Jason and Brett eagerly await the return of Neri and Charlie–as does UBRI's Dr. Hellegren who wants to study just one of the returning humpback whales, Charlie. Jason and Brett go to Neri's island to prepare for her return and find a silver pendant inside an unusual flower. When Dr. Hellegren's helicopter crashes into the ocean, Charlie calls to Neri who goes to help him but ends up being taken captive. Neri manages to escape, with a little help from Charlie, but she does so only moments before Hellegren is rescued by Captain Sam Phillips, one of the new arrivals on ORCA. Dianne's research contract is extended another six months by ORCA's new commander, her son however soon proves to be a challenge for the others. Jason and Brett welcome Neri home.