Once clear of the region, Worf proceeded into the Gamma Quadrant to retrieve the real Sword of Kahless, and returned to Qo'noS. Heavily outgunned, the Avenger was forced to plot an erratic course through the Expanse and use derelict vessels to aid in its escape. Realising that time was of the essence, Worf ordered the Avenger into the dangerous Ikolis Expanse and was soon ambushed by a small task force led by Toral, who had created a fake copy of the Sword of Kahless and intended to kill Worf. Shortly after repelling the attack, Worf received word of an impending Borg invasion fleet and was ordered back to the Klingon Empire to gather support. When talks broke down, the Avenger helped defend the outpost from a Son'a attack fleet and successfully repelled them. On Stardate 53550.8, Ambassador Worf's Starfleet commission was temporarily reactivated, and he was given command of the vessel the ship was ordered to Outpost 40 in the Briar Patch so that he could negotiate with the Son'a, who were once again threatening Starfleet's presence in the area. The Federation Starship Avenger was a Defiant class escort.

Star trek uss avenger