John watched the Guardian go from wary to calm, then finally to respectful.
The Guardian was now bringing John a pot of tea brewed with Eastern Tea.
Seeing how respectful the Guardian had become, John could only conclude that even sorcerers needed social graces.
The Ancient One appeared at the London Sanctum.
"Sorcerer Supreme." The Guardian bowed respectfully.
The Ancient One smiled when she saw John. "I hope you've been comfortable here, Wizard King."
"I've had no complaints," John said with a light chuckle. "It has certainly been an eye-opening experience."
"The Sanctums do more than protect this world. They also store artifacts passed down through the generations."
The two sat facing each other.
Seeing this, the Guardian grew even more respectful.
"An artifact that never gets used loses its original purpose." John lifted the small Eastern teacup and took a sip.
"You're right," The Ancient One said without arguing. "But not everyone can control that power."
The Guardian stepped back behind the Ancient One.
"These artifacts also provide us with a barrier to protect the world." The Ancient One beckoned, and a small fan flew into her hand.
She opened it and fanned herself gently.
John stroked his ring and smiled. "I'm rather curious. The outer dimensions covet this world, so why haven't you considered destroying them?"
His gaze deepened as he said calmly, "That would solve the problem once and for all, wouldn't it?"
The Guardian's expression shifted slightly. He scoffed inwardly at John's words, but out of respect for the Ancient One, he said nothing.
The Ancient One paused at John's remark. "They are very powerful."
"The existence of those dimensions is part of how this world functions."
"I would like to know what you experienced in Hell, Wizard King," The Ancient One asked earnestly. "I can