Stephen looked utterly exasperated.
For the first time in his life, someone had called him mentally deficient.
But he had misunderstood. Apocalypse had not meant to insult him.
"The Knowledge Barrier means that everything mortals learn, think, and ponder forms a distinct framework of understanding. That framework helps us make sense of the world. In simpler terms, it's our worldview."
"Precisely because of this, the more we know, the more firmly entrenched that framework becomes. Eventually, it forms a barrier in our minds that actually prevents us from understanding new worlds."
"Stephen, you are extraordinarily gifted, but scientific thinking is deeply ingrained in you. You constantly try to analyze the principles of magic through science, and that keeps you from finding your way in."
"By contrast, Palmer opened her mind, set aside her thoughts and worries, and freely accepted the Ancient One's explanations. That's why she got started before you."
"What you need to do is set aside everything you've learned and thought before, and experience magic purely as a sorcerer."
After listening to Apocalypse, Stephen seemed to grasp something and pondered it intently.
Seeing this, Apocalypse said to the Ancient One, "Why don't we just throw him onto a snowy mountain?"
Behind them stood the Himalayas, along with the world's highest peak, Mount Everest, blanketed in snow year-round and battered by howling winds.
In the original story, Stephen had been taken to a snowy mountain.
Under the threat of freezing to death, he had finally broken through his Knowledge Barrier.
He had focused all his intent and opened a portal.
As they spoke, a sizzling sound rang out.
Stephen successfully traced a ring of golden light.
His face relaxed, and he casually drew a few more. He had clearly figured out the key.
"Thank you."
For once, Stephen thanked