A Treasured Experience. (private)

[Deleted]

Fantasy sat in the park, watching as the sun slowly descended over the beauty of manehattan's wonderous skyline. He let down his hoodie, and his brown Mane curled a bit as it touched the open air. He was currently in his more normal form, one which he tried to avoid usually, but he was feeling a little wistful towards it today. After all, this is the appearance life has given him. Also he had like, no still water around to stare into to transform into his usual smaller form.

In his meditation, he sensed all the magic around him. He could sense every single pony by a faint magical glow, Unicorns by a stronger glow. If there were any unicorns carrying their supplies with their levitation, they would be especially easy to sense in his meditation. However... One stood out. A whole aura of different magic was there. Peaceful, relaxing. Something that triggered the faintest sense of a pleasant flashback... he had met the owner of this magic a long time ago.


A couple of years ago, give or take 3 months, it occured something like this...

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"We would hereby like to congratulate the following explorers for their contributions to the discovery of the Marble Springs and the connected Lost Marble temple of Hoofius Cattler." The announcer happly called to the audience, smiling as they applauded to the reveal of the great discovery recently made by the Explorer's guild. The sunny weather greeted the gathering of the explorers, archeologists, antiquarians and the like. The joyous earth pony holding the presentation moved on to the explorers, and gave them their badges for their respective services. Finding the temple, finding the entrance, scouting the temple out. Most of them were known members of the explorer's guild. "- And honorary member for this Exploration, Fantasy Flicker, for finding the first of the marble springs, and mapping out their locations so the lost temple's location could be triangulated!" And with a grandiose applause, The announcer handed over a medal to the grinning white pony, his wild, long hair doing nothing to hide the pleasure in his expression. And the hidden pleasure that he didn't have to hold a speech.

Once the ceremony for the medals was done, The head explorer of the project stepped forward and held his great speech, explaining about his love for adventuring and the beauties within the lost temple. He had great joy in holding the speech and lifting the hearts of all his fellow adventurers. To be frank, Fantasy wasn't paying full attention, his magical senses half-haywire due to all the unique unicorns with different magical finding abilities currently stationed close to him.

He watched as the people of the explorer's guild stepped off, one by one, eventually he stepped off himself, A strange unicorn walking past him onto the stage. he couldn't help but stare a bit as the unicorn with his unique and calming magical aura walked passed him. "woah." he softly said, amazed at the uniqueness of the magic. The announcer invited over other representatives who were given access to do their own thing within the temple. "-And now, we invite Ashti Starburst of the professional relic tracker guild : "The Circle of the Reliquary", to give his say in what their plans are for the Marble Temple." The announcer said to invite Ashti to the front of the stage. Normally, a free spirit like fantasy would just go right away, But this unicorn had caught his attention, so he had listened to the planned speech. A representative from the professional Relic trackers guild? amazing! He seemed foreign, too. The speech was mostly standard fare, things that Fantasy didn't hear often, but he understood the gist of it in seconds. He waited until the speech was over. When the unicorn stepped off the stage, Fantasy went looking for him, an easy task considering he could sense the pacifying aura. He wandered to the unicorn and greeted him. "Hello there. Ashti, Correct? You just held your speech?" He kindly asked, a smile on his muzzle and his almost magical-looking purple blue eyes wide open. "It was a good speech, you obviously have experience with these kind of conventions." he nodded. he held a hoof out while introducing himself, keeping that smile on. "Fantasy Flicker, as i'm sure you've heard. I can't wait to see what great relics you discover. Perhaps something magical, even?" His tail quickly whipped from one side to the other, as he always enjoyed thinking of magical things.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Standing behind a kind of desk, a tea cup in from of his mouth, a 24-25 year old unicorn was taking a sip as he looked at the gathering of ponies in front of the announcer then of another pony that advanced and started a speech.

Like for the crowd, Ashti’s clapped his hooves while holding the teacup with his magic. Salamalec "Ashti" Sandburst, or by his courtesy name : Şalah’ud-mâlik al-Alisahib (“The Highborn/His Lordship, "Rightness of the Lord") / “Salâmalekh Sent'afjir” min el-Jannah, was a Sandlander diplomat recently missioned in Equestria.

But, he wasn’t just a noblecolt, he was also a relic tracker for an official guild, “The Circle”, since he was 16. And today he was their representative at this convention. Well, The Circle was also one of the guest-star for this event, as such It was expected for Ashti to make a speech… and he knew it, the thing is… he had nothing coming in mind. Right now at least. Not that he was stressed about it.

For now, he just got along with the flow. Socializing with the others guests. Yet Ashti admitted to be surprised to see another guest from his age, Fantasy Flicker is his name ? It was the name he often heard recently at the Circle. Sincerely, the Alisahib had some little difficulty to really grasp the importance of this discovery, the lost Marble Temple. He has been briefed but as he didn’t had further documentation about it.

However he had no difficulty to understand it’s an achievement, and it was enough for him. Finally, the ceremony for the medal happened and it was still standing on his seat that Ashti witnessed it. Focusing a bit on looking at Fantasy Flicker which, for some reason, caught the Sandlander’s attention. He… cannot tell why, actually, as he knew it wasn’t some kind of attraction. Curiosity, maybe ? or the fact they had the same age ?

… In any case, his summoning from the announcer make him leave his train of thought when his name was dropped, and finally paid attention to the present time. His teacup still levitating next to him, Ashti finished the content with a single sip then putted it away and rose up, advancing.
The diplomat was only wearing his purplish black turban, a dark silk-band for eyepatch and a saddlebag, aside of the golden bracelet he displayed at his foreleg, and a ring at the base of his horn that was hidden by the turban. Accidentally concealing his (pure-blood) unicorn ethnicity.

Ashti took place in front of the crowd and politely bowed the head in greetings and thanking under the applause, smiling slightly albeit more politely than out of sheer joy.

Good-afternoon everyone, and in the name of the Circle of the Reliquary, thank you. So, let us see…

Ashti’s "speech" wasn’t a long one and, despite his efforts, it looked a bit like some paddling and quite formal, academic even. Nontheless he did gave the due credits to the people who have discovered the temple, and made it interesting enough with the details he got from the briefing and also some kind of advertise for his guild. Or, rather some sort of PSA…

Well, he mostly presented his guild for those who didn’t know : The Circle of the Reliquary was an legal international guild that was tasked by governments to find artefact. The Circle was commissioned by country to assess, explore, find ruins and artefact, to analyse them and send them to their native museum. Working with the laws, unlike treasure hunter or amateur relic tracker that raided artefact from countries without being allowed to, and selling them to private individuals or keeping them for themselves.

But it wasn’t their only job, relic tracker from the Cicle, and notably gold stars member (elite relic tracker) had the duty to protect people lost on the ruins, to escort them to the exit. And Ashti was one of those Gold Star Tracker. Hence he was picked as a representative (that, and the fact he was the nearest of the convention’s localisation. ). But despite the light and almost hidden advertising tone of the speech, or thanks to it, it worked fine and meets with applause.

Ashti bowed his head, in thanking…

Suraj bachana se ya, and Surkiya. (May the sun protects you, and thank you)

…Before bowing a last time and returning to his desk, in a quiet and casual way. Rather proud of his improvisation that was necessary to extent his speech, otherwise it would have be way shorter. Just “GG, thanks and bye”. At least, he has bought some publicity to the Circle. Which is always appreciable.

Now it was done, he started to look around, out of curiosity, for Fantasy Flicker or at least trying to spot him. But he wasn’t in the room apparently… maybe he-

Ah! …

Ashti just said when he find himself face to face with the decorated earthpony, slightly taken off guard by the turn of event. Yet he remained collected and greeted back Fantasy with a polite bow.

Namaskar (My respectful greetings), Mister… hm, Flicker. I… just did, indeed. Somewhat, eh.

He said with his hard-to-unheard sandlandic accent, as he rubbed his neck a bit, embarrassed, listening at his interlocutor. Looking at him with his only visible eye. Oh, and politely smiling at the congratulation… stopping himself from revealing that if he was indeed accustomed to some summit, he wasn’t accustomed to do speech. Today was one of the few one he ever did.

"Fantasy Flicker, as i'm sure you've heard. I can't wait to see what great relics you discover. Perhaps something magical, even?"
Eh. Then I am Salâmalekh Sent'afjir” min el-Jannah, from Deerham. But you can call me "Ashti". Pleased to meet you. My congrats for your medal and discovery.

Fantasy could see that Ashti’s behaviour towards him was polite and friendly but far for casual. Actually, it looks a bit professional or neutral. And it didn’t help that Ashti didn’t hoofshake as greeting, but instead bowed slightly. But this, it was mostly because hoofshake weren’t really a thing in Deerean education and culture; they were more about non-touchy gesture like bowing and reverence. Preferring to let some personal space, and Ashti, even if born on Equestria, was preferring this himself. He find it classier… tho he is aware it can be seen as snobbish, so he adapt himself to the speaker.

As bow are universally recognised as a polite gesture for thanking or greetings, Ashi thought Fantasy Flicker would get that the pleasure was mutual.

Eheh, well… I did not have discovered much of them. I am generally informed, prior starting the mission, of what I am looking at. At the Circle, we have scholars collecting information from source materials, analysing legends and the like. So, this and our database, makes it easier and less hazardous, eh.

On these words he gestured to Fantasy Flicker if he wanted to accompany him to a seat, to chat, as he resumed.

But all of them are magical. By "relic", you should understand it as “Magical item”, "artefact”. We let… well, the normal relics to the archaeologists. We already pull the rug out from under treasure-poachers; we’ll not do it to archaeologist as well. ^^. But I have a question, can you explain me the history of the marble spring, that is?

[Deleted]

Fantasy Flicker was not one without any grace, upon noticing that Salâmalekh Sent'afjir” min el-Jannah did not do the traditional hoofshake, he calmly retracted his hoof and nodded at the graceful bow the unicorn did. he just realised that the horn was hidden under a turban, but that didn't stop Fantasy from making the conclusion he was a unicorn. Fantasy possessed magical detection, despite being an earth pony, after all. He listened as Ashti explained that the research of these relics went over to other parties. He simply nodded in acknowledgement as he followed Ashti and took a seat with him. "The history of the Marble Springs? haha, i'll be frank, i don't know much either. Simply put though, Hoofius Cattler's Temple or palace, has been completely lost to time, finding it's way in a complicated network underground. Presumably, the terrain had become swamp at some point, and the whole palace had sunken down beyond any chance of finding it. However, a few Fountains from the palace gardens had remained above the ground. Now nopony has been able to properly map them, as the area is uncontrolled and difficult to explore. My special talents helped me locate a wealth of these fountains, which we now call the marble springs. From the stories and the positions i put on my maps, they managed to calculate the location of the actual temple, and find it too! i was really surprised when they did, i really thought they were just pretty fountains made of glimmering marble!" The earth pony said with a chuckle. he had greatly enjoyed finding them, but the prospect of there being so much more to the whole scenario delighted him! and now he got a medal too.

He delightfully continued, happy to be sitting and feeling talkative, as is. "So, there you have it, Earth Pony wanders around and draws some stuff on a map, earns himself a medal." He jokingly stated, with a wide smile on his face. However, his attention shifted to Ashti's story, he wanted to hear more! "and now for my question. Is the magic you're using from Deerham? i can sense a.. unique, calming sensation all around you. It's hard to keep my eyes off such unique magic!" He said, being able to see even invisible magic thanks to his sense. he knew next to nothing of deerham, besides of it's existence and that he shouldn't try and wander into it for a host of reasons! He eagerly awaited Ashti's answer, barely able to contain his excitement.

[Ashti Sandburst]

As they were taking a seat, Ashti profited to use his magic to levitate the free-to-use teapot from the stove to serve himself some more heated tea from his previous cup. And to another one that he putted next to Fantasy while listening to him.

So, Fantasy didn’t know much about this place ? Well, it didn’t disappoint the Sandlander, but it sure would have been nice to learn more about this place. Just for general knowledge. Like to know who is this Hoofius Cattler, or what. His briefing was mostly about the convention itself than the content and as it didn’t seemed to be something very important to know, Ashti didn’t inquired much. Yeah… now he thinks about it, he wasn’t really well-prepared.

Anyway he tried to make a mental picture based on what Fantasy was saying, using his own explorer experience to visualize. Leading to some questions about it… but what really makes him curious was the mention of his personal ability. Finding stuff? If he wasn’t surprised someone had this special ability, it was the first time he met somepony that own it.

This could be a quite interesting trump card for the Circle. At least, it was better tho having someone with this ability in their side than in the treasure hunters’. And as Fantasy Flicker showed some good competence with his huge step in the Temple’s discovery. So, maybe…

Taking a sip of his tea, the Diplomat continued listening as he politely nodded. Waiting he finished to comment.

I see, that sounds like quite a feat ^^. Personally I never had to do so, I mean the ruins in my homelands are well recorded for a century now, and my mission are always documented, eh. You may be lucky to have such talent. Now, I want to say that, “drawing stuff” is an honourable activity that can be as important than exploring ruins. So, a winning a medal sounds normal to me.

He said as taking a sip of his tea, and casually looking around… at least until that the stallion resuming. The mention of his deerean magic took Ashti aback and as such could feel his eyepatch falling under the “shock”.

O-how, did you…?

Well, it was surprising that Fantasy has heard of Deerham, but it was even more surprising that he knew there were a special kind of magic in Deerham, their own magic system called the “al- Qadêminn el-Hasksihryat”, the Secular Arcanum. Even if not really “secret” this was still a bit frowned upon that outsiders may know about this mystic art. The authority are rather on the defensive about leak of this art that only the select few have studied and can use.

Ashti was one of the few that has been allowed to study the Secular Arcanum, and it was his duty to report any people or work that try to pierce the mysteries behind this mystic art. Clearly, this art is classified. And any citizen of Deerham teaching it to not-allowed peoples would be punished for high treason. For many justified reasons, notably out of National security. Ashti, even if relative to the royal adviser, had to sign some documents, contracts, that if he breaks can have harsh repercussion. Heck, even their king can be jailed if he leaks them…

However, the fact Fantasy seemed to not know that the energy he was sensing was not from Secular Arcanum, reassured the Sandlander on the knowledge the stallion had over this art. So, he collected himself while tightening his eyepatch.

Wahan, Eme yok-ja eth...  (There, This should do it…) Ahem! Well, I am surprised you have heard of the Hasksihryat’elim. I mean, this native art from my homeland is a rather obscure one. I… do practice it, but I think that was you are sensing, this unique energy… is indeed from my special ability ^^. The one I had with my cutie mark.

Truth is, that Fantasy has mentioned his own ability, so maybe Ashti should do the same. And if he can’t speak much about the secular Arcanum, he can totally speak about his Heartsease ability.

I must admit I am impressed you have noticed it… normally it can only be noticed (and by really few peoples) when I use it. This is not related to Deerean magic, as you can guess. Hm… this talent that I call “Hearts’ ease” allow quietening the spirits. To relax them. A bit like a therapeutic séance. Eheh, now it is rather hard to use correctly… but when it works, you can easily settle any small conflicts ^^. Quite useful against hostile creatures.

On these words he let a light polite laught as he took another sip of his tea and concluded.

Your talent does not sounds bad either ^^, Mister Flicker. Have you… think about joining an adventurer guild ? Because the Circle is always looking for trusting members to rely on.

[Deleted]

"Now, I want to say that, “drawing stuff” is an honorable activity that can be as important than exploring ruins. So, a winning a medal sounds normal to me." Ashti had said, with a casual sip of his tea and a look around. Fantasy nodded as he did and took the short moment to softly speak, while staring down, his mind abuzz as the words left his mouth. "I suppose, i didn't just draw. mapping out and searching around. If i keep devaluing my own work, it won't be very charming, nor very respectable to those who tried but have not succeeded thus far. I think I'll choose my words a little more carefully." He spoke thoughtfully, mentally thanking Ashti for the indirect lesson given. As he drifted away from those thoughts, back into what Ashti said about his homeland being documented, he could only imagine how their libraries looked like, how massive they would be and how much history they would contain. It was rather intimidating, especially as someone who didn't care much for reading.

He watched as Ashti expressed his surprise at Fantasy mentioning the magic, and snickered a bit. A trickster at heart, Fantasy loved seeing people surprised or taken aback. It's why he didn't mention his talent in more precise details. Ahsti spoke of his Deerham's special magical arts, Fantasy's eyes wide open as he listened intently. "To be honest, I've heard nothing of it. But if you use any magic of it when I'm close by, i think I'll get the gist of it." Fantasy Explained and smiled as he closed his eyes a bit, trying to sense the magic around him. however, the convention was far too talkative or busy for Fantasy to even focus for a second, he opened his eyes, a small frown forming on his face. However, as fickle as his own attitude, the frown turned into a smile when he continued listening to Ashti.

Ashti explained of his natural talent, the pacifying aura. A skill that was very useful, for sure. Fantasy, knowing his adventuring, knew where it could come in handy. many small critters can be surprising nuisances, and with a talent like that, you relieve yourself of a lot of those problems. "wow. that's an awesome skill! I can recognize how much use it would have, especially with the generally peaceful folk of Equestria." he nodded, admiring the skill. A pacifist skill was perfect for him too, Fantasy thought. He was calming, peaceful and it worked great when he was a representative. Ashti then made the offer for Fantasy Flicker, Which made Fantasy Think for a moment.

"Hm. Joining some people, eh? Well.. thing is, my talent is rather inconsistent and unreliable. Not too mention it... well, it attracts me to dangerous areas and situations. I also have my own agenda. I don't seek out relics or valuable archeological sites. I seek.. Magical areas. They don't have to be important or useful..." He said. He contemplated going in on the full details of his ability right now, but he decided against it. "I'm very satisfied with how I'm traveling now. I offer my help to many unicorns master their magic." he said, which instantly would strike anyone as odd, as he doesn't have a horn himself, but was rather simplistic, looking like (and being) an earth pony. His talent apparently let him help unicorns... After his short pause, he continued, directly going in on the offer that Ashti had left him. "However, i must say, I'm super interested to what things The Circle can send me towards. Do you exclusively work with those who are members, or do you work with those not directly affiliated as well?" Fantasy asked, looking at him directly, once more deep in through as all the possibilities that the circle offered him rushed through his minds. Perhaps there were magical places with types of magic he had never seen before? Maybe he'd even be lucky and they'd know something about chaotic magical fluxes! now that would be something to find, if it even existed. Fantasy had many theories and fantasies of magical occurrences which may or may not exist. Getting an extra source might end up for some fun adventures... He felt he needed to think this offer over carefully.

[Ashti Sandburst]

"To be honest, I've heard nothing of it. But if you use any magic of it when I'm close by, i think I'll get the gist of it."

Silent, Ashti just politely smiled even if inwardly he had a little laugh. For the Secular Arcanum to be used, four steps and a couple of particular move are needed. If Ashti would happen to use magic in front of Fantasy, this one would kpropably get 2 or 3 of the steps, but it wouldn’t be enough to be able to cast it. Deerean Magic doesn’t work on the same system than Equestrian magic, it used an altered version with strict procedure to follow.

It’s how they can tell if someone is a betrayer. Because only the ones who have been select to study it know the right steps, the keys to use to make it work. And as every of the secular art users are magically “tracked”…  But if Fantasy want a little demonstration later, then Ashti didn’t mind.

"Hm. Joining some people, eh? Well... thing is, my talent is rather inconsistent and unreliable. Not to mention it... well, it attracts me to dangerous areas and situations. I also have my own agenda. I don't seek out relics or valuable archaeological sites. I seek... Magical areas. They don't have to be important or useful..."
Ah… I see. It is understandable.

Well, not having a reliable skill was could be an issue. On other hand, no one is totally reliable. Ashti, even if successful in his missions, wasn’t always doing the perfect score. Notably when he finished some of his relic tracking wounded. Or fighting the guardian that got unsealed while normally it shouldn’t have. Even if knowledge and experience wasn’t always working as planned. Making him to learn new things in the heat of action, just for this particular mission. And even when the same things happened between two similar missions, there is still a couple of difference that rendered his previous experience less effective.

In any case this ability Fantasy Flicker’s mentioned would still be a good point. Now about his help towards the unicorns, Ashti… was maybe too much open-minded, but it didn’t really bug him off. Actually he can visualise non-unicorns helping unicorns with magic. Albeit not in a direct magic way. After-all it wasn’t like unicorns were master in every fields and ways. There is some way non-pony can help unicorns with magic, in Deerham, the Hirann citizen can do that, cast magic and all. His teacher was an Hirran, a “deer”.

Now, it didn’t cross his mind that Fantasy really means to help magically with unicorns. It can be interpreted that way, but the Sandlander didn’t envisage this. For him, Fantasy was just meaning that he helped unicorns with knowledge/advices, maybe some potions.

"However, i must say, I'm super interested to what things The Circle can send me towards. Do you exclusively work with those who are members, or do you work with those not directly affiliated as well?"

This however surprised Ashti, a bit. That Fantasy would show some interest to the Circle despite his previous answer. Fortunately for the Earthpony, the Circle did do that. On some extent.

Not anyone is forced to go out into the field; actually the Circle have four divisions. The Goldstars Tracker like me go find artefact, but we also have those who stay in the HQ or branch offices. One of our divisions is composed of historians, scholars, antiquarians, expert studying the artefacts. We have people that study the legends and background of the artefact as intel for the file Agents. We have also operators that transmit messages and information, like my friend Feriel. and finally helpers.

Pausing. Ashti started to picture what category could be fine to Fantasy Flicker. Probably helpers, from what he understood so far.

Helpers are honorary members of the Circle. They are volunteer or part-time member that help the way they can. They are paid of course, but unlike me or other full members of the guild, they do not have a permanent contract. We do rely on members more because they have passed tests and had a formation like me. But we are not a lot, so we would employ people like yourself for annex tasks. Mapping is one of them ^^. After that, you are free to enlist.

Pausing another time, Ashti putted his cup on the table and started to take something from hid pocket, a kind of badge that he showed to the Earthpony.

This is the symbol of my role, but it's also a device to communicate with the HQ operator. Miss Feriel can make us contacting our boss, of course ^^.

(O-RP : Xp, it’s a bit hard to remember how Ashti was speaking back then)

[Deleted]

Ashti, despite the surprise on his expression, kept himself composed. Ashti continued with a satisfying response for Fantasy Flicker, but the white pony was honestly still worried about some things. Ahsti continued on what seemed a very sound division of roles within a group like theirs. This made fantasy nod and think about the group, inherently respecting their wise approach to the issue. Likely they had a very different way of organizing things and dividing the jobs when it came down to it. It was a completely different culture, after all. Ashti's words made the circle sound particularly kind and sympathetic. He mentioned the helpers last, and explained to how it was similar that Fantasy was already an honorary member to other organizations. He mentioned tasks of annexation. Mapping, apparently.

The mention at mapping actually took away a bit of a smile on Fantasy's face. Mapping wasn't actually his favorite thing, the more he thought about it. He still had much to learn on how he would explore and enjoy life. Mapping was more of a... Stopgap measure?

"A helper. Hm..." Fantasy was definitely attracted to the possibilities the circle offered to him, but joining it in his current state and with the goals that Ashti had in mind would not satisfy him. The circle seemed smart, and he would learn much of another culture and get to see different magic. But he had no desire to just jump into it for a job he wasn't looking for. Would he openly communicate that to Ashti? It was a hard choice to make, but he decided that some honesty had it's benefits. "Your offer, i do like it. But i need time to think about it. And time to find myself, and my own interests." he said, some final thoughts around in his mind. "The circle sounds amazing, it just reeks of opportunities for mutual benefit, along with a division of roles which has been perfected to get the most out of every single pony and deer helping out the Circle. I can respect such a well-thought organization. And tests, i can only imagine what kind of tests there are and what skills one would need to pass them. Don't tell me it in advance. Just incase i intend on discovering them for myself, someday." He said with a smile, hinting at a possible future as more than just a helper of the circle.

For now, he made his way off the chair he sat on. "You've given me much to think about, Ashti. and great opportunities including a possible happy future, but for my own reasons, i can not say yes today, even to the offer of being a helper." He said with an apologetic bow. "I hope this does not trouble you too much." He said with a calm smile towards Ashti, the magic senses finally dulling somewhat. With only his five senses in function, his mind felt a little lighter, but not light enough to make this decision just yet. "There is much i'd like to see from you, but i believe now isn't the time. I'm a gambling pony, and my favorite gamble is in the invisible magic of fate, which has proven itself a complex weave time and time again within equestria. i will hone myself towards your offer, and should i feel ready, i will keep my sixth sense open for your magical aura. I hope our paths intertwine then." He said with a wide grin as he turned away . He set one step but then stopped, putting a hoof to his chin. he was thinking about something, pausing for a moment. "It has come to my attention you spoke of a different kind of magic. something i didn't know yet." He turned his head back to Ashti and grinned. "I suppose i should keep it in my head, instead of seeing it now. It would be lovely as a reward for my efforts in my coming endeavours... yes, that's a good motivator to stick around, after all." he turned his head back away again with a smile. If Ashti had nothing more to say at this point, Fantasy would leave with a smile and say his goodbye in the form of a "ciao~!" which he liked to say.

((OOC: Simply put, if you did your post and Ashti doesn't keep Fantasy from going away, then you're free to go back to the present, with a line of underscors ___ like mine at the start, and we'll continue in that present!))

[Ashti Sandburst]

Ashti wasn’t surprised nor minding that Fantasy want to take time to think about it. The Circle too, they rarely enlist new members, but instead prefer to wait for them to show interest to the Circle and to ask for a candidature and or a partnership, After-all it is more productive if they are willing to work with each other.

The Sandlander just displayed a polite smile while nodding.

There is no rush, Mister Flicker. But if you do show interest, I can chat about it with our guild master.

He proposed, quietly, as he finished his tea and listened to Fantasy. It was nice Fantasy was giving a thought but Ashti perfectly understand so he just gestured at him that it was ok, then putted the cup on the table and the badge in his pocket. Continuing to listen albeit not really getting the whole speech about magical aura and sixth sense. But it was a time before Ashti had his own extra-censorial skills.

"There is much i'd like to see from you, but i believe now isn't the time. I'm a gambling pony, and my favorite gamble is in the invisible magic of fate, which has proven itself a complex weave time and time again within equestria. i will hone myself towards your offer, and should i feel ready, i will keep my sixth sense open for your magical aura. I hope our paths intertwine then.
Eh, I am not really a gambler I admit. My choices are always considered, like now. ^^. I reassure you, It does not trouble me. It is up to you.

Ashti commented as he bowed the head in goodbye to the Earthpony, then concluded while Fantasy was walking away.

We have an office in Fillydelphia. If you go there, then ask for me. They know how to contact me… or at Her Majesty castle in Canterlots. In any case our Guildmaster his His Grace, the marquis Gilbert Mors IIIth de Lefoinyette of Fersailles.

He concluded, about to raise himself as he saw Fantasy stopping and turning back to him, immediately intruiging the Sandlander who sat back, listening. Hm… this, wasn’t really something he foreseen, actually… but it wasn’t undoable. A demonstration is acceptable. So he nodded and replied :

I suppose I can do that, yes. Other people saw them, and they were all my opponent… eh, May the Sun protect you. Mister, Flickers.

On those words Ashti rose up and…

Manehattan, present time.

Have a nice evening, Epher.
Thank you, Your Excellency.

A young glassed stag bowed the head, respectfully to another individual, a Unicorn. Both were standing in front of the exit of a nice-looking building, the “al-Sefiratkhane dyrheyi de Mạnêhaṭ'ayn”, the Embassy of Deerham. The unicorn looked at the door were a kid Pegasus was standing and waiting for him as well. The colt was called Finder, and was the adopted brother of Ashti that stepped to him and the two often left the building.

Both walked the long of the street without paying much attention to the people around, at least for the Unicorn… because the Pegasus, him, suddenly stopped and looked around, a bit confused or discreetly alarmed before resuming his walk not without staying close of Ashti.

Just now he had felt something, something weird even if it was probably not aimed at him, yet his empathic ability to feel energy, magic, aura as emotions/intent from other just caught something that didn’t reassure him. But as they walked away the sensation seemed to vanish, and anyway the two ponies quickly entered on a classy café to sit around a table.

[Deleted]

The earth pony, having a longer figure and a yellow coat instead, waited until the two passed. following directly behind them would do nothing but put them on guard, after all. He closed his eyes and meditated, sensing the magic which he had felt a year ago. There was no mistaking that aura, that sense of magic. But at the same time it was almost different. Ashti had been a year older, and much could happen in a year, naturally. Fantasy grinned, pull his hood over his head and spoke to himself. "Not that i'm one to fall behind."

Once they were close to his maximum sensing limit, he chased after them, but not in a hurried rush. In a slightly above tempo trot, he subtly made his way in their general direction. Ofcourse, it was not impossible for them to sense fantasy, after all, he was still within vision, and Fantasy had high expectations for experienced explorers like Ashti. His magical senses weren't that far, but nothing that could be done about it. He hid and followed them, noticing them enter a rather classy café. Fantasy knew it was going to be expensive, but it would be worth it. He stumbled upon an issue that he did not look classy in the slightest though. His mind fabricated a lie as he approached it. The two he was following were already seated. he knew just the thing to say.

The earth pony went inside, casually entering, so it looked like nothing special. He mumbled to himself as he entered, and walked by, walking past Ashti and Finder. "_{well, a pony has gotta treat himself sometimes,} especially when saving up properly. It's always nice to enjoy this places graceful and pacifying aura. I think i'll be _{taking some food, aswell.}" his voice sounded as he walked by them, his voice becoming easier to hear as he came closer, and harder to hear as he walked away again. however, the words 'pacifying aura' were said at an audible tone, right the very second that he passed by their table. Fantasy wondered what the two would do, and what would make them realize, if anything. Fantasy still had the exact same voice as he had a year ago, so he hoped Ashti would recognize it, and ifnot, he hoped the hint would be obvious enough.

True to his word, Fantasy went to sit somewhere deeper in the café, considering what he would be ordering, as he could go for some food to eat. He closed his eyes and meditated, definitely sensing Ashti's aura. Yes, there was no mistaking it.

[Mistletoe]

The mare didn't like leaving her home very often,especially unoccupied, she was paranoid someone might come in and steal something. But with Bellis gone off to visit family for today she had no choice. The hermit left her den. She got on the early train to Manehattan, hoping to get this over with quick. She already disliked Manehattan's atmosphere, so loud and busy. She didn't bother looking around like the others, this was a business trip not a sight seeing trip.

She'd been researching for someway she could get her hooves on the ingredient she required for her next experiment, on a side note hopefully this one would be a success. While researching she came upon the only current postion of the herb she needed and realized she couldn't get it on her own. Really she didn't like asking for help, because she didn't like talking. But she had no choice but to reach out to the only pony who could help her get what she needed, weither she wanted to or not, there would have to be talking.

Mistletoe got to the cafe way, way too early, probably because her clock was actually 30 minutes ahead of time. She sat in her chair at first actually relaxing a bit, she was asked multiple times if she wanted anything to eat, but they didn't have noodles so her answer each time was no.

People left and came and Mistletoe ended up standing where she was now pacing around. But once she saw others entering she sat down feeling embarrassed. She didn't know the pony who entered was Ashti, the whole ordeal had slipped her mind for a minute, she forgot things easily.

[Ashti Sandburst]

The first thing Ashti did when he entered the café was to look around for a particular pony, or mare. Analysing the people around. A week ago he had received a letter at his embassy about someone interested to get some native plants form his homeland. It was an interesting request so he decided to accept it, beside it would do some publicity to Deerham, so…

Since then, they have write to each other, and Ashti had a description of his contact in mind. An young adult mare with glasses, a yellow coat and a blue atom as cutie mark. Even if from there he cannot see the cutie mark, he was pretty sure that the unicorn mare there is his contact.

Well, he could have asked for a picture, but he felt it would have been a bit too uncomfortable to ask for one. The Sandlander was wearing a dark blue, almost black, blazer with a copper-colored ascot tie, a saddle-bag, a white turban, and an eye patch-like band. And Finder for his part just wore a jabot. And a shoulder bag, as he just returned from school.

The Kid followed Ashti to the table were Mistletoe was standing, and bowed the head slightly in greeting.
A couple of minute later, Ashti, Finder and Mistletoe were standing around the same table, finishing the presentation and some small talk. A waiter advanced to them to take their command, and it was at this moment that Finder’s glance slightly turned to a new comers, a pony whose he recognized the aura from earlier. The fact he entered followed them didn’t really reassure the kid, fortunately Ashti was next to him, and he himself trained a bit to fight. So…

Ashti’s glance did went to the kid, feeling the discomfort of the Pegasus, discreetly, even if it was Fantasy that got his attention… or, maybe the discomfort he felt from Finder was related to Fantasy ? In Any case Ashti had no particular difficulty to recognize him even if… something was a bit off. Frowning a bit, the Sandlander rose up and casually advanced to the pony that mentioned his special skill, in purpose. Because, yeah, it wasn’t a coincidence to him.

If you wanted my attention, you could just have greeted me, Mister Flicker. ^^

He said as he was sure it was the pony he had in mind. The one he has encountered some years ago. An now he was facing him, he can tell he wasn’t mistaken.

It has been a while, must say. Why not joining our table ? we were about to command a drink.

Ashti concluded as he pointed at the table where Finder and Mistletoe were standing.

[Deleted]

Fantasy couldn't help it, he had to give a little grin as he was called Mister Flicker. "Well, where's the fun in that? I find great amusement in keeping my mind sharp~" he hinted with a smile. What was indeed off compared to the Fantasy Flicker that he had seen long ago, was that this time, he was taller, his coat was yellow and his mane was brown. His head had a completely different shape to it as well, a rounder and pointier snout. But the piercing Spirit blue eyes and the strange spiral cutie mark, those were both still the same. The hoodie was also the same as before.

On the offer to join, Fantasy nodded. "I'd be honored. I suppose i owe your friends an introduction then." he chuckled as he stood up, heading back to the table with Ashti. He approached Finder and Mistletoe and introduced himself instantaneously. "Hello, My name is Fantasy Flicker, magic-detecting earth pony and, hopefully, soon to be official explorer. A pleasure meeting you." he said, his strong voice having a friendly and earnest tone to it. he happily stood at an available spot at the table. He let the other two introduce themselves with a smile, nodding and listening.

After a short moment, when he had a second to talk, he spoke up himself "If i may, i'm sensing another unique type of magic here at this table." He smiled at Finder. "Might i inquire as to what type of magic you are using?" he asked with great interest. New types of magic always interested him, and especially due to the circumstances. A talkative sort, Fantasy continued with his voice filled with joy. "Especially a Pegasus. Could it be you have some kind of sixth sense magical talent? It would be great to finally find somepony with similar abilities." He smiled, hinting more at his own magical detection, calling it a 'sixth sense'.

On the other side of the conversation, Fantasy did not exempt himself from listening in on anything Mistletoe or Ashti was saying. Mistletoe seemed like the type to stutter, but Fantasy did not mind. He had met many a genius of the more stuttering type, and enjoyed their presence nonetheless. some of them have become great friends, as far as a traveler can have friends. Whenever he listened to mistletoe, he seemed to be able to follow the conversation, regardless of her choice of words. Even if she mentioned something complicated, Fantasy seemed to just... understand. Therefore, if she -did- mention something complicated, she might notice that Fantasy probably had basic scientific knowledge at the very least, and a decently sharp mind.

He seemed to enjoy listening to either Finder or Mistletoe, whomever was talking at the moment, even if they were talking simultaneously (in form of two separate conversations) he did his best to follow both. The ponies assembled here had some form of intellect, proper knowledge. Fantasy simply loved it.

[Mistletoe]

Mistletoe did become increasingly nervous when Fantasy came over to sit with them. She had no earthly idea what kind of pony he may be. Or if he knew about her past. Or what he'd see a nervous thing like her as. She was used to criticism of her worried habits. Mistletoe knew how strange she looked when she was stuttering. She also consideredthe way she looked. Coming to a cafe with messy hair and mane, there was even a tiny little fragments of plastic in her hair. She hadnt had the time to clean herself up.

Once Ashti and herself started a conversation and she realized the pony was listening in. He did seem to have some idea of what they were talking about. Which made her more worried. What if he were to steal her ideas? It was unlikely, but Mistletoe could get paranoid, especially away from the comfort of her home.

She started stuttering alot more. So she trailed off and stopped, pausing age took off her glasses to clean them. Even though they were not dirty, it seemed more of a way she tried to compose herself.
"Very s-sorry..." She said. Wishing she could hide under the table but that would be even more embarrassing. She just wasn't use to being around so many different ponies at once. "I-I'm very sorry.....I just...I-I'm not so good with...talking to other ponies.."

She actually couldn't remember the last time she was talking to someone besides her niece. Probably the same amount of times that she'd come out her lab. How long had it been? Days, Weeks, Months? No wonder she was rusty,she wished she would have practiced. Once she felt a bit calmer she put the glasses back on her face, staring down a bit out of embarrassment.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Well, it would be lying if Ashti said that he recognized Fantasy without problem. He of course could notice the changes that the unicorn got during their last meet. But it was also because a lot have passed that Ashti wasn’t specially surprised of this new looks. He himself had faced a lot of stuffs in the meanwhile and having some physically change wasn’t something he sees as extraordinaire.

But… it also helped that his voice and cloth and cutie mark were the same. From what he recalled at least. Anyway the presentation went rather well so far, and Fantasy got a slightly bow from Finder who indeed presented himself but…

I… I-am Finder… Lens Glass… p-pleased to… meet you. Mhn… huh, mister… Flickers?

On those words, the Pegasus kid shat up and somewhat kept to himself. Visibly uncomfortable at the coming of Fantasy. Of course he had heard about the Earth pony’s special skill, but the intimidating aura Finder felt from their guest prevented him to really dare inquire about it. Well, “intimidating” may not be the right word, actually. It wasn’t scaring Finder, no, however it was so shady and weird energy that it make the kid to feel very suspicious about him. Yet, Finder admitted he wasn’t feeling malevolence from Fantasy so he wasn’t especially on an alarmed state… yet this was very unsettling to him.

If Finder himself had a weird energy, Fantasy could notice that Ashti’s energy changed quite a lot since the last time. There were still the peaceful aura faint energy from his body, but also other magical energies – or mystical- and ancient oozing from him. It wasn’t a natural one, at least not totally. It was also a foreign energy, exotic, and powerful albeit not overwhelming. Actually, all those energies around the Ambassador seemed to be tamed, or at least there were some work in concealing them. And Fantasy can feel something similar towards Finder

" Could it be you have some kind of sixth sense magical talent? It would be great to finally find somepony with similar abilities."
… I… Hmm… don’t know if… it is sixth sense… b-but I… I do… can find… hm, stuff…

His tone was clear he tried to be as polite as he can with his actual situation, but he slightly looked away to Fantasy. Despite Fantasy’s smile, the discomfort didn’t vanished from the Pegasus. His distrust was palpable, fortunately the fact Finder wasn’t alone and that Ashti seemed to be friend enough to Fantasy, kept the Maltese Pegasus from totally locking himself of the chat. Ashti for his part, Even if having caught Finder’s discomfort, didn’t paid much attention to it as Finder often acted like this. It was a part of his personality or behaving.

"I-I'm very sorry.....I just...I-I'm not so good with...talking to other ponies.."

Finder then looked at Mistletoe and gave her a kind cheerful smile. Commenting on a kind of reassure tone.

N-no worry… it is fine. ^_^

While Ashti turned to Mistletoe and politely smiled to her. Slightly sorry.

It is alright. I am sorry, to not have asked you beforehoof. I… was not sure about it.

Then his attention went to the incoming waiter that brought the drinks to them while Ashti let Fantasy order something. This done the waiter walked to another table and Ashti resumed.

… ohh, as Mister Flickers mentioned, he had a special kind of ability, I admit I am interested to know your stance, Miss Meadow, as a scientist, about this ?

He said in an attempt to not have the mare feeling excluded, if she would feel like that. As he admitted that he may have done some mistake.

[Deleted]

"… I… Hmm… don’t know if… it is sixth sense… b-but I… I do… can find… hm, stuff…" Finder had said to Fantasy. Fantasy was a little taken aback. He had not expected the pegasus to be so... shy. The pegasus seemed uncomfortable, and that did little too boost Fantasy's own comfort. Honestly, while talkative, Fantasy was easily swayed to remain silent, and this was swaying him. It did not help, that in this form, The earth pony felt less confident overall. He watched as Mistletoe also stumbled over her words, stuttering and shy. 'Well, what a way to feel unwelcome.' He thought to himself. Everypony seemed somewhat less comfortable with Fantasy around. He realized this was making him worry, and giving him some doubts. A very conscious pony, he decided not to give in to his doubts, but instead try and adapt to the situation.

He gave Finder a soft nod, and did his best to respect Finder's shyness by turning his head elsewhere, listening in to the other two, while not saying or adding much to the conversation. He wasn't too taken aback by the treatment, as he was very much an 'odd one out'. He got strange looks more often for being an earth pony so 'needlessly' interested in magic. Although Fantasy felt awkward for making these two uncomfortable, he just kept silent for now, hoping that would make them feel more at ease. He only then realized that he still had his hood over his head. He awkwardly pulled it back and down, smiling a bit awkwardly himself. Having a hood over your head didn't usually make you any more approachable. His mane almost sprung out and waved and curled moderately, now in free air.

While giving the two time to recover and gather their own thoughts and assumption of Fantasy, Ashti decided to ask the scientist looking unicorn a question. "… ohh, as Mister Flickers mentioned, he had a special kind of ability, I admit I am interested to know your stance, Miss Meadow, as a scientist, about this ?" His voice rung. Miss Meadow is all Fantasy heard of her name, thus far. But at least he had solid confirmation that she was indeed a scientist. He just wanted to burst out in words and theories.. but he had no clue what TYPE of scientist she was. there was a huge variety and seeing her previous behavior, she wouldn't appreciate Fantasy having a talkative bout.

He thought back to a few seconds ago. Oh, he had introduced himself as magic-detecting. That's right, he probably didn't need to explain his talent any further to her. Unless she came with questions. Fantasy liked questions, it meant ponies were interested! Honestly, it was a little selfish to indulge in other ponies being so interested in you... But scientists always came with such good questions! Like asking how magic 'looked' like, how he handles all the information, if he could identify spells and tell more about them, how it measured up against strange phenomena or strange spells. Questions he all loved answering, as every scientist gave him something new to think about! After this brief pause of thought, which only really took a second for the fast thinker, he attempted to reassure the scientist a bit. "Don't worry about saying anything 'offensive' or 'wrong'. i don't take offense easily, if at all. You're free to say whatever you want, i won't pass unnecessary judgment. At least, i'll try my very best not to." he said in a calmer, slower tone, hoping it would be easier for her to handle and reply to. He patiently awaited her answer, purposefully looking around and not staring at her, although occasionally looking to her to still show he was interested.