The skeletal being introduces itself as a “homunculus” (small, humanoid creature), and admits, under questioning from Viv, that he serves Varine the Pale. He is named Satchel, after the bag that contains him. Satchel tells them that Balthus, the man in gray, stole him and some other things from Varine. Viv realizes that Satchel must have released Balthus from jail. When he finds out Balthus is dead, he is sure that Varine sent someone to do it.

Viv is suspicious, but Fern convinces her to trust him. When Gallina suggests they turn him over to Iridia, Fern gets angry. Ultimately, they decide to figure it out in the morning. Viv and Gallina go to The Perch, while Fern closes the store for the night.

The next morning, Viv goes to the bookstore, where she finds Satchel out of his bag. He is sweeping, and Fern tells Viv that she can’t stop him from cleaning. Satchel wants to be useful, and Fern finally agrees, with the provision that Satchel is free to serve or not serve and can leave at any time.