A branch of the Secret Police begins to feel threatened by the outcome of the "Zala" incident. Now, in order to protect themselves, they decide to silence those who may be considered a threat to them, including Lisbeth.

As Lisbeth's trial begins, Mikael races against time to gather information to acquit her, but "The Section" begins a new course of action to stop Mikael's investigation: striking out against Erika and Mikael themselves.