Tens of thousands of tourists gathered along the long main street. Most had come from off the island to sightsee, and in their rented or purchased local outfits, they looked no different from the islanders at first glance.
Vendors had also sprung up like mushrooms after rain, lining both sides of the street and hawking their wares.
By the time Xia You and the others arrived, the other people dressed as strange birds had dispersed. Only Gloria remained with them, and even Flula had run off somewhere.
But the press of people had almost completely clogged the road, slowing their progress so much that it took them five minutes to cover a mere hundred meters!
"Come take a look! These pearls are a Shamouti specialty, and every single one is guaranteed to be beautifully full!"
"Sakura Shells, White Conch Shells, Yellow Wheel Shells! Accessories made from all kinds of shells-we have every variety!"
"Tangerine Cakes! These are our local specialty snacks. Come give them a try!"
The jumble of voices around them merged into a noisy din. Before they knew it, night had fallen completely, and under the lights, the whole island looked even more festive.
Xia You glanced around and could not help remarking, "It really is lively. With this many people, it almost rivals the Indigo Conference."
Gloria chuckled at that. "Well, of course. This is Shamouti Island's biggest festival. Today is the most important day of the year. Even across the whole Orange Islands, not even the metropolis of Big City on Little Tangerine Island has a celebration this grand!"
It was easy to hear the pride in her voice that her hometown could host such a celebration. That was hardly surprising, though. After all, everyone hoped their hometown would develop and grow better and better.
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