Abigail arrives back at Jackaby’s home and explores the house. She finds a handwritten note from the previous assistant. She explores the library, office, and laboratory, where she disturbs a suspended alligator skeleton. Upstairs, Abigail discovers several bedrooms and feels she is being watched. She tries to escape and falls down the stairs. As she reorients herself, she considers her belief in ghosts and magic. Jackaby arrives home.

Jackaby has discovered that Bragg had been interviewing Swift and the mayor and looking into another mystery. Jackaby took a map from Bragg’s apartment with several red Xs, each with a written date. Abigail and Jackaby brainstorm what it might mean. Jackaby notices that although the Xs all circle New Fiddleham, all are outside the district. He has an idea and says he needs to leave again. Abigail asks if others are living in the house, and Jackaby is vague on the matter. She elects to leave with him rather than stay in the house alone.

Abigail and Jackaby discuss the case, in particular, the missing blood. Jackaby also mentions deep footprints in the floors near Bragg’s room. He gives Abigail a brief rundown on potential supernatural threats. They stop as Jackaby sends a telegram.