As the gypsies begin preparing for the welcome-home party, Alptraum takes Tulani aside and asks her for a very special favor: he hasn't eaten all day, and needs some blood before the party, lest he slip and become drunk AND hungry.

Tulani agrees and they hide out in the Reisender's wagon. Alptraum tries to be as gentle as possible, but during the feeding he loses some control of the shadow and ends up 'kenning' Tulani, which is beyond intimate. This leaves Tulani feeling shocked and vulnerable, and she retreats into her dragon form to feel better.

She forgives Alptraum, and he admits at how he's been afraid to just 'pal around' with her and tease like he does with the others in their group. Tulani replies that she noticed that, and felt a bit left out as a result. They come to an understanding though, while Alptraum finds some new clothes for her to wear once she transforms back.

Leaving the wagon, they find an audience waiting, having assumed they were up to hanky-panky all that time. And then the party starts.