As their ranks closed in, Simon could see that the solid crowd of hundreds of possessed creatures had stopped its advance within a few yards of Jesus. Those behind tried to push forward, but the line would not move. It was as if an invisible barrier held them from advancing upon him. There was no way out for Jesus, and no way in for them. They swayed as if under a spell. A cacophony of growls and screeches peppered the crowd, making Simon think of a pack of devilish hyenas held at bay with spiritual leashes.