Sticky’s encyclopedic knowledge proves to have real-world applications when he recognizes the disparity in the drapewood. He still doubts himself, however, and he is embarrassed to have drawn so much attention to the plant. Reynie is once again thrust into a leadership position when Kate instinctively looks to him for guidance. He does not know exactly what to do, but he advocates for investigating, which suits his natural curiosity and shows that Reynie can push through uncertainty when his friends depend on him.