Location from Shadow and Bone by Leigh Bardugo
Ketterdam's criminal heart — a district of gambling dens, brothels, and gang territory where the only law is what you can enforce and the only currency is reputation.
The Barrel is where the Six of Crows story lives — a district that operates by its own rules, enforced by whichever gang controls which block. The Dregs, Dime Lions, Black Tips, Razorgulls, and other crews fight for territory in a permanent low-grade war. Members wear Komedie Brute costumes for anonymity during sensitive operations. Key establishments: Crow Club (Kaz's), Emerald Palace (Pekka's), the Menagerie (brothel where Inej was held), House of the White Rose, Club Cumulus. 'Kind steel' is the mercy blade carried for quick deaths. The Barrel has its own economy, its own justice, and its own saints.
Buildings without proper foundations on swampy land — everything is slightly crooked, slightly falling apart. East Stave: gambling establishments. West Stave: brothels and pleasure houses. The Lid is closest to the harbor with the best establishments. Gang members wear gaudy 'flash' clothing and carry green-glowing bonelights.
Also known as: The Barrel