Piper returns to the Black Rock Hostelry after a disappointing day at work, to find that the inn has been trashed by a Kavi gang calling themselves the "Blood Kings", and that April's father – the innkeeper – has been badly injured. April doesn't look so good herself, and Piper persuades her to go visit Roho's Hospice to be examined. April turns out to be doing not all that badly, but while Piper waits to find out, he heads out and plays on his flute, attracting the attention of Belle – Kassie's pet creen – and some passersby who toss him a few shekels. When April comes back out, Piper tries to lighten her spirits by treating her to dinner, courtesy of the generosity of strangers.