A Gift from the Past (Private) [Concluded]

[Ashti Sandburst]

It was the afternoon in the insular city of Manehattan. However unlike other days, something exceptional was taking place in the Noble Heritages Museum, one of the important museum of Equestria. For the occasion, many scholars, historians and archaeologists where invited and gathered in one wing of the Museum, the Elysian Gallery.

Founded in second half of the 1700's by Rosace of Elysion and her father, a curator. The luxurious gallery was fulfilled with thousands items brought back by Rosace during her expedition around the world. But also the donation from Prench and Equestrian aristocratic families.

Jewels, paints, rare books, item from now extinct ethnic group. Foreigner crafting and cultural art.. This gallery was keeping treasures collected during centuries by the Elysion House and their acquaintances... until that one of the heirs, decided to give the Elysian Gallery to the Museum.

But even if it was no more the property of Elysion, they were still allowed to manage it or represent it... and the one representing it was Ashti of Elysion.

Member of the Circle, an official international relic-hunting guild localising and bring back artefact from ruins and studying them before give them to the artefact's homes museum, it was one of Ashti's fellow comrade which have found an unidentified artefact...

it was not rare due this job, but this time it was different : The said relic was different and not matching with the local ethnic groups where it has been found, and more intriguing, no experts could date it precisely (maybe during the Three Tribes period) or tell from which people it was from.

What was sure about, is that it was not a magical item. Of if it has been once, now it had no more energy or power. Some said it was a jewel box due to be made of wood and some gilding and adorned with mystical patterns

Many theories and many opinions were gathered in the gallery. But this event was not only for guests: It was also open to everyone. And since this morning, many ponies went to see this artefact and try to imagine or figure out what it could be.

It was Ashti which had the idea to exhibit it in the Museum, and the museum thought it would be nice to thanks Ashti in using the Elysian Gallery instead.

The relic was lying on a cushion of silk, itself placed on a kind of altar in the centre of the wing, surrounded by rope barriers. Some ponies were looking to it, wondering. But most of the other guests –which already saw the artefact- were looking other items in the gallery. or chatting Like Ashti does :

Wearing a traditional and ceremonial outfit from his homeland, a white cream and golden trims "Jaipuri sherwani" finely worked and adorning a kind of silk scarf making him look like a sandlandic prince, the Sandlander was chatting with an antiquarian, and a couple of well-brought ponies next at some meters of the relic. Glancing to it time to time.

Not just a representative Ashti had also the mission to protect the artefact… it was why he have left his embassy to his assistants and was here since this morning. The relic was under his responsibility, and the curator too.

The relic was evaluated as expensive in its value and the historical interest it created. It was why the relic/artefact/whatever was protected.

[CableZ]

A'bek had been reluctant at first to head into one of these so called 'super cities' that had seemingly sprouted up in his race's absence from the world, however he felt it ignorant to simply avoid them. As such he had chartered passage into the city of Manehatten via train, it found modern travel quite nice considering his heritage. A'bek was no old fashion kind of guy, he appreciated progress and frankly being able to cross entire countries in mere hours was nothing short of that. A few trees had to be lost for their creation? So be it, trees fall everyday.

The city was also not as bad as he had pictured in his head, trees lined the streets in neatly organized patterns and there was a huge park in the center of the city. All in all it was nice, not perfect but where is? A'bek had wandered and sat in the park for a few hours before he happened upon a poster for some sort of event. Something going down at a local museum, now this was something A'bek hadn't really thought about. He wondered if any artifacts of his past where still around, he doubted it considering it had been many many thousands of years since his race disappeared and all knowledge of them was lost. The most that survived about this kind were myths and fairy tales (most of these tales were true to an extent, but the sheer feats that the Ibex could achieve were thought to be impossible by modern standards) and even then these stories were quite unknown, most didn't know of them.

Thinking it would be interesting taking in some culture, A'bek made a note of the address and then proceeded to spend the next hour trying to find the darn place. After some searching and some helpful directions from a few pedestrians, the large goat found his way into the large halls of the place of antiques. Wandering through the place and getting the usual strange looks, A'bek stopped often to admire some of the ancient artifacts from distant lands. It was all truly fascinating, however once exhibit in particular caught his eye more so than the others. Slowly approaching the glass case that had more than a few ponies around looking into it, A'bek was able to peer over them all and get a look at the thing. The pnies in front of him seemed to be scholars, academics from the Manehatten university.

"What do you think it is professor?"

"Why, its obviously a music box,"

"Nonsense! Its its a obviously a jewelry box!"

The two professors proceeded to bicker between eachother while their students watched half them and half at the artifact.

"Actually its a herb case, you keep chewing herbs in there" A'bek chimed in with a smile, causing the whole group to turn and look up at the strange horned creature.

"Oh? And what is your theory on that, where is your proof, from which place of learning are you from might I ask" the professor tried his best to get up in A'bek's face with his snooty attitude but A'bek was a little too tall.

"Well...I used to make them, I was an apprentice wood carver as a boy. The markings on it are symbols for the herbs of the earth, in this case specifically sugary ones." A'bek pointed at the worn carvings atop the little wooden box.

"Preposterous!" the other professor chimed in "That box is at least 2 thousand years old, there is no way you could have worked on such a thing!"

"More like 7 thousand actually, I'm quite amazing that it survived as long as it has" A'bek smiled warmly at the two stuffy professors who looked slightly dumb founded.

"Come students, this person is clearly insane" one of them barked as he lead the group from the museum.

A'bek turned his head and watched the group leave, getting a few smiles from the students before turning back and stepping closer to the glass case so he could get a better look, still staying behind the red rope barrier. He stood there studying the little wooden box with a slightly nostalgia smile on his face, reminding him of a time that seemed so long ago.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Chatting with some ponies, Ashti didn't noticed immediately the presence of A'bek. Too focused to explain something about the Circle. However he avoided some detail about the dangerousness of some missions, don't speaking about ruin's guardians, entity or trap. He didn't denied them, but what he say was deliberately far from reality.

Why? The Circle is somewhat discreet about what they encounters : They needed publicity, so members were allowed to brag and speak about the artefacts they find or how professional they are… however nothing about entities (which is no that common) or stuff like this.

The main reason was that the Circle was not a paramilitary force, and they don't want that their members been hired –as mercenary- to face unholy creatures and eldritch abominations.
The Circle was protective but also lacked of field members, so having people joining army for glory because they have fought an ancient golem once… was not really something they approved.

It was in the contract when they signed up, as the fact that they have duties and obligations toward the Circle : it was the reason why Ashti was still doing relic-hunting despite having a full-time diplomatic job. A bit like national service.

The two well-brought ponies with who Ashti was chatting were the spouse and the daughter of a member of the circle. They were worried about his disappearance, and when they heard that one of the relic hunter was here, they sought to have answer.

Sincerely Ashti didn't know every members of the circle, but tried to reassure them.

You know, not every members face dangers… it is even rare that something dangerous happens. I am a field member for ten years now, and I am still alive… I am sure it is the case for Mister huh…Goldpiece.
…I… warn you. I want my husband back!
…. Madame, please… I understand your worry, I am married as well and I can imagine what you are experiencing. But as high-ranked I am, I am not omniscient : I do not know Mister Goldpiece, neither which field nor where he is working. You saw me calling the Headquarters, I am sure they will find your husband. You just have to wait.
…I, I apologise for my mother. But this secret mission stresses us. Please, find my father.
We will, fear not. I have your names and address; I can contact you when I have a reply.

The ponies tried to remains discreet to not bother the other guests. But it was difficult, and it was a first time for the Sandlander. Especially that he looked detached of the mares' concerns. And it was a bit the case, after-all no one is forced to join the Circle… yet he tried to be as friendly and concerned enough to comfort the mare… in vain.

Hitting loudly a hoof the spouse left the room immediately, followed by the daughter which apologised to Ashti and accompanied her mother under the sorry glance of the Sandlander.

The moral slightly down, the walked to the sofas and sat and one, taking a free drink and the table. Along the antiquarian, an old pony, which patted the unicorn's shoulder.

Allons mon garcon. You have done what you can…
I know… Thank you. J'ai besoin de me changer les idées… may I…?

The old pony nodded and let the Sandlander returning toward the artefact… but then, he noticed a newcomer, apparently interested by the relic. But more of the… goat's (?) appearance, it was his smile which intrigued the Sandlander.

He recognised this smile, this glance… it was nostalgia, he was sure about. However the reason of this totally goes straight over his head. Yet he needed to take his mind off things and, smiling, he walked to the Ibex, moving next to him. Silent, at first, before replying quietly.

Nice piece of work, eh? There is many theories about the purpose of such box. the wood used is very rare and costly, apparently. More than the gildings themselves. for the patterns... they thing there is some mystical meaning or purpose.

[CableZ]

A'bek turned for a moment in search of the source of the words that were directed at him, lowering his gaze downward he saw his new acquaintance. Raising a furred eyebrow at the sight of the 'eccentric' looking pony, certainly the weirdest pony sight he had seen recently. Staying silent for a moment, A'bek sighed slightly at the conversation he was about to have.

"Um...no, those carvings are symbolic of herbs...it IS a herb case" he chuckled softly "Sorry to be so sure but I did used to make the things, I can spot an Ibexian Herb case when I see...one...damn" he sighed, realizing he'd given away his secret in full.

Turning to face the pony, looking down with a slightly stern expression on his face. A'bek had just made this conversation a whole lot more tasking and tiring. A'bek hated talking about his past, it was 10% explaining and 90% explaining something he'd already explained. But what the hay, this pony didn't look like he had any difficulties understanding English..

"Ah...well I've rather let the cat out of the bag there" He chuckled at his own idiocy.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Ashti, surprised, listened to the ibex: It was the first time during this exhibition that someone taught him something. Usually, he was the one explaining the item, how it has been found, why it's considered as valuable…

So, when A'bek told him about the purpose of the box, the Sandlander was taken aback… it, it was awkward, and he was feeling embarrassed for the experts which have examined it and claimed it had a religious or mystic purpose. At least, if what A'bek said was true.

Not that Ashti doesn't trust this guest, but it sounded improbable… yet…

Well, maybe you should write a letter to the expert which have studied this, their reactions could be priceless.

Glancing to the box, the unicorn examined the patterns, and it was true it looked like graze or leafs, stylised although. Plus, he didn't use the clairvoyance, but he didn't have the feeling A'bek was lying.
So it means either he is immortal, or the experts were too confident or euphoric, or that this Ibex was continuing a kind of ancient crafting tradition. Or maybe the three above.

Well, Ashti have already met immortal being, and the princesses or Discord are this too… Deerhai's history has fact about immortal or long living being, like the city's saint-patron. So it was not impossible that this A'bek was immortal or something like this.

Plus denying A'bek's words would be against Ashti own philosophy: If I didn't seen X, it doesn't mean X doesn't exist. I can't infirm or confirm something I was not witness of. (Although it sounds better in Deerhai or French).

Open-mindedness was also one of his precepts. And, oh Adyr, it have helped him in many situation. Anyway, Ashti rubbed his manecut, embarrassed by the reveal and gave a polite smile to the Ibex.

"Ah...well I've rather let the cat out of the bag there"
Eheh… but, I have no difficulty to believe what you say.

Then, Ashti bowed the head to the Ibex, and resumed with a quiet and polite voice.

I am Ashti Sandburst, welcome to "my" gallery. So, Ibexian you said?

Ashti never heard this name name before. 'Cause he  just studied Sandland and Equestrian global geography, there is plenty of places that he is not aware of. And he was not afraid to ask. Also , as he is here for the remain of the day he could maybe chat a bit with this sir.

[CableZ]

A'bek sighed softly, truly he had nothing against this pony. He was more annoyed at himself for getting into this conversation in the first place, he couldn't hold that against Ashti. Turning to face the small pony, A'bek thought about his words but was thrown off slightly when Ashti jokingly suggested he write a letter, he'd have to come back to that. Explaining this all would be too much for one day, so he decided to give a brief summarizing of it all.

"Yes...the Ibex..I suppose to put a long story short, we are a race of large goats that lived around seven and a half thousand years ago. We focused on the world and had natural abilities in the magic of nature, shaping the world as we saw fit. As far as I know the race is all but gone and I'm the only one left...yeah I think that about sums it up," He laughed softly.

"That kind of story is why I would be widely discredited" He smirked.

Looking around the immediate area, A'bek raised an impressed eyebrow and let out a low whistle as he did so.

"this is your gallery? impressive." He complimented because it was true, he could see artifacts that were apparently from the 4 corners of the globe in this place.

[Ashti Sandburst]

Actually the unicorn never really expected that the Ibex would take time to explain him about Ibexian. "Ibexian" ? To him it sounded Chineighse-like or Tibleatan. But he was sure to never heard this place name before… also, A'bek's allure, appearance, was something he never saw before. A mix of goat and chamois but what impressed him was his size.

he was almost the size of the Reis with the antlers or Celestia and it was intimidating… in a way. Ashti stood thought that if he decided to stand on his hindlegs, straight, he would maybe compete A'bek… if this one remains on his four legs.

Anyway, Ashti listened to the Ibex, silent. And more he learned, more he was surprised… a lost civilisation? But it was mostly the "7000 years old" fact which took aback the unicorn. Maybe he has misunderstood or misinterpreted the speech.

Is by this, A'bek was saying he is the nowadays descendant from this civilisation… or if he was really 7000 years old? And if it was the case, many questions can be posted: Why he didn't vanished with his kind?, is he owning a lot of knowledge ? or is he immortal?

But, fortunately for A'bek, Ashti was not a historian, or archaeologist, and he have seen enough thought his missions to not be too curious or obsessed intellectual curiosity, He have learned to not inquire too much, for some reasons : People could lie or give false informations and thus waste time, even if the Ibex seemed sincere quite a little detached of his civilisation's fate, and also by respect of private life.

It was interesting that they canalise magic from their horns. Because it worked the same way for the deers in his homeland, through the antlers. Making more easy to learn and use the secular Arcanum.

Politely he laughter slightly when A'bek finished and nodded.

"That kind of story is why I would be widely discredited"
Cannot argue with that, eheh.

As by reflex, Ashti turned around to scan the room, by security, until turned back to the guest when this one spoke about the gallery. at the time he have lost his attention was a bit confused by A'bek's words.

The gallery ? … ah, yes. Well… thank you ^^. To be honest it is not mine : this gallery has been created by my family and fulfilled by some ancestors… But it no longer belongs to us. My ancestors gave this gallery to the museum… but it is a nice place, indeed.

Ashti was pleased that the Ibex appreciated this place, even if he was not owner and doesn't come often there Ashti was still proud about this gallery and his ancestors. Silent during some seconds, he then he glanced to the Ibex and wondered.

You said to use magic of nature… my people, the Deeraim, have its own magic system, so I wondered what magic of nature does ? it is like Druidism ?

[CableZ]

A'bek chuckled softly at what Ashti could said, it was funny how such a large time gap could lead to situations like this. Here was this pony inquiring into if his magic was like druidism, the answer was quite funny to A'bek at least.

"Ah..well yes, after all the Ibex invented Druidism" the large goat smirked. "We lived with nature for years, in time we developed the magical powers we had into natural magics." this was probably the briefest summary he could have given. "It is the gift of my people, we could manipulate the air, earth, water and its inhabitants both plant and animals in ways that are mostly impossible to your kind" A'bek spoke with pride about his heritage.

"It's hard to place how we developed this power, you see my race developed something we called the language of the world which allowed us to speak to the elements themselves. It's thought that either this is what lead us to develop the magic or our magic lead us to develop the language, no one really knew even in my time." The large Ibex shrugged slightly.

"I myself trained in the 'University of orbis terrarum' which translates out to the university of the world. I'm a druid myself although mostly that remains a title, in my time druids were masters of the world and controlled the environment, climate, anything. Of course we respected the world too much to ever exploit our powers but there are some stories and myths that the Ibex were the ones who split the lands and formed the continents, but I don't know much about that" A'bek chuckled at the thought, it was amazing even to him to think that his race could have split the very world.

"I'm sorry for being vauge my friend, however it would be like trying to explain the entire magic of Equestria's friendship" He laughed "but I would not be opposed to answering some more questions if you are interested in any specifics?"

[Ashti Sandburst]

"Ah..well yes, after all the Ibex invented Druidism"
…Oh? Oh!... really?

Ashti was not really an expert in magic, never studied the Equestrian one or the other schools like Alchemist or Druidism. Not only because his cutie mark was related to, but also that he never really felt like or desired to work in this field. Sure he can use the secular Arcanum, and it was useful for his missions, but he learned it because it was a big honour that his adoptive homeland granted him.

But even if not an expert in magic art, the Ambassador still has some knowledge or basis about it. And Druidism was something he knew. Not very well, like for alchemy, cartomancy, or shamanism, however.

Anyway he listened to the Ibex, and more this one was speaking about his magic art, more the Ambassador was interested. Especially that A'bek was not into technical terms, and it was more pleasurable in this way. Also, feeling the pride that the Ibex had for this made Ashti to realise that they were not so different; he was feeling pride too for Secular Arcanum.

Then, when he spoke about the weather control, and be the master of the world, the Ambassador was somewhat impressed but also it remembered him a old codex that the Arcanist owns : it was a kind of anthology from Cervidas about testimonies of magic through ages. It been wrote by the "Watchers" (if translated into Equestrian), a kind of mystic scholars which decided to keep trace of the magic art all over the world. Climate control was referenced among other stuffs. And as pegasus had similar power/magic…

Maybe Ashti was a bit naïve, or too much open-minded… but he believed what A'bek said.

"I'm sorry for being vague my friend, however it would be like trying to explain the entire magic of Equestria's friendship"
Eheh… no worry, I understand the concept.
"but I would not be opposed to answering some more questions if you are interested in any specifics?"
Oh? Well…

Ashti paused some seconds : there is something that "caught" his attention, and he been willing to ask about it… but don't wanted to interrupt the Ibex. And now, the unicorn was trying to remember what he have pointed out. It was something related to the element, and when he thought about the Secular Arcanum he remembered it.

You said using water, earth… and wind, right? Secular Arcanum, the magic system of my people, uses elemental magic too. So, I was wondering: what about others elemental energies like Fire or Lighting? I never heard that Druidism was using them, but it could be interesting to know why… at least, if you allow me to ask?

Well, the Druidism Ashti was referencing was a relatively recent one (founded a couple of millenaries ago), probably a variant of the Ibex's. because those druids were not into control of climate, but more into potion making / healing, divination, connection with the spirits of deaths and of the nature.

[CableZ]

A'bek listened to Ashti's question with a slight nod of understanding, this pony seemed to be educated with a higher level of understanding of history and magic. While it made this process a little easier there was still some generational gap of knowledge, didn't help that the knowledge in question had been lost for seven thousand years.

"I have done some studying on the druidism of this time, interesting stuff I must say" A'bek turned his gaze to the little wooden box that had started conversation. "Would you mind if we walked while speaking? I find it aids conversation." He smiled as he began slowly walking along one corridors that lead of into the various areas of the museum where the art and artifacts were categorized.

"My people magic may have been called druidism, but it differs greatly from the current practice if I understand it correctly." he looked forward as he spoke. "We do not think of them as elements however, that idea separates the world too much. The world is a being in itself, everything must come together or apart it will fail." A'bek spoke with a stern tone, this seemed to be something he felt strongly about. "By respecting and understand the world and its nature, my people were able to harness its power as a collective. When you think in elements you weaken the idea of the collective" He smiled looking at Ashti for a moment. "True we manipulate each of these aspects individually but when you focus on that you weaken your ability to manipulate anything...I appreciate that this might sound confusing, but only because you live in a world that believes in the idea of individual elements." He laughed softly at the confusing idea of it.

"Understand though that it was our natural ability that allowed to us achieve such levels of control, I'm afraid that only a race as in tune as ours would be able to match us and so far as I know there are few if any that will ever match that" He smirked, slightly proud of that fact "Much like I will never be able to match the power of the ponies magic or...whatever it was you said." He chuckled.

"As for the other aspects of nature, fire and lightning and the sort. We cannot create them from nothing, but we can control them. The same is with all aspects, if we have the materials and means we can but we cannot create them from nothing." He hoped that would explain.

In their wandering, as A'bek finished his explanations the two wandered into a room full of artifacts and artwork from Camelu, the nation that bordered Ashti's homeland of Deerham.

[Ashti Sandburst]

"I have done some studying on the druidism of this time, interesting stuff I must say"
…oh?

Attentive, Ashti waited a reply, more by curiosity than real interest, however he didn't really expected the Ibex's request. Moving ? Well… his duty is to watch over the relic, even if he knew it was just a box of herb it was still a valuable item for it's rare. The Sandlander was a bit reluctant to left the artefact… until that he decided to use his clairvoyance, not to see if the Ibex is lying but to detect any presences, aurae, which will come closer of the box and act weird. And in the worst case, Ashti can still use his spell, the Haraka Sarih.

The clairvoyance was exhaustive, but at least he can watch the artefact in a good radius. Then he replied to A'bek.

Of course, not too far however.

Then he followed the Ibex, listening attentively… at least, mostly. A part of his attention was focused to the box. He will not hide that it considered this event as a way to train his abilities. Then, A'bek spoke about his philosophy about the elements and it was clearly different than most of the mystic arts Ashti knew. Secular Arcanum too. When the Ibex smiled to Ashti, this one did the same with a polite smile, thinking about what he said.

*"Harness this power as a collective? thinking to the element weaken the idea of collectivity." Well... c'est interessant, mais... ça commence à etre un peu trop pholosophique pour moi. Cependant, Je crois comprendre.*
(It's interessing, but... it starts to be a bit too philosophical for me. I think I understand this, nonetheless.)

"True we manipulate each of these aspects individually but when you focus on that you weaken your ability to manipulate anything...I appreciate that this might sound confusing, but only because you live in a world that believes in the idea of individual elements.
I think, I understand…

*"Confusing"?… yeah, un peu. Heureusement que mon apprentissage du Qadeem Arkhanim aide pas mal à la compréhension et à ouvrir mon esprit à sur ces concepts mystiques dont j'en aurais surement jamais entendu parler.*
(Yeah, a bit. It's a good thing that my learning of the Secular Srcanum helps me enough to the understanding and opening my mind about these mystical concepts I would probably never be aware of.)

But yeah, most of magic arts around world consider elements not a being a whole natural force, but distinct force. Fire, earth, wind, water were the most common. Then came Thunder, Ice or even darkness or light, depending of the schools. Some cultures even considered metal or wood as element.

The Secular Arcanum have the precepts of separated elements… but the fact that this magic system been created by exiled Equestrian mages for the Sandlander, than created by Sandlander themselves, made the Secular Arcanum to have Equestrian magic's philosophy about the elements.

Minutes passed and the Ibex concluded his explanation under the interested glance of the Ambassador. Sincerely he have hoped a shorten one, and he didn't really get a couple of stuff, yet it been understanding enough. Focused on his clairvoyance, Ashti didn't noticed that they were in the Sandlandic Room, a place where artefacts and cultural items from sandlandic civilisations were exhibited : from Saddle Arabia, Camelu, Israheel, Kurdriftan, even from the first sandlandic civilisation and ancestor of the actual one the "Âryeh'imc Empire, or the lost Meṣrēyn civilisation.

Fortunately they were not that far from the artefact Ashti have to protect, but he should maybe returned. On a second thought, he detected the aura of the museum attendant which have to watch over the artefact if Ashti take a break. The Sandlander was a bit shameful to have forgot about this guard… but relieved too that this one performed his job. Then, Ashti disabled the clairvoyance.

Thank you, it was very interesting and instructive. ^^.
*To, Yemra hast sarvarim de al-abohavâ, aur sakna ikhtiyar taṛit aur agir bhi ? Accha kaise yemra var napaid-ja...*
(So, they are masters of climate, and can control lighting and fire too ? well, wonder how they have vanished then...)

The unicorn had some theories, but considered it was not the right moment to ask it and would maybe ruins the mood. Also, it was not totally his business, as how or why this Ibex have not vanished with the others. it could be interesting to know, but... anyway, he resumed.

The Deerean magic system I use is based on elements but consider them as distinct and not a whole. But, in a way, the Secular Arcanum is closer of wizardry or sorcery than druidism.

Then, Ashti looked around, before remembering that he didn't know the name of his interlocutor. Maybe the Ibex doesn't wanted to? Bah, he doesn't planned to insist.

[CableZ]

A'bek took a moment to look around the room they were in, the artifacts and artwork were all quite impressive. The large goat had never taken an interest in the past but he could still appreciate it, there was certainly enough to appreciate in here. Taking a few steps away from Ashti to better admire the objects, he turned his head back to face the pony as he explained the school of magic he practiced.

'The Secular Arcanum'. A'bek recalled the name coming up when he was reading up on the different types and schools of magic, mostly just to catch up and see if the practices of Ibexian druidism were still around (they weren't) and have passed the aforementioned school of magic in his studies. While the concepts made sense, A'bek didn't have much interest in learning how to use said magic as he had enough to worry about with his own school of magic.

"Its funny to think that by looking at the way the world works different you can achieve an entirely different kind of magic, then again I suppose it does depend on race sadly" A'bek smiled "Would you care to explain how it actually works, the book I read was a little unclear on the subject?" He asked with a smile

[Ashti Sandburst]

"Its funny to think that by looking at the way the world works different you can achieve an entirely different kind of magic, then again I suppose it does depend on race sadly"

At these words the Sandlander nodded. He never thought to this before because he lived in a different era, so to him it was natural that different places have different kind of magic. At least he guessed it because expect of the Secular Arcanum he never really studied other magic system…. He just had some global knowledge.

The race ? well… I personally think that the cultures or environment have a role too. Enfin, it seems me…

He smiled politely, but right now, he regretted that his brother Dream was not there to chat with them… as one of his ancestor was a druid, and as he was studding magic… he could have brought some interesting informations. Anyway, the Ambassador turned back to the Ibex when this one asked some clarification.

Ashti was a bit confused and wondering about what A'bek requested. What he was referencing and the kind of clarifications he wanted. Silent, the Sandlander was trying to figure out the subject… and remembered having referenced his people's magic system several time. He didn't want to brag or something. It was just to compare A'bek's magic system with the only one he knows best.

Now, what was the book he was speaking about? For as long as he can remember, the Secular Arcanum were kept and taught by the Arcanist, his prime-assistant and the "Sages" only, and, even if the Deerhaim know this the Secular Arcanum, only those which have been chosen can learn how to use it. To avoid that anyone not allowed using it, abuse of its power, teach this magic art to foreigner mages for that they can use it or don't respect the precepts which go with it.

But, in a second thought, it was not impossible that someone tried to write a book about or even analysed it. But as A'bek said it was unclear, it was possible that the writer have failed, because when learned it's quite simple to explain.

*Ana mali harc’nel masin eth dirtar… mais pour l'instant…*
(I should inquire about it later… but for now…)
You mean this ? "Haraka Sarih" (Swift steps)

Immediately after his hooves started to glow of a gilded light. Ashti then started to run a bit on the corridor, and it speeds and moves were faster than before. It spell increased the speed of the caster and it was one that Ashti used the more, especially when ruins are collapsing. It was also useful to avoid attack.

Lighter the caster is, more efficient the spell becomes.

Then the spell stopped and Ashti walked back to the Ibex, in a normal pace. The Secular Arcanum, it was considered as an asset and nation treasure. Everyone which learned it have to respect precepts but also a kind of contract which forbidden the adept to reveal this art's secrets to outsider or teach it. Break this contract was, for Deerham's law, considered as treason. Like giving state secret to another nation.

So, Ashti could not explain it with the details, or doesn't want to. Never would he betray his teacher's precepts, the honour granted to him, and his nation. But, thankfully, it was still allowed to explain how it works, with restrictions through.

The Haraka Sarih, or Swift Steps in Equestrian, is a support-typed spell, allowing moving faster. The Secular Arcanum are divided in three categories: Attack (zarar), support (têmnih) and defence (hifazat). And is an oral magic which works with incantations. You have explained me your magic, so it is faire I do the same… however…

Ashti showed the kind of golden ring with scriptures in the base of his horn. This ring was not only a jewel which helped him to stabilise his magic and use the Secular Arcanum. It also prevented him to abuse of the power…

This ring is a token of my commitment to the Secular Arcanum; reveal too much details would be a betrayal. But I can explain you the basis. Let us see…

Rubbing his chin, the Ambassador was looking for a good way to starts… he never explained the secular Arcanum to someone before.

Hmm… maybe… at first, you have to know that the precepts of the Deerean magic is to consider that everyone bore with a level of magic energy called "mana". Some people or ethnic, like the unicorns, have a higher level of mana. The Secular Aracanum requires mana to be used, but also the incantation to materialise it, and the willpower to cast it. Without these three criteria it does not work.

Then he added, in a quiet voice.

To cast a spell you must have the desire to cast it, like issuing a command. When the "order" is formulated, the brain will consume an amount of mana and that will allow casting the spell. Then, come the incantation: there are three levels of power, and higher the level is more complex the incantation would be.

Pausing, he had a sly smile and resumed.

Of course, having the mana, knowing the incantation and having the willpower are not enough to emulating one of the spells. There is another factor that is taught by the Sages, the keepers of Secular Arcanum, to use and master this art.

But this, he is not allowed to reveal, so instead Ashti will continue to describe and focus and its features.

Fire (aghir), earth (zamīn), wind (pavên), thunder (indra), star (sitara) and light (rośni) are the elements this art uses. However it doesn't take its power from the nature or external nature energies to control them. Like for your Druidism. Instead, it materialises them. However water (sula), darkness-typed (tare'ek) or ice (talj) spells does not exist for some reasons. As healing spells. However we have protection ones. The power come from inside, not from outside… it is one of the precept of the Qadeem Arkhanim.

Then he smiled to the Ibex, thinking it was enough information he can reveal, otherwise he will have to break his oath. He was proud of being an adept of the Secular Arcanum, and would like to tell more… but he was responsible, and anyway he would probably be confusing. Now, about another matter. politely he asked :

I do not know if this is related; but you have referenced a book earlier. I am interested, could you tell more? ^^

[CableZ]

A'bek listened with a curiosity in his eyes, it was nice to discuss magic with someone who could understand it. Most ponies seemed to live purely in the idea of friendship being the only magic so it was refreshing to meet a pony who was outside friendship as a magic source. It was a little hard to get his head around as Ibex were always taught that the world made be composed of several things, they must all come together to be at their strongest. Having this stallion tell him that he worked in elements sounded like he was just making himself weaker, of course he didn't make that assumption and he was sure there was more to it than that. It was simply the meeting of two very different worlds and two very different times, it would be quite interesting for a historian or magical scholar to listen in on this conversation.

A'bek continued to look around the room while Ashti spoke, occasionally turning and nodding in understanding before going back to wandering around looking at various objects. It wasn't until Ashti asked about the book that A'bek mentioned that the goat turned properly to face the stallion, with a raised eyebrow he tried to recall the details of the book.

"I believe it was called 'the Scholars Compendium on the World of Magic and its Schools'. I forget where I got it from if I'm honest, I simply looked through it while at a library," He smiled before going back to looking around the room, although he kept talking. "I was looking for mention of my people's magic since I found no trace of them in any history book, seems the Ibex never existed according to the world," he sounded slightly solemn but nothing major. "It simply listed the various types of magic, where they come from and how they work. I admit I didn't really read most of it, just skimmed through. I read through the druidism section as I thought that I had found mention of my people but alas I was mistaken."

He smiled having sufficiently studied a majority of the items within the room, turning back and casually walking over to Ashti he stayed a few feet away from the pony so that he didn't have to look down so radically.

"Why does it interest you so? If you don't mind me asking?"

[Ashti Sandburst]

He commiserate with A'bek and the non-existence of his tribe, himself the Sandlander didn't know how he would react if he was in such situation.

And he didn't know what to tell, especially that this Ibex seemed to have already accepted the situation, at least partially : as he looked into book for informations about Ibexian, maybe he was not willy to turn a new leave. But Ashti will not judge.

Ashti listened to the Ibex, nodding.

Ana shaf… (I see…)

Is that so? He never heard about this book before but he supposed that he can find it somewhere. Even if having studied the Secular Arcanum, there were facts he didn't know about this art. Maybe because he was not a Sage and therefore didn't devoted his life to the magic and knowledge. However he had enough knowledges about it to see if the informations in this "the Scholars Compendium on the World of Magic and its Schools" were right or incorrect. And if they betray the Secular Arcanum.

The Sandlander looked politely to A'bek and smiled to him.

"Why does it interest you so? If you don't mind me asking?"
Well… it is rare to see book about the Secular Arcanum, so I am interested to see what it says ^^.

Diplomacy, or the art to able to quickly find good words, was very useful in this situation. His words were partially true: actually he had a plan for this book if there is revelation about the Secular Arcanum.

Destroying the book would be too extreme, so maybe he could bring this book to the Arcanist and one of the skilled mage he knew in Equestria and ask to erase the informations from the book ? But he preferred to wait and see if the informations were compromising. If it was not the case, so he could let the book.

Suddenly, steps resounded in the corridor, coming closer to them, and before the Sandlander could react or notice the presence, two hooves hugged his neck and made the Ambassador to jolt a bit. Tuning back to face the presence.

I… I am sorry Salah.
Ah…. Arabesque ? you returned already ?
Well, the show lasted three hours… but it was amazing. I can say I like jazz, now.
Eheh, glad it pleased you ^^.

The ponies turned again, this one to the Ibex. The mare seemed somewhat intimidated by the size and appearance of the Ibex. It was the first time she saw someone like this, and it troubled slightly the mare. Yet she kept her composure, unwilling to put to shame the Ambassador with a misplaced comment and preferred to say nothing about the appearance.

Here is my beloved spouse.
I... huh, I am sorry to have interrupted... you, I am Arabesque el-Shazia. N-Nice to meet you. ^^

The Archivist did a curtsey to the Ibex, smiling to him. His build was imposing but not frightening, she felt she had no reason to be scared. However looked around and noticed the artefacts inside, amazed. It was the first time she come in the museum and never expected it could be such room about the Sandlands. And whilst she admired the treasure in this room, the Ambassador resumed.

 So... about this book, do you know where I can found it?