Lavi, as he is contemplating his duties as a Bookman, is given an assignment to investigate strange activity in a town north of Paris, Élysée. He travels there with Bookman and meets the finder, Doug, who he had gone on a mission with a little over a year ago. They warmly greet each other, Lavi teasing Doug for his short stature and Doug showing Bookman respect. They decide to go to a local tavern to talk and as they walk, Doug mentions to Lavi that Lavi seems to have changed and he is now comfortable with meeting Lavi's gaze. Doug's obvious trust in Lavi fills him with warmth.