A new murder is commited involving a gruesome display of a family sitting at the table. Detective Saga Norén is tasked with the investigation together with a new Danish detective after the incarceration of Martin Rohde.

With the detectives now working on two so-called 'clown murders', a prime suspect is the traumatised son of the first victim, who is on the run. The usually phlegmatic Saga is distracted from the investigation by the unwelcome appearance of her mother, who insists on showing her a medical file, hoping to find a resolution to their estrangement.

Saga and her new partner Henrik follow leads in finding their kidnapped boss Hans. In the meantime personal developments in Saga's life influence her work as a police officer.

Saga and Henrik interview the estranged sister of the latest victim, who mentions that he had been cautioned after complaints from some of his pupils. Whilst nursing the hospitalised Hans, Lillian discovers a wound inside his cheek and Saga immediately orders the re-examination of previous victims. Claus attends the gallery opening of works from Freddie Holst's private collection and is alarmed when Anneka arrives and demands admittance.