Kamar-Taj was sacred ground to countless mages across the entire Marvel Cinematic Universe, for it was home to the one they all believed in.
The protector of mages—the Sorcerer Supreme, the Ancient One.
The local Secret Mages of Kamar-Taj, however, had no idea just how formidable the Ancient One was. They only knew that, after a harmonious discussion with the Vishanti,
the Vishanti had decided to stop lending them power. Naturally, that meant they were free of its constraints as well.
The mages of Kamar-Taj sighed in admiration. The Vishanti was good; they hoped goodness would keep the Vishanti safe for life.
"Grandmaster." A bearded man sat before the Ancient One and addressed her respectfully.
This was Stephen Strange. People knew him better by another name.
Doctor Strange.
"Strange." The Ancient One looked as radiant as ever.
"From now on, you will be the Sorcerer Supreme," she said, smiling at her successor.
She was pleased with Doctor Strange as her heir. Across many Timelines, he had done well.
By now, the reason she had chosen Strange was no longer his considerable talent.
The Ancient One had never chosen successors for their talent. She had no requirements on that front.
Even Tony Stark could become the Sorcerer Supreme under her tutelage, if she wished it.
"Grandmaster, I don't know if I can shoulder that responsibility."
Doctor Strange was taken aback. After all the care she had put into training him, and from things he had heard his fellow mages say, he had begun to suspect this might happen.
Still, Different Doctor could not understand it. Kaecilius was talented too, and Mordo had been at the Ancient One's side for years.
Why had she chosen him?
"Time will prove everything." The Ancient One smiled. Strange felt something Different stir at those words.