Alina Starkov is the main character in the Grishaverse series created by author Leigh Bardugo. She is a young orphan from the small town of Keramzin who discovers her unique ability to summon light, making her a powerful figure in the world of Ravka. Alina's journey begins when she is recruited into the Second Army to train as a member of the Grisha, a group of magical soldiers. Throughout the series, Alina grapples with her identity and the responsibilities that come with her powers. She faces various challenges, including conflicts with the dark forces led by the Darkling, who seeks to use her abilities for his own purposes. Alina's character development is central to the themes of friendship, sacrifice, and the struggle between light and darkness.