"For the exchange between sorcerers, I personally think that the principle of equivalent exchange is the best way. As long as I abide by this principle, I don't reject exchanges, and I'm willing to teach the magic that I cast."
Picking up her teacup, the Ancient One nodded and said, "A fair way. So what do you need, Master Abel, to be willing to exchange with me about your magic?"
"Any magical exchange must have a simple beginning. I want to find an item, as long as it is feathers, hair, or nerve tissue of a magical creature."
The so-called simple start is just an excuse for Abel. He does not intend to share the magical knowledge he has learned during the first exchange. It is extremely dangerous for him right now.
Even if the Ancient One doesn't have any bad intentions toward him, her disciples include people like Kaecilius and Karl Mordo; it's hard to guarantee that they wouldn't have ulterior motives. Naturally, it's better to keep a low profile.
Abel plans to use this so-called simple start as an excuse to exchange for materials that can be used to create the core of a wand. When he makes the wand, even if it's not one completely suitable for him, it should provide him a certain degree of self-protection. At that point, he can delve deeper into exchanges.
Abel is still very curious about the magic of this world. To a certain extent, the magic here is far more profound and powerful than what he learned in his previous life!
"We at Kamar-Taj once had these things you want, but they are not conducive to preservation. Most of them are made into combat weapons by us, especially the tissue, which is very easy to deteriorate and damage. Currently, we have about three items that meet your requirements: the mane of a nightmare, a feather of a Valkyrie horse, and the fangs of a hellhound. I don't know which one you need and what you are willing to offer in exchange?"
The fangs of the hellhound are not suitable materials for making the core of a wand.
The mane of the nightmare beast and the feathers of the Pegasus are both very suitable, but the nightmare beast is a chaotic and evil creature. If Abel were to use its mane to make the core of a wand, it would likely produce some uncontrollable conditions. This is not ideal for Abel, who is focusing on steady development.
Perhaps he will use the mane of the nightmare beast to make a magic wand after he becomes stronger to see what its power is like, but for now, that's not appropriate. After some thought, Abel decided to seek the Valkyrie Pegasus feather from Asgard.
"Ancient One, I want that Valkyrie Pegasus feather."
"In exchange, I want to learn about the magic system that you have studied. I wonder if that can be arranged?"
This was beyond Abel's expectations.
He initially thought the Ancient One would seek a specific magic, like the floating spell or the petrification spell he had used, but she wanted only the magic system that Abel had learned. Clearly, she didn't intend to acquire it all at once; she just wanted to gain a deeper understanding of his magic system, laying a foundation for future transactions or exchanges. At least then, it wouldn't be a problem of insufficient understanding.
Upon realizing this, Abel nodded slightly. The principle of equivalent exchange was something he practiced himself. Magic isn't something to be done in isolation; there must be plenty of communication and brainstorming. The various resources needed cannot just fall from the sky while sitting at home. The principle of equivalent exchange ensures smooth exchanges and transactions.
"Ancient One, I'm willing to introduce the magic system I have learned to you, but it will take some time."
"Of course, even if it is the magic that you have learned, it takes a lot of time to sort out the system. You can organize it slowly after you go back and send it to Daniel when you're finished. As for the Pegasus feathers you need, I can give them to you now. Perhaps this will help you complete the magic system sooner, if you adhere to the principle of equivalent exchange."
The Ancient One raised her hand, and a little light quickly gathered from the surroundings into her hand, transforming into a slender wooden box, which she placed on the table in front of Abel.
"This is the feather of the Pegasus. I hope it will be of use to you."
Abel accepted the box without hesitation, putting it into his backpack. He nodded and said to the Ancient One, "I will sort out the introduction to the magic system as soon as possible, and I will deliver it after school on Wednesday afternoon."
"Yes, now that the exchange is over, we can start drinking tea."
Hearing the Ancient One's words, Abel smiled, picked up the teacup, and tasted the tea inside.
Under the guidance of Daniel Drumm, the guardian of the Sanctum in New York, Abel walked out of the Sanctum and nodded to Daniel. He arrived at Brick Street, where the Sanctum is located. Recognizing where he was, Abel carried his schoolbag and walked to the nearest subway station to take the subway home.
Standing in front of the gate of the Sanctum in New York, Daniel looked at Abel as he left and then turned to the Ancient One, who was still sitting in her chair drinking tea. "Ancient One, he is gone."
"Yes, Daniel, please keep in contact with him in the future. Try to cooperate with him. If you feel hesitant or unable to make a decision, you can contact me directly."
"Ancient One, why do you treat him so favorably?"
"I saw some things through the Eyes of Agamotto. Some people should be absorbed into our Kamar-Taj, while others need us to take the initiative to make friends. One day in the future, you will understand why I am doing this."
Daniel is not one to question things. He was too confused this time, but after getting the Ancient One's explanation, he no longer hesitated and bowed to show that he understood.
Seeing this, the Ancient One nodded at Daniel, turned around, and returned to Kamar-Taj through the portal of the Sanctum in New York. Her intention in encouraging Daniel to stay in touch with Abel was to establish a connection between herself and Abel. It was also to take the initiative to build a friendship, allowing Daniel, who is in danger of death in the future, to receive Abel's help.
The Eye of Agamotto, or the Time Stone within it, enables the Ancient One to see farther into the future, allowing her to calmly arrange and protect her disciples as much as possible. Although there may be many variables in the future, it is not a mistake to plan ahead, as long as it does not interfere with the future direction. Everything will be fine.