Zecora goes back to her village in Zebrica for a visit to find that it has changed dramatically since she was last there. A lot of progress has been made. However, Zecora's mother, Zarani, chief adviser to the village chieftain, is unsure if the chief's latest project is... constructive. She asks her daughter to use her experience and wisdom in dealing with this matter.

Flattered, but suspicious, Zecora accepts. After all, if her own mother cannot handle things, how is she supposed to?