A change of command on HMAS Hammersley results in divided loyalties and the humiliation of the ship's most senior female officer. After a dangerous departure from Samaru, Commander Mike Flynn is recovering in hospital.

Buffer becomes a marked man after providing evidence allowing the Hammersley team to arrest Ray Walsman, and among a team of UN observers later taken on board, is one man with murderous intent. Walsman meanwhile has escaped, but a quick thinking Mike has him back in custody.