The Ancient One's expression changed, not because Kaecilius posed much of a threat, but because, according to the timeline she had planned, it was time for her to sacrifice herself.
Though The Ancient One stood above worldly concerns, she still could not face death with absolute calm.
Besides, Apocalypse's arrival had disrupted the timeline. The Ancient One vaguely sensed that things might take a turn, and she might not have to die as she had in the original timeline.
Apocalypse looked at the training grounds below the mountain and smiled faintly. "Perfect timing. Stephen, you're up."
The Ancient One said, "Stephen hasn't finished his training."
"No! He's ready."
Over the past few days, Stephen had developed magical power and entered the Mirror Dimension.
He had learned everything he needed to know; he simply wasn't proficient enough yet.
Even when it came to magical theory, Apocalypse's frequent trips to the library had stirred Stephen's competitive spirit. I'm an academic ace. There's no way I'd lose to you at reading, too.
As a result, he had read more texts and learned more theory than he originally would have.
He had even received Apocalypse's guidance on many things he did not understand.
He might not have been a fully fledged sorcerer yet, but he was certainly stronger than he had been in the original story.
Apocalypse continued, "With Stephen's potential, combat is the best place for him to grow."
The Ancient One glanced at Stephen and sighed. "All right."
As she spoke, she removed a pendant from her neck and personally put it around Stephen's.
"Stephen, I'm leaving the future in your hands."
The pendant's exterior was a ring of intricate, ancient-looking filigree. Several horizontal strands of gold formed an openwork frame, enclosing a gem that glowed green.
It was the Eye of