With Princess Illiana on board, the Independence begins its mission into the currents, but soon encounter Grey forces as they abduct citizens of an inhabited planet within the Briar Patch. Examining an abductee, Cole and her crew find evidence that suggests that the Grey have been a threat to the Federation for longer than previously realized. The Excelsior gives chase to a Breen vessel they believe may be carrying the fugitive Vorina. Henglaar and Qu'Qul prepare for their holodeck showdown, despite Sou’s objections.