 While pursuing a smuggling job, Mal and Kaylee go undercover at an upper class fancy dress ball. Inara is attending the same ball with her wealthy client, Atherton Wing. In an attempt to defend Inara s honor after Atheron makes an offensive comment, Mal punches Atherton in the face. Outraged, Atherton challenges Mal to an old-fashioned duel using swords. Meanwhile, Badger returns and under Atherton s payroll, holds the Serenity crew hostage, while River begins showing some more of her sane side in a verbal confrontation.