[Third Person's PoV]
Stephen's 24 hours in the library had expired, and with a reluctant sigh, he returned to his physical body. Stretching slightly to ease the stiffness, he straightened to his full height and rolled his shoulders. Nero, his avian companion, perched contentedly on his shoulder, a quiet observer to his movements. He then decided to open a portal to the Mirror Dimension.
The world shifted around him as he entered the Mirror Dimension. The fractured, kaleidoscopic reflections of reality swirled in mesmerizing patterns. The training grounds he sought were just ahead, their geometric landscapes perfectly suited for his mystical exercises.
"Let's see which dimension we should borrow power from..." Stephen murmured as he formed the Eye of Agamotto gesture over his chest. The intricate mechanism of his amulet clicked and shifted, revealing the gleaming Golden Eye.
A slit materialized on his forehead, and a third eye opened, glowing faintly with golden energy. As its influence flowed through him, Stephen decided to take things a step further.
"Since I'm already using the Eye, let's establish a telepathic link," he said, glancing at Nero.
The bird tilted her head slightly, her voice echoing in his mind. "Be careful."
Stephen chuckled softly, reassuring her. "Don't worry, Nero. Remember, the more I study and understand the Mystic Arts, the more powerful and refined my magic grows and becomes."
Nero's deadpan voice carried a teasing edge. "Yes, yes, I haven't forgotten your 'cheating' powers."
Stephen rolled his eyes. "Anyway, as I was saying, I already have the knowledge and power to know what I'm doing. Hand signs and magic circles are like communication channels that let us connect with the universe and other dimensions. Incantations, on the other hand, are demands or permissions—ways to ask for their power."
As he spoke, he wove a complex series of hand signs. Glowing runes began to appear, forming a vibrant orange magic circle before him. Its edges were adorned with ancient symbols, and at its center, an eye blinked to life, it was the symbol of his eye. Smaller circles materialized around his wrists and forearms, each humming with latent energy.
With a deliberate swipe of his fingers, the image within the central circle flickered like a changing channel on a television. A fiery dimension appeared, its landscape ablaze with eternal flames. The inhabitants themselves seemed forged from fire.
"This is where my Faltine Flames originate," Stephen said.
He turned to Nero with a smile, swiping his fingers again. "Who knows? Maybe in one of these dimensions, we'll find what we need to turn you back to normal."
"Not if it means undoing the spell on his majesty. That's probably one way to return me to my human form," Nero said with a sigh.
"Wait, really?" Stephen raised an eyebrow, stopping mid-motion and resting his hand on his chin. "That would make sense... Damn, I almost want the elves' plan to succeed now."
Nero stared at him with her usual fat bird face.
"What? If they succeed, they'll collect all the magic stones and summon the devil. Once he appears, you'd be forced to free the First Wizard King, undoing your forbidden magic and returning to normal. It's a perfect plan!"
Nero shook her head. "Just focus on what you're doing..."
"Alright, alright," Stephen said. Just as he was about to continue, Nero leaned closer, rubbing herself against his cheek in silent appreciation for his promise.
Stephen smiled faintly before swiping his fingers again, causing the magic circle's image to shift.
The fiery landscape vanished, replaced by dimension after dimension—each unique and filled with untapped potential. One was a swirling tempest of cyclones beneath dark, roiling clouds. "The Dimension of Watoomb," Stephen murmured.
Another revealed hordes of grotesque demons, their twisted forms writhing in the shadows. "The Demons of Denak. Definitely worth studying later."
He continued searching until he paused on a new vision: a realm of radiant skies lit by seven blazing suns. The air shimmered with golden light that seemed to bathe both body and soul.
"This one is promising," Stephen said with a grin. "Let's take a closer look." His Eye of Agamotto revealed the dimension's nature.
Forming the Eye gesture again, Stephen pushed it toward the magic circle. A golden light burst from the Eye and hit the circle, which shifted into a portal.
Stephen stepped through, Nero on his shoulder.
The sensation was indescribable—gentle and soothing, like a comforting embrace. Both Stephen and Nero instinctively closed their eyes, savoring the warmth that seemed to reach beyond the skin and touch their very souls.
"It feels… incredible," Stephen murmured, spreading his arms slightly as if to absorb more of the radiance.
A calm, melodic voice interrupted the moment. "It does, doesn't it?"
Stephen opened his eyes, unshaken by the sudden presence. Before him stood seven figures, each clad in flowing white ceremonial robes. Their faces were obscured by white veils marked with a red sun symbol. Despite the concealment, their posture exuded serenity and wisdom.
Clasping his hands together, Stephen bowed respectfully. "Forgive my intrusion. I am Doctor Stephen Strange, a sorcerer drawn here by the allure of your realm's energy. I hope I've not overstepped."
The figures bowed in unison, their voices harmonious as one replied, "Welcome, Stephen Strange. We are the Seven Sons of Cinnibus. Your presence here is no intrusion; all seekers of wisdom are welcome in this dimension."
Another figure stepped forward, motioning toward the brilliant sky. "You are in the Dimension of Cinnibus, where the seven suns never set. This is a realm of peace and enlightenment, a sanctuary for those who wish to learn and grow."
Stephen gazed upward, captivated by the seven golden suns. The sky was a tapestry of light, painted with hues of gold and amber, and the clouds seemed to glow with an inner fire.
"You mentioned being a doctor," one of the Sons said, their tone both curious and proud. "You may find our realm particularly fascinating. The seven suns you see above us produce a Mystic Light of Wisdom—a light with unparalleled healing properties."
Stephen's eyes gleamed with interest. "A light that heals… truly remarkable. I would be honored to learn more about your realm and its gifts."
"Then let us guide you," the Sons replied in unison, their robes fluttering as they gestured for Stephen to follow. The journey into the heart of the Dimension of Cinnibus had only just begun, promising revelations and insights.
…
A few hours later…
Stephen walked out from an orange portal appearing back in his room.
Stephen had a large smirk on his face as he muttered, "How kind of them to actually teach me how to use their dimensions energy and power"
Nero just had her usual look as she said, "You know, the thing about you isn't your Magic"
"It's not?" Stephen questioned because of the spell he just learned he wasn't so sure anymore.
"No" Nero said, "It's the combination of your charisma and intellect. You have this way of showing your interest in learning that makes people just want to teach you and at the speed of which you learn what you are taught is actually terrifying. Just tell me how the hell do those guys already become great friends with you? We've only be there for two hours"
*******************************************
+31 advance Chapters on: patreon.com/Shadow_D_Monarch3