Mem, a skilled Veden washwoman, meticulously cleans Mraize’s stained red trousers and other garments, reflecting on the craft of laundering and the lingering smoke and losses in Vedenar. She brings a new assistant, Pom, to deliver the clothes directly to Mraize’s townhome, passing vigilant guards who note every movement.

In Mraize’s overfilled den—lined with curios, rich rugs, and five paintings of different Heralds—Mem begins to work while praising Mraize’s refined tastes. Without warning, Pom climbs a chair and cuts one of the paintings, prompting Mem’s horror as guards rush in. Pom brandishes a knife to hold them at bay.

Mraize arrives, unfazed and even pleased, sending the guards away. He remarks that “the masterpiece of the Oilsworn” has finally drawn Pom, addresses her as “Ancient One,” and offers a drink, saying his babsk wishes to speak with her. Pom tries to leave, but Mraize halts her with a claim: he knows where Talenelat is.

Pom freezes at the name, and Mraize presses the invitation to talk. He then turns to Mem, confirming she brought his Azish cavalrylord’s suit and praising her for removing an “aether” stain, authorizing a bonus. Finally, he dismisses Mem and notes she will need a new helper—signaling Pom will not be returning with her.