The Grisha trilogy by Leigh Bardugo has captivated readers with its intricate world-building and complex characters. One of the most compelling relationships in the series is between the protagonist, Alina Starkov, and her childhood best friend, Mal Oretsev. The question on many readers’ minds throughout the series is whether or not Alina and Mal end up together.
Throughout the trilogy, Alina and Mal’s relationship goes through ups and downs. In the first book, Shadow and Bone, it is clear that they have feelings for each other, but circumstances keep them apart. Alina is thrust into the world of the Grisha and becomes the target of the powerful and manipulative Darkling, while Mal is relegated to a supporting role as her childhood friend and fellow soldier.
In the second book, Siege and Storm, Alina and Mal’s relationship becomes strained as Alina’s growing power and responsibilities as the Sun Summoner threaten to drive them apart. Mal becomes jealous of Alina’s closeness with the Darkling and their shared history, and Alina begins to question whether her destiny lies with Mal or with the Darkling.
However, in the third book, Ruin and Rising, Alina and Mal’s relationship is given a chance to shine. After being separated for much of the book, they are reunited and reaffirm their love for each other. In a touching scene, Mal tells Alina that he loves her for who she is, not for her powers or her role as the Sun Summoner. They eventually get married and reopen the orphanage where they both grew up.
The relationship between Alina and Mal is a refreshing change from the usual love triangles and insta-love found in many young adult novels. Their relationship is built on a foundation of friendship and shared history, and their journey to end up toether is fraught with obstacles and challenges. Bardugo does an excellent job of exploring the complexities of their relationship and showing how their feelings for each other evolve over the course of the series.
Alina and Mal do end up together in the Grisha trilogy. Their relationship is one of the highlights of the series, and their journey to end up together is both heartwarming and satisfying. If you are a fan of young adult fiction, the Grisha trilogy is a must-read, and Alina and Mal’s relationship is a big reason why.
The Fate of Alina’s Relationship with the Darkling and Mal
Alina Starkov, the protagonist of the Grisha Trilogy by Leigh Bardugo, ultimately ends up with Mal, her childhood best friend and love interest. Throughout the three books, Alina has complicated relationships with both the Darkling and Nikolai, but her romantic arc is primarily focused on her relationship with Mal. Despite various obstacles and challenges, including Alina’s own struggles with her power and identity, the two end up together in the end. They run the orphanage where they both grew up in Keramzin, indicating a happy and stable future for the couple. Therefore, it can be concluded that Alina ends up with Mal, not the Darkling.
Exploring the Relationship Between Mal and Alina
In the Netflix adaptation of the Grisha trilogy, the relationship between Mal and Alina is portrayed as entirely platonic, with no romantic overtones. However, in the first book of the series, Shadow and Bone, Mal and Alina do share a kiss, indicating that there is a romantic connection between them. Throughout the subsequent books, their relationship develops further, and they eventually get married in the third book, Ruin and Rising. Therefore, it is safe to say that Mal and Alina are in love, although the extent and nature of their relationship may vary depending on the adaptation or book.
The Relationship Between The Darkling and Alina
The answer to the question of whether the Darkling is in love with Alina is not entirely clear-cut. Based on the events portrayed in the Netflix series “Shadow and Bone,” it can be inferred that the Darkling has feelings for Alina. However, the nature of these feelings is open to interpretation.
Throughout the series, the Darkling, also known as General Kirigan, displays a certain level of interest in Alina. He goes out of his way to protect her and is often seen watching her from afar. He also seems to understand her on a deeper level than anyone else in the story, and the two share a special connection due to their shared power.
It is also worth noting that in the Netflix series, there are several moments where the Darkling and Alina apear to be developing romantic feelings for each other. For example, in episode six, there is a scene where the two characters share a passionate kiss. However, this moment is complicated by the fact that the Darkling is manipulating Alina and using her as a pawn in his quest for power.
Ultimately, it is up to the viewer to decide whether the Darkling’s feelings for Alina are genuine or simply a means to an end. However, it is clear that the Darkling’s actions towards Alina are often manipulative and abusive, which complicates any potential romance between the two characters.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Alina and Mal’s relationship is a central theme throughout the Grisha trilogy. Their bond is rooted in teir shared childhood in Keramzin and their mutual love for each other. While their relationship has its ups and downs, with Alina’s dalliance with the Darkling and her near-engagement to Nikolai, ultimately, they end up together. In the end, they get married and reopen the orphanage where they grew up, fulfilling their childhood dreams. Their relationship is portrayed as pure and platonic, with their love for each other transcending romantic feelings. The Grisha trilogy is a testament to the power of friendship and love, and how it can conquer even the darkest of forces. Overall, Alina and Mal’s relationship is a beautiful and heartwarming story that is sure to resonate with readers for years to come.
