Someone is murdering people in Alpinside. It began with young women, then couples and families, all from the Workers' District. Dubbed the "Scrubbers' Stalker" by the press, this killer has created an environment of fear among the poor, and gossip among the wealthy.

When Ellana is attacked, her younger brother stabs the man in the back, allowing for their escape. While deciding on what to do next, they are confronted by the wealthy Lord Estamore and forced into his employ. Elizabetha, the daughter of Lord Estamore, is focused on her upcoming wedding and has little time for teaching Ellana the intricacies of being a Companion, but when she learns of her encounter with the Stalker, Elizabetha promises to use her time and resources to solve this mystery.