Setting out on his travels to fulfill his calling, Sisko discovers raw hate a powerful enemy while dealing with self-doubt.
 

         Sweat stung my eyes as I wiped my brow. The wide, dusty forest road and the blazing sun didn't make for good traveling weather. My dry throat forced me to the shade by the side of the road. I sat on a rock and poured cool water down my throat.

         Tall green trees bordered the well-used route. Birds sang in the background. It should have lightened my spirits, but it didn't.

         I lifted the ring and examined the ancient language engraved upon it. Hebrew, the priest had said and translated it as, "It is more blessed to give than to receive." Through the ring God had called me onto the road, to unknown places and people, to fulfill the task bestowed upon me: to be my brother's keeper.

         The ring and the calling had come at fourteen. Now nineteen years of age, I still didn't feel ready to venture alone on paths in the middle of a forest. It seemed a great folly to leave my family. What hope did I have to make a difference?

         Then I realized the birds had stopped singing. Quietness pervaded the forest save the wind gusting, swirling dust down the road. Uneasiness settled into my heart.

         What am I doing out here? I'm not ready for this; I'm going back home.

         I arose, placed the water back into my pack, and proceeded home with quickened pace.

         I had barely gone ten feet when five young men jumped onto the road, brandishing swords.