Ch: 11-20
Chapter 11 Choice, Power, and Price
"Impudent!" Proxima Midnight was the first to snap, her spear pointing directly at Rosen.
"A low-level being who just pledged allegiance, dares to make demands? Father has bestowed grace upon you, you should be on your knees in gratitude!"
Corvus Glaive's gaze also became extremely dangerous, while Ebony Maw narrowed his eyes, calculating something unknown. Black Dwarf let out a threatening growl.
However, facing Proxima Midnight's rebuke and the Black Order's hostility, Rosen was unfazed.
Because at the moment he made his choice, a vast and ancient power began to surge from the deepest parts of his body!
Like a volcano that had slept for billions of years, it began the first pulsation of its awakening!
Although this power, named Eternals Progenitor Power, is currently only partially unsealed and is still gradually adapting to his body, the change has already begun.
With the blessing of the Weapons Master, although he is far from his peak, he has compensated for his shortcomings. Now, if Ebony Maw were to attack him, he is confident he could eliminate him directly.
He could even faintly feel the "Source of Magic" within him resonating and merging wonderfully with this new Eternal power!
"Let him speak."
Thanos raised his hand, stopping the Black Order once more. He was becoming increasingly interested in Rosen.
Rosen met Thanos's gaze and held up one finger:
"First, my status is second only to yours. I speak with you, not take orders from them."
He pointed unceremoniously at the Black Order,
"I am not here to be a subordinate or colleague to these four fools. The value I bring far exceeds their imagination. If you agree, I can immediately demonstrate this value to you, and to certain other fools who are still unconvinced."
"You're asking for death!" Corvus Glaive's scythe hummed, and Proxima Midnight was almost ready to kill. Ebony Maw's face was terrifyingly grim. Black Dwarf was so angry he stomped his feet repeatedly.
Thanos's gaze moved between Rosen and the enraged Black Order, silent for a few seconds, then he slowly said:
"I can grant you the right to speak directly with me, but I will not force them to obey your commands. Status... you need to earn it yourself with your ability and strength, to conquer them."
"My subordinates worship power. If you truly possess value far exceeding theirs, as you claim, then to be above them is a natural outcome."
These words seemed not to fully agree, but in reality, they gave Rosen the maximum room for maneuver—as long as he could prove himself.
Rosen nodded, not surprised by the answer. He held up a second finger:
"Second, when your 'destiny' is finally realized, my sister and I must have immunity. I respect your ideals and execution, but I cannot be as absolutely... selfless as you. Protecting my family is my bottom line."
This time, Thanos did not answer immediately. He fell into genuine thought.
The entire hall was silent. This demand, to some extent, challenged his core principle of "fairness."
After a long while, Thanos spoke again, his voice deep and weighty:
"Rosen, privilege is the greatest desecration of 'fairness.'"
He changed his tone:
"However, I appreciate your honesty and your emphasis on family. This shows me that you are not a cold, unfeeling 'prophet' without weaknesses, but a flesh-and-blood collaborator."
"Therefore, I can consider your second request, but not unconditionally. This depends on your contribution. If the power and value you contribute during the collection of the Infinity Stones can accelerate my progress by more than half, then I can make an exception and grant you and your sister... the sole immunity."
This was a very harsh condition, but it also left clear hope and room for negotiation.
Rosen barely hesitated, a confident smile appearing on his face.
"Very fair. Then, a pleasure working with you, Thanos."
He took a step forward, and the partially awakened Eternals Progenitor Power within him subtly surged, causing a delicate change in his entire demeanor, as if an ancient divine weapon was slowly being drawn from its sheath.
"Now, perhaps I can pay a small... 'deposit' first."
His gaze fell upon Ebony Maw and Corvus Glaive, whose expressions were the most unpleasant.
Before Thanos's throne, the atmosphere tightened again due to the "deposit" Rosen was about to pay.
"Very good." Thanos accepted Rosen's confidence.
"Then, tell me, what is your first objective? How will you demonstrate the 'value' you spoke of, which can accelerate my progress?"
Rosen did not hesitate in the slightest, his gaze seemingly piercing through the hull of Sanctuary I, directly locking onto that azure Planet.
"The first objective, naturally, is the biggest obstacle in the way of your 'destiny'—Kamar-Taj and Sorcerer Supreme Gu Yi." His voice was steady and firm.
"Only by dealing with her first and acquiring the Time Stone can your plan proceed unhindered."
This objective was within the expectations of Thanos and the Black Order Generals, but they wanted to hear the specific plan.
"Ebony Maw's original plan was correct in direction, but it would take too long and the method was too clumsy."
Rosen commented unceremoniously, causing a cold glint to flash in Ebony Maw's eyes.
"My plan is more direct and efficient. I will return to Earth and personally 'visit' Kamar-Taj. And what I need,"
Rosen looked at Thanos, "is temporary command of your forces during the operation, and... a little cooperation."
Thanos pondered for a moment, then waved his large hand:
"Very well. During this operation against Kamar-Taj, the Black Order and their associated troops will temporarily be at Rosen's disposal."
At these words, Corvus Glaive, Proxima Midnight, and the others looked even more displeased, but they could not defy Thanos's direct order.
Thanos's gaze swept over the Black Order, finally resting on Rosen, his voice carrying a final warning:
"But if your plan fails, or is proven worthless... then they will have the right to 'dispose' of you in any way they desire. I look forward to your performance, Rosen."
"You won't be disappointed." Rosen nodded slightly, but sneered inwardly. Dispose of me?
Perfect, I'm also planning how to backstab you and that big purple sweet potato together.
With the help of the Sanctuary's teleportation technology, Ebony Maw, very reluctantly, and Rosenwere quickly sent back to Earth, their location precisely in an alley near NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital.
He felt the surging power within him, his confidence greater than ever before.
He quickly walked towards the hospital, calculating the time; his sister's surgery should have already finished.
Indeed, when he arrived outside the operating room, the indicator light had just turned off. Soon after, the attending Doctor, Stephen Strange, emerged, looking tired but satisfied.
Chapter 12 Now, you are the challenger!
"The surgery was a success," Strange said concisely.
"The tumor was completely removed. As long as she rests well and has regular follow-ups, she has a very high chance of making a full recovery."
The most important string in Rosen's heart, which had been taut, finally relaxed. Immense joy surged through him.
However, before he could go to the ward to visit his sister—
"Don't move! S.H.I.E.L.D.!"
"Hands up, Rosen!"
Large groups of Agents in black tactical suits, armed with firearms, instantly swarmed in from both ends of the corridor, trapping him firmly in the middle!
Leading them were Captain America Steve Rogers, whose face was ashen, and Black Widow Natasha Romanoff, with her sharp eyes. Hawkeye Clint Barton had drawn his bowstring from a vantage point in the distance.
"Rosen, you are suspected of stealing top national secret items and a major bank robbery. Immediately hand over the stolen goods, surrender, and come back with us!" Captain America shouted sternly, holding his shield.
By tracking Rosen's sister, they had finally cornered him here.
The hospital immediately plunged into panic, with patients and medical staff screaming in terror and fleeing.
Rosen's eyes instantly turned cold. The worst situation he had feared had still happened; S.H.I.E.L.D.had indeed found this place, and they completely disregarded the fact that it was a hospital.
And his sister had just undergone surgery!
"Steve Rogers," Rosen's voice was like ice, "Take your people and get out of here immediately. I don't want to fight in a place where my sister is recuperating."
"That's not up to you!" Captain America roared, giving the order without hesitation, "Seize him!"
Bang! Bang! Bang!
The Agents opened fire first, bullets whistling towards Rosen! They completely disregarded that this was a hospital, and stray bullets could easily injure innocent people!
An ironic scene unfolded: S.H.I.E.L.D., representing "justice," used firearms and explosives, firing indiscriminately in the hospital corridor, completely disregarding the lives of others.
Meanwhile, Rosen, labeled a "criminal," had to dodge and defend while protecting his sister, who had just had surgery in the ward behind him, and holding onto that glimmer of a bottom line that had not yet been extinguished—
With a thought, Matter Transfer activated!
Several hospital beds, caught by stray bullets and about to tip over, were instantly moved away by him;
A terrified little girl was shielded by an empty trash can he had transferred over, blocking the flying debris;
Even a stun grenade thrown by an Agent was directly transferred by him to an unmanned fire hydrant cabinet at the end of the corridor, where it exploded!
While protecting himself, he even "casually" saved many innocent people!
This scene caused many of the Agents who were firing to pause for a moment.
Captain America also noticed this, his face growing even uglier, but he still gritted his teeth and charged forward, throwing his shield violently at Rosen!
"Your little tricks end here!"
Rosen watched the Vibranium shield whistling towards him, not even dodging.
He simply raised his hand.
Buzz!
An invisible, powerful force (driven by the power of the Eternal) instantly enveloped the shield, making it stop abruptly, like an insect trapped in amber, less than ten centimeters from Rosen's face, and then... it clattered to the ground.
Catching a shield barehanded?! No, it was "stopping" a shield barehanded!
Everyone who saw this scene, including Captain America and Black Widow, widened their eyes in shock! How was this possible?!
Hawkeye reported urgently over the comms channel:
"Officer! Target intelligence is incorrect; his abilities far exceed what was reported! The target can even stop Captain's shield barehanded! Repeat, he can stop the Vibranium shield barehanded! Requesting instructions!"
Nick Fury, far away in the central conference room, heard the report and his single eye narrowed sharply, but he immediately issued a cold command:
"No matter what ability he uses! Priority objective: retrieve the Tesseract! If necessary... extreme measures can be taken!"
With the order, S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents' attacks became even more ferocious.
Rosen finally lost his last shred of patience.
"Since you are seeking death..."
His eyes sharpened, and the power of the Eternal progenitor within him erupted! He didn't even use the skills of a Weapons Master, relying solely on pure strength, speed, and energy manipulation!
Bang!
He vanished from his spot like a ghost, appearing before Captain America the next second, unleashing a punch!
Captain America only had time to cross his arms to block before he felt an irresistible force, and his entire body was sent flying backward as if hit by a truck, smashing through the wall at the end of the corridor!
Natasha's stun batons poked him, sparks flying, but he felt nothing. With a backhand swing, a surge of energy shockwave sent her flying!
Hawkeye's specialized explosive arrow flew towards him, only to be directly Matter Transferred back into Hawkeye's quiver, scaring Hawkeye into scrambling away from his spot.
He was like a tiger in a flock of sheep; wherever he went, Agents were sent sprawling, firearms were easily twisted into pretzels, and attacks were casually batted away.
Even though he controlled his strength and didn't kill, the combat power he displayed was utterly overwhelming to everyone!
In just a dozen seconds, the only one left standing in the corridor was Rosen.
He walked up to Captain America, who was struggling to get up, looked down at him, his voice filled with cold sarcasm:
"Look, the great Captain America. Is this the organization you pledge allegiance to? In a hospital full of patients and Doctors, indiscriminately firing guns, causing explosions, completely disregarding the lives of any innocent people."
"And the 'criminal,' the 'traitor' you speak of, is protecting these people."
"Tell me, Steve Rogers, who exactly does the 'justice' you uphold protect? And who, is more like a true monster?"
Captain America lay on the ground, looking at the chaotic corridor and the terrified faces, listening to Rosen's questions, his face pale, unable to say a word.
Rosen no longer looked at him, turning to walk towards his sister's ward.
Just as Rosen was about to leave this mess with his newly awakened and still very weak sister, a unique metallic clanging sound came from the other end of the hospital corridor.
Immediately after, a golden-red, highly futuristic suit of armor landed with a crash, its faceplate lifting to reveal Tony Stark's face, always bearing a cynical expression.
"Hey! Wait, Mr. 'Jesus,'" Tony's tone was as flippant as ever, but the pulse cannon in the palm of his armored hand was already glowing with stored energy,
"You think you can just leave after messing with these civil servants? I'm afraid it's not that easy. You'd better behave, or I won't be as 'polite' as them."
He had clearly just arrived and only saw Rosen finishing off the S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents and preparing to leave; he had not seen the entire process.
Rosen stopped, but did not turn around, nor did he offer any explanation.
He merely turned slightly, fully displaying the scene behind him to Tony Stark.
What met Tony's eyes was a highly impactful image:
On both sides of the corridor were S.H.I.E.L.D. Agents in black tactical suits, groaning in pain on the ground, along with explosion-blackened walls and scattered weapon fragments.
On the other side, numerous medical staff and patients in light blue hospital gowns and white uniforms instinctively gathered behind Rosen.
As if only this gray figure, who had just caused the "chaos," could bring them a sense of security.
Rosen himself was dressed in a gray casual outfit, perfectly becoming the transitional color in this stark black and white, contrasting scene.
Black and white, destruction and rescue, attack and protection... All contradictory images were strangely and harmoniously unified in this corridor at this moment.
Chapter 13 Purple Potato Spirit You Are a Good Person
Tony Stark's prepared quip instantly caught in his throat.
The usual cynical look in his eyes was once again replaced by astonishment and… a hint of bewilderment.
The scene before him reminded him of the dark cave he was in before he became Iron Man… He was a genius, a scientist, and the sight before him was completely different from the 'evil criminal resisting arrest' script he had anticipated.
The line between good and evil blurred before him once more; if good and evil could be arbitrarily defined by people, then did they still hold any inherent meaning?
But he quickly shook his head, forcing his attention back to the mission itself.
He pointed to the disheveled Captain America and Black Widow on the ground, his tone becoming slightly more serious: "Alright, the scene is a bit… unique. I admit, these S.H.I.E.L.D. people sometimes act like brainless rhinos. But—"
He changed the subject, his gaze fixed on Rosen: "They weren't wrong about one thing. You, and those… 'little magic tricks' you possess, are too dangerous. I can't let you just leave with them."
Upon hearing this, Rosen not only didn't get angry, but instead showed an extremely complex expression on his face.
Tony Stark,
It was no longer mockery, nor anger, but a… deep pity, as if he was witnessing some great tragedy unfolding but was powerless to stop it.
He turned his head, looking directly at Tony Stark for the first time, his gaze seemingly piercing through the Mark armor, directly seeing the anxious, insomniac soul inside, hiding his inner trauma with cynicism.
"Tony Stark…" Rosen's voice was soft, yet carried a strange penetrating power, striking directly at Tony's heart, "A… pitiful wretch who numbs himself with alcohol, parties, and countless women."
Tony's expression instantly froze, but quickly recovered.
"Kid, I admit your mouth really annoys me a bit, so are you ready for the playboy's wrath now?"
Seeing Tony's somewhat exasperated look, Rosen didn't care, because he hadn't finished speaking… Soon he dropped the second, and even more powerful, bombshell:
"Instead of worrying about my danger for S.H.I.E.L.D.…"
"Why don't you first use your self-proclaimed genius brain to think carefully, to investigate… that the Death reports and investigation conclusions for your parents were all issued by S.H.I.E.L.D.?"
"But your father, Howard Stark, and your mother, Maria Stark…"
"Did they really die in an ordinary 'car accident' back then?"
"An ordinary car accident took away one of the SSR's leaders, one of S.H.I.E.L.D.'s founders, a pillar of national security during a special period in the United States… And you… clever Tony, did you really believe it?"
Boom!!!
These words, like the most violent thunder, exploded directly in Tony Stark's mind!
His parents' car accident was an eternal pain and regret in his heart; he had never doubted the authenticity of that accident!
He developed various eccentricities because of it, and his frantic progress was only to conceal his inner fragility… But Rosen's words, like the most malicious curse, and also like the most crucial key, instantly opened the dark abyss of possibilities he had never dared to imagine deeply!
His face instantly turned ashen, and his body even swayed slightly; if he weren't in the armor, he would have almost lost his footing.
His mind was in chaos, countless overlooked details, his father's complex relationship with S.H.I.E.L.D.… various fragmented pieces of information surged forth wildly but couldn't be pieced together.
"You… you're talking nonsense… you…" Tony opened his mouth, but found he couldn't organize any effective words to refute.
A huge shock and doubt engulfed him like a tide.
Rosen no longer looked at him, nor at the S.H.I.E.L.D. personnel on the ground, all with varying expressions.
He carefully picked up his weak sister, enveloping her with a gentle energy, isolating her from the outside noise and vibrations.
Then, under the gaze of everyone, whether shocked, fearful, or bewildered, he walked step by step, calmly leaving the smoke-filled hospital corridor.
Leaving behind only an Iron Man completely stunned by the heart-piercing words, and a ground full of S.H.I.E.L.D. remnants.
Rosen's final words were like a depth charge dropped into a calm lake; the surface ripples might quickly disappear, but the deep Impact would undoubtedly completely change the course of many things.
Sanctuary I, within the magnificent and cold bridge.
Rosen carefully held his sister Luo Xi, who had just undergone a major surgery and was still in a coma, and appeared before Thanos's throne.
The gazes of the Black Order instantly focused, carrying various complex emotions—hostility, curiosity, and a hint of imperceptible apprehension.
Thanos's gaze also fell on the little girl in Rosen's arms, her frail, pale, yet somewhat vibrant little face seemed to overlap with the vanished tender faces from Titan in his memory.
"Thanos," Rosen began, his voice calm yet unusually firm, "During my plan against Kamar-Taj, I hope my sister can stay on Sanctuary I, by your side."
At these words, even Ebony Maw showed a surprised expression.
To voluntarily send one's only weakness and closest relative to the Universe's overlord, known for his ruthlessness? What kind of move was this?
A hint of surprise also flashed in Thanos's eyes, but he didn't answer immediately, seemingly scrutinizing Rosen's true intentions.
Rosen met Thanos's gaze and continued:
"I know this sounds incredible. But putting aside your 'randomly eliminate half of all life' Universe-level psychopath notion…"
He actually used the word "psychopath" directly, causing Corvus Glaive's scythe to hum.
"…in terms of worldly meaning and personal promises and principles, you are indeed a… good guy." Rosen's tone was sincere,
"You are powerful enough not to resort to petty schemes, you value promises and deals, and you even don't abuse captives. Entrusting my sister to your protection is far safer than leaving her on Earth to face endless harassment and potential threats from my enemies."
This evaluation was practically a… bizarre compliment to Thanos's character. The expressions of the Black Order became quite wonderful.
After listening, a strange, unidentifiable smile, whether appreciative or mocking, appeared on Thanos's rock-like face.
"Interesting trust, Rosen. Alright, I agree. During your mission, she will receive the best care and security here. I swear by 'Destiny'."
Thanos pledged in a deep voice. For him, this was indeed just an insignificant trifle, but it could exchange for Rosen's more focused service.
And, it brought him a peculiar sense of… identification.
"Thank you." Rosen gently placed his sister on a soft, energy-suspended platform created by Ebony Maw's telekinesis.
Just then, a Chitauri communications officer hurried over, respectfully reporting to Thanos and Ebony Maw:
Chapter 14: Anticipating the Enemy, Undercurrents in Kamar-Taj
"Great Thanos, My Lord. The situation you instructed us to monitor in that Earth region has occurred. Someone dressed as a magic user has gone to the cemetery."
Thanos heard this and looked at Rosen again: "When did you give the order to monitor this person?" He was sure that Rosen had just returned and had not contacted any of his subordinates.
Seeing Thanos's confusion, Rosen's face showed a profound expression.
"I told you, I knew from the beginning," his voice was calm but full of power,
"From the moment I stepped onto Sanctuary I, or rather, from the moment 'Rosen' gazed upon this tributary of fate, the necessary pieces had already begun to move. Monitoring an Earth magic user whose heart is full of pain and a craving for power is merely the most trivial step."
Ebony Maw's pupils contracted again; he realized he might have severely underestimated this human's methods and strategic capabilities.
Thanos nodded, no longer pressing the matter. Whether it was foresight or prior planning, it proved Rosen's value... Earth, New York, deep within the Kamar-Taj Sanctum library.
Kaecilius's fingers trembled as he caressed an ancient, heavy tome with a cover made of some dark metal.
The pages recorded bizarre symbols and texts, describing a place called the "Dark Dimension," where there was no time, no Death, possessing infinite energy and... Eternal life.
His breathing became rapid.
Eternal life! Freedom from the shackles of time! This was precisely the power he yearned for!
Years ago, he lost his beloved wife and young child, and the immense pain almost destroyed him.
It was Sorcerer Ancient One who found him, showed him the miracles of magic, and promised that Kamar-Taj's power could help him forget his pain and find new meaning.
He believed, he came, he studied diligently, and became one of the chief disciples.
However, the pain never truly disappeared; it was merely suppressed. He craved greater power, not to guard some Sanctum, but to fill the void in his heart, and even... reverse that damned fate!
Yet, when he hopefully tried to borrow these more profound books, which might contain the answers he craved, Sorcerer Ancient One strictly forbade it.
"This knowledge is too dangerous, Kaecilius. It leads not to truth, but to corruption and destruction." Ancient One's gaze was calm, yet carried an undeniable sternness.
Another prohibition! Another restriction!
A strong surge of resentment and injustice welled up in Kaecilius's heart.
You promised to save me from suffering, and now that I've found a method that might truly end the pain, you've closed the door again!
Why? Why, when the solution is right before my eyes, do you tell me it's forbidden?
Hypocrisy!
His gaze grew even more fervent and obsessive, fixed on that dark grimoire.
"If the orthodox path cannot give me answers..." a voice whispered madly within him,
"Then... what about the power of corruption?"
The seed of hatred had long been sown.
Inside the Kamar-Taj library, Sorcerer Ancient One's refusal was like ice water, extinguishing the spark of hope that had just ignited in Kaecilius's eyes.
Why? Why do those with power always so easily deny others the path to salvation?
Just then, a steady hand rested on his shoulder. It was Mordo.
"Kaecilius," Mordo's voice was as serious as ever, yet carried a hint of comradely comfort,
"The mentor is right. The power of these texts originates from the Dark Dimension, and Dormammu's whispers are pervasive. A slight misstep, and one will be ensnared and irrevocably lost. She forbids us from touching them to protect us."
Protect? Kaecilius sneered inwardly. Protect us to live forever in pain and powerlessness?
But he did not voice his indignation, merely remained silent for a moment, forcing a tired and despondent expression onto his face. He gently pushed Mordo's hand away and whispered:
"I understand... It's just... I need some time. I want to leave the Sanctum for a while, to... pay my respects to my wife and child."
Mordo looked at the unconcealed sorrow in his companion's eyes and nodded understandingly. He believed this was merely Kaecilius needing an emotional outlet.
"A change of scenery is good. Remember to return on time for evening meditation."
Kaecilius said no more, simply left the library in silence and walked out the gates of the New York Sanctum.
He did not know that the moment he stepped out of the Sanctum's protective barrier, his every move was already firmly locked onto by powerful technology (and certain magic-side monitoring methods) from beyond the stars.
On the screen of Sanctuary I, Kaecilius's figure, head bowed, merging into the New York street crowd, was clearly displayed.
"Target has left the sanctuary. Emotional state is clearly low," the Chitauri analyst reported coldly.
Beside the throne, Rosen's lips curved into a slight smile, as if everything was under his control.
Thanos's gaze swept across the screen, then landed on Rosen again:
"Your 'prophet' always precisely finds these vulnerable points."
"Because pain and desire are among the most powerful driving forces in the Universe," Rosen replied calmly,
"Ebony Maw, we should depart. It's time to deliver some... 'care'."
Although Ebony Maw was extremely reluctant to obey Rosen's command, Thanos's will could not be defied. He elegantly (and impatiently) waved a hand, and a spatial portal quietly opened on the bridge, leading to a predetermined coordinate in New York, Earth...
On the outskirts of New York, a quiet cemetery permeated with an air of sadness.
Kaecilius stood alone before two simple, side-by-side gravestones. Engraved on them were the names of his beloved wife and innocent child, the cold stone silently recounting how warm times had been crushed by cruel fate.
He reached out, his hand trembling as he caressed the cold engravings on the headstone, the immense pain and powerlessness almost consuming him again.
He closed his eyes, his mind filled with Ancient One's calm yet incredibly indifferent face when she refused him.
Why... why, with such power, would she refuse to offer help? Even if it was just a glimmer of hope...
Just as he was immersed in boundless despair and resentment, a calm voice, yet one that seemed to pierce directly into his soul, drifted from not far behind him:
"The suffering of mortals is always so similar. Small, fleeting, yet capable of so utterly destroying a powerful soul."
Kaecilius was startled, instantly turning like a frightened Beast, the magic energy he had cultivated instinctively converging as he vigilantly looked at the newcomers.
At the cemetery entrance, two people had appeared at some unknown time.
The one in front was a black-haired youth, dressed in simple gray clothes, with no obvious energy fluctuations about him, yet he gave off a profound feeling. His eyes were terrifyingly calm, as if he could see through everything.
Half a step behind him stood a tall, thin alien with grayish-white skin, dressed in elegant robes, hovering a few inches off the ground, with a condescending, scrutinizing expression, as if observing a laboratory mouse.
These two were completely out of place in the quiet, sorrowful cemetery environment, exuding an extremely dangerous aura.
Chapter 15 "Lady Death"
"Who are you?!" Kaecilius shrieked, the Sparkling Rings of Raggadorr already forming in his hands.
Ebony Maw looked at Kaecilius's magic with some disdain; he still didn't understand why 'Father' was so wary of the weak Midgardians.
"Go away!" Kaecilius's voice was hoarse and full of hostility.
"I don't need strangers here, and I certainly don't need alien monsters! I need quiet!"
The Sparkling Rings of Raggadorr in his hands did not dissipate; instead, they grew brighter, reflecting his inner vigilance and unease.
Rosen was indifferent to his hostility. He slowly stepped forward, not approaching Kaecilius, but walking towards the two tombstones side by side.
He carefully placed the unique lotus flower in his hand, with its petals layered like a pagoda, gently before the graves.
"This kind of flower, in my homeland," Rosen's voice was calm and clear, as if chatting with an old friend, "is called the 'Lotus of Rebirth'. It symbolizes the cycle and endlessness of life. Placing it here might be more fitting than cold stone."
He turned around and looked at the still-vigilant Kaecilius, his gaze seemingly penetrating his forced strength, reaching his broken heart.
"Moreover, I think what you need more than absolute quiet right now is a way to hear the lively voices of your wife and child again."
Kaecilius's pupils constricted, and he sharply demanded, "How do you know about me?!"
He believed that his past was not widely known even in Kamar-Taj.
Rosen tilted his head slightly, his tone flat with a sense of the obvious: "Most people who come to this cemetery, nine out of ten, share similar thoughts to yours — a longing to see the departed again, to hear their voices one more time. It's just that..."
He paused, his gaze sweeping across the graveyard: "They... can't do it."
"Hmph," Kaecilius sneered mockingly, the magic rings in his hands dissipated a little, but his hostility remained undiminished, "Judging by your tone, do you think you can do it? With just you and that freak behind you? Do you know where I come from? What Kamar-Taj can't do, meddling with life and Death, will only lead to terrible consequences!"
"Poor man," Rosen shook his head gently, a look of almost compassionate tolerance on his face, "Your vision limits your height. Perhaps in your eyes, Kamar-Taj and Sorcerer Ancient One are already the pinnacle of magic power on Earth, formidable existences."
His voice raised slightly: "But when you cast your gaze upon this vast Universe, you will find that Kamar-Taj... is merely a slightly brighter speck of dust. The boundary between life and Death, in the face of true cosmic power, is not an insurmountable chasm."
Even Ebony Maw couldn't help but glance sideways upon hearing this. Did this kid really know what he was saying?
Midgardians were indeed weak, but reviving the dead was a power no one mastered, even in the Universe. Anywhere, this was a power that could drive countless people mad.
Kaecilius was stunned by these words. The other party's tone was too grand, yet he couldn't help but want to believe... because this was his only hope.
He stared intently at Rosen: "You... who exactly are you? Where are you from? What is your purpose in seeking me out?"
Rosen smiled, his smile profound and enigmatic: "Who I am, or where I'm from, isn't important. You only need to know that I do have something I need you to do. But before that..."
His gaze once again fell upon the two graves, his tone becoming peculiar: "I think you need to have a good 'chat' with your wife and child first."
As soon as he finished speaking, Rosen suddenly said to Ebony Maw behind him, "Cover your ears."
Ebony Maw frowned tightly, his gaunt face filled with absurdity. He floated there motionless.
It was already difficult to make him obey orders; he couldn't be bothered with such a childish command.
Rosen glanced at him, not forcing it, just adding faintly to Kaecilius: "You too."
After all, he had given the warning; if someone insisted on courting Death, he couldn't stop them, could he?
Because what he was about to do next, even he found exciting.
Rosen made a move that neither Kaecilius nor Ebony Maw expected — he reached out and gently crushed the flower.
The moment the petals shattered, they danced around Rosen's fingers as if alive.
At the same time, Rosen's consciousness sank into his mind.
[Investigation Skill — Activate! Target: 'Death' concept!]
Instantly, his vision underwent a drastic change!
Before him was no longer the graveyard; countless streams of information surged through his sea of consciousness like a rushing river!
Rules, definitions, symbols, authority, incarnations of "Death"... countless incomprehensible cosmic truths and information flashed frantically!
This almost exceeded his current limit of endurance; his head felt like it was about to explode! But the Eternals Progenitor Power and the Source of Magic (∞) provided powerful support, and the Investigation Skill operated frantically, sifting and analyzing the vast information!
Finally, deep within that endless torrent of information, he captured a unique, true name representing the primordial source of the Universe's Death rule!
The true name of an unimaginably powerful cosmic entity that commanded the ultimate end of all life!
Rosen suddenly opened his eyes, and cold stars seemed to be born and die in the depths of his pupils.
He ignored the headache that threatened to split his head open from information overload, concentrated the Eternals Progenitor Power and vast magic he had just acquired, and directed it towards the graveyard area enveloped by the refined fragments, softly, yet incredibly clearly—
He chanted that true name!
Time seemed to stop flowing.
The sadness pervading the graveyard, Kaecilius's despair, Ebony Maw's shock... all worldly emotions were covered by a higher-dimensional, cold and absolute "presence."
There were no Earth-shattering phenomena, but in Rosen's perception, an "intention" that could not be described by shape, size, or color, quietly "watched" across endless dimensions and time.
An ethereal and indifferent voice, as if formed by the sighs of countless lives ending, resonated directly in the depths of Rosen's soul:
"An... interesting summons. An existence not chosen by me as a spokesperson, nor an ancient of the Universe... yet able to know my true name?"
The "voice" carried a hint of pure curiosity.
"Hmm? The essence of a human soul... yet carrying a nearly infinite Source of Magic? Interesting. Are you a newly born Dimensional Demon Gods? No... a Dimensional Demon Gods's infinite magic is confined to its own dimension; your kind of 'infinity'... is more fundamental, more like... a rule itself?"
Lady Death's whispers seemed to dissect Rosen's existence layer by layer.
Chapter 16 "Loyalty"!
"And this body's foundation… it's like it was created by those gardeners (Celestials)… but it seems even more… primitive? Pure? Logically, your branch should have long since become dormant or mutated…"
Her curiosity seemed to be thoroughly piqued.
"How interesting. I… can't remember how long it's been since I encountered such a contradictory aggregate as you. Host (human), demon god, deviant (Eternal)… What exactly are you?"
Lady Death's curiosity, like cold spider silk, wrapped around Rosen's soul, making him feel a shiver and… a sense of helplessness stemming from the primal instincts of life.
'Hiss, it seems I've overplayed my hand a bit.'
His original plan was simple: representing Thanos, to pre-announce the "great achievement" of "eliminating half of all life" as a "gift" to please Lady Death, to see if he could achieve some deals or gain certain conveniences through it.
Even if it failed, at most he would just siphon some dark energy from Dormammu; what he needed was the attribute of dark energy, he could provide the energy needed for resurrection.
He never expected that the [Investigation Skill], combined with the [Eternals Progenitor Power] and the [Source of Magic], would be excessively effective!
It directly glimpsed the deepest true name, so much so that what was summoned was not a bit of feedback from the Death rule, but the… attention of this supreme cosmic entity itself!
Being targeted by Death itself, this was definitely not good news!
Who knew what form this big shot's "interest" would take? Perhaps in the next second, she would decide he was "more interesting dead" and just take him away!
Though Rosen's scalp tingled, he still forced himself to steady his mind and responded on a soul level (attempting to steer the conversation back to the planned track):
"Respected Lady Death, I did not intend to offend. My knowledge of your true name stems from a glimpse of fate. I greet you on behalf of Thanos and the 'destiny' he is dedicated to—balancing life in the Universe."
"We plan to offer the end of half the life in the entire Universe as a gift to you; it will be his… and my, most supreme offering to your authority."
Sweet potato spirit, you are a good person, this pot is too big, you bear it well.
She carefully bound Thanos and herself together, hoping to divert some attention.
"Thanos? That purple-skinned, paranoid little Titan?" Lady Death's voice betrayed no emotion, only an indifference like one discussing ants.
"His 'gift' is noisy, full of personal foolish obsessions, and nothing to write home about."
Her words showed little regard for Thanos.
But then, her tone seemed to shift back to Rosen: "However, you… are far more interesting than him. Your 'gift,' I have received — namely, the amusement you provided me."
As soon as her voice fell.
Without any warning, a ripple spread across the ground in front of Kaecilius's wife and child's tomb, like subtle undulations on water.
There was no dazzling light, no energy explosion, no fancy special effects whatsoever.
On the tomb, two translucent, softly glowing spiritual bodies slowly "floated" up from the grave, as if by nature.
Their forms gradually solidified, and they were none other than Kaecilius's wife and child, whom he longed for day and night!
Their eyes were a little dazed, as if they had just woken from a long sleep, but soon, their gaze focused on Kaecilius, who was kneeling on the ground, dumbfounded and trembling all over.
"Kaeci…lius?" His wife's spirit emitted a faint but clear voice, filled with tenderness and confusion.
"Father!" The child's spirit called out joyfully.
Thud!
Kaecilius collapsed as if all his bones had been removed, tears streaming down his face. He reached out, futilely trying to embrace his longed-for loved ones, guttural, broken syllables escaping his throat. The immense happiness and shock almost made him faint.
Lady Death's ethereal voice once again echoed in Rosen's soul, carrying an elusive meaning:
"This little gift is for you. Let me see how many more… 'interesting' things you, little one, can bring."
"Also, that life form beside you has overstepped. On your account, I'll give him a slight punishment. I hope this small punishment will teach him a lesson."
With that, the all-encompassing, supreme "presence" receded like a tide, as if it had never appeared.
The graveyard returned to "normal," with only the two revived, still somewhat bewildered spiritual bodies, proving that everything that had just happened was not an illusion.
Rosen stood rooted to the spot, a cold sweat breaking out on his back.
Lady Death's "enthusiasm" and this "gift" brought him no joy at all; instead, his scalp tingled.
Being targeted by this supreme cosmic God and actively given a "gift"… this blessing (or rather, "misfortune"?) was truly not something an ordinary person could bear!
Was this an opportunity, or a Death warrant?
But no matter what, looking at Kaecilius, who was almost fainting from happiness, he knew the plan had succeeded, even exceeding expectations.
However, he felt no relief in his heart; instead, a deeper shadow had fallen over it.
Whether being favored by Death was a blessing or a curse, only time would tell.
But it wasn't all bad; at least the information Death revealed—that she didn't care much for Thanos—meant it was highly likely not the sycophantic comic version. Coupled with the four Black Order generals instead of five, this should be the movie version of the Marvel Universe, where "perverted" storylines like those in the comics wouldn't appear out of nowhere.
After all, Vampire Universe, Zombie Universe, and other chaotic Universes are not easy to deal with… Moreover, that fleeting reminder before she left… Rosen suddenly turned his head to look at where Ebony Maw had been floating earlier.
He saw that the usually elegant and composed Black Order strategist was now slumped on the ground like a rag doll!
His grayish-white skin had become even duller, his wrinkled face bloodless, and his life force was so weak it was almost imperceptible, like a flickering candle in the wind, already hanging by a thread!
Rosen instantly understood what Lady Death's "small punishment" and "overstepping" referred to—it was likely that while he was chanting her true name and conversing with Lady Death, Ebony Maw had tried to use his pitiful mental power or magic to spy on or even record this exchange that was beyond his comprehension!
Such an offense against a supreme cosmic being, not being directly erased, truly was a "small punishment" given "on Rosen's account."
"He really… knows how to cause me trouble." Rosen cursed under his breath, but his actions were swift. He had to save Ebony Maw's life, otherwise, it would be hard to explain to Thanos and would make him seem incompetent.
Meanwhile, Kaecilius was immersed in immense, rediscovered ecstasy. Tears streamed down his face as he futilely tried to touch the spirits of his wife and daughter with trembling hands, incoherently expressing his longing and love.
After the initial emotional surge, the two resurrected souls now seemed a little bewildered, but they still instinctively responded to his call, radiating a warm glow.
Seeing Rosen look over, Kaecilius suddenly raised his head, his eyes filled with endless gratitude and an almost frenzied emotion!
Loyalty!
Chapter 17 passed on that Ebony Maw was almost beaten to death by Lord Rosen!
Lady Death's supreme presence faded like a receding tide, leaving behind an eerie silence and... a mess.
Alarm bells rang in Rosen's heart; being targeted by Death was not a pleasant feeling. Fortunately, this ruler seemed only 'interested' for now and had not made any forceful, life-threatening demands.
"My Lord! Benefactor!" He practically crawled over, grabbing Rosen's pant leg, "What do you need me to do? Anything! Destroy the World? Sacrifice my soul? I'm willing! My life, my everything, is yours!"
His faith was completely overturned at this moment. The Ancient One and Kamar-Taj were cast aside. This being before him, capable of summoning Death and resurrecting loved ones, was his only God!
Rosen suppressed his anxiety about Ebony Maw's condition, maintaining a profound calm on his face. He bent down, gently helped Kaecilius up, and his tone was even 'gentle':
"Now, what you need to do is to reunite properly with your wife and daughter. To interrupt this hard-won warmth at this moment would be too cruel."
But there was one thing he didn't say:
'You do your thing, I need to hurry back and save this idiot Ebony Maw!'
But in Kaecilius's eyes, this was the 'God's' mercy!
And the God's words then shifted, offering enlightenment:
"As for their material bodies, there are two methods. If you can provide DNA samples of your wife and child, we can perfectly reshape them for you using technology. Or, when your understanding of life magic is deep enough in the future, you can personally create new bodies for them."
He pointed to the two still somewhat ethereal spirit bodies: "But before that, their state is still very fragile and requires you to constantly nourish and protect them with your own magic. Remember, protect them well."
Praise my 'God', you are so merciful and caring, you bring hope and a future.
"Loyalty!"
At this, Kaecilius's heart was completely bound.
"Yes! Yes! I understand! Thank you, My Lord! Thank you!" Kaecilius was overjoyed, hastily and carefully mobilizing his magic to gently envelop the spirit bodies of his wife and daughter, as if cradling the most precious porcelain in the World.
Rosen said no more. He grabbed the half-dead Ebony Maw from the ground, no longer bothering with elegance, nodded directly to Kaecilius, and instantly activated the return teleportation beacon to Sanctuary I that Ebony Maw had previously set.
A spatial fluctuation flashed, and their figures vanished from the graveyard.
Only Kaecilius remained, embracing his lost and found treasures, his eyes gleaming with hope for the future, and... loyalty to Rosen... Sanctuary I, teleportation platform.
A flash of light, and Rosen appeared, carrying the dying Ebony Maw.
The Chitauri soldiers and Black Order members on duty were stunned by this sight!
Ebony Maw, My Lord?!
How could that powerful master of telekinesis, second only to Thanos, the Father God, be in such a state?! His life force was weak, as if he could die at any moment!
"Call the medical officer immediately! Top priority!" Rosen didn't wait for them to ask, immediately giving an unquestionable order,
"Notify Thanos, mission accomplished, but there was a slight accident."
Only then did the soldiers react, scrambling to take (almost snatch) Ebony Maw, carrying him rapidly towards the medical bay, while urgently contacting Thanos and senior generals.
Soon, the news of Ebony Maw's severe injuries and near-Death, brought back by Rosen, spread like wildfire throughout Sanctuary I.
The rumors quickly morphed as they spread:
Initially: "My Lord Rosen brought back My Lord Ebony Maw, who was severely injured."
Then: "I heard My Lord Ebony Maw and My Lord Rosen went on a mission and My Lord Ebony Mawwas severely injured!"
Next: "The news says that My Lord Ebony Maw was severely injured because he disobeyed My LordRosen's orders and acted on his own!"
Finally, in the whispered version among soldiers and lower-ranking officers, it had become:
"Did you hear? That new Midgardian, My Lord Rosen! He's incredibly ruthless!"
"Yes, yes, My Lord Ebony Maw only questioned his orders slightly and was beaten to near-Death on the spot by him! He personally dragged him back!"
"It's terrifying! He even dared to be so heavy-handed with My Lord Ebony Maw!"
"Shh... keep your voice down, don't let anyone hear... we need to be more respectful when we see him in the future..."
Rosen hadn't even begun to formally demonstrate his 'value', yet his 'ferocious reputation' and deterrent power within the Black Order had unexpectedly been established due to a misunderstanding.
When Thanos received the news and rushed to the medical bay, seeing Ebony Maw's pathetic state, and then hearing the increasingly outrageous rumors circulating outside, his purple face showed a very peculiar expression.
He looked at Rosen, who stood calmly (in fact, worried about Death's follow-up) beside him.
"So," Thanos's deep voice was devoid of emotion, "this is your... 'deposit'?"
Rosen: "..."
Sanctuary I, outside the medical bay.
Thanos's towering figure almost blocked the entire corridor. He looked down at Rosen, who had just returned and whose expression seemed a little too calm, and asked in a deep voice, "Returning so soon? How did the plan proceed? Has the 'nail' in Kamar-Taj been driven in?" He noticed Ebony Maw was absent, "Where is Ebony Maw?"
Rosen sighed inwardly, knowing he couldn't hide it, and could only try to downplay it: "The plan went smoothly. That 'nail' has been firmly driven in, even exceeding expectations. As for Ebony Maw..."
He paused, a hint of helplessness on his face (this was not faked): "He almost killed himself. To prevent him from actually dying on Earth, I had to bring him back for emergency treatment first."
"Killed himself?" A flicker of genuine surprise crossed Thanos's single eye. He knew Ebony Maw's strength and caution. On Earth, besides the Ancient One, he couldn't imagine anyone else who could push Ebony Maw to the brink of Death. "Is there such a being on Earth besides the Ancient One? Is it a hidden power of Kamar-Taj? Or have people from Asgard intervened?"
He keenly noticed the key point: "Why are you unharmed?"
Upon hearing this, the slight helplessness on Rosen's face instantly turned into genuine, unconcealed frustration. He even rolled his eyes in annoyance (this gesture appeared extremely bold and disrespectful in front of Thanos, but he seemed utterly unconcerned):
"I wish I had something wrong."
He almost muttered to himself, while his consciousness subconsciously delved into his mind, activating the [Investigation Skill], targeting himself for the first time.
A translucent data panel, visible only to him, appeared:
[Name: Rosen]
[Race: Human (???)]
[Status: Super Serum (Improved Version), Eternals Progenitor Power Unsealed (Basic), Source of Magic (∞), Matter Transfer (Talent), Weapon Master (Talent), Investigation (Skill)]
[Special Status: Her Gaze (Death) - You have aroused the curiosity of a supreme being and are being watched by Her gaze. (A woman three years older brings gold bricks, a woman three thousand years older brings immortal pills. Young man, a girl's curiosity for you is the bugle call for a charge, bravely go for it!)]
Looking at the newly added status bar at the end, emanating an ominous aura, Rosen felt his scalp begin to tingle again.
Chapter 18 Ancient One is the traitor!
This thing is like a ticking time bomb, and it's a Universe-level equivalent.
And is your system really serious? I thought the two seniors, Xu Xian and Ning Caichen, were already the ceiling, but who knew there were even more powerful experts. System, whose subordinate are you?
Thanos looked at Rosen's face, which was filled with a complex, ineffable, and seemingly genuine expression of frustration, and that nonsensical phrase, "I hope something happens to me," and his brow furrowed slightly.
He naturally couldn't understand the meaning of this sentence, as he couldn't perceive the "blessing" or "mark" from Lady Death on Rosen.
He just felt that Rosen's reaction was very strange, always sensing that the other party seemed to be hiding some extremely crucial information.
But since Rosen didn't say anything, he couldn't force him to speak, especially since they had just formed a partnership, and the other party had just proven his value by turning an insider from the Sanctum.
However, Ebony Maw's severe injuries did indeed seem full of suspicious points.
"In that case, you rest first." Thanos temporarily suppressed his doubts and made new arrangements, "For the next operation, Black Dwarf will accompany you."
Upon hearing this, Rosen immediately refused: "No need. It's more convenient for me to act alone."
Unlike warriors like Ebony Maw and Proxima Midnight, who are simply full of arrogance but still possess basic intelligence, Black Dwarf's intelligence could be said to rival Hulk's—note, Hulk, not Hulk.
He really didn't want to bring another potential screw-up, especially one with such a poor intellect.
Thanos, however, shook his head, his tone serious: "Earth is not without danger. Having Black Dwarfaccompany you is for your safety and can also assist you with some... physical labor."
He was clearly not entirely indifferent to Ebony Maw's accident and decided to send someone tough and relatively "resilient."
Rosen's expression remained calm, but his mind raced.
If it's surveillance, then Thanos wouldn't send the simple-minded Black Dwarf. In other words, he's genuinely concerned about my safety... which means... Thanos can't detect the Eternals Progenitor Power within me? Is it because the power hasn't been fully unsealed yet? Or is it hard to detect because it's of the same origin? Or does the power rewarded by the system itself have a hidden characteristic?
He understood instantly. Since Thanos couldn't detect it, that was perfect! This would become one of his most important trump cards and must not be exposed easily.
"Alright." Rosen readily agreed, showing no unusual expression on his face, "Since you insist."
Thus, Rosen and the seemingly simple-minded but eager-to-smash-things Black Dwarf once again left Sanctuary I via teleportation.
After watching them leave, Thanos turned and walked into Ebony Maw's intensive care unit.
Looking at Ebony Maw, who was covered in life support tubes, with weak vital signs, and in a deep coma, Thanos's brows furrowed even deeper.
He tried to communicate with his powerful mental energy, but found Ebony Maw's spiritual World to be chaotic and shattered, as if brutally crushed by something. He couldn't even achieve basic consciousness cohesion, let alone communicate telepathically or speak.
"Wait for him to recover." Thanos coldly uttered a sentence to the medical officer beside him, with a hint of undetectable annoyance in his tone.
He turned and left, his single eye filled with deeper curiosity and inquiry.
Ebony Maw's severe injuries were extremely bizarre, beyond any known power on Earth.
That Rosen... how exactly did he do it? How many secrets is he still hiding?
Thanos found that the mist surrounding this Earthling, who called himself a "prophet," seemed even harder to see through than the Infinity Stones.
New York, in a secluded safe house temporarily opened by Kaecilius using magic.
Soft light enveloped two slightly ethereal but incredibly real spirit bodies—Kaecilius's wife and child were sleeping peacefully, surrounded by runic barriers that stabilized their souls.
Kaecilius looked at them with eyes full of tenderness and determination; the feeling of having them back was so wonderful.
Seeing Rosen appear again with a fierce-looking giant man (Black Dwarf), Kaecilius immediately stepped forward respectfully, offering two sealed test tubes containing some grayish-white powder.
"My Lord, these are the DNA samples of my wife and child." His tone was filled with gratitude and absolute obedience,
"Please command me! Whatever you want to do, even if it's to immediately kill our way back to the London Sanctum or Hong Kong Sanctum, or overthrow Kamar-Taj, I will not hesitate!" Fanatical faith in Rosen burned in his eyes.
Rosen took the test tubes, put them away casually, but shook his head.
"Destroy the Sanctums? Become an enemy of all sorcerers? No, that's too low-level, and too much of a waste of your... value."
Rosen's tone carried a sense of condescending judgment.
Kaecilius was stunned: "Then... what does My Lord mean?"
"I need you to go back, back to Kamar-Taj, back among those sorcerers who are still deluded." Rosenlooked at him and said in a deep voice.
"Go and spread a message. Not to fabricate lies, but merely... to publicize a hidden truth."
"Truth?" Kaecilius was even more confused.
"Exactly." Rosen slowly paced, then posed a question,
"Kaecilius, you have followed Ancient One for many years, have you ever considered a question—how can she, as a human, live for hundreds of years without her appearance changing?"
Kaecilius subconsciously replied: "Because... because her magic is profound..."
"Profound magic?" Rosen chuckled, interrupting him,
"Kamar-Taj's magic originates from the Vishanti's White magic system, emphasizing protection, order, and the borrowing of dimensional energy. It might strengthen the body and slow down aging, but when have you ever heard of it allowing someone to live for hundreds of years while maintaining their peak?"
He paused, then continued to press:
"Then think again, among the many known dimensional demon gods and energy sources, which one... is most famous for providing 'Eternal life,' even tempting countless long-life seekers to fall into the Dark Dimension?"
Kaecilius's pupils suddenly contracted, and a name he had recently frequently encountered, full of temptation and taboo, almost blurted out!
"You mean... the Dark Dimension?! Dormammu?!"
"It seems your recent research has not been in vain." Rosen nodded approvingly, but his gaze sharpened,
"Then, one last question: how did a Sorcerer Supreme who protected Earth for hundreds of years using 'White magic' obtain and maintain this long life? Vishanti would not bestow such a 'favor.'"
Boom!
This question, like a final heavy hammer blow, shattered Kaecilius's last shred of reverence and doubt towards Ancient One!
All the clues instantly connected!
Ancient One's Eternal youth!
She forbade others from touching Dark magic!
But she herself might have... Kaecilius's face drained of color, and shock, anger, and a furious sense of utter betrayal instantly overwhelmed him!
"She... she has been making deals with Dormammu?! Stealing power from the Dark Dimension to sustain her own life?!" His voice trembled with extreme rage,
"She is the biggest traitor! She forbade us because she was afraid we would discover her secret?! Because she monopolized this power?!"
Rosen looked at him calmly, tacitly acknowledging his deduction.
Chapter 19: I beat Gu Yi, is this true or false?
Kaecilius instinctively blurted out, "My Lord, how... how do you know all of this?!" As soon as the words left his mouth, he immediately regretted it, his face showing a look of panic.
"I'm sorry! My Lord! I shouldn't question you! I actually doubted your omniscience!"
How dare he question an existence capable of resurrecting his deceased wife and daughter? It was practically blasphemy against a 'god'!
Rosen didn't dwell on it, merely looking at Kaecilius and saying calmly,
"I know far more than you can imagine. Now, are you willing to go back and tell this 'truth' to those who are still in the dark?"
"Willing! Of course, I'm willing!" Kaecilius's eyes burned with righteous fury and the pleasure of revenge,
"I will tear off her hypocritical mask! I will let everyone see the true face of this hypocrite!"
He felt invigorated, filled with power. Originally, to repay Rosen's kindness, he had been prepared to betray the Sanctum.
Even if it meant Death, trading one life for two, he would still be profiting. He never expected that Ancient One was the real traitor!
He was about to carry out a righteous exposure, not a descent into darkness.
Filled with resentment and a sense of "mission," Kaecilius hastily left the safe house and returned to Kamar-Taj, ready to begin his "propaganda" work.
Inside the safe house, only Rosen and Black Dwarf remained. Black Dwarf had been like a background prop, listening in a daze.
Black Dwarf scratched his large, smooth head, emitting a muffled sound: "Uh... so, nothing for me to do? No smashing?" He looked a bit disappointed.
Rosen glanced at the muscle-brained giant, and suddenly an idea sparked in his mind, a strange smile appearing on his face.
"Originally, there really wasn't anything for you to do," Rosen said slowly, "But since you're here, you can't have come for nothing."
He patted Black Dwarf's hard arm.
"There's a very important task that only you can accomplish."
Upon hearing of a task, especially with words like "very important" and "only you can accomplish," Black Dwarf immediately perked up, his eyes widening like copper bells:
"What task? What should I smash? Tell me! I'll make sure it's utterly destroyed!"
Rosen leaned closer, lowering his voice as if entrusting a top-secret plan:
"Listen, once Kaecilius spreads the truth, Ancient One, that old liar, will definitely not be able to sit still. She might come out herself to explain, or to suppress it."
"At that time..."
Rosen pointed at Black Dwarf and then made a gesture to charge forward.
"...the arduous task of sending off Sorcerer Supreme will be entrusted to you."
Black Dwarf: "...? ? ?"
His huge head tilted, his face filled with pure confusion. He pointed to his nose, then imagined Sorcerer Ancient One, and confirmed in a booming, very serious voice:
"Me? Fight... Sorcerer Supreme?"
His tone was as if asking, "Did I hear that correctly?"
Rosen nodded solemnly:
"That's right! It's you! The time has come to show your Destroyer power! Do you have confidence?"
Black Dwarf stood still, his massive battle-axe almost slipping from his shoulder unnoticed. Only one thought remained in his mind:
Has Father finally decided I eat too much and wants me to go die?
Black Dwarf was somewhat overloaded by Rosen's phrase "sending off Sorcerer Supreme." His honest face was etched with "Who am I, where am I, what am I supposed to do?"
Rosen looked at him and added with a hint of exasperation,
"I'm just telling you to seize the opportunity to land the finishing blow! Who told you to challenge her to a one-on-one fight? Don't you have any idea if you can beat Ancient One?"
Upon hearing this, Black Dwarf's giant head immediately stopped thinking, and he let out an "Oh" of sudden realization, then became eager to try again.
If it was about sneak attacks amidst chaos, or picking up the pieces and landing a finishing blow, he was good at that! Just smash!
Having dealt with this simple-minded enforcer, Rosen's attention returned to the situation at Kamar-Taj.
Just as he had predicted, with Kaecilius's return, the meticulously crafted "montage lie" — that Sorcerer Supreme Gu Yi had been trading with Dormammu, the Lord of the Dark Dimension, for immortality — spread rapidly within Kamar-Taj like ink dropped into clear water.
The essence of the montage lie was that all the information was true.
It was true that Ancient One traded with Dormammu, and it was true that she refused Death. When truths are woven into a lie, who can distinguish it, and who can explain it clearly?
Initially, the sorcerers scoffed at it, deeming it shameless slander.
But the 'core' of the rumor could not be explained away: Sorcerer Ancient One's lifespan, far exceeding that of ordinary people, was a visible fact, and the White magic system indeed had no clear record of methods that could extend life so significantly.
Once the seed of doubt was planted, it would proliferate wildly in silence and whispers.
In the dining hall, the library, the training grounds... everywhere, sorcerers could be seen gathered in small groups, discussing in low voices, their faces filled with confusion, unease, and a hint of unconcealed suspicion.
People's hearts were unsettled, and the usually tranquil and harmonious Sanctum was permeated with an atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty.
Sorcerers absolutely loyal to Ancient One, led by Mordo and Wong, tried to stop the rumors.
They sternly reprimanded the spreaders, emphasizing Sorcerer Ancient One's great character and her centuries of protecting Earth.
However, whenever asked the core question, "How did the Sorcerer actually live for hundreds of years?" Mordo and Wong were speechless.
They couldn't provide a convincing explanation, only resorting to vague statements like "the Sorcerer's magic is profound and unfathomable" or "this is a gift from Vishanti."
This powerlessness, in turn, fueled the suspicions of the doubters.
"Look! They can't give a reason!"
"Could it be... the rumors are true?"
"If Sorcerer Supreme really used Dark power... then what have we been protecting all this time?"
The situation gradually spiraled out of control.
Mordo and Wong watched the increasingly divided and anxious Sanctum with deep concern. Finally, the two exchanged glances and made up their minds.
"We must question our mentor directly!" Mordo's expression was serious, "Only she can personally calm this storm!"
Wong nodded heavily: "That's right! I believe the Sorcerer will surely give us a reasonable explanation!"
With heavy yet resolute hearts, the two walked towards Sorcerer Ancient One's usual meditation tea room.
However, they did not know that all their actions were being observed by an invisible pair of "eyes."
Kaecilius hid in his room, in front of him floated a tiny miniature holographic projector (produced by the Black Order), almost blending with the dust.
The projection clearly showed real-time video and audio of Mordo and Wong walking towards the tea room!
Chapter 20 Lies Woven with Truth
This was precisely the "gadget" Rosen had secretly given him—a miniature reconnaissance device based on Chitauri, or even higher, civilization technology, enough to evade Kamar-Taj's regular magicdetection.
Watching Mordo and Wong's serious and confused expressions, and hearing their decision to question the Ancient One, Kaecilius's face showed a twisted and satisfied smile.
He was very pleased with the current effect. Although the Sanctum didn't immediately descend into chaos, it had clearly split into two factions: the steadfast Ancient One faction led by Mordo and Wong, and the larger, skeptical faction filled with doubt and a wait-and-see attitude.
The Ancient One's centuries of prestige were like a dam, temporarily holding back the flood of questions, but cracks were already appearing all over the dam.
Just then, he received a message from Rosen (via an encrypted interstellar communicator):
"Wong and Mordo have left to find the Ancient One. Activate the 'Eyes' and project the conversation in the tea room in real-time to the Sanctum Hall. It's time for everyone to 'witness' the truth with their own eyes."
Kaecilius's eyes suddenly lit up!
"Yes, go, go... go and personally unveil her hypocritical mask!" he whispered, "Let everyone hear her 'explanation'!"
Finally, it was the last step!
His fingers trembled with excitement as he immediately followed Rosen's prior instructions, manipulating another miniature detector that had been secretly lurking in Mordo's clothing interlining, connecting its signal to the huge magic crystal ball in the Kamar-Taj London Sanctum Hall, which was usually used for announcements and lectures!
Next, as long as the Ancient One couldn't provide a perfect explanation, or even if she showed a hint of hesitation or concealment... then, her prestige, built over centuries, would completely collapse before all her disciples!
Kaecilius held his breath, staring intently at Mordo and Wong, who were about to reach the tea room door in the projection, and the surveillance footage connected to the Sanctum Hall.
The storm was about to come.
Wong and Mordo left the hall with heavy hearts, heading to the Ancient One's tea room.
As soon as they left, the suppressed arguments in the hall instantly grew more intense.
The steadfast faction and the skeptical faction each held their ground, their voices growing louder and louder, almost escalating into physical conflict.
"Silence! Everyone, silence!" an elder Sorcerer tried to maintain order, but with little success.
Just at the peak of this chaos—
Buzz!
In the center of the hall, the giant magic crystal ball, normally used for teaching and major announcements, lit up without warning!
The soft magical glow dissipated, and clear images and sounds emerged from it.
"Hmm? What's going on?"
"Who activated the crystal ball?"
"This image is... the tea room? The Sorcerer Supreme's meditation tea room!"
The Sorcerers were immediately drawn to it, the arguing gradually subsided, and everyone looked at the crystal ball in confusion.
In the image, Sorcerer Ancient One could be seen sitting on her usual cushion, calmly pouring tea.
Immediately after, the figures of Baron Mordo and Wong appeared at the doorway, walking in with solemn expressions.
"Mentor." The two bowed respectfully.
"Mordo, Wong, with such solemn expressions, what brings you here?" The Ancient One's voice clearly echoed through the entire hall via the crystal ball.
The Sorcerers in the hall exchanged glances, this was... a live broadcast? Who did it? But curiosity made them temporarily suppress their questions, and they watched with bated breath.
In the image, Mordo took a deep breath, his face filled with uncontrollable anger, and stepped forward, saying:
"Mentor! Recently, rumors have been rampant in the Sanctum, with some petty individuals daring to slander you! They... they even said that Sorcerer Ancient One, you are a coward, and that your survival for centuries is because... because you made a deal with Dormammu, the Lord of the Dark Dimension, and stole Dark power!"
Wong also spoke immediately after, his tone even more anxious: "Yes, Sorcerer Ancient One! The rumors are now escalating and have seriously shaken people's hearts! We implore you to come forward immediately, make a solemn statement, and expose the masterminds behind the rumors to set the record straight!"
After speaking, the two looked at the Ancient One expectantly, waiting for her angry refutation and clarification.
However—
Sorcerer Ancient One in the image, after hearing their words, did not show any expected anger at being slandered.
She just... fell silent.
She slowly put down the teapot in her hand, her gaze lowered, looking at the floating tea leaves in the cup, remaining silent for a long time.
This silence made Mordo and Wong in the image feel a hint of unease, and also made all the watching Sorcerers in the hall feel a jolt in their hearts.
"Mentor?" Mordo urged somewhat anxiously, "You must come forward immediately! You cannot let these rumors continue to damage your reputation!"
Wong looked at the Ancient One's unusual reaction, and fine cold sweat unconsciously seeped from his forehead, a terrible thought uncontrollably rising from the bottom of his heart.
Finally, the Ancient One slowly raised her head, her face showing no anger, no grievance, only a deep weariness and... a hint of guilt.
She gently, as if shedding a thousand-pound burden, sighed.
Then, in a chillingly calm tone, she slowly said:
"But, Mordo, Wong..."
"What if what the rumors say... is true?"
"How am I to... 'clarify' it?"
!!!
Silence!
Dead silence!
Mordo and Wong in the tea room were as if struck by lightning, instantly frozen in place, all other expressions vanishing from their faces, leaving only disbelief!
All the Sorcerers watching through the crystal ball in the hall were also completely stunned!
Everyone's eyes were wide, and their mouths were agape, as if they had heard something absurd!
The Ancient One, the greatest Sorcerer Supreme in Earth's history, their leader, was actually a 'traitor'?
Even Kaecilius, hiding in his room, anticipating how the Ancient One would quibble, was completely dumbfounded!
He hadn't been idle during the days the rumors fermented; he had already found key evidence of communication with the Dark Dimension in the library, just waiting for the final fatal blow.
He had envisioned countless possibilities, scenarios of the Ancient One denying, defending, or even counter-accusing, and had prepared corresponding backup plans.
But he had never imagined... that the Ancient One would actually... admit it directly?!
Just so casually, so calmly... admit it?!
"No... impossible..." Mordo was the first to react, he staggered back a step, his face completely drained of color, shaking his head frantically,
"Mentor! You... you're joking, aren't you? You must be testing us! Right?!"
Wong reacted even faster; although he also suffered a huge shock and was trembling all over, his first reaction was—absolutely cannot let others know!
He suddenly turned, his hands rapidly drawing a magic circle, and powerful magical energy instantly surged forth!
"Buzz!" The stone door and windows of the tea room were instantly sealed and isolated by powerful magic! Forming a temporary soundproof barrier!
"Sorcerer Ancient One! This..." Wong finished all this before turning around, his voice trembling as he looked at the Ancient One, hoping she could give an explanation, any explanation!
But he didn't know that his "protesting too much" action, and the Ancient One's Earth-shattering admission earlier, had been seen clearly by all the Sorcerers in the hall, through that still-lit crystal ball!