The early morning mist had not yet scattered as more carriages rolled through the mud, arriving at Newly Town.
In stark contrast to the grandeur of the Seven Ports Alliance from the day before, most of today's arrivals were minor lords from the surrounding coastal territories.
Their carriages were old, their emblems were faded, and the horses pulling them were a motley mix of colors.
The nobles who stepped out of the carriages were dressed respectably enough, but the frays on their cuffs and collars betrayed their dire financial straits.
Velin still stood before the main gate, treating them no differently despite their lower status.
The celebration officially began at noon.
Forgoing tedious formalities, Velin led everyone directly through the bustling square toward a salt-crusted patch of alkaline land to the east of town.
Within the crowd, a few lords were conversing in low voices.
