Marcus believes he can convert the ship's hyper drive to use negative energy instead of anti-matter, but will need Durenium to produce it. Marcus attempts to find an old contract who may be be able to put him in contact with a seller of this rare and illegal element. Executive Chief Inspector Tibbit boards The Tulip to make sure that engines are in proper working order before granting Caravaggio's application for a change in power source.

Marcus finds an obscure scientist whose theories may hold the secret to getting the Tulip into hyperspace.

***

Marcus - still searching for an alternative power source for the Trans-Utopian - reads up on the theories of a Dr. Gregor Laszig and compels the crew to go in search of him. But the crew find more than they're looking for when the Orchard gets involved, and Callie's life hangs in the balance.