At this moment, everyone present was taken aback by Li Yue's words, except for Mordo, who had already been informed of Li Yue's decision. Wong and Stephen were utterly bewildered, staring at the slightly smiling Li Yue, unsure of his meaning.
"Master, you mean…"
Wong's disbelief was evident as he hesitated, looking at Li Yue.
"Hehe, Mordo and Wong, you know I have been guarding Kamar-Taj by the Ancient One's last wishes. Of course, part of it is my sentiment as well. I honestly didn't want to see the ancient sanctuary of sorcery, Kamar-Taj, face any unexpected calamities without a Sorcerer Supreme.
Initially, I thought my tenure guarding Kamar-Taj wouldn't be this short, but things changed. Now, it's time for me to step down. Someone more suitable than me is ready to take the position of Sorcerer Supreme, and I believe he will protect Kamar-Taj well."
Li Yue's words carried a mix of relief and a tinge of regret. He had fulfilled his promise, guarding Kamar-Taj and Earth during the interim period without a Sorcerer Supreme. Now, he had also guided Stephen Strange onto the path of a sorcerer and generously handed over the Time Stone to him, ensuring the continuity of their legacy.
…
As Li Yue mentioned, Mordo and Wong understood that Li Yue had been protecting Kamar-Taj out of gratitude towards the Ancient One, who had once helped him. They knew Li Yue was waiting for the next Sorcerer Supreme to emerge.
"Master, are you sure it's him? What if you're mistaken? I can't help but worry about Kamar-Taj's future under his leadership,"
Wong questioned, still doubtful about Strange's suitability for the role. He couldn't shake the feeling of unease, wondering if Kamar-Taj could withstand having someone so seemingly reckless and arrogant as Strange as its leader.
"No mistake. Didn't you see it just now? The first time he touched the Eye of Agamotto, he could successfully use time magic. This clearly shows that the Eye of Agamotto recognizes him. Besides, his aptitude for magic far surpasses yours. Given time, his growth will undoubtedly exceed your expectations."
Li Yue reassured Wong, addressing his concerns. Meanwhile, Mordo remained calm, not voicing any objections.
"Mordo, what do you think?"
Li Yue asked, turning to Mordo for his opinion.
"All decisions rest with you, Master."
Mordo replied calmly, deferring to Li Yue's judgment.
...
"Wait a minute, what exactly are you all talking about? I don't quite understand!"
Stephen finally interrupted, unable to comprehend the conversation entirely. He was puzzled by their unexpected visit and the cryptic discussions about the Ancient One, legacy, and guardianship of Kamar-Taj and Earth.
Weren't they here to reprimand him for "borrowing" the artifact? Why did it seem like they were planning to hand over a powerful artifact to him willingly?
"Sorry, Master Li Yue. It was mere curiosity that drove me. I'm ready to face any consequences for my actions,"
Stephen admitted, accepting responsibility for his actions. He feared his journey in Kamar-Taj might end here but was prepared for the worst.
"Haha, there's no need to rush. Honestly, the Eye of Agamotto suits you better than me! However, it seems you're missing a cloak…"
Li Yue's words and demeanor were unexpected, leaving Stephen and Wong in shock.
"Oh, I almost forgot!"
Stephen hurriedly tried to remove the Eye of Agamotto, but Li Yue stopped him.
"No need, Strange. If it suits you, keep it,"
Li Yue said, astonishing Stephen further.
"I only intended to 'borrow' it, not keep it!"
...
At this point, Stephen realized he was deeper than he had imagined. His curiosity had indeed gotten him into a significant situation.