It was already around half past twelve in the afternoon, and by now almost every guest who had arrived at the Nexus Training Grounds had gathered inside the auction hall according to the table numbers assigned to them earlier.
The VIP guests occupied the front rows where each faction received an individual table draped in dark velvet cloth, polished utensils, silver cups, and decorative spirit lamps that released a faint fragrance into the air, while the wealthy merchants, wandering nobles, influential adventurers, and the uninvited but daring guests were arranged toward the back, where several people had to share larger tables together beneath dimmer lighting.
Some guests had already finished their meals and leaned lazily into their chairs while swirling wine inside crystal goblets.
Some were still eating slowly while discussing politics beneath their breath.
