Kaecilius wanted to run, but the green-glowing gem on Ryan's chest made one thing clear.
He couldn't escape.
Even if he ran through a Portal now, he would be back where he started a moment later, like a film rewinding.
Running from a sorcerer who controlled time was pointless.
That left him no choice but to fight.
Kaecilius gritted his teeth and decided to take his chances.
He fixed his gaze on Ryan. The market lights illuminated Ryan's face, revealing an expression that said he didn't consider Kaecilius a threat.
"Don't look down on me. I am the great Kaecilius, a sorcerer who has forged an eternal pact with Dormammu."
Having said that with such pride, Kaecilius sent his followers in first.
He had noticed that Ryan wasn't drawing blood. He only bound people with crimson chains, which took time.
As Kaecilius marveled at Ryan's naivety, he searched for a way to counter him.
Across the market, Ryan swiftly bound Kaecilius's followers one by one. The number still able to fight plummeted.
At this rate, they would all be gone in minutes. Then it would be Kaecilius's turn.
Realizing this filled Kaecilius with excitement. Surely someone as clever as him could find a way to defeat Ryan in those few minutes.
Come on, brain. Get moving.
With that cry in his heart, Kaecilius began experimenting.
His first attempt was simple. Suppressing his fear, he used his followers for cover and crept toward Ryan.
He stretched his hands apart as if pulling noodles, forming a translucent Magic Spear between them.
Its tip was razor-sharp. Kaecilius studied it, then shook his head and dispersed it.
Having taught Ryan, Kaecilius knew how tough Ryan's body was.
Clearly, a Magic Spear would be useless.
If one technique failed, he would try another. Kaecilius was