When Foundation fans first met newlyweds Toran (Cody Fern) and Bayta (Synnøve Karlsen) Mallow, two things stood out: first, that last name, signifying Toran’s connection to season two hero Hober Mallow; second, the way their self-aware glamour made them very much resemble futuristic versions of the social media influencers we have today. But it was also apparent there was substance beneath the sparkle—and episode five, “Where Tyrants Spend Eternity,” explores that idea even more.

io9 has an exclusive clip to show from this week’s Foundation, which shows the couple chatting with Toran’s no-nonsense uncle, Randu (Darren Pettie), about their suddenly elevated role in the crisis gripping the galaxy.

As you’ll recall, after helping the Foundation’s head of security sneak into a party hosted by the villainous Mule, the duo got wrapped up in the ensuing ruckus—and, long story short, Bayta kinda sorta kidnapped the Mule’s very special pet musician, Magnifico Giganticus. (She calls him “Maggie,” though.)

They’ll no doubt have to answer for that impulsive decision soon enough. But their ship is nearly wrecked, and they’re running very low on allies at the moment. So what are they going to do right now?

That interaction gives us some insight into how Toran became, well, the way he is, despite hailing from the rough-and-tumble legacy of the Alliance of Traders. He’s going to need his uncle’s support navigating the slippery dynamics between the Foundation and the traders—and both young Mallows will surely have a dangerous road ahead now that they’re on the Mule’s radar.

New episodes of Foundation hit Apple TV+ on Fridays.

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