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The Gathering, the mechanic "flicker" refers to the act of temporarily removing a permanent from the battlefield and then immediately returning it. This typically results from the resolution of a spell or ability, and it can be used strategically to gain various advantages.

When a flicker effect is placed on the stack, it follows the usual rules for spells and abilities. Here's how it works:

Announcement: The player announces their intention to use a flicker effect on a permanent. This could be through casting a spell like [[Cloudshift]] or activating an ability like that of [[Flickerwisp]].

Targeting: If the flicker effect requires a target, the player chooses the permanent they want to flicker. This is typically done at the time of casting the spell or activating the ability.

Placing on the stack: The flicker effect goes on the stack like any other spell or ability. Players can respond to it by casting instants or activating abilities.

Resolution: When the flicker effect resolves, it does what it says - it removes the targeted permanent from the battlefield. This doesn't necessarily mean the permanent has left the game; it's just temporarily not on the battlefield.

Leaving and returning: The permanent then "leaves" the battlefield. Any "leaves-the-battlefield" triggers associated with that permanent will trigger at this point. Then, immediately after, the flicker effect instructs that permanent to return to the battlefield. When it returns, it's considered a new object. This means it enters the battlefield with no memory of its previous existence on the battlefield.