So with haste I climbed back up onto my camel and began to backtrack. Clearly I'd taken a very wrong turn somewhere. But then I stopped, and I hopped off.

I looked around for a better vantage point, and found one atop an old sandy pillar, the last standing of some ancient ruined structure I guessed. Yes, I'd grossly underestimated just how much water I'd need in the desert, my fish for trade were rotting and I still had not managed to receive this legendary "desert buff' I'd heard many speak of. But for a moment those were lesser concerns, for the scene that unfolded infront of me was one that simply demanded attention. The clouds in the sky were set afire by the sun. The shadows cast on the sands accentuated the rise and fall of the dunes as they rolled on and on, eventually lost in heat haze. In the distance I could see what I guessed was Valencia City, its silhouette striking on the horizon. The scene was truly a wonder, a beautiful sight. I didn't know it at the time but it was the making of one of those moments that stay in your memory long after the fact.

~

Since that first time I have been back to the desert many times. I feel I know it quite well now. I practically never get lost, regardless whether or not I have a compass in possession. I've learnt my trading lessons and have often passed by Pilgrim's Sanctum: Sharing to receive my trading buff before selling fish in Valencia City. But I always remember. To this day if I'm out on the dunes at that certain time, I'll often take a moment to gauge the distance to that old ruined sand pillar. A place where such a wonderful view was enjoyed once. A lasting memory made.

And this is why out of all the beautiful places I've been, and wonderful sights seen, this one above all is my secret spot: my pillar in the desert.

Wow, what a nice view! 

Thank you.

I HATE desert but this is a nice view

I think I have been to this pillar myself... ... however you clearly play with higher distance and texture settings than I do... as I could not make out Valencia from there myself. Also, I did not know there were tiny ripples in the sand...

Lovely shot! <3

I think it's certainly an acquired taste. I personally wish there were a few little more things to do there. Perhaps there are and I just haven't figured them out yet.

Thank you. And yes, I'm lucky enough to be able to play on maximum remastered settings.