Henderson, Teal and York try to make first contact with the Queppu but are instead greeted by crossbow fire and are accused of being rebels. Meanwhile Jeffers, left in command of the ship, enters into a space race.

When presented with a mysterious object Henderson can't help but try to return it to its rightful owners despite York's warnings that it's a classic hero trap. The three senior officers find themselves on a forest moon suddenly surrounded by the Queppu ready for revenge. After narrowly avoiding destruction last year they have acquired new technology and are ready to strike back by putting Henderson, York and Teal into a reality TV gladiatorial contest.