Silas and Tamsin, two apprentices working in the Candlemakers’ Spire, discover that the ceremonial tapers are suffering from severe thermal energy loss, confirmed by Silas's thermal lamp readings and Tamsin's sensory testing. They correctly deduce this is the resonance cold creating a slick, energy-draining surface. Tamsin recalls lore about Tannery Linen used historically to stabilize flame intention, leading Silas to check inventory records. The records point them toward the Library Sub-Basement. Before leaving the Spire, they notice a maintenance hatch slightly ajar leading to the Municipal Maintenance Tunnels, which Tamsin notes is vibrating rhythmically. Upon entering the tunnels, they immediately observe the Fine Grey Powder clinging to the main conduits, indicating the resonance drain is actively pulling stabilizing agents from the infrastructure itself along this path. This raises the stakes significantly, suggesting the drain is systemic and targeting existing stabilization efforts.