A trail of clues has led the FHew to the base of the 'Black Faction', an army of Klingons, Nausicans and other mercenaries all carrying the equipment of House Matlh. When it is discovered that the army is in fact being raised by CoQ Matlh, younger brother of Haqtaj, in an attempt to eliminate her power base once and for all, the crew are faced with a near impossible choice. Do they fight and die for Haqtaj and Matlh Fleet, or do they side with CoQ as head of House Matlh and keep this treachery a secret from her?