The story follows Robin Swift, a Chinese orphan taken to study at Babel, Oxford's prestigious translation institute, where students learn to manipulate reality through silver-working. As Robin excels, he discovers the darker side of Babel's work, which is deeply entwined with British colonialism, prompting him to question his loyalty and consider resistance.

Galaxy "Alex" Stern, a college student with a troubled past and the ability to see ghosts as she investigates magical and occult activities at Yale University.