Episode 3 of Shadow and Bone's second season commences with Alisa's radiant self-assurance, her gaze fixed on world domination. Sturmhond joins their forces as they approach landfall with their auxiliary vessel, unleashing a tiny steam-propelled craft that soars majestically skyward. As the team nears the ominous Fold, Kaz and his compatriots hide in the shadows, evading detection with utmost stealth.
Wylan's mention of the dreaded Firepox plague of the past conjures gruesome images, the epidemic claiming countless lives, crematoriums overwhelmed, and bodies floating aimlessly in the sea. These memories bring Kaz's painful childhood to the forefront, envisioning him weeping, afloat on a raft amidst lifeless corpses. With a fierce "Enough!", Kaz cuts off the haunting reminisces and assigns a new mission. Pekka, the owner of a glass factory in Appelbroek, sends Wylan and Jesper to uncover its hidden secrets.
Meanwhile, Kirigan, imprisoned in a cage, confronts his mother about the looming war. His ambitions extend far beyond the Palace's walls, and to achieve this, he recruits David, who joins his ranks. Along his path, he encounters Genya, and the two exchange a knowing glance, a silent understanding passing between them.
As Alina and her group delve into the heart of the Fold, the Sun Summoner unleashes her might, striving to tame the shadowy realm. Her waves of power initially seem victorious... but then falter. Memories of Kirigan shatter her concentration, causing her to lose consciousness. This is a dire situation, particularly as the Kingfisher, their flying vessel, hangs precariously amidst the Fold's darkness.
Despite the onslaught of shadowy creatures, the group manages to repel them, but the sail is torn and damaged. Thankfully, Alina regains consciousness, guiding them to safety, though the damage is irreparable. The ship crashes, and Alina laments her inexperience, realizing her strength is still insufficient.
They land on Ravkan soil, where soldiers emerge to confront them. They bow before Sturmhond, who is revealed to be Nikolai Lantsov, the Major of the 22nd Regiment and the Second Son of King Pyotr. When Alina realizes she's been deceived, she slaps Nikolai angrily. He dismisses it, claiming he lied to safeguard his reputation, much like Alina did. He needed to find her, and Sturmhond was the guise he chose to lure her in.
Together, they embark on their journey, and Alina is reunited with Nadia, who rushes out to greet her from her workshop. This is a Grisha Sanctuary, and with the rising death toll, they must unite. Zoya steps forward, emphasizing that Ravka stands on the brink of collapse. She insists that they forge alliances and fight back together, united in their resolve.
Jesper and Wylan stealthily slipped into Appelboek, evading the unsuspecting guards. It was the same estate from Kaz's haunting flashbacks, a place steeped in memories. Their cover was blown, and they quickly improvised, claiming to be a repair team sent to fix a faulty piano wire. Surprisingly, Wylan's piano skills were impeccable, leaving Jesper bewildered after he had fixed the key with his unique abilities.
Kaz confided in Inej, revealing the truth about Pekka's role in killing his brother. Her understanding brought them closer, but Kaz also cautioned her about Mogens' relentless pursuit and the dangers it posed.
Inej confronted the taxidermist, emerging victorious after a fierce struggle. Meanwhile, Kirigan learned of Alina's presence in East Ravka and panicked. Aware of the threat she posed, he cut off his mother's finger and decided to use her bones to locate the Firebird. This alarming news prompted David to warn Genya, urging them to inform Alina.
Alina, sensing Kirigan's lingering shadow, realized her only protection lay with Nikolai's offer to shield her under the Royal Family's banner. However, this meant marriage, a heavy price to pay for safety.
Upon their return, Jesper and Wylan found Kaz bruised and battered, his lip swollen. It was the aftermath of his earlier encounter with the Dregs, where he had earned their loyalty through brute force. Kaz disclosed that his real target was a child named Alby Rollins, a vengeful pursuit that had driven him to send the duo on their reconnaissance mission.
Nina, desperate to save her beloved Matthias from Hellgate, watched his grueling cage fight with bated breath. She tried to catch his attention, but unfortunately, Pekka Rollins also noticed her. He offered a sinister deal, threatening Matthias's life unless Nina delivered Kaz to him.
As the episode drew to a close, Alina made her decision. With resolute steps, she headed towards Nikolai to reveal her choice.
