Chapter 3-1: A Traditional Holiday
Sometime later, the group arrives at a large area with stone steps. There are some lanterns, tents, and a wide-open space to fit a lot of people.
"My, this place is quite large. What is it?" Malleus asks, impressed.
"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?" Jamil says.
Soon, everyone begins to walk around the stone steps.
"I thought you said it wasn't as crowded around this time," Cater says.
And Jamil says, "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."
Really? A Genie?" Sereia asks, surprised.
"Yes," Jamil says, "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."
"That's so neat!" Cater says.
Then Jamil says, "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."
"I was wondering why they were incorporated into our attire," Malleus replies, "I appreciate that they're real flowers; they're much more vibrant than fake ones. They smell nice as well."
"With the fireworks and the flowers, you guys really go all out for this!" Cater says.
"Yes, I suppose we do. We hold our legends and customs in high regard," Jamil says, "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."
"Rad! I'm digging this festival more and more," Cater says.
"That said… I think the true appeal of the Scalding Sands is how we always push technological innovation," Jamil says.
"How so?" Cater asks.
Jamil explains, "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."
"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," Mallues says.
"The fireworks sound very important," Sereia says.
"Well, contributions from distinguished families like the Asims make it happen. The festival in turn helps our tourism businesses flourish. And everyone who lives here looks forward to the fireworks as well. It's a prime example of money from wealthy families breathing more life into the city. I think it's rather nice."
"Still, I can't wait for the fireworks tonight. I really love fireworks," Briar says.
Jamil smiles and says, "Heh. I know what you mean. When I was a kid, I used to squeal with delight when I saw the fireworks light up the sky. I certainly don't squeal about anything these days, but I still look forward to the festival every year.