contingence / contingents [kənˈtɪnʤən(t)s]
contingence – n. – 1. contact, touching; 2. the condition that something may or may not occur; 3. something happening by chance
contingents – n. – 1. a group with common origins, interests, etc., representing a larger body; 2. a force (of troops, ships, etc.) contributed to form part of an army or navy