Chapter 79

As Ethan's mastery of space-time energy grew, each use of the magic circle to travel between planes felt markedly different.

This time, for the first time, he no longer experienced dizziness or discomfort. Instead, he could clearly perceive how the space-time energy activated and sent him to another plane.

The sensation reminded him of riding a fast-moving tram. Apart from a bit of shaking at the start, the entire journey felt remarkably smooth.

Yes, smooth. The "tram" formed by the space-time energy not only traveled steadily but also protected those wrapped inside it. Ethan could sense that, in addition to shielding himself and Arthur, the energy was actively repelling the violent and chaotic forces around them. These forces were so destructive that even brief contact would have been enough to shred them into dust, leaving not even their souls intact.

"No wonder even a powerful mage like Merlin asked me to take Arthur on these interdimensional journeys instead of doing it himself. Plane travel is far too dangerous."

Ethan now understood why the space-time magic circle always forcibly sent him back when there was excess energy left. Most of that energy was dedicated to ensuring their protection during the crossing.

The chaotic turbulence of space-time didn't last long. Almost in the blink of an eye, Ethan passed through the terrifying region. As the teleportation magic circle glowed brightly once more, Ethan realized they had reached their destination.

When the light faded, they were greeted by towering skyscrapers. Ethan and Arthur exchanged glances, quickly deducing they had entered another world with a modern setting—or, for Arthur, one that seemed futuristic.

"What kind of world will it be this time? Another one on the verge of extinction?" Arthur asked casually.

Over time, Arthur had noticed that Ethan seemed unusually well-informed about many worlds. He speculated that Ethan must have collected information during his travels, much like how Arthur had pieced together his own legacy in the Resident Evil World. It was clear Ethan had seen plenty of similar situations.

"We just got here. I'll need time to observe," Ethan replied as he pulled out some clothes from his backpack.

Both Ethan and Arthur had grown more experienced with plane travel. They always packed clothing suitable for different settings, ensuring they wouldn't stand out in a new world. The last thing they wanted was to attract unnecessary attention by wearing something out of place.

Fortunately, Ethan's improved control over space-time energy meant their arrival locations were more precise. While still random, his mental influence ensured they appeared in inconspicuous areas, like the dimly lit alley they now stood in. As long as no one entered the alley, they wouldn't be noticed.

After changing into modern clothes, Arthur covered his longsword with a specially prepared carrying case that made it look like sports equipment. Together, they walked out of the alley, blending in as young men out for a casual stroll.

The streets were bustling with people of all races and backgrounds. From the English signs on the billboards, Ethan quickly deduced that this was likely an English-speaking country.

"It seems we've arrived on Earth," Ethan said, scanning his surroundings.

"I can see that as well," Arthur replied, glancing at the towering buildings. "This wouldn't happen to be that city called New York, would it?"

Arthur had been reading more frequently during their travels. While his knowledge wasn't as vast as Ethan's, he retained what he learned well. From the details he observed, he quickly made the connection.

"Probably," Ethan said thoughtfully.

He walked over to a middle-aged man standing nearby and speaking on the phone. Ethan's goal wasn't the man's phone but rather the newspaper in his hand.

"Excuse me," Ethan said politely, gesturing to the newspaper. "Would you mind if I take a quick look?"

The man was momentarily surprised but, noticing Ethan's clean and polite demeanor, handed over the newspaper with a friendly smile. He even made a quick apologetic gesture to indicate he couldn't talk as he was still on the phone.

Ethan nodded in gratitude, took the newspaper, and scanned through it. After just a few glances, he had all the information he needed.

Returning the paper with a sincere thank-you, Ethan walked back to Arthur.

"Well, I know where we are. It's New York," Ethan confirmed.

"You figured that out just from a newspaper?" Arthur asked, clearly impressed.

Ethan shrugged. "I just happened to spot some familiar information. Lucky coincidence, I guess."

In truth, he did feel it was pure luck. If his stats could be displayed like in a game, his luck value was undoubtedly maxed out.

The newspaper had given Ethan more than just the location and time. The most critical piece of information was about Tony Stark, also known as Iron Man. The paper was filled with debates over whether Stark should hand over his newly developed Iron Armor to the government. With that, Ethan instantly realized which world they were in.

"I didn't expect to be back here so soon," Ethan muttered.

"It's a world you're familiar with?" Arthur asked, catching on quickly.

Ethan nodded. "I've been here before, and someone from this world, a very powerful person helped me a great deal."

The teachings of the Ancient One had helped Ethan through his most difficult times and laid the foundation for his journey as a mage.

Without the Ancient One, perhaps he could have still lived a decent life, but he likely would have walked a completely different path. No one could say what that alternate future might have looked like. Though the road he was on now was challenging, the future seemed full of promise.

"So, we can visit this powerful figure," Arthur suggested.

Arthur didn't object to the idea. In fact, he was curious to meet the Ancient One in person. From Ethan's descriptions, he knew this was a powerful mage and the guardian of this world, responsible for protecting it from the invasion and destruction brought by dark forces from other dimensions. Arthur deeply respected the Ancient One's strength and actions. Missing the chance to meet such a person would indeed be regrettable.

Asking for directions along the way, Ethan and Arthur made slow progress. They didn't carry any money with them, neither here nor in the previous world and hadn't thought to prepare something like cash ahead of time. As a result, taxis and public transportation were out of the question.

Fortunately, both Ethan and Arthur looked presentable and polite, so people were generally willing to help them with directions. After walking for hours and frequently stopping to ask for guidance, they finally reached their destination just before evening.

177A Bleecker Street

Ethan only remembered this address thanks to his memories from his previous life. If his mental power hadn't grown significantly, sharpening his recollection of those memories, he might not have been able to recall it so clearly. Previously, he wouldn't have been able to remember such specific details.

"This is the place?" Arthur asked.

"Right here," Ethan confirmed.

He could sense the presence of special energy fluctuations. Without actively using his mental powers to probe deeper, this place would appear invisible to ordinary people. Most would subconsciously overlook it. Only those with certain sensitivities or abilities could perceive its entrance.

"Let's go in."

Ethan knocked gently on the door, but it was more for show. From the moment he had approached, he felt a subtle sensation of being watched. Clearly, the mages within the temple had detected his presence and were observing him to determine whether he posed a threat.

His polite knock was a gesture to convey respect and reduce any potential hostility. Soon, a dark-skinned mage opened the door. Ethan recognized him as Daniel, though he couldn't directly address him by name since they hadn't interacted during his previous visit.

"Hello, I'm here to see the Ancient One of Kamar-Taj," Ethan said courteously.

"Hello, young man," Daniel replied, his tone neutral. "Are you sure you're in the right place?"

Ethan smiled slightly, sensing the mage was testing him. "I'm absolutely certain. Unless, of course, this isn't the New York Sanctum."

Daniel's expression remained cautious as Ethan added, "You can inform the Ancient One that Ethan, who was once under her care, has come to visit."

Ethan deliberately emphasized the word her to demonstrate his familiarity with the Ancient One. Hearing this, Daniel scrutinized Ethan carefully. To him, Ethan looked like an ordinary young man. However, he wasn't about to drop his guard based on appearances alone.

"You can wait here," Daniel said after a moment. "I'll go confirm with her."

"No problem."

Ethan had expected this. The New York Sanctum was a critical component of the protective barrier shielding Earth from interdimensional threats. If it were compromised, it could spell disaster for the planet. The mages guarding the Sanctum had every reason to be cautious.

Even though Ethan had claimed to know the Ancient One, there was no guarantee that his intentions were friendly. For all they knew, he might have come seeking revenge. Until everything was clarified, Mage Daniel wasn't about to let Ethan step inside. The risk of starting a fight within the Sanctum was far too great.

Fortunately, the Sanctum had a teleportation device, so Daniel didn't need to manually open a portal with a Sling Ring. Within moments, the door opened again.

This time, standing alongside Daniel was none other than the Ancient One, the Sorcerer Supreme of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

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