

Zarkon enlists the aide of Stride, a legendary Tiger fighter, in his battle against Voltron. Stride wants no part of Zarkon's personal grudges, so Zarkon falsely claims that Planet Arus has challenged Stride's honor. As Stride leaves to fight Voltron, Zarkon welcomes a new ally, Queen Merla. After hearing of Zarkon's plan, Merla decides to head to the battle sight, because she doesn't want Zarkon getting all the credit. Stride meets Keith in a one-on-one fight. Keith earns Stride's respect by fighting valiantly, which leads to Merla attacking both of them.
With Zarkon and Lotor recovering from their big defeat against Planet Arus, local Drule warlord Cossack makes his move for glory. He assaults Planet Pollux, and manages to corner Bandor. Sven signals the Voltron Force and rides out on his horse to save the young prince. Keith and the others arrive to find Cossack working alongside an old enemy, who has a deadly trap waiting for Princess Allura.
With the recent lull in the war, Galaxy Garrison finally has enough manpower to send a General down to Planet Arus to serve as a commanding officer for the Voltron Force. He demands that they follow his orders and fight with small-unit tactics instead of forming Voltron. But Haggar's new Robeast is impervious to small-arms fire thanks to its new magic armor coating!