The Black Sun
A shadowy myth often confused with the Darkling's devastating eclipse power.
The term 'Black Sun' is frequently discussed within the wider Grishaverse community but does not correspond to a formally named artifact in the canonical Gentleman Bastard or Shadow and Bone novels. It is most often used by fans as a colloquial misnomer for the catastrophic eclipse created by General Kirigan, known as the Darkling, during his war against Ravka. While some underground rumors in Ketterdam reference it as a weapon of shadow magic, official records from the Grisha or the Kerch Empire do not list such an item.
- Canonical Status
- Non-Official / Fan Term
- Associated Entity
- General Kirigan (The Darkling)
- Related Event
- The Great Eclipse
- Origin Setting
- Ravka (Grishaverse)
- Physical Form
- Magical Phenomenon
- First Mentioned
- Shadow and Bone Trilogy Context
Lore & Background
Scholars of the Second Army and Grisha historians emphasize that no physical object known as the Black Sun exists. The power to extinguish light belongs solely to the Darkling's unique amplification of shadow magic, not a portable tool. In Ketterdam, street gangs sometimes use the phrase metaphorically for a heist that goes completely dark or a rival organization that vanishes without trace.
In Their Own Story
The tavern smoke hung heavy as the old Dregsman spoke in hushed tones. They say the Black Sun isn't a coin or a gem, but a shadow you can hold. Kaz leaned back, watching the firelight dance on the table. He'd seen shadows that killed, but nothing so grand as an eclipse in his pocket. 'Sounds like a story for kids,' he muttered, sliding his glass closer to the flame.
Reader's Guide
Since this is not a tangible artifact, there are no documented methods of acquisition or physical limitations. In narrative contexts where the term appears, it refers to the magical ability to suppress light sources through high-level amplification. Users cannot wield this power without immense innate Grisha capability and specific biological traits associated with the Darkling's lineage. Consequently, no heist or mercenary group can utilize a 'Black Sun' item for illumination control or stealth in the traditional sense.
Did You Know?
- The term is often conflated with the Sun Eater weapon from early Grisha history.
- Ketterdam criminals use the phrase metaphorically to describe failed heists.
- No official entry exists for this item in the Grishaverse artifact registry.
- It symbolizes the fear of eternal night prevalent in Fjerdan and Ravkan folklore.