Episode 5 of Shadow and Bone commences with the foreboding clang of bells, resonating through the outskirts of Chernast, nestled deep within the First Army's Camp. Mal, clutching his abdomen in agony, stumbles into the town alone, and is swiftly apprehended by the vigilant soldiers, who guide him back to the camp's sanctuary.
Meanwhile, Kaz and his cohorts are granted access to the Little Palace, but under the watchful eye of stern guards. Within the palace walls, Alina embraces her newfound identity as a Grisha, adopting a dramatic black ensemble to match her newfound sense of belonging. Genya, her cautious mentor, warns her of the perils of powerful men, a sentiment that resonates deeply within Alina's heart.
Just as the performance is about to commence, Kaz and his team seize the opportune moment to execute their plan. Disguised as a guard, Kaz prowls the palace, searching for an opportune moment to abduct Alina. However, Alina, restless and eager to experience the festivities, intends to venture out and witness the circus troupe's performance, depicting her as the illustrious Sun Summoner.
Amidst the amusement and adulation, Alina prepares to make her entrance...until Genya gently dissuades her. From afar, Jesper overhears the exchange and chimes in with his witty observations. The group then devises a daring strategy - a lynx flush, a cunning ploy where the Conductor will seize the Summoner, while the rest swiftly break free.
Back within the confines of the Little Palace, Kirigan and Alina's bond deepens, culminating in a surprising kiss that leaves the General bewildered. This unexpected turn of events sets the stage for an evening filled with surprises, as Jesper and the stable-hand share an unexpected kiss in the barn, while Kaz executes his plan to snatch Alina, setting the wheels of fate in motion.
Beforehand, Alina captivated the spectators with a breathtaking light spectacle, a mesmerizing exhibition of her formidable might. As she delighted the masses, Kaz and his comrades stumbled upon an unexpected wildcard in the form of Mal. He arrived at Little Palace, seeking General Kirigan, and was granted entry. He informed Kirigan that he had discovered the elusive stag, yet when Kirigan insisted he mark its location on the map, Mal stubbornly refused. Instead, he bargained, demanding to see Alina first, promising to reveal the stag's precise whereabouts in exchange.
The news quickly reached Baghra, who was horrified to hear of the General's pursuit. Meanwhile, Alina attempted to deceive Kaz and his crew with a doppelganger, but Kaz was already wise to her ruse. However, he was unaware of Kirigan's sudden arrival and subsequent abduction of Alina, charming her with the sight of blue iris flowers.
Mal was ambushed by a guard intent on assassinating the First Army soldier. Tofin had already fallen, but Mal valiantly fought off his attacker and emerged victorious. Following a kiss in the study, Mal was taken away, news of Marie's death breaking his heart. Baghra materialized, spiriting the Sun Summoner away through a concealed passage. There, she revealed the shattering truth that Kirigan was merely using Alina, intending to expand the Fold and wield it as a devastating weapon.
Furthermore, he was the dreaded Black Heretic, and Baghra was, in fact, his mother. Kirigan had been hunting down legendary creatures all this time, and Alina had narrowly escaped giving him the stag. As she fled through labyrinthine corridors, Kirigan confronted his mother in the courtyard. Mal fled as well, while Alina sought refuge within a trunk in a carriage parked outside. Ironically, this same carriage was occupied by Jesper and the others, who unknowingly boarded and embarked on their journey, having inadvertently fulfilled their mission.
