Salamander's rise to power and manipulation of others to maintain control, specifically through the framing and attempted murder of Denes.

On the Palace Terrace, Salamander publicly undermines Bruce’s authority by seizing control of Denes’ security, forcing Fedorin to accompany him to the World Authority. The exchange reveals Salamander’s ruthless manipulation—he …

Astrid executes a desperate rescue of Denes by incapacitating Janos, but the Captain intervenes, fatally shooting Denes in the back as he attempts to escape. Victoria’s improvised distraction—a trolley rammed …