<aside>
If men read these words, let them know that power is a heavy burden.
Seek not to be bound byits chains. The Terris prophecies say that I will have the power to save the world.
They hint, however, that I will have the power to destroy it as well
</aside>
Kelsier stands atop Luthadel’s soot-stained walls, surveying the dark city. Blackened buildings crowd together, broken only by the towering keeps of the Great Houses and, at the center, the Lord Ruler’s palace—Kredik Shaw. Skaa labor endlessly below, clearing ash that constantly falls from the sky.
Dockson joins him. They discuss Lord Tresting’s recent death—Kelsier admits he killed him, partly to stir unrest among the nobility. Dockson calls him reckless; Kelsier hints that far greater plans are coming.
They review tonight’s secret meeting:
Meanwhile, in Camon’s safe house, Vin hides in the shadows. Life has worsened since Reen left, he was abusive but used to protect her from other crewmembers. Camon beats her and withholds her wages, but she endures it, hardened by years of abuse. She survives by staying useful—and by secretly using her “Luck,” her ability to influence emotions.
Camon suddenly summons her to the Ministry’s Canton of Finance. Though he previously avoided meeting officials inside the building, he now intends to betray Theron. Instead of completing the long-planned canal-boat robbery of Ministry funds, Camon plans to secure an advance payment and disappear, leaving Theron ruined.
Inside, they meet not Prelan Laird but High Prelan Arriev. Vin senses danger but remains silent. Camon argues for the contract, claiming his desperate house would serve the Ministry best. When Arriev hesitates, Vin subtly uses her Luck to dampen his suspicion.
Arriev approves the deal and grants Camon a 3,000 boxing advance. Though Vin feels something is wrong, no soldiers stop them. They leave with the money—apparently successful.