Larran arrives on Kiela's doorstep to apologize for overstepping by fixing her chimney and bringing eggs without asking. Desperate to keep him from entering and seeing the spellbooks and the in-progress garden spell, Kiela blocks the doorway and impulsively suggests he take her to ride his merhorses—an offer he had previously made. Caz seizes the opportunity, shooing them out and shutting the door behind them.

Larran leads Kiela down the cliff stairs to his yellow seaside cottage and whistles his herd in. He introduces her to Sian, a golden mare, teaching her how to offer a tomato and earn the merhorse's trust. He lifts Kiela onto Sian's back, instructs her that the merhorse steers, and they ride out into the sea. Kiela experiences exhilaration and freedom, feeling for the first time genuinely connected to her surroundings, and senses that Larran has shared something deeply personal with her.

As they ride back, Kiela asks why Sian hasn't foaled. Larran reveals that none of the merhorses have foaled in five years—since the emperor withdrew the sorcerers who used to assist with conception and birthing. The herd is dwindling, meaning fewer fish for the fisherfolk and worsening poverty across Caltrey. Kiela now recognizes the hidden desperation in the villagers she'd seen earlier.

Back on shore, Kiela politely declines Larran's invitation to a meal, promising another time, because an idea has gripped her. Hurrying home, she finds Caz excited: the growth spell worked spectacularly, producing a bounty of ripe tomatoes. Tasting one, Kiela announces her plan to trade magic to the islanders for the goods she and Caz need—they will open a spellshop, despite the imperial risk.