The nobility of the Final Empire are the ruling class of Scadrial, descendants of the Lord Ruler's original supporters who were granted Allomantic powers as a reward for their loyalty a thousand years before the events of Mistborn. Noble houses compete fiercely for wealth, political influence, and trade contracts under a rigid social hierarchy enforced by the Lord Ruler's laws. The nobility live in stark contrast to the skaa - enjoying lavish balls, fine estates, and the privileges of their Allomantic bloodlines while the skaa labour in crushing poverty. Houses rise and fall based on their commercial success, and political manoeuvrings between the Great Houses drive much of the intrigue in Luthadel. Despite their power, the nobility exist at the Lord Ruler's pleasure - he created them, and his Steel Inquisitors ensure they never forget it.