The Heroes for Hire finish their business in Madripoor, but surprising news awaits their return to New York City!

After an explosion had rocked their boat, the Heroes for Hire team have fallen into the shark-infested waters of the South China Sea, off the coast of Madripoor. Iron Fist kills a shark to distract the rest of the school, allowing him and Shang-Chi to climb aboard some flotsam where they find Colleen Wing and Jessica Drew. Missing is Shen Kuei, the Cat. Suddenly, a submarine rises from the sea and a team of pirates, led by Lionmane, captures the group.

Meanwhile, in the New York headquarters of Oracle, Inc., Namor arrives and informs Jim Hammond that he has sold the organization, putting the future of Heroes for Hire into question.

Hours after their capture, the sub docks in the pirates' lair, a structure Iron Fist guesses is a Chinese government installation. He also guesses Lionmane is General Lo Chien, a fact Lionmane confirms to his captives. Furthermore, Fist's teammate, Shen Kuei, the Cat, reveals himself as an associate of Chien's and a traitor to the Heroes. Unknown to all, Wolverine has sneaked into the base.

Shortly, Lo Chien holds court with his captives, explaining his plan to invade Madripoor and to set himself up as a warlord. At this, Iron Fist focuses his chi and breaks his bonds as well as his allies'. Chien orders his pirates, Cat and his other associate, Sai, to recapture or kill the Heroes as an alarm set off by Wolverine sounds.

After a furious battle, Colleen Wing bests Sai, Fist overwhelms Cat, and then assists Wolverine in defeating Lo Chien.

Upon returning to New York and Oracle's offices, the Heroes learn that the business has been sold to Stark-Fujisawa. Stark-Fujikawa's representative offers positions to some of the Heroes, but not all. Unanimously, the Heroes choose to quit, but maintain their friendships.