The novel’s events unfold not only in Rus', but also in England, which is trying to bring sea-faring in the White Sea and in Russia’s northern waters under its control. Drawing on historical documents, the author reveals events connected with the rise of Boris Godunov, the death of the Tsarevich Dmitry, and the boyars’ struggle for power. The world of the merchants of the Stroganovs is portrayed in an especially engaging way—already standing on the threshold of their future greatness.