The crew of HMS Camden Lock are subjected to an extremely strict assessment test causing Henderson to seek the solitude of his cabin leaving York in command.

Henderson is invited to join Britains premier space-o-batics team (a Red Arrows for space) led by Squadron Leader Mason, who twenty years ago had a fling with Teal. Meanwhile, York reveals the results of his terrifying scientific experiment and Vine has enlisted Jeffers into injuring him in a 'workplace accident' so he can be sent back to Earth.

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.

The daughter of the Space Admiral has run away avoiding university and Henderson is ordered to get her back. Meanwhile both Vine and Jeffers have taken a shine to the young student and fight for her heart in the only way they know how - a duel. Arabella steals a shuttle craft and elopes with Jeffers leading them both into mortal danger.

York is sacked from Space Force after footage of him beating up an innocent alien ends up on the news. Teal is delighted to be left in charge of the ship in the officer's absence - but she faces a tough challenge when the team discover the Red Shiny Robots of Vortis are about to attack.

Entrusted with leading the convoy guarding Britain's new super-weapon, the Camden Lock's position is betrayed. There is a traitor aboard and all the officers are under suspicion. There is a desperate race against time to find the mole before Earth is destroyed.