As Wang Yan was discussing the Darkhold and its connection to Chthon with Wong, events were unfolding in the void beyond the universe.
In this chaotic void, countless universes floated aimlessly. On one of these drifting landmasses, something strange was happening. Shrouded in darkness, the land seemed almost non-existent to the naked eye despite its tangible presence. It was as if the land was sealed in a void of darkness, making the entire continent unnervingly dark.
This void lacked space and time, and everything remained unchanged for eternity. However, after an unknown period, a thick darkness began to gather on the land, an ominous concentration of all the world's evil, capable of swallowing even light.
For a long time, nothing happened. Then, strange sounds began emanating from the heart of the darkness.
Thump, thump, thump!
The rhythmic sounds resembled drumbeats or a heartbeat. The darkness seemed to tremble with each thump as if resonating with the sound. Light flickered around the edges, trying to hold back the dark mist.
Over time, the darkness grew thicker and more robust, causing the light to dim and eventually shatter. The collapse of the light was followed by the disintegration of the continent, revealing a massive seal that had been broken. The dark mist, now unrestrained, spread into the void.
From the rolling darkness emerged a figure. Standing two meters tall with white hair, the figure exuded an aura of evil. His unfocused eyes slowly gained clarity after a long period of dormancy.
"To think it took this long to absorb so much dark energy!"
Knowing he might be sealed, the Darkhold had always been his contingency plan. It was designed to link those who used it to him, allowing him to absorb their dark energy and eventually break Gaia's seal.
"Time to gather more power!"
With a smile, he disappeared, leaving behind the remnants of the shattered continent.
...
Back in the Kamar-Taj library, Wang Yan finished reading about the Darkhold's secrets.
"No wonder the Ancient One was so cautious and came to warn me. If Chthon really uses the Darkhold to gather dark energy, it could be a huge problem."
Wang Yan remarked.
Wong nodded. "That's why I supported retrieving the Darkhold. Let's hope it's not too late."
"What do you mean?"
Wang Yan looked at Wong in surprise.
"Do you know how long the Darkhold has been out in the world? Countless people have opened it, channeling dark energy to Chthon."
Wong shook his head. "But we shouldn't be too pessimistic. Maybe nothing will happen."
Wang Yan nodded, hoping Wong was right. The idea of Chthon breaking free was daunting.
Chthon had placed the Darkhold on Earth for a reason. With its evil and relatively underdeveloped technology, Earth was perfect for its resurgence.
Shaking off these thoughts, Wang Yan decided to look into the Book of Vishanti instead. Unlike the Darkhold, the Book of Vishanti held powerful, benign knowledge.
Meanwhile, Kamar-Taj quickly recovered from the earlier disruption. The apprentices, unaware of what had happened, continued their training, while the experienced sorcerers pondered the event.
Among them, a notable figure arrived—Wanda.
As a member of the Avengers, Wanda was a renowned superhero, even among Kamar-Taj's sorcerers. Her presence drew attention, especially from the younger apprentices eager to learn about magic and superheroism.
"What's going on here?"
Strange's voice cut through the crowd. He had brought Wanda to Kamar-Taj, being an acquaintance and recognizing her need for assistance.
The apprentices dispersed at his command.
"Come on, Wanda. I'll take you to see Master Wang Yan."
Strange said, leading her through Kamar-Taj.
"Thank you, Strange."
Wanda appreciated his help. She knew Strange as a prominent sorcerer in Kamar-Taj who often helped the Avengers with their mystical problems.
Strange introduced Wanda to various facilities as they walked to the guest area. Soon, they arrived.
"Wait here. I'll get Master Wang Yan."
Strange said.
"Thank you."
Wanda sat down, and Strange went to find Wang Yan.
Hearing Wanda was looking for him, Wang Yan was surprised. He expected her to be with Vision, not here seeking him out.
Entering the guest area, he saw Wanda staring at a teacup.
"This tea is from the Ancient One. You should try it."
Wang Yan said as he entered.
Wanda turned to him.
"Strange said you wanted to see me? What's up?"
Wanda took a deep breath before speaking, "I hope Master Wang Yan can teach me magic."
Her request took great courage.
Wang Yan was surprised but then smiled. Wanda was indeed a magical prodigy, capable of wielding immense power.
Her abilities had almost single-handedly defeated Thanos, showcasing her incredible potential despite her lack of formal training. She had been experimented on by Baron Strucker, who believed her powers came from the Mind Stone, unaware of her mutant heritage.
"What changed your mind? You weren't interested in magic before."
Wang Yan asked, curious about her decision.
Wanda hesitated before speaking, "Vision and I discussed it. Recent events made me realize my powers are too weak."
Her determination was evident.
Previous traumas, like the Sokovia incident, had made her doubt her powers. She wanted a peaceful life but realized it was impossible.
Whether it was the Skrulls or Agatha, she needed to become stronger to protect those she cared about.