Chapter 217: Kaecilius

Jon grasped the deeper meaning behind the Ancient One's words, choosing not to probe further. It was clear she had shared as much as she intended, and pressing on would yield no additional answers.

However, a lingering question surfaced in Jon's mind. "Wait, isn't it common knowledge that keeping two Infinity Stones together is a recipe for disaster? You know I already possess two of them. Why would you entrust the Eye of Agamotto to me?"

The Ancient One offered a serene smile. "The Stones indeed carry immense power and danger. But scattering them across the universe only postpones the inevitable. There will always be those driven by greed to collect them. The only way to end this cycle is to bring them together… and destroy them."

Jon hesitated. "So, you want me to be the one to do that?"

"I can't say for certain that you can. But you are the only one who both understands the gravity of this task and has the potential to accomplish it," she replied.

"But what if you need the Time Stone again to deal with threats like Dormammu? What then?"

"By that time, the Sorcerer Supreme will have grown strong enough to stand on their own. The Eye of Agamotto is merely a tool. If the Sorcerer Supreme relies solely on the Time Stone, they're unworthy of the title," the Ancient One explained.

Jon nodded. "I understand. When the time comes, I'll retrieve the Time Stone. Leave a message for your disciples; I doubt they'll willingly part with such a sacred relic."

"Of course. Just come swiftly when the moment arrives. I'll see to the arrangements," she assured him.

***

Bidding the Ancient One farewell, Jon headed home, pondering how he would explain everything to Annie.

However, as he reached his doorstep, Annie and Ayla were already there, clearly waiting for him.

Annie rushed forward, hugging him tightly. "Are you hurt?"

Jon chuckled. "I can't get hurt. You know that."

The next morning, as Annie prepared breakfast, the television blared reports of yesterday's alien invasion. News outlets had been in a frenzy, broadcasting the event nonstop. Opinions about superheroes varied widely. Some saw them as dangerous vigilantes needing oversight, while most hailed them as saviors.

One segment even ranked the greatest superheroes. Surprisingly, topping the list was the newly renamed Ghost Rider.

Previously dubbed the laughable "Flaming Skeleton" by the media, the name stuck for months. Fortunately, during a meeting with Nick Fury, Jon had clarified his actual moniker. Fury, understanding the implication, pulled some strings, and soon, the media embraced "Ghost Rider."

Iron Man and Captain America ranked second and third. Despite Cap's iconic status, modern audiences lacked the personal connection of those who lived through WWII. Meanwhile, Ghost Rider's dramatic dragon-riding, alien-annihilating display had captivated the world.

Hearing the news, Annie couldn't suppress a proud smile. Despite her worries, seeing Jon celebrated as a hero filled her with pride.

Meanwhile, Jon was just waking up when a golden portal materialized by his window. Narrowing his eyes, he sensed a dark presence beyond—definitely not a sorcerer from Kamar-Taj.

A pale, somber figure in yellow robes stepped through. Jon recognized him instantly.

Kaecilius.

"The Ancient One's prized disciple, to what do I owe the pleasure?" Jon greeted with a smirk.

"Spare me the sarcasm. I'm here to talk," Kaecilius replied coolly.

"Talk? Heh." Jon's grin widened. "You do realize the Spirit of Vengeance loves nothing more than devouring souls like yours, right? Aren't you worried I might just feed you to Zarathos?"

Kaecilius remained unfazed. "Is this how you intend to live your life? As a puppet to the Spirit of Vengeance?"

Jon sighed dramatically. "Oh no, don't tell me you're about to launch into some melodramatic monologue."

Unperturbed, Kaecilius continued, "I can see you cherish your family. I once had a family too, but they succumbed to illness. Everything fades with time—pain, hatred, even love. Humanity's greatest enemy isn't death. It's time itself."

"Ah, here we go," Jon muttered.

"You may be immune to pain and disease, but your loved ones aren't. Time will eventually claim them. But my master, Dormammu, can free us from time's grip. He offers eternity."

Kaecilius stepped closer, extending his hand. "Join us. Let Dormammu reshape this world, make it eternal."

Jon stepped forward, feigning contemplation. He reached out, clasped Kaecilius' hand… and then yanked him forward, landing a swift kick square to his face.

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