Equestria is void of war; peace has governed it for thousands of years, and so there is no need for millitant forces. The outskirts, however, are not, and that is where the Black Hive operates.

Tepes the Changeling has co-lead the Black Hive for many years, and there isn't a lot he hasn't seen. When he's called upon by the Changeling Queen, however, he gets a contract that is more than it appears to be, along with something else.

Tharn has just recently been promoted to the co-leader of the Black Hive, and first impressions are everything. With Queen Chrysalis' daring task, Tharn aims to prove himself with her mission; however, he may be getting more than he bargained for when a second, and much more important, contract comes along.