Chapter 250: An Unexpected Arrival
Upon learning that Stephen Strange intended to resign and search for some mystical sorcerer, Christine Palmer felt frustrated. She wanted to stop him but felt powerless, especially since she was no longer in a position to influence his decisions.
Despite their past, Christine had heard about Stephen's recent struggles. She wished to help, but his pride and arrogance prevented him from accepting her concern and assistance.
"Well, Stephen, good luck," Christine said, resigned. She had no choice but to wish him well, knowing she couldn't deter him from his chosen path.
Ultimately, Stephen embarked on his journey to Nepal. After some research, he pinpointed where the sorcerers were rumored to reside: Kathmandu, Nepal.
Even with this information, finding these sorcerers was akin to finding a needle in a haystack. Yet, Stephen had no other options and hoped for a stroke of luck to see them and cure his strange ailment. He was at the end of his rope, ready to risk everything on this one chance.
...
Arriving in Kathmandu, Stephen felt a mix of excitement and trepidation. As he wandered the ancient streets, he realized he had no concrete plan to find the sorcerers. Approaching strangers with questions about sorcerers seemed absurd, but he had no other leads.
"Do you know where I can find a sorcerer?" he asked passersby, receiving puzzled looks and no helpful responses.
Hours passed, and Stephen's voice grew hoarse from constant questioning. Frustrated and exhausted, he felt the urge to give up, but the persistent visions in his mind kept him driven. He continued his search, doggedly asking everyone he encountered.
...
Fate or sheer determination finally brought a breakthrough. Unbeknownst to Stephen, his persistent inquiries had caught the attention of a figure observing from the shadows: Karl Mordo, a sorcerer just returning from an errand.
Intrigued by this stranger's relentless search for sorcerers, Mordo followed and observed Stephen. After several hours of watching him, Mordo approached Stephen, his curiosity piqued by the man's resilience and determination.
As Stephen stumbled down a narrow alleyway, Mordo tapped his shoulder.
"If you seek the sorcerers, follow me," Mordo said, his voice low and commanding. Without waiting for a response, he turned and walked away.
"Wait, what do you mean? Who are you?" Stephen called after him, bewildered.
Mordo continued walking briskly, not bothering to answer. Desperate not to lose his only lead, Stephen hurried after him, ignoring the pain in his legs and parched throat.
...
Mordo led Stephen through winding streets, finally stopping before an unassuming wooden door.
"Here we are. If you seek the sorcerers, enter," Mordo said, pointing to the door.
"Are you sure? I'm looking for sorcerers, not... well, whatever you call them," Stephen hesitated, glancing between the door and Mordo.
"You think there's a difference?" Mordo replied with a cryptic smile.
...
Stephen decided to take the chance. He stepped forward and opened the door, walking into the unknown.
...
Meanwhile, back at Kamar-Taj, the Sanctum's master, the Ancient One—now replaced by Li Yue—was sipping tea, contemplating his next journey to another world. Mordo entered and bowed respectfully.
"Master, a stranger arrived today, asking about the sorcerers. He seemed sincere, so I brought him here. I hope this is acceptable," Mordo reported.
"Mordo, you don't need to inform me of every visitor. You can handle these matters yourself," Li Yue said, smiling gently.
"Shall I take care of him, or would you like to meet him?" Mordo inquired.
"No need. You can handle it," Li Yue replied, waving his hand dismissively. Despite Kamar-Taj's secrecy, they received visitors regularly, seeking magical knowledge. Li Yue didn't feel the need to meet every newcomer personally.
"Understood, Master," Mordo said, turning to leave.
"Wait, Mordo. What did you say his name was?" Li Yue asked, suddenly curious.
"He said his name is Stephen Strange," Mordo answered.
Li Yue nearly choked on his tea. "What? That's impossible!"
"I think I'll meet this Mr. Strange myself," Li Yue decided, rising swiftly. He couldn't sit still any longer, curiosity and urgency propelling him toward the door.