Arthur arrived at the pavilion expecting construction reports.
The water system was progressing. The drainage channels were being cut. The survey crews had marked most of the main corridors. Everything was proceeding according to schedule.
Instead, he found complaints.
Lots of complaints.
But not normal complaints.
A merchant who sold leather goods stood at the intake desk, arms crossed, expression aggrieved. "There are too many people," he announced.
Arthur looked at him. "That's generally considered positive."
"Not when they're standing in front of my shop." The merchant gestured vaguely toward the yard. "They gather. They talk. They block the entrance. They don't buy anything."
Before Arthur could respond, a second merchant arrived—a woman who sold spices and dried goods. "The public square is stealing my customers."
Arthur's brow furrowed slightly. "How?"
