Deerham Holds The Key To Thy Heart [Mad Cap] [Concluded]

[CableZ]

Quip and Mad Cap listened to the explanation about the Camel performers job and duty toward the Equestrian clowns, and the two just began laughing, Quip had to support himself on Mad Cap he was in such hysterics. However in almost an instant, they stood upright, Mad Cap with a straight face, Quip with his mask.

"Firstly!" Quip began speaking, Mad Cap drew a line in the sand below to mark that Quip was making multiple points, they both still stood straight. "That is no job for a performer, and I should think in future that you shouldn't ask them to do such a thing. Secondly! You might ask if we needed such a treatment, because we honestly didn't, as you can see. Thirdly, if you are going to task them with such a thing, you might tell us thats what they are here for, we had no idea. And Finally, if you are going to make somepony work for another pony, you might make sure that we can communicate, because if we had known what they were here for, how would we have told them? none of them spoke any Equestrian" Quip laughed, this was all a bit too funny. Mad Cap was done drawing the 4 lines in the sand and snickered herself.

"We aren't monsters you know, someone could have just come and spoken to us" Mad Cap spoke over to the nearby Camel, hoping they weren't offended or anything.

Quip was about to say something else, but all of a sudden a huge gong sounded, or at least it was something similar to a gong. This marked the beginning of the show, and for all present to take their seats and respectfully keep silence for the beginning of the show. Quip turned back to face Ashti with his metallic grin.

"Oop, show's starting, best take your seats, Glad you're better Ashti" Quip smiled, turning to walk onto the stage.

"Hope you enjoy it ^^" Mad Cap smiled happily to the couple before turning and dashing off after Quip.

"Oh and before I forget" Quip turned and called back to them "Don't take what I said too seriously, I know how you guys tend to take things a bit to seriously" Quip smirked, before heading onto the stage.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Listening to the performers, Ashti and Arabesque ere a bit embarrassed… and was try to reply, and explain about the fact it was the Sandlandic themselves which proposed to "serve" the exceptional guest that are Mad Cap and Quip… but when He said to not take it seriously, both lovers looked to each other, awkward.

Quip has a point yet… Arabesque was sure that someone was hired to be or at least should have been the Sandlandic performer's interpret, or instruct the Equestrian performers…
All seemed to have been very well organised, so it was surprising and odd to have no one here to translate…

Bah, it was no more important for now. Arabesque giggled then looked to Mad Cap, a smile in face.

Oh, Miss Cap… You have the good luck wish from Mister de Bienséance, even if he knows you would have no need of.
Anisa Mad… there is drinks there, on this table. It's for the performers, so you are allowed to serve yourself ^^. Ah, It starts, Sala'…
Well, let us join our seats then. After-all, we can finish this chat after the show or during the travel towards Equestria ^^.

Leaving the performers alone, the two ponies joined their place among the dignitaries. There were citizens from any age even if the front seats and cushions were occupied by calves, kids waiting for the show. And some parents next of them

Alderamin and Sadalbari had their seats in the middle of the crowd, surrounded by the "prime minister", the Prench and Israheeli diplomats, the interpreter, and two Javidans. The others Javidan members were surrounding the row of seats whilst the mere royal guards, Kardaces, were patrolling the courtyard.

Gaïkah was also here, as the public library's receptionist. However no appearance of Salim and the other ministers. It was possible that they were working about the fakers' case. Anyway, Ashti and Arabesque returned to their seats not without greeting Gaïkah which waved to them.

[CableZ]

Quip and Mad Cap trotted up the wooden steps onto the stage softly, their regal clothing giving them a presence not of their own, frankly they didn't really want to wear the clothing, but it was at request of some advisor or something, just to be seen wearing some Deerhai clothing. As they walked toward the front of the stage, there were a few gasps at the sight of them. Even in Equestria, Quip and Mad Cap just made ponies stop and look, Quip's mask especially always drew eyes in, with ponies having to decide if they liked it, or if it scared them. Thankfully, the people of Deerham seemed to like the mask, the perpetual smile offering a giggle or two to some of the younger audience members. The fact that they were ponies was also a little exciting, it wasn't everyday they were seen after all. Not only that, but this had been advertised for months in advanced, and posters depicting Quip and Mad Cap had been all over for a long time, letting the hype build for awhile, so it was cool to finally see them in person.

The two ponies bowed and then looked out at their audience, With a giggle Quip began to address them.

"Good evening, Fawn's, Deer's, Camel's and anything in between. My name is Quip T. Crack, and this lovely pony next to me is my faithful assistant Mad Cap" the harlequin have a bow at the mention of her name "We will be providing you with your entertainment for this evening, and stories to tell for the rest of your life. A mix of acrobatics, trickery and Magic!" Quip laughed, pacing across the stage as he did so, stopping every so often to sway his arm out in a dramatic fashion. "But first!" He came to a halt "I am but one pony in a sea of talent that is this world, and we must never forget which shore we have sailed from." Quip chuckled "To this end, before my show starts, the amazing talents of Camel'Mushait will be performing for your pleasure this evening" Quip gave a little laugh, and both he and Mad Cap bowed once more as the crowd gave a little applaud as Quip and Mad Cap walked off the stage and sat down on their own personnel cushions by the side of the stage, watching the stage itself, interested in seeing this little show before their own.

[Ashti Sandburst]

When the gong resounded, everyone shut up, looking to the scene with attention, or excitement for the kids. Even the Reis remained silent… but when Quip and Mad entered on the stage, everyone clapped, to greet the two performers. Some kids were a bit surprised by the mask, which was more intimating than on the flyer. Others were fascinated, but globally the audience was warm.

Yet, the fact that he started to speak was surprising and confusing. It could seem ridicule, but in Deerham it's not usual to start a speech before a show. It was mostly reserved for the theatre and play when narration/introduction was needed. Charte looked around and saw the confuse audience, frowning. He even went closer of the Reis and spoke in a low voice to the elk.

Introduction are usual Your Serene Majesty, the performing will start soon.
... Interesting.

But when Quip's finished, only a couple of claps resounded… from the only one understanding Equestrian. It was a bit awkward, and neither the Sandlandic performers nor the audience reacted to the claim. And Ashti… bah, he looked tonight and left, sighting. Well, let's fix it.

Under the glance of Arabesque, Ashti rose up and walked towards the stage, before facing the audience. Everyone were surprised to see the Alisahib standing there, which made the ambiance even more confused. Yet he cleared his throat, bowing to the audience.

Hahem… muhterem jumhūr ya. Ijazat ni tabeer al-kalamekim de hamara za'êfim Ikē'stryânn.
"Herkoi sitara hifazat se-ya. Anamesh ism hast Quip Crack, aur al-tae'er faatin taqrí ni hast Mad Cap, anamesh vefali sahāyak. Ham farahen-ji soma rabb'wardih ke eme akhsham, iss'liye dastanim soma sakna tafseel ke al-baqiyah de soma jivan. Ek-âmixtan de kelabāji, fareb aur sihr."
(O Honourable audience –i.e "Ladies and Gentlemen". Let me translate the words of our Equestrian guests.
"May the stars keep you all. My name is Quip Crack, and the adorable pony next to me is Mad Cap, my faithful assistant. We will provide your entertainment for this evening, therefore stories you could recount for the rest of your life. A mix of acrobatic, trickery and magic! We will be providing you with your entertainment for this evening, and stories to tell for the rest of your life. A mix of acrobatics, trickery and Magic!")

Ashti stopped, to took a slight break and prepare the next translation when the audiences' claps resounded, not for Ashti, but for Quip's speech… now that they were able to understand it. Ashti twinkled to the equestrian performer, before looking in the other side, were sandlandic performers were standing. Drinking, and unaware of what would come next.

"Magar ana hu sirf ek-tae'er ind al-behir de qabliyat an al-sansār hast, aur ham mali erbek farâmuš jisay samandar ham var hiflíg de..."
("However I am just a pony in a sea of talent that is this world, and we must never forget which shore we have sailed from...")

The Ambassador has heard the speech, and succeeded to remember it… yet, he was unsure if it has translated that too literally, the imagery with she shore… It was more the meaning than the words which bothered him. Most of the audience didn't seem to have understood this, adult as kids. the message Quip was granting was maybe a bit too equestrian. "Traduttore, traditore" never been so true.

Ana socna… hahem!. Magar ana hu sirf ek-tae'er ind al-raaj de qabliyat an al-sansār hast, aur ham mali erbek farâmuš… al, "al-najmat" Ham var bakhár-ja de... peyrov, yan kod varja roshan-ja, qadaja hamara lârh."
(I mean… hahem!- "However I am just a pony in the realm of talent that the world is, and we must never forget… the, the"astral body" we have chosen to… follow, or who have illuminated, leaded our path.)

Then the audience looked, as best they could, to Quip and Mad, the clapping resounded. Maybe the message was not the most accurate Ashti would have given, but it was the only thing "near" he thought. Then he resumed :

"Ke eme iradah, qabla al-hofá'râḍ aghazâ, al-qabliyatim heyranken de Khâmel'Mušait honaji enjâm ke somara khoshí Aknūn"
("For this purpose, before the show starts, the amazing talents of Camel'Mushait will be performing for your pleasure now" )

Immediately after, one of the sandlandic performers, drinking, spited out his content on his teammate, both caught off guard by the announcement. This, it was not planned, and totally confusing. But at the claim of the public they didn't had other choices than do the job. Plus, in a way, it was why they were here : To show the foreign dignitaries some of Sandlandic tricks.

They then rushed on the stage, smiling and trying to look as composed and professional they can. It was a trio of performers : a Camel, a deer and an antelope. Two others characters were standing next of them, one having a kind of guitar, the second a sandlandic drum. And both started to play a tribal-sounding melody.

The show lasted four minutes: one per performers, it was the camel which started with a sword dance, followed by the antelope performing acrobatics and the last one performed something which looked like martial art. The three performers didn't put all in the artifices, in fact there was really few one, it was the content of the show which was impressed the audience.

It really looked like tribal tradition, a reminiscence of the time when the Sandlanders were tribal warriors. And this, it was noticeable in the acrobatics and "dance" they performed. Notably the last minute which looked like kata, very well done, white shift and mastered moves, in rhythm with the song and perfect synchronisation with each other. Normally they have planned to perform between Quip's tricks; they decided to do all in once as they were "allowed" to do so. More the time passed and more the song went faster, as the performers which seemed to be one with the musicians. And in the last minute, when mixing they tricks for the finale, the show reached its climax before finishing with the song.

They didn't had to wait long to heard the claps from the audiences, pleased by the traditional, and ethnic, performing. This was really different than the Equestrian art of performing: more savage and warlike, yet it was clear that what they did required a lot of mastering and preparation for this "acrobatic martial dance".

Charte never saw such thing, as Natzíg, and it also impressed Sadalbari and Alderamin even if it was the not first time they have seen such performance. Then, the performers bowed to the audience, thanking them, and also Quip, before leaving the stage.

[CableZ]

When Ashti came up to translate Quip's entire speech, Quip just put his head against his hoof, supporting his arm by holding it at the elbow with his other hoof. He felt like the biggest idiot, he had gone up on stage and spoke gibberish to these people. Quip only liked being an idiot when it was intentional, so he just sighed and sat their with his face in his hoof. Mad Cap giggled slightly, and felt slightly embarrassed herself, although more embarrassed for Quip. Still, they cold get over it pretty quickly once they saw the show starting on stage, much as the audience did. The moves and timing were all so interesting, Quip had read about such performances before but never had a chance to see one.

However half way through the show, Mad Cap reminded Quip that they were to perform next, so they had to pull their attention from the stage and focus on getting themselves ready. Quickly getting out of their regal, formal clothing, which would prove to be a very large hindrance if they tried to perform wearing it. They were just about out of the clothing by the time the show on stage came to and end, Quip was a little surprised to see the performers bow, but he returned the gesture, while Mad Cap had a dress stuck over her head.

Soon after the performers were done, while the applause was still going, Mad Cap and Quip returned to the stage, to a more concrete set of applause than the one they had left to. Waving and smiling to the audience, they got read for their first set of tricks, which were acrobatics. Mad Cap dashed off behind the large red curtain, and there was a clunking sound of wooden gears.

All of a sudden, two hatches opened up on the stage, one at each side. From these hatches arose 2 large wooden poles, smooth and adorned with a golden ball atop them. They rose up around 7 meters into the air, where they came from was anyone's guess, but they stood tall and strong. They filled in the gaps in the stage with a wooden panel that was attached to the bottom of the poles. Quip stood between them as they rose, and giggled at the surprised look of some of the younger audience members. The poles were around 3 meters apart, so they weren't at the edge of the stage, but they were vertical to eachother.

Quip walked over to one of the poles and looked up at it for a moment, before rubbing his hooves together, and took a hole of it. Quip began pulling himself up the pole, simply using his fore hooves to pull himself up it, an impressive feat of strength to be sure. Once he reached the top of the pole, the crowd applauded, although they looked slightly unimpressed. With a smirk, Quip then brought his back hooves up and pressed them against the pole, before kicking off and flipping over to the other pole, albeit it now he was upside down. The audience gasped, and began applauding, but Quip wasn't done yet.

The next 5 or so minutes were an amazing display of acrobatics as Quip span around, climbed, flipped between, balanced on, and generally just did what seemed like impossible things on the two poles. As he was stood on a forehoof on top of one of the poles, waving to the audience, Quip hopped out and a did a triple front flip in midair before landing on the stage, which was met with a truly thunderous applause. But Quip was not done yet...

[Ashti Sandburst]

(O-RP : Sorry for this short post and for the time.)

Ashti and Arabesque looked amused to see Quip and Cap trying to remove the cloths before the show. Notably Cap. Amused but not mocking however, Ashti especially which was remembering the first time he tried sandlandic cloth, he even had sympathy for them.

Alderamin and Sadalbari were chatting in Deerhai, waiting the show to start whilst the diplomats fixed the stage. Charte was the first to applause to the Equestrian performers, followed by the Israheeli dignitary and then everyone. At the applause, the two regal elks stopped chatting and looked to the stage as well.

The audience was wondering about the curtain since the beginning. What was hidden? What was the purpose of this display? Some curious tried to look behind before the show starts… but the royal guards, whose the jobs was to prevent sabotage too, nicely showed the curious out The last time such display been used was during the concert of the Equestrian singeress Prima Dona and the pianists duet Beethohooves & Morsart.

So, when Mad Cap dashed behind the curtain everyone started at it… but they were all caught off guard when the two giant poles went forth. Leaving a general "whoa", the kids were the most impressed by such display.

Alderamin and co. were enjoying the show, whilst Ashti was looking here and there, trying to guess what's next. And what happened totally surprised him.

To see Quip climbing in such was impressive, for Arabesque, the dignitaries and even Alderamin & his brother. But the crowd remained a bit unimpressed as they expected something, something more… dynamic? Yet they still applauded because it was something really interesting and a nice "achievement".

But when Quip joined the other pole, everyone gasped thinking he was falling, and fortunately he mastered this enough to not fail, at the relief of Ashti and Arabesque. The crowd, diplomats, Sadlabari and Arabesque started to applause, at the exception of Ashti and the Reis which was sure it was not finished. And the following tricks really amazed and entertained everyone. During these five minutes the crowd didn't stopped to applause and it became more noisy when Quip executed the triple aerial flip.

It amazed Alderamin which, despite able to performed flips and some acrobatic manoeuvre as a part of his royal training, knew he could never do this. In a way, it was fine that the audience been interrupted, because he would have probably lost.

[CableZ]

The show lasted around an hour and 45 minutes, and it would have been the most amazing show that the majority of the audience had ever seen. The tricks, the acrobatics, the magic, all of it made them gasp in sheer amazement. The wait for Quip's show had been around 3 and a half months, and in this brief period of time, that wait all became worth it. Quip's usual showmanship had to be put on hold due to the language barrier. Still, it simply meant the show went a bit quicker, and that there was no need for any of Quip's bad jokes. The show went like this for the most part.

After Quip's pole show, he did more acrobatics. Along with some skillful duo maneuvers with Mad Cap, this also involved a few props. He dodged between a weird contraption of saw blades, which caused shocked gasps from the audience at the mere fact that such a thing existed. Then was his magic. Quip was a master of illusion and slight of hoof, He was able to move objects without actually moving them, he was able to make it look like he was passing objects through his body, he was great (look up Dynamo: Magician impossible for examples) The final part of the show were stunts, large scale performances that culminated in a amazing finale. Once instance where he was bungee jumping with barbed wire, to almost being impaled on a nail bed.

Once the show ended the applause was thunderous, it felt like it shook the air around them, with Quip and Mad Cap stood facing the crowd, breathing heavily, sweat topping their foreheads. Smiles on their faces, bowing with a experienced grace, the clowns were done, one of their best shows yet. While the applause still filled the air, fireworks began shooting from the stage, from behind the big curtain, lighting up the nigh sky with flashes of brilliant light. The crowds clapping and cheering came to an end, as their eyes turned skyward to admire the brilliant show, while Quip and Mad Cap exited the stage.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Claps resounded loudly on the place, in unison. Thunderous clops from the audience and the dignitaries, joined by the guards which have relieved in turns to see the show. The noise could be heard from below, the lower part of Deerham where those which didn't seen the show could be however witness of the final, the fireworks.

Fireworks were very occasional in Deerham, used mostly for important celebration like a Reis's crowning. Or during the "Al-Sitar'rośniy Kiran(-e Ayin)" (the "starlit gleams' ceremony" in old Deerhai), a year's end celebration to honour the departed. Even if using magical fireworks, Deerham's district : Camel'Mushait, can provide some national firework even if they mostly import from nations specialised in fireworks.

Looking to the firework, Arabesque's head was laying against the shoulder of Ashti… which didn't notice it, too focused to gaze the fireworks. But she didn't minded, he was near of her and it was enough. Walking in the front of the Audience, Sadalbari did an ending speech, thanking the performers and announcing, with this, the end of the Celebration.

Minutes passed and little by little the crowd left the courtyard : The kid was returning at home, as some adults whilst the guards were escorting the Reis and the dignitaries towards the palace, to fix some diplomatic details.

However, whilst the Sheikh leaded the Israheeli diplomat, his interpreter and the prime minister to the palace, Charte and Alderamin decided to speak a bit with the performers.

The Reis spoke first to the Sandlanders, congratulating and proposing them to sleep in one of the numerous bedroom of the palace. And after this, he walked towards Quip and Mad, a slight smile in face.

Anisa Mád Khaip, sáyyid Ku'ip Qrạ̉kh, It was a really spectacular show you have shown us. When the Aze'em Idareci, our prime minister, told us about his choice to hire you, We were expecting a good show, or entertainment at least. And we must admit : We were not disappointed. We have spend a good moment, enjoyed your show… and the diplomats too.
Indeed Your Serene Majesty.

Despite the politeness that the Reis displayed, his words were sincere. As for Ashti, Arabesque and most Deerhaim, it was a cultural education to show over-politeness to strangers and others. Respect and politeness are the pillars of their culture, and their proud, at least in public. It could be shocking for other Deerean Sandlanders to hear swears, or show disrespect, but in private they are more laid-back. Even if the Deerhai doesn't have slangs, they have familiar language even if rarely used. This plus the fact that Alderamin is a Reis as long as he is wearing the crown, and a Reis must show respect and having a formal behaviour, and took seriously duties and powers like he have sworn. Thus Alderamin, even if a normal guy, take his job seriously even if he has to look like having a stick in the hind.

Charte took the forehoof of Mad and moved his lips over it without touching however, performing a hand-kissing.

Mad Cap, Monsieur Crack… even if I has been witness of your skills previously, I can only attest how fabuleux you are. Monsieur Hasbara was pleased too, and amazed. On this note… Monsieur Hasbara and I will lead tomorrow Sir Sandburst to Equestria, with our boat. Would you be willing to join us ? We can transport you, and your equipements as well. It is a luxurious and fast ship which could join Equestria in the day.

Alderamin nodded and bowed the head in goodbye, apologising and leave them, to joining his brother. And with the Elk's departure, Ashti and Arabesque went bowing slightly the head to Charte which did the same to the sandlandic couple.

It is the first time I see such show, Mister Crack. At least a show from you, and you were both entertaining and impressive.
And... the fireworks were nice too ^^... I think, I have a little sore to my hoof by dint of applauding. ^^

[CableZ]

Mad Cap and Quip were still breathing quite hard, they put their all into their shows, sometimes to fault. Quip was once bed ridden for 3 days after performing a particularly long and trying show. So when they were approached by the diplomats and Reis, they tried to keep their mouths closed so that they weren't panting so much, but it was difficult. Quip rubbed his metallic mask over with a towel, as if it would wipe the sweat from his actual face. The two clowns bowed slightly as they were approached, struggling not to pass out as they did so, the show had clearly taken a lot out of them. They gave a small gesture of thanks that they could muster to the Reis' words, however backhanded they felt, they appreciated that he enjoyed the show. Attention then focused on Charte as he gushed slightly, he could be such a sweet talker sometimes. Mad Cap blushed and smiled at all their kind words, while Quip considered a boat ride back that would only take one day, why was that not standard?

"Sure, sounds great, your ship is cart accessible?" Quip asked with a slight giggle.

Mad Cap turned her attention to the happy couple with a smile, as the diplomats walked away, Mad Cap finally stopped holding her breath and began panting heavily once more, the showed had really been an ordeal. She sighed happily at their words and nodded her head in thanks, while Quip still rubbed his chin and looked off into the nothing.

"Glad you liked it, we put a lot of work into it." She smiled happily, then turned back to face Quip, before chuckling and looking back at the couple. "We need to pack up here if we are going to be ready for the trip tomorrow. Once we're done we'll meet you back at your father's house Arabesque, We won't be long"

Quip snapped out of his thought at that moment with a quick nod, and a chuckle.

"Yep, no stage crew, everything you see here is set up by us" He smiled, before turning and walking up to the stage, getting ready to start disassembling everything.

[Ashti Sandburst]

"Sure, sounds great, your ship is cart accessible?"
Well, I didn't take the ship. But I know it : it is a diplomatic prench ship loaned to my faker and Monsieur Hasbara. Le "Fleur de Lys" have a hold spaced enough to transport carriage. So, naturellement. Don't be worried about ^^. Also, we are planning to leave Deerham for the Sheikhdom at 14:00 and reach Manehattan around 20:00.

Then he did a reverence.

Ladies, sires… I have to join my diplomatic fellow, and the Reis, for a late dinner. Madame el-Shazia, it has been a delight to meet and chat with you.

The Mare smiled to the diplomat and bowed the head with a giggle.

You too, Sahib de Biy'ạ̉nnsehenš. May you have a good trip back home.
Thank you. Sur ce…

Bowing the head, Charte then turned back and leave them. Some minutes passed and it was the sandlandic couple which nodded to the performers, leaving them to pack up and join them later. Salim was probably residing in the Ministers House today, so they would have the villa for themselves.

The day after : parked near of the Shams'áyyil harbour, a yacht was standing, white shell with gilded bronze ornaments, and above the royal flag was moving under the dusty wing. The "VDR Fleur de Lys" (Vaisseau de la Diplomatie Royale- royale diplomacy ship), was a luxury yacht big enough to transport royal guests, diplomates and cargaisons. But also fast enough to bring them in time. It has been created in the purpose to not bothering passengers with long boring travel. However, even if safe, it was an unarmed fragile ship and defenceless against big storms.

Fortunately sea storms were extremely rare in the region, and happily. Otherwise they could not profit of the wealth inside of this royal ship. On the desk Charte and Natzig were looking to the sea, with some royal gifts, waiting Quip and Mad Cap, coming along Ashti and Arabesque.

Bientôt l'heure… bon, quitte à attendre, faisons le autour d'un repas. Je vais prendre commande avec le cuistot.
(It is almost time… well, if I must wait, better to do it around a meal. I will take command to the chef.)

And on those words he left the desk to the kitchen. He didn't take lunch today, as Natzig and probably the other guests like Mad Cap, Quip and Ashti.
During this time, in the villa, Ashti was finishing a tea, chatting with Arabesque.

It was their last time together until the next holiday. The mare has spoken to Ashti about coming in Equestria, to see Mad Cap. And the Ambassador have no objection, he was actually happy that Arabesque spends time with her friend. yet what all would happen in Equestria, he was still a bit worried that something bad occure.

Well, if you are sure about ^^. it would require organisation but It I am fine with.
Thank you ^^.

Then Ashti before leaving Deerham. As On the way there they joined Camel'musait then Shamsayyil with the sand-antelopes caravan. The ship can't be missed, standing in the side of the harbour, kept by three Prench guards.

As they remained here with the captain during the whole day, no one of the guard knew they have escorted a faker. So they didn't minded that Charte was aboard… however this one have brought with him the two fakers, closed in a guarded room were they can't escape, and until that the Israheeli secret service takes care of them.

[CableZ]

Quip and Mad Cap stood looking at the impressive ship, they were on the docks below the boarding area, workers dashed all about them, getting things loaded onto the ship and getting ready. Neither of the clowns had gotten much sleep last night, packing up their show had taken awhile, so they had wasted a lot of the time they had to sleep. They stood with heavy bags under their eyes, watching the cart being strapped into the large cargo hold, Quip liked making sure it was safe. With a slight tired sigh, the jester turned his gaze from the ship as the large mechanical cargo door began closing, ready to seal the ship off for departure.

The docking area was abuzz with workers running around, carrying large crates and doing...stuff. Frankly Quip was too tired to care, normally Quip would be energectic even after having no sleep, but after a show like last night and having no sleep? He was very tired, and when you're tired you don't really like seeing lots of movement or lots of noise, you just want beds and fluffy pillows. Mad Cap was the same really, except you could see how tired she was, whereas Quip's true nature was hidden by his mask.

The clowns made their way to the main boarding area, the guards quickly letting them past, much to the pair's relef at not having to deal with such stuff. They got into the deck and sighed, it was going to be a long day, and sleeping on ships made both of them queasy.

"Bah...I'm tired" Quip moaned

"Yeah well so am I, lets find somewhere to sit" Mad Cap mumbled before they both walked further onto the ship, waving to Arabesque and Ashti weakly.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Ashti and Arabesque were looking to ship, wondering. It was this one? Sincerely Ashti rarely took boat, so he didn't know what type of ship it was, or how it work… if he admits it was a nice ship, it looked a bit fragile for doing sea travel. But it was the only boat on the harbour, plus if this Fleur de Lys could allow him to join Manehattan quickly…

The really only concern of Ashti is it's the winter in Equestria… and as he didn't took any cloths for this… Bah, he would just have to remain in the cabin or a warm place and call a taxi when arrived.
Yet the only thought of the snow made him to quiver under the questioning glance of Arabesque.

…Sala'… are you alright?
… Brrr…
Sala' ?
…Hm? Oh…. Yes ^^, what is it?
Hm… you will miss the ship…

At those words, Ashti looked around and indeed Quip and Mad were already on the ship, waving. Awkward, the Ambassador rubbed his neck before turning towards Arabesque and placed his lips and her own.

Ana var de jana… ind al-sardi… al-barf… tum ar qismaten, tum zanîn ?
(I have to go… in the cold… the show… thou are lucky, thou know ?)
…^^. Masin shel al-rámil, al-khurshêd… al-garmi… hercīz tum varji mish bargašt ind Equestria hihi.
(… ^^. Think to the sand, the sun… the heat… everything thou will not have back to Equestria Hihi.)
… itna zhalim D: ^^- To, eth hast felek. Khuda hafiz, ana-e âshiq.
(… How cruel D:. ^^. So, it is time. Farewell, my love.)
Khuda hafiz. Aur byaan anamesh salhamsekim shel Mulej ke ni aur Sahib Bastion bhi.)
(Farewell. And convey my greets to Mulej for me and Sir Bastion as well.)
I will.

Hugging each other, the Ambassador finally left his spouse and walked towards the ship, where he was welcomed by Charte.

Bonjour, Votre Excellence… bien dormi? (Good afternoon, Your Excellency… Well rested?)
Oui. Merci.
A la bonheur… je ne peux pas en dire autant de nos invités, malheureusement. Désirerez-vous un repas? Dites "oui"… s'il vous plait.
(Good… I cannot say the same thing for our guests, sadly. Would you desire a meal? Say "Yes"… please.)
… Bien sure, merci. (Of course, thank you.)

Immediately later the reply, the eyes of Charte lighted up. Finally he will not eat alone. When he has seen Mad Cap and Quip, he understood that they would be too tired to eat. So, followed by Ashti, they went in the kitchen and took command.

The boat left the harbour shortly after, whilst Arabesque was sitting in a café, drinking tea still glancing to the leaving boat. And as Charte said, they joined Equestria in less than one day, few hours.

From the "living room", Ashti looked to the city, Manehattan, which were a few kilometres from them. The snow was still falling, and a bit of ice recovered the city's water.
The Sandlander finished is hot drink and decided to goes towards the Performers' cabins… one should accompany him in Manehattan, for the paid… but it was not necessary to wake up them both…

So, he thought… as Quip was the showman, it was probably usual that was him with received paid, but Mad Cap, as the assistant, was also maybe taking care of administration ? Bah… anyway it would be just for accompany him in the manor and went back to the ship.

Thus, Ashti knocked to Mad Cap's door. Gently, to not weak up Quip.

Miss Cap? Sorry to bother you : We are coming in Manehattan. Can I ask you to accompany me to my mansion ? To give you the pay for your show ? I would propose you take something warm too ^^.

Minute passed, and the ship been moored to the harbour, between some other boats. Charte was waiting in the living room, along Ashti, Waiting for Mad Cap.

Ne vous inquiétez pas, Votre Excellence… nous vous avons réservé un taxi, il vous attend sur les quais.
(Do not worry, Your Excellency… we have reserved you a taxi. It is waiting for you on the quay.)
J'aurais préféré un manteau de laine, mais merci bien. (I would have preferred a duffle coat, but thank you.)

[CableZ]

After a pleasant nap, Mad Cap was awoken by the light tapping at her door, but thankfully she was already mostly awake as is. Walking softly over to the door, she opened it slightly and peaked through the crack, before smiling at who was on the other side and opening it fully. She didn't get much of a chance to say hello before Ashti began speaking, must have been something he had wanted to speak about for while. She smiled all the while he spoke, nodding along at the points that required it. Chuckling softly when he had finished speaking, she smiled at him.

"Well a lady like me cannot turn down the invitation of a gentleman" She giggled "But you might be the one who needs something warm mister" She laughed "Maybe you could borrow one of Quip's coats? They are quite snug" She cocked her head to the left, in a curious sort of way.

As the boat docked, Quip's bedroom door shot open as soon as the ship came to its lurching halt, a manic metallic clown grin residing behind. Quip then shot out of his room and ran over to Ashti, Grabbing him by the lapels.

"SHORTROUND, WE'RE BACK!" He then ran off down the hallway, leaving the ambassador and harlequin in a trail of kicked up dust that came from nowhere, Mad Cap giggling.

Gathering their things, Mad Cap joined Ashti as they disembarked the boat, quickly hopping into the heated taxi carriage, while Quip waited for his cart to be unloaded so he could get it back to Ponyville. Mad Cap had given Ashti one of Quip's large velvet purple coats, comfortable and stylish, and in no way a reference to a evil killer clown. As the two piled into the taxi, Mad Cap sat back with a sigh of relief, happy to be back home in her own land. She felt like anypony did after a long journey, happy to be back bit also slightly sad to not be not be in Deerham anymore.

"Did you have a nice time in your visit home Ashti?" She smiled, trying to make small talk.

[Ashti Sandburst]

"Well a lady like me cannot turn down the invitation of a gentleman. But you might be the one who needs something warm mister. Maybe you could borrow one of Quip's coats? They are quite snug"
…^^ ? Oh huh…

Ashti didn't know what to reply. Should he refuse ? It was a bit embarrassing that guests propose him a coat, plus assuming Quip's taste, it was possible that it would be too extravagant to him. But, in another thought, the way would not belong to the mansion and if it can protect him against cold…

…Eheh, it is nice of you. But…

But he just have the time to finish to spoke that Quip bolted and gripped Ashti so suddenly that he didn't understanding what is happening.

…eh ?

Or happened when Quip leave them... under the blasé glance of Ashti. Suddenly somepony went to tell him that the Charte was willing to chat, and Ashti followed him in the living room. Bidding farewell to Charte and Natzig. Now that Deerham, Israheel and Prance were connected, there are chances that he will meet Charte more often.

Minutes later, the Ambassador was finally out of the yacht, along Mad Cap… It was surprising to see that the Performer decided to unload his cart here : they should be a city nearest of Ponyville than Manehattan. But in a way the story will finish how it have started : by Quip and Mad coming in a snow Manehattan with their cart.

Thank you, for the coat… miss Cap ^^

Sincerely the coat was not as stylised or extravagant that he thought… sure purple is totally his color, but it was not too flashy. But he putted things into perspective : purple was the colour of the nobility, and the design was rather classic too. And he have to admit it was a warm coat, at least more than his ambassador outfit.

From where he was standing, Ashti saw the young stallion taxi quivering under the snow, waiting for them. The Sandlander really have sympathy for this pony… and inwardly sworn to give him a good tip.

The path towards Ashti's residence been a bit longer than expected however, due to the snow, notably. It snowed a lot during his departure yesterday… and in the street the Ambassador even saw some unicorns using magic to melt the snow and ice.

"Did you have a nice time in your visit home Ashti?"
... hm?

Ashti's head turned back from the window and looked to the mare with a smile. Well, expect of a pain in rubs, he should admit he have spent a good time, even if he didn't saw Arabesque a lot. But it has pleased him to get back the sand and heat. Even if this emergency travel have left him some unfinished work in the embassy.

I have worked a lot these last months, in a diplomatic and relic-hunt way, as taking care of my little brother and actually I should just have finished my working time… so this little free time in Deerham has been revitalising. However…

Even if he really needed it, the unicorn was a bit worried for Finder… before he have left, Ashti have have informed his secretary, Elain, to his sudden yet short departure. But if she have probably informed Finder and Bastion. It made a whole day that he has left.

… I have told to my secretary that my departure just take some hours… it took a whole day, so I hope Finder is not mad or too worried. Eheh… And you, have you spend quality time in my homeland? ^^

5 minutes later, the taxi stopped in the front of a manor, the taxi stallion avoiding at the last second to fall flat on his face. Looking from the window, the ground was frozen and it would be easy to slide. Ashti opened the door, putting carefully his hooves and the ice, and helped Mad Cap to go out, gentlemanly. And after a dozen of minutes, Mad Cap was accompanied out to the mansion by Ashti, where the taxi was waiting, Quip's coat and the pay with her.

Ashti was smiling warmly, despite the snowfall which continued, causing discomfort to the unicorn.

So… I suppose our next meet will be during the summer, eh? ^^ … Arabesque has fun too, and I am happy that you are friends. And I just noticed I forgot to say goodbye to Mister Crack…

The unicorn paused, thinking about it during some seconds before resuming.

Can I let you do this for me, please ^^? Because I really have no desire to left the warm of my mansion, eheh…

Making levitating some bits with his ethereal magic, Ashti gave to the taxi driver the money for the travel with a tips. Then he did a reverence, bowing the head.

I will not detain you any longer. Miss Cap, it has been a pleasure to have met you again. May the starts protect you ^^

[CableZ]

Mad Cap just smiled when she was asked how her time was in Deerham, words couldn't express how great it was, something that she would remember for the rest of her life. Of course a smile was not really much of an answer, shuffling in her seat slightly, She turned to face Ashti with a sweet smile.

"It's a place I will never forget" She spoke softly, reliving the happy memories in her head. "I'll have to visit again at some point, for a vacation instead of work" She gave a little giggle.

Looking out of the window, Mad Cap saw the beautiful snow slowly coming down on the Manehatten city scape. It was a great time of year, despite the cold it was very beautiful, she had always loved this time of year. She felt slightly bad for Ashti, this sort of cold must be terrible for him. As they came to a halt in front of the manor, Mad Cap looked out of the frost covered window, admiring his home for the second time in the past couple of months. Turning back to face Ashti with a smile as he spoke.

"Oh Quip knows you meant to say it, even if you didn't, he probably heard it in his head anyway" giggling softly Mad Cap hopped out into the snow with a happy smile "Of course, I would not want you to freeze" She laughed, walking into the warmth of the greeting hall of the manor. Taking the coat and hefty payment with a slight groan, Mad Cap smiled, despite the weight "I'll be sure to tell him Mr. Ashti, may the stars protect you also" Giving the ambassador a little bow, she turned and headed back out into the cold brisk weather.

Seeing the shivering taxi puller, she smiled and walked over to the poor stallion, handing him Quip's large warm coat, which he accepted very thankfully. Quickly getting back into the taxi, and booking transport to the train station. Her long journey was finally coming to a close. Mad Cap rested her head against the window, and fell asleep softly.

~The End~