting Dukat.
  
• Odo tells Kira he's sorry; she tells him that they're "way beyond sorry."
  
• Sisko tells Admiral Ross that Bajor is his home and he plans on building a house there.
  
• Kira and Quark use Morn to send a message to Sisko about the minefield.