A centuries-old Bajoran vessel mysteriously exits the wormhole, and its passenger, a legendary Bajoran poet named Akorem Laan, is immediately beamed to the Infirmary. Shocked to learn more than 200 years have passed since he left Bajor, he tells Sisko and Kira that he had an accident in space and was saved by the Bajoran Prophets, which has led him to believe that they have chosen him to be the Emissary. Sisko, never comfortable with the role of Emissary, steps aside to let Akorem assume the revered position. Akorem's first act is to return Bajor to the old ways -- including strict adherence to a restrictive caste system which throws life on the station, and Bajor's relationship with the Federation, into turmoil.