Chapter 2-10: Yasamina Silk
"Looks like there's a lot of fireworks embroidery on these clothes," Trey says, looking at his outfit, "Are they specifically for the Fireworks Fest?"
"Yes, that's right. The Asims have new outfits made every year for the festivities," Jamil says.
"We make enough for the staff at the house too. That way we can all enjoy the festival together!" Kalim says.
"You know, this outfit feels surprisingly cool considering the long sleeves and pants," Trey says.
"Covering up shields you from the sun and keeps your body temperature down. The fabric is very breathable, so it should feel nice and light," Jamil says.
"It definitely does," Trey says, "I'm especially glad I've got this scarf to protect my head from the sun. I have to ask, though—Cater, Malleus, was it hard for you to tuck your hair up? It was simple enough for me, but I have short hair."
"Not at all! The staff handled that for us," Cater says.
"And unlike with caps and hoods, I didn't even have to make holes in it for my horns," Malleus says.
"I'm diggin' these bells on our belts too. They jingle when I walk!" Cater says, walking around as the bells on his clothes ring.
"The bells are supposed to ward off evil spirits. That's part of what the Fireworks Fest is about," Jamil says.
"Spirits?" Sereia questions.
"Say, I'm curious about something… Why's your outfit so much fancier than ours, Jamil?" Cater asks, looking at Jamil's outfit.
"Since the Asims are organizing the festival this year… I'm expected to dress in more resplendent attire, as I'm part of Kalim's staff. I've honestly never had to wear so many bits and bobs before. It surprised me too. I'd feel much more like myself in my usual clothes than all this formal stuff," Jamil explains.
"Aww, don't be like that. The clothes are an important part of it!" Kalim says.
"Yeah, I know," Jamil replies.
"The fire design on your waistcloth is very you, at any rate," Trey comments.
"And that capelet is too cool! But what's the deal with the lantern on your belt?" Cater replies, looking at the belts.
"It's designed to be lit up with magic," Jamil answers, "The main part of the Fireworks Fest is at night, you see. So I keep this on me in case there's an accident and I need to attend to important guests."
"These scarves are so stylish and silky. I should pick one up to wear back home," Trey says.
"One meter of cloth in this pattern can cost thousands of thaumarks," Jamil says.
"Thousands?" Jasper asks, shocked.
"How is it that expensive?!" Trey asks.
"It's called Yasamina silk, and it's our most iconic textile," Jamil says, "What you're wearing right now is a top-quality material that artisans spent hours weaving and sewing together. The Asim family insisted on it; they said they couldn't give guests anything but the best."
"You're welcome to take as much of it home as you like! Would 50 meters be enough?" Kalim happily offers.
But Trey says, "Uh... Thanks, but I think I'll pass. I'll be much more comfortable in my usual hat."
"There are more affordable things in town. We could go browse around some," Jamil says.
"All right. I'll try to find something a little more my speed," Trey says.
Then Cater says, "You know, having people help me get changed made me feel like a king!"
"Yeah, I definitely don't think I'll ever have that experience again," Trey says.
"Lilia would've very much enjoyed this. It's a shame he couldn't make it," Malleus says.
Then Cater has an idea, "Oh, I know! Why don't we send him a picture?" and brings out his phone, "I bet Lils would be delighted to see you having a good time. And what better way to commemorate our trip?"
"I confess, I'm not very accustomed to taking photographs," Malleus says.
"Think of it as a pick-me-up for poor Lils while he's dealing with his tummy ache, "Cater says.
Malleus thinks for a minute, "Hmm... Very well, we shall take a picture. We must capture this moment for Lilia's sake."
"That's the spirit!" Cater says.
Then Kalim says, "If you're gonna send it to Lilia, then how about the rest of you get in there too? Might as well show off your new clothes! I'll take the picture. Everybody get together now. That means you, Trey! And Jamil and Briar, and the others too!" Kalim takes Cater's phone and begins taking pictures of everyone in their new clothes.
He then says, "Now I wanna get one with all of you! Hold on, I'm gonna find someone to take some pics for us!"