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“It’s a complicated process,” he said. “But essentially, it works by using magic to send vibrations through the air. That will allow sound and images to be transmitted.”

That would be an incredible advancement for our people, I thought. With this technology, our country could become a world power.

I nodded my head in understanding. “When will this be available to the public?”

He flushed. “We’re still working out the kinks. But hopefully soon. It’s a prototype right now.”

I took a step closer and observed the orb. Beneath its light, I could see a complex network of symbols on iron plates. That was sealing. If only it was possible to study this.

“What can it do now? In its current state?”

“Right now, it can send messages up to a thousand miles,” he said. “But it’s still one-way communication. We’re working on making it two-way.”

“That sounds incredible.” My mind raced with the possibilities of this technology. “Why have you not released it yet?”

“Right now, it’s useless. Why would you want to send a message that you can’t reply to?” He scoffed. “But we’re working on it. Once we perfect the two-way communication, we’ll release it to the public.”

I raised an eyebrow. “I disagree. I think many people would find this useful. Even in its current state.”

His brow furrowed. “Who would want to use it?”

Elvish perfectionism. t. I could think of at least 10 different ways how this could be used. Not everything needed to be perfect, as long as it was functional.

“There are many people who might want to use it,” I pointed out. “People who are far away from their loved ones, for example. Or people who need to send a warning quickly.”

The military or traders could use a communication tool like this. They could use it to send warnings or orders in times of unrest. The borders would benefit from this.

“I see your point,” he said, thoughtful. “But we’re still working on it. We want to perfect it.”

I thanked him and then Darith and I moved on. As we walked, I couldn’t help but wonder about the implications of this new technology. It would change the world, there was no doubt about that. I just hoped that it would be for the better.

We stopped at a dressmaker’s tent next. A group of ladies gathered around an interesting-looking dress. The light blue material shimmered in the sunlight. Fabric like that was expensive. I could only imagine how much the dress itself would cost.

“What do you think of this?” one lady asked me, holding up the dress.

“It’s beautiful,” I said, admiring the intricate beadwork on the bodice. “But I don’t think it would be practical for everyday wear.”

“I know,” the other woman said as she sighed. “But it’s so beautiful. I wish I could afford it.”

“Maybe one day,” the first woman said, wistfully.

“I hope so,” the second woman said. “I really do.”

The dressmaker came out of the tent then and announced that her wares were available for purchase. The ladies all went into a frenzy, grabbing dresses and trying them on. Laughter and excited chatter filled the air.

One lady came out of the tent wearing a stunning green silk dress. It brought out the color of her eyes and made her skin look radiant. Fur trim lined the collar and sleeves, and I could tell it was expensive. The artist had been inspired by Naga fashion but had put her own spin on it. The silks and furs were common enough, but the way it was cut and sewn together was new.

“What do you think?” the lady asked, turning around.

“You look beautiful,” I said, sincerely. “That dress was made for you.”

“Thank you, Your Highness.” She placed her fingers on her chin before placing a fist on her heart. “What perfume are you wearing? It smells lovely.”

I blinked in surprise. “I bought this one in Midar. One of the local perfume artisans created it. The perfume is called ‘Night-blooming jasmine’.”

“It’s lovely, Your Highness,” she said. “I might have to get some for myself.”

“I’m sure the shopkeeper would be more than happy to oblige,” I said, amused.

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