"You know me? Of course, you should know me."
Leon looked at the big bald man before him. Assessment complete: the hairstyle of a powerhouse.
"What I mean is, you don't seem like the hospitable type, yet today you picked me up and served me tea. I'm truly flattered."
"You're not planning to ask me for some favor, are you?"
Leon thought of a certain World Consciousness that had wagged its tail and fawned over him.
He took a sip of tea. "Honey tea? It tastes pretty good."
With a turn of her finger, The Ancient One automatically refilled Leon's teacup.
"If you like it, drink more. We have plenty here."
"You needn't feel restrained or suspicious. I ask nothing of you."
"This is simply how Kamar-Taj treats honored guests. We welcome them and treat them with courtesy. Strange will be treated the same when he comes."
Leon raised a brow. "That's not right. When an atheist like him comes, you'll definitely have to give him a show of force first."
The Ancient One smiled. "He'll get tea before the show of force."
Leon nodded. "What about me, then?"
"I thought you would come at an earlier time, Mr. Leon."
The Ancient One's smile remained on her face. "For example, after your eighteenth birthday, or after you returned from space."
"I have been waiting for you for a long time."
"That makes it sound like I stood you up countless times." Leon complained. "But I don't recall ever meeting you or making any arrangement with you."
"We have not met, but Mr. Leon surely knows the phrase 'kindred spirits despite never meeting.'" The Ancient One smiled.
"So we've been friends for a long time?"
"If you wish, we can be."
"The honor is mine. Sorcerer, you should know that I