Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of death, graphic violence, and rape.

As Elend and the crew discuss the Assembly’s decision and debate how to respond, Tindwyl starts to berate Elend for writing a legal code that offers ways to depose a king. Elend stops Tindwyl and tells her that he will not tolerate her speaking in such a way, shocking her and displaying more kingly behavior than he has in the past.

Dockson suggests maneuvering around the vote, while Clubs and Tindwyl urge Elend to use martial law to maintain his throne. Elend refuses all their suggestions and determines that he will search the laws he wrote himself to find a way to keep his position. He is convinced that he is still the city’s best option for a leader. When Elend worries about the withdrawn Vin, Tindwyl advises him not to be distracted; Elend insists that he should be able to lead the city and love Vin as she deserves.

OreSeur and Vin patrol the mists again, and they continue to bond gradually as Vin makes efforts to get to know him rather than focus on his Contract-enforced actions. OreSeur urges her not to be manipulated by Zane.