Boimler becomes the prey in an alien hunt and decides to act more boldly.
Frustrated that caution is holding back his career, Boimler volunteers to be the quarry for K'ranch, a Kromsapiod hunter. He runs, tries to turn the tables and is caught, but K'ranch lets him go and praises him, and Boimler resolves to reinvent himself as Bold Boimler.
Meanwhile Mariner joins Ransom, Rutherford and chief engineer Andy Billups on a mission to repair a broken orbital lift. Ransom gives the engineers responsibility for diplomacy, and they quickly offend local customs. Mariner covers for them in secret, Ransom resolves the situation, and he thanks her for following orders while making clear that one good day does not erase her record.