After surviving a severe beating by the Black Guard, Fritz meets another uncapped person who shows him how the city gets its power. Will continues his education by the Masters, and learns of their plans for some of the human race.
Will is introduced to one of the ruling class, a Cognosc, who questions him about his thoughts. Fritz finds a hidden map of the city which reveals a useful secret.
Will, Beanpole and a group of other Freemen are chosen to compete in "The Games" held by the Tripods. Winners are taken to The Golden City where, the Freemen hope to collect information on how to destroy the Tripods.
Will and Fritz are taken to The City Of Gold along with the other winners. Upon arrival; Will is selected as a slave for a Master, while Fritz gets an all together different job.