Valchek meets with Herc and reassures him that he could climb in rank if he keeps quiet about the incident, and can use the information against Royce if the mayor moves to punish him.
Back in the neighborhood, Namond and Michael ask if the latter and his younger brother can work for Bodie to earn money for school supplies.
While Namond and Michael meet their friends, Stanfield lieutenant Monk Metcalf arrives and hands out money for school supplies.
Back at Homicide, Norris investigates what turns out to be the murder of a state's witness; Sergeant Jay Landsman informs Valchek about the case.
Davis and Krawczyk threaten to withhold financial support from Royce, who in turn puts pressure on Commissioner Ervin Burrell.
Freamon and Greggs catch Marlo's voice on the wire and, knowing that his crew has not been linked to any violence, wonder why they hear what sounds like target practice in the background.
At his gym, Dennis "Cutty" Wise continues to train one-time drug dealer Justin, who is preparing for an upcoming bout.
Cutty pays special attention to Michael, who fights with Justin after he interrupts his time using the heavy bag with Namond.
In preparation for the school year, Prez cleans up his classroom and meets with the other teachers to discuss maintaining class rules.
Assistant Principal Donnelly tasks one of her students, Crystal Judkins, to deliver secondhand school supplies to Dukie.
Ed Burns receives story credit on all Season Four episodes, as the writing drew extensively on his experience as a teacher.