The Sun Summoner’s attempt at destroying the Shadow Fold failed. Weakened from exerting too much of her power, she, along with Mal Oretsev, Zoya Nazyalensky, and the Crows fled the fold and left the Darkling behind to the mercy of the volcra. Presumed dead, the Darkling managed to pull himself free from the fold with a new scar and a burning darkness in his heart. While Alina and Mal flee to Novyi Zem, the Darkling has begun to amass an army of his own known as the Oprichniki, composed of fellow Grisha loyal to him. He has set his sights on the Grand Palace, on the throne, on taking Ravka and staking the claim on what should have rightfully been his.

Meanwhile in Ketterdam, Pekka Rollins has been making strides to expand his reach across the Barrel. He has gone into business with others such as Geels and Tante Heleen, expanding his businesses and his power. The Crows have returned to Ketterdam to find that much has changed since they were gone. The Crow Club is no more, bought by Pekka Rollins and renamed the Kaelish Prince, forcing the Crows to retreat to Blackveil Island while Kaz Brekker comes up with a plan to take back what is his, and to get rid of Pekka Rollins once and for all.