This tale kicks off with Baron Mordo striking a deal with a power beyond a mystic portal—one that promises to grant him strength surpassing Doctor Strange’s and the upper hand in their ongoing rivalry. Fair warning, readers: this is just the first chapter in a sprawling, multi-part epic, so don’t expect all the threads to wrap up neatly just yet.

The story plays out as a tense cat-and-mouse game, with Doctor Strange on the run to protect both himself and the Ancient One. Adding an extra twist, we learn that Baron Mordo’s mysterious ally is none other than Dormammu, last seen in the previous extended arc.

Originality & Continuity

This issue does an excellent job of building on the groundwork laid in earlier stories, uniting two of Strange’s most dangerous foes in a shared mission to take him down. There’s even an intriguing nod to the uneasy truce between Strange and Dormammu, which adds depth to the unfolding conflict.

The portrayal of magic takes a step forward here, with a noticeable enhancement in both style and execution. From shattered shields to broken protective spells, the artistic depictions of the mystic arts are as captivating as ever.

Characters & Development

While it’s clear this is just the beginning of a larger arc, the groundwork laid here is solid. Doctor Strange finds himself at a prolonged and obvious disadvantage. While we’ve seen him vulnerable before, this feels fresh and more dire. We also get to explore the evolving alliance between Mordo and Dormammu, revealing both their mutual need and the potential cracks that might lead to their downfall.

Story

Although this installment doesn’t provide a complete story, it sets the stage beautifully for what’s to come. The opening act brims with promise, teasing an exciting journey in the months ahead as we follow this strange and perilous alliance between Baron Mordo and Dormammu and our hero fighting to overcome them both.