Kamar-Taj.
In the training square of Kamar-Taj, numerous sorcerer apprentices were practicing magic. Unlike other magic users, Kamar-Taj's sorcerers were adept at both magic and melee combat, earning them the moniker of "melee sorcerers."
At this moment, a portal with sparks suddenly appeared in an open space next to the training square. Two figures stepped through the portal and entered the square, catching the attention of some sorcerer apprentices. However, this wasn't an unusual sight, as many sorcerers entered Kamar-Taj through portals daily.
Lockhart turned to Kaecilius, standing beside him, and remarked, "Kamar-Taj's teleportation magic is really convenient."
Kaecilius smiled. "I wish you a smooth experience. After meeting the Sorcerer Supreme, you might get what you want."
Given their intertwined interests, Kaecilius knew that Lockhart was eager to practice Kamar-Taj's magic. He also understood Lockhart's concerns. Lockhart's opportunity to meet with the Ancient One had been facilitated by both Kaecilius and Morin, indicating the depth of their current relationship. Indeed, mutual interests often accelerate relationships.
When Lockhart learned about the opportunity to meet the Ancient One, facilitated by his two friends, he immediately smiled and presented them with another gift. He couldn't help but sigh; human relationships are crucial in any world. Building connections with key figures is essential.
If Lockhart had tried to meet the Ancient One on his own, he didn't know how many obstacles he would have faced. It would be like a foreigner trying to meet the president of a country—no matter how rich the foreigner is, without a key connection, it's extremely difficult.
Lockhart had decided to establish better relationships with some key figures in the Marvel universe, at least trying not to be hostile. He then followed Kaecilius toward the depths of Kamar-Taj, to the teahouse where he last met the Ancient One.
Entering the teahouse, Lockhart and Kaecilius saw the Ancient One with her back turned to them. They stood respectfully behind her, bowed, and greeted her, "Salutations, Sorcerer Supreme."
The Ancient One turned around, looked at the two, nodded slightly, and raised her hand. Instantly, the space changed, and they found themselves sitting cross-legged at the tea table opposite the Ancient One without realizing how they got there.
Lockhart's eyes flashed with horror at this display of spatial mastery. He wondered if time manipulation was involved. His thoughts turned, and his expression became more respectful. In front of a woman powerful enough to suppress countless dimensions, all pride was buried deep within him.
"Lockhart, I heard from Morin and Kaecilius that you want to practice Kamar-Taj's magic?" the Ancient One asked, glancing at Kaecilius, who was respectfully pouring tea.
"Yes, Sorcerer Supreme," Lockhart nodded without hesitation. Then, hesitantly, he added, "However, before practicing, I have some questions I'd like to ask."
"Let's chat. I also want to know what an alien mage thinks of our magic," the Ancient One smiled lightly.
Hearing this, Lockhart felt a chill in his heart and responded respectfully, "Sorcerer Supreme, in our world, it's taboo to use external forces. But after communicating with Morin and Kaecilius, some of my doubts have been relieved. However, I still have some concerns. According to the contract, if we encounter unexpected situations in the future, can we pay other prices to Vishanti instead of fulfilling the original terms?"
This was a critical question for Lockhart. If Vishanti didn't claim his power until his death, that would be ideal. He was confident in extending his lifespan. But if something unexpected happened, he needed to know if there was a way to escape the contract, even if it meant paying a higher price.
The Ancient One pondered for a moment and then said calmly, "It's not impossible to achieve your idea. I can help you get a chance to modify the contract, but you must understand that after the contract is changed, you won't be able to borrow power anytime and anywhere like Kamar-Taj's sorcerers."
Lockhart nodded understandingly. This was expected. Essentially, he was asking for the ability to renegotiate the contract at any time, which naturally meant he couldn't rely on Vishanti's full support. Everything depended on paying a corresponding price.
Lockhart then asked in a deep voice, "Master Ancient One, what price do I have to pay for you to get this opportunity to change the contract?"
Hearing this, the Ancient One smiled faintly. Although she would have done it regardless, Lockhart's willingness to acknowledge the need for a price demonstrated his understanding of the world's workings.
"There is never a free lunch," Lockhart understood from his previous life. Behind every seemingly free lunch, there is always a price tag. Sometimes you don't see it immediately, but you pay in the end.
The Ancient One said softly, "I need..."
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[More Chapter available at p@treon.com/goldengaruda]
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