From the beginning of the Federation, the Prime Directive was clear. no Starfleet expedition may interfere with the natural development of other civilizations. But now Picard is confronted with orders that undermine that decree. If he obeys, 600 peaceful residents of Be'Ku will be forcibly removed from their remarkable world, all for the reportedly greater good of millions who will benefit from Ba'Ku's Fountain of Youth-like powers. If he disobeys, he will risk his Starship, his career, his life.