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Scalding Sands - Stone Steps
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My, this place is quite large. What is it? |
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It's the main venue for watching the fireworks. The Camel Bazaar is just past here, but do you want to look around for a minute? |
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I thought you said it wasn't as crowded around this time. |
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Well, today IS a major national festival. They say the Fireworks Fest came about because of one particular legend. The legend is about a beautiful princess who cared for her people, and a poor yet kindhearted young man. The two of them crossed social divides to join in eternal love. And to celebrate their love, the Genie of the Lamp fired countless rings of light into the night sky. |
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The spectacle left such a deep impression on the onlookers that the tale was passed down for generations. Eventually, the people of the Scalding Sands started celebrating the young man and princess's union with fireworks. That's how the Fireworks Fest became a traditional holiday here. |
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That's so neat! |
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Have you noticed the white flowers adorning your outfits? Those are jasmines. The young man gifted those flowers to the princess, and now they're a symbol of the festival. |
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I was wondering why they were incorporated into our attire. I appreciate that they're real flowers; they're much more vibrant than fake ones. They smell nice as well. |
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With the fireworks and the flowers, you guys really go all out for this! |
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Yes, I suppose we do. We hold our legends and customs in high regard. Take, for example, the fireworks for the grand finale. Only the finest craftsmen are allowed to set them off. It's considered a prestigious job. |
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Rad! I'm digging this festival more and more. |
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That said... I think the true appeal of the Scalding Sands is how we always push technological innovation. |
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How so? |
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The Sorcerer of the Sands is most respected here. He was a very wise man, and legend has it he built a number of machines far beyond the technology of the time. They say he even had an artificial lightning generator. And so, to honor his example... Our leaders hire mages and engineers specifically to research and adopt the most cutting-edge technologies. I think that's what has enriched our people's lives over time. |
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True, since we've been here... I've been struck by the prosperity of this land, where tradition and innovation work hand in hand. One could argue that the impressive fireworks symbolize that very notion. |
| This festival sounds pretty major. | I can't wait to see the fireworks. |
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| Chapter 2-12 | A Firelit Sky: over the Sands • Chapter 3-1 | Chapter 3-2 |
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