Viv, Fern, and Satchel investigate the black tome's portals. Satchel confirms it is storage—an 'underspace' where Varine the Pale keeps her possessions. Viv tests several pages: she touches something fleshy and wet, then razor-edged coins that slice her fingers, before Fern thinks to ask whether anything living might be inside. Satchel warns of dangers within and notes nothing living survives there long.

On a final attempt, Viv withdraws a magnificent greatsword that fits her perfectly. As she pulls it free, the page ripples and emits a low thrum—Satchel reveals it is a warning that alerts Varine whenever something is removed. Fern panics and demands Viv return the sword, but Satchel forbids destroying the book. Viv refuses to relinquish the blade, captivated by it, and decides the book itself must be moved somewhere safe.

Viv brings the tome to Iridia, the gatewarden, explaining it belonged to Varine, was stolen by the murdered stranger, and that Varine likely now knows something has been taken. She asks Iridia to lock the dangerous object away in her offices. Iridia reluctantly agrees, dryly remarking she looks forward to Viv's departure.

That evening, Viv smuggles the greatsword into The Perch, drawing curious looks from Gallina and Brand. Alone in her room, she admires the flawless weapon and feels a renewed pull toward action. She reflects that Murk has lulled her into indolence and resolves that her recovery, and her time in the town, must soon end—she needs to be ready for what comes next.