As June arrived, the summer heat began to build.
A small meeting was underway in the council chambers of Minas Tirith's City Hall.
Tristan stood at the head of a long table, facing twelve young men and women—the heirs of noble families who had recently joined the Pan-Gray Sea Alliance.
"Everyone, please turn to page three, article seven of the *Pan-Gray Sea Alliance Unified Tariff and Market Access Draft*."
A rustle of turning pages filled the room.
"Regarding the 'Detailed Rules on the Protection and Mobility of Skilled Labor,' City Hall has received a query from the Creekvalley Barony. Sir John, please state your question."
A young, blond-haired man stood. His formal attire was impeccably tailored, but his stiff posture betrayed his nervousness.
