Azaziah discovered a mystic orb long ago. The orb gave him great power and allowed him to live for centuries. However, the orb grew weak over the years and threaten the mage's existence. Azaziah attempted to regain power from the Ghost Rider. His plan involved splitting Zarathos from his mortal body (Johnny Blaze). Both halves began to become weaker after becoming separated. Blaze noticed this change and confronted the Crimson Mage. During the fight, Blaze managed to destroy the mage's mystic orb. This act caused Azaziah to quickly age and died. Blaze after studying Azaziah's spell reunited with Zarathos.