On the planet of Ashtoreth, Arkold is still a "guest" of the Sirens, though he has some limited mobility thanks to some jellyfish like creatures capable of holding bubbles of oxygen, serving as "diving bells" for exploring the surrounding area. While Maza inspects some underwater flora, Arkold chases after what he thinks is a school of fish … only to encounter what appears to be a large and nearly invisible shark-like creature that ignores him and goes after Raneah – Arkold's mermaid servant. Arkold tries to warn Raneah away, and she flees, pursued by the creature.

The Triton and his "court" show up, and the Triton congratulates Arkold on getting rid of the creature by sending it after Raneah, hinting that this was all some sort of test. Arkold accepts the news that Raneah is dead with a dread that surprises him, and Maza tries to comfort him, but to little avail. Arkold is presented with his new servant, a more attractive mermaid named Delah. Arkold, however, learns from Delah that Raneah is only presumed dead, as the creature was after her. Arkold insists that Delah go to rescue Raneah, though Delah protests the idea. Arkold orders Delah, and she reluctantly complies, while Arkold and Maza head back to the cavern that serves as their "home".

There, Maza and Arkold talk, and Maza learns that Arkold is from House Volkenheld … which does something to explain his "spice habit". Maza wonders why he doesn't try to quit, and suggests that his actions imply that he really wants to do the right thing, but he feels a need to put on a "tough guy" exterior … and that, here, he doesn't really need to put on an act.

Their discussion is interrupted when Delah returns, sulking, with Raneah. Arkold and Maza do their best to tend to Raneah – Arkold having gained a greater appreciation for a friend he almost lost.