Explorer prepares for a joint exploration of Planet Nesto with the Drules. Hazar sends Captain Twyla to lead the Drule exploration force. Twyla consorts with Commander Borgam in a plan to disobey Hazar and attack the Alliance. As Twyla sets up an ambush, her ship crashes and she is injured. She is taken to Explorer for medical treatment. In a panic Twyla's second in command, Captain Bardo, orders a full scale attack on the Alliance forces.