The wail of the Beesting!

 Week Ending 7th February 1976

Last week's Power of the Beesting blog features the winners of The Titans Titanically Talented artwork competition that was held in The Titans issue 2. One of the main winners was Stephen Kyte from Roehampton, who as one Friend of the Beesting pointed out in the comments last week could well be the same artist called Steve Kyte who worked on the Thunderbirds comic in the 1990s. Stephen Kyte's age was 17 in the winners article. As the FotB pointed out Steve Kyte was born in 1958 so the age would be right. Thanks to the Anonymous reader, I would send you a Power of the Beesting No-Prize (PotBNoP,) if I knew who you are. Its worth noting that a Steve Kyte, possibly the same artist also painted three Doctor Who Target covers, "Doctor Who and the Horns of Nimon", "Doctor Who and the Monster of Peladon" and "Doctor Who and the Creature from the Pit". A Steve Kyte, again possibly the same artist worked on a Future Shocks titled "New Cruise Blues 1" with Steve Moore in 2000AD Prog 218, On "The Scarlet Apocrypha" with Dan Abnett in Judge Dredd the Megazine 4.16 and "The Wanderer" in the 2000AD Sci-Fi Special 1980, with Kev F Sunderland, just to name a few. Anyway back to 1976...

The Mighty World of Marvel #175

Here's a generic Hulk cover by Ron Wilson with inks applied by Frank Giacoia. The original artwork was sold at auction by HeritageAuction.com on the 19th June 2021 for $6,600, which is around £4,767.41 these days. The owner would consider offers of $9,000, but isn't actively participating in any sale of it. It's quite cool but way, way over priced in my opinion. 

The Incredible Hulk “The battle above!”

Writer: Steve Englehart

Artist: Herb Trimpe

Inker: Jack Abel

Originally published in The Incredible Hulk #169

Cover date November 1973

(Published in July 1973)

This recap second part opening splash page copies the dialogue from last week's ending, but I have no idea who could have drawn it. Bruce Banner faces the Bi-Beast after the thin atmosphere in the strange floating sky-city island causes the Hulk to weaken and transform. The Bi-Beast explains that he and the sky-island was created by the Bird People to be a living monument of their achievements. An Earth man crashed on the island, who was helped and named Red Raven. Much later he turned against them destroying the Bird-people's warrior class. Later still the machines that maintained the impossible city a started to break down. The Bird people give one of the Bi-Beast's skull brother the knowledge for warfare, while the other cultural wisdom, but neither scientific knowledge on how to fix the machinery. While yearning for the company of someone that resembled their creators the Bi-Beast had captured the Harpy.

BannerAgrees to help fix the ancient machinery while secretly hoping to find a way to change Betty back to her human self. Bruce demands to have access to the Harpy otherwise he will not work for them. Bruce then devises a machine to cure her. Just as things couldn't get any worse MODOK arrives after tracing the Hulk's and the Harpy's unique gamma radiation trail. He seeks to exploit the island by tricking the Bi-Beast into believing that Bruce Banner is evil. The Bi-Beast confronts Banner just as he activates the machine to change Betty back to normal. 

This works up Bruce, transforming him back into the Hulk, the two monsters resume fighting. MODOK after calling for troop backup, betrays the Bi-Beast, claiming the island for AIM. In the skirmish the Hulk is knocked out. Morally wounded the Bi-Beast sets the island's self-destruct, sending MODOK and his minions fleeing for their lives. Reverting to Bruce Banner once more he tries to grab the Harpy and find a way off the island. Crumbling masonry falls on the Harpy, Bruce goes to her aid As the dust clears he is relieved to find her transformed back into Betty Talbot again. But without the Harpy's wings to fly them to safety they brace themselves as the ground beneath them breaks open sending them falling as the island explodes. If they escape being killed in the explosion the fall will surely see them to their doom. Find out next week in MWOM #176 if they survive and not in #175 like the final panel says.

The Mighty Marvel Mailbag

Philip Baker from Leeds has been reading Marvel's fantastic mags since MWOM #84, but has managed to obtain early issues. He considers that many readers letters review the subject of colour, or seem to want to judge your mags on one week's issue, which shouldn't be done. In your early mags a green tint was used, which was Okay, so long as it was done properly. He thinks you cannot beat the grey shading, even over the US colour version when it is correctly done. Letter quality has improved, with readers now offering constructive feedback to enhance the magazine. Allen Allward RFO from Liverpool wants his letter printed so that he can tell readers that there's a Liverpool Comic Mart coming up on the thirteenth of December at the Adelphi Hotel, free admission, but sadly this letter was printed too late. Jim Ivers from Dublin has become involved in an amateur fanzine called "Comic Plus", edited by Alan Matheson, aided by Jim, with art director Gordon Hendrey. They feel that any fanzine when produced by comic-loving people for comic-loving people is broadly representative of those masses. So they are hoping that fans in Britain and Ireland will enjoy and help in the progress, whether by suggestions of contributions. Each issue will be 32 pages and cost 20 pence. Issue one will be published in January 1976. It will feature a history of Atlas Comics, a new mysterious comic strip, a short story, a review of Marvel's new magazine-Bloodstone, a number of pin-ups, a quiz with a cash prize and much more. Upcoming articles include reviews on Conan, Quicksilver, Inhumans and Warlock, three new comic strips, a Man-Thing epitaph (hopefully with the co-operation of writer, Steve Gerber), an appreciation of The Titans and a short history and review of Marvel in Britain. Did anyone pick up a copy?

A Marvel Masterworks Pin-up by Jack Kirby. This pin-up is completely the cover of the Fantastic Four #54, cover dated September 1966, published June 1966, with the corner box, "The world's greatest comic magazine" line, Comics Code Authority, date box and price removed. Joe Sinnott was Jack's inker on this artwork. 

Daredevil “Call him...Fear!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Gene Colan

Inker: George Klein

Originally published in Daredevil #54

Cover date July 1969

(Published in May 1969)

This opening splash page as much as the following pages do tells the story through a newspaper headline and Karen Page's tears that Matt Murdock has died in a plane crash, baiting readers to read on. Foggy arrives and tries to comfort her but no amount of talking can bring the love that they could never quite share. All she has left is her memories and his old walking cane. 

While spending time alone in Murdocks old office Karen's peace is interrupted by Daredevil. The reports of Matt Murdock's death are greatly exaggerated as in his hero guise he wants Murdock's cane, or more importantly his billy club to aid in his swinging around town. He tells Karen it would be a memento of their friendship as the "original Daredevil" had been "Mike Murdock". I had thought that all that "twin brother" nonsense had been forgotten, but here Roy Thomas brings it back, but it a way softening the silliness of it, while making a weird sense of it all. Karen wants to keep it herself which Daredevil understands and leaves. So does Karen who goes home, tailed by the red suited hero. In what could read like a creepy thing to do Daredevil waits till she falls asleep, then he breaks in and steals the cane. Even he feels like a first class heel. Next week we'll find out how Daredevil can be a live and Matt Murdock dead and "the reason why!"

The Bullpen Bulletins

Sensational Scoops to Startle, Stun and Soothe You!

ITEM! According to Marvel's records, the Titans is the "biggest smash hit of the decade!" No sooner do the copies arrive at the local newsagents than they're sold out! Marvel is doing absolutely everything they can to make sure that next time around, everyone can get a copy of the Titans! ITEM! Even though things are in the planning stages at Marvel, the editors just wants to let you know that some new titles might well be heading your way in the not-too-distant future. There's no specific details but since the readers are the real bosses, the editors want them to send in their ideas about any new titles that may launch, such as which characters or groups  would they like to see? This Bullpen Bulletin page also appeared in this week's Planet of the Apes which also features as an in-house advert on this page. I'll review the next two Items later in the Planet of the Apes part of this blog. 

The invisible Hulk?? A chance for British readers to help the green skinned monster find his enormous anatomy by connecting the dots from 1 to 131. Or should that be "another chance", as this puzzle first appeared in the Mighty World of Marvel issue 14, way back three years ago in the week ending 6th January 1973. 

The Fantastic Four “To stop Tomazooma!”

 Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Joe Sinnott 

Originally published in The Fantastic Four #80

Cover date November 1968

(Published in August 1968)

I'm not sure who did this second part opening splash page, it could have been the office cat it really looks rushed, the explosion is behind Ben and Johnny but both are facing the wrong way. It's not Ron Wilson is it? The Fantastic Four have flown out to the mid west at the request of the Human Torch's friend, Wyatt Wingfoot after strange tales of the legendary Indian deity Tomazooma the Living  Totem. Upon arriving Wyatt is missing but his Grandfather Silent Fox informs them of events, just then in the distance an explosion occurs.

The Indian tribe owned oil field has been sabotage. The culprit a giant sized robot in the image of Tomazooma. Johnny, Ben and Reed jump into action, saving the oil field workers and fighting off Tomazooma. Wyatt returns after tracking the Living Totem, his Grandfather explains that the Red Star Oil Company, the behind the scenes bad-guys intended to be a Russian/Soviet Oil company, had once tried to buy the tribe's land. Once they had been denied they had set about scaring the tribe away by using a robot built to look like the tribe's god. Like end scene from the classic 1967 Casino Royale Indians in jeeps with automatic weapons with Reed, Johnny and Ben's help attack the false Tomazooma, as only Jack Kirby could imagine it. Under Mister Fantastic's orders,Wyatt manages to destroy the false Tomazooma robot by firing the rolled up leader of the Fantastic Four into the robot's "mouth" with a bazooka so that he can destroy the robot from inside. After the battle, the group is shocked to see that the real Tomazooma had come to destroy the impostor, but is now leaving seeing that they managed to destroy the fake without its help. 

Spider-man Comics Weekly #156

This cover was originally used on the Amazing Spider-man #109 and was drawn by John Romita Sr. I like how "Enter..Dr. Strange!" nearly becomes part of the comics logo. It feels like a while since I picked a John Romita Sr. cover for my Cover of the Week and this one is a cracker, so I'm going to give it this week's CotW award.

Spider-man “Enter: Dr. Strange!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: John Romita Sr.

Inker: John Romita Sr.

Originally published in the Amazing Spider-man #109

Cover date June 1972

(Published in March 1972)

After Flash Thompson has been kidnapped by a group of Vietnamese men who blame Thompson for leading American forces in a attack which destroyed a Secret temple, Peter Parker is unable to follow as Spider-man because Gwen would think he's just running away and leaving her like a coward. Heading to the toilet, Peter creates a disturbance to make it look like Spider-man has kidnapped him once again, so he can take up Thompson's trail.

On his way to picking up the Spider-tracker he attached to the Vietnamese Giant, Spider-man's spider-sense rings like crazy when he swings near Greenwich Village. He is confronted by Doctor Strange's astral projection, even though he can't see it, in his mind he hears the sorcerer's voice. Strange convinces him to follow him  to his Sanctum Sanctorum. There, using the Eye of Agamotto the Master of the Mystic Arts shows that Flash Thompson has been brought before an alter guarded by monks. The leader of the Monks shows Flash the body of the ancient temple's High Priest who is held in a statue-like state. The monk tells Flash that the High Priest is entranced and can only be awaken with the death of the man responsible for putting him in that state and so Thompson is slated for execution. Doctor Strange pledges to help Spider-man save his friend and the two depart to go and save Flash in next week's "Death from a mystic land!"

Iron Man “Kidnapped!”

Writer: Archie Goodwin

Artist: George Tuska

Inker: Johnny Craig

Originally published in Iron Man #7

Cover date November 1968

(Published in August 1968)

Confession time, when I prepare these blogs I sometime do some research ahead of the week in which I actually write it. In last week's blog as part of the Spider-man Comics Weekly section I wrote that the second part opening splash page was by an unnamed artist, which was true, but I also wrote I had found out that the original artwork had been auctioned by Heritage Auctions. That wasn't true, it was actually this week's third part opening splash page original artwork, as seen to the right, that had been sold by Heritage Auction on the 23rd of February 2013 for $310.70, which converted to pounds would be £227.69. Not bad, especially for an unnamed artist, but it does look great. I've corrected last week's post. We all make mistakes, even us made up fictitious super-heroes.

The Gladiator has kidnapped Tony Stark, Janice Cord and her lawyer Vincent Sandhurst while they were meeting to discuss Stark buying Janice's father's assets. Gladiator and the Maggia take the trio to their base, where Tony learns that Whitney Frost is the Maggia's leader, Big M. Faking a heart attack in order to get a hold of his brief case, Stark manages to smash a window, leaping through it he finds cover and time enough to change into Iron Man. As the armoured Avenger battles the Maggia and Gladiator. He also has to save Janice and Vincent from a falling trap, however his hands are pinned under the debris in the attempt. The Gladiator again attacks seeing an advantage, Iron Man retaliates using his repulsor rays, however much to his shock they are damaged while saving Janice and Sandhurst, leaving him at the mercy of the Gladiator's whirling blades. Meanwhile at Stark Industries Whitney Frost leads a Maggia assault squad raid on the factory. Find out what happens next in "While duel the Gladiators!"

The Web and the Hammer

Neil McIntyre from Chester writes that in SMCW recently some pretty heavy topics have been discussed, including political corruption, student demos, drugs, prison reform, Vietnam, etc. Neil thinks that all these worthy ideas would be wasted in Britain as they don't have the field of influence that they enjoy in America. Recently he was looking through some second-hand mags in the local market. when a rather big-headed student started preaching to his girlfriend on the "pathetic contents of these puerile magazines". Had he taken the trouble to actually open the magazine he would have seen Captain America telling how America's moral standards had changed. Instead he thought it was aimed at a younger age group in Britain. He suggests introducing Man-Thing to the mags, as it was produced for a more mature audience, in order to accelerate the acceptance of your mags by the general public. Jonathan Dennis From Lewisham writes in to criticised Ian Merryweather's letter from SMCW #140 as he thinks that Ian got four things wrong about Norse mythology. Jonathan also mentions that in the same letter page Ivor Davis wrote a superb letter complimenting the other letters in that Web and the Hammer page. 

Mark Barnes RFO, KOF from Suffolk protest that the Cat strip had been printed in Super-Heroes as he thinks that she is pathetic and either Morbius, Deathlok or Ghost Rider should have been printed instead. On a lighter matter, Iron-Man has got much better from SMCW #101, and the art has almost reached its peak. Ian Land also from Suffolk wants to express his disappointment about the absence of a letters page in SMCW #141 and the difficulty of finding the magazine in Ipswich, sometimes he can't get any of the issues no matter how many shops he visits. John Crawford from Northumberland has noticed people have written very interesting letters about Norse Mythology. As it's near Christmas John thought other readers might like to know a couple of facts about Father Christmas who started as a kindly gent called Saint Nicholas who gave presents to poor people at Christmas. Well it dates back further. Way back in Norse Mythology the kindly god Odin the omnipotent rode through the night skies of Northern Europe on Christmas Eve, showering presents of happiness, health and wealth to all good people.

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-up of the Mighty Thor. The artwork by John Romita Sr. was cut from the cover of The Mighty Thor issue 197, cover dated March 1972, published November 1971. On the original the image of Thor was flying over Mangog after the Thunder God had smashed the monstrous manifestation in the "kisser" with his hammer. This cut out Thor image from the cover has been recycled many times, noticeably when it was flipped over with a smile added to his face and used as part of the cover image logo on Marvel Team-Up (US edition) issue 26, cover dated October 1974, published July 1974, in which the God of Thunder teamed-up with the Human Torch. It has also been used in marketing of Marvel comics. 

The Mighty Thor “The taking of Crypto Man!”

Writer: Stan Lee 

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Bill Everett

Originally published in The Mighty Thor #174

Cover date March 1970

(Published in December 1969)

These second part opening splash pages are getting harder to place the artist, this one has to go unnamed. When Don Blake hears of the robot rampaging through the city, he changes into Thor to stop it. Following a racing police car he soon find the robot, engaging it in battle, finding its strength an equal match to his. The Crypto Man buries the Prince of Asgardian under an abandoned building. As Thor pulls himself free from the rubble, Jasper Whyte approaches him, boasting over his creation's victory. 

Undaunted Thor continues after the creature, with Whyte trailing behind mocking the Thunder God the whole way. Traveling in the sewers, Jasper tells Thor that the city will be his hostage unless his demands are meet, as he had left orders for the Crypto-Man to destroy an atomic power plant. Thor Asks Jasper if he had any thoughts for the thousands of lives his plan would place in jeopardy. An unthinkable number, amongst them his own mother. Jasper reconsiders for a moment, then goes in after the Crypto-Man. Turning his control beam device to maximum power, Jasper attempts to stop the Crypto-Man before Thor can fight it. The process causes an explosion that ends the Crypto-Man's menace and takes Jasper Whyte's life. Later, after resuming his mortal guise, Donald Blake breaks the tragic news to Mrs. Whyte, by softening the truth, he tells her that her son had died in an accident while carrying out a scientific experiment, adding that Jasper had died so that others might live. Dying a hero to save the city. With his recounting done, Blake leaves the woman to grieve the loss of her son privately with a mother's pride and heartbreak in equal measure. Next week, "the fall of Asgard!"

Was 1976 the year that Mighty Marvel moves on again? Well yes it was! There would be some significant changes throughout the year and starting in two weeks the first of the year's moves. Readers would have read and heard spoilers over January, in the Bullpen Bulletins and in other comics, but for the most part readers of Spider-man Comics Weekly would have had to wait till next week's issue to get the details of the big news, with the only hint being three words, "Super Spidey Sensations!" Watch this space for further news!

You might have heard of the super-sonic aircraft called the Blackbird if you're a X-Men fan. It made its debut in the Uncanny X-Men #104, cover dated April 1977, published January 1977. I first saw it in Marvel UK X-Men reprints in the Rampage Magazine #22, cover dated April 1980, but it was a thing well before then. Kelloggs, or rather Tony the Tiger, offered Frosties eaters a chance to own a "super-easy-to-assemble" model of the USAF SR-71 Blackbird when they collected six tops from special packets. Which wouldn't have been a problem because I would have eaten my way through them quickly because they're grrrrr-eat! The Kelloggs model itself is 8 inches long with USAF transfers. The actual plane flew from New York to London in a record time of under two hours at speeds of three times the speed of sound! At speeds of 2,000 mph at a height of over 15 miles the USAF Strategic Air Command Blackbird can survey 60,000 square miles of the Earth's surface in one hour. The pilot and reconnaissance systems officer both have to wear astronaut suits. This back page colour advert also appears on the back of the Planet of the Apes, the Super-Heroes and the Titans. MWOM and the Avengers weekly just had a Kelloggs Rice Krispies promotion that offered four free fibre tip pens as seen over the last three weeks. Not a patch on this free gift offer, it's a really grrrr-eat free gift and anyway you know what they say about Kelloggs Frosties, they make a tiger-rr of you!

Avengers Weekly #125

This British Marvel commissioned cover was drawn by Aubrey Bradford with inks by Frank Giacoia. 

Conan the Barbarian “Battle beneath the city!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: John Buscema

Inker: Ernie Chan

Originally published in Conan the Barbarian #34

Cover date January 1974

(Published in October 1973)

I have no idea who drew this second part opening splash page, I wonder if it was done by this week's cover artist Aubrey Bradford, as some of the detail on Conan looks very similar to his cover appearance. All the usual bits and pieces added like a new story title, catch-up box and a credit box. After fighting his way free from an arena in which seven wizards watched Conan face a wild tiger and seven deadly warriors, as seen in Avengers weekly #123, then faced Death in the vailed guise of a young woman, as seen last week. The Cimmerian took the secret of how one person may rule the city of Wan Tengri, which caused a civil war between the forces of the seven wizards who rule.

Death told him to search for a princess in the Flame Tower and to do so he must pass the grim obstacle who is guarding her, a bald warrior named Shamaash the Terrible. After putting Shammash to the sword Conan makes his way to the Princess's chambers where he finds her chained to a throne. Her pretty chains of gold that bind her aren't strong enough to with stand the barbarian's blade. Conan, the Princess, and Bourtai run through the tower, where they discover the machine that creates the flame winds that surround the sky of the city. Whoever controls the flame, controls the city, and down below all-out war between the seven wizards and their soldiers has broken out. Soon joined by the city folk, desperate for any chance to topple the wizards. Conan decides that the only way to truly end the threat of the wizards is to destroy the flame winds. Inside the proto-furnace spins a huge ball of blazing coal, the true mother of the dreaded flame winds.  With no understanding of the strange device only that coal is softer than steel, Conan smashes it to pieces with his sword. With their power truly destroyed, the wizards are set upon and killed by the citizens. The Princess rewards Conan with a galley and boxes full of treasure, or an offer to stay by her side and rule. Knowing that no man could rule with that witch for long Conan is happy to accept the ship and treasure. However, as he and Bourtrai sail away, the Princess reignites the flames, and magically transports her treasure back to her. The galley transforms into a leaking rowboat, leaving Conan rowing while Bourtrai bails out buckets of water. Next week, "The Hell-spawn of Kara-Shehr!"

Spider-man Surprise! What can it be? They're not saying, even though they wanted to, their "Bosses" wouldn't let them till next week when the full reveal of the next mighty Marvel creation will be unleashed. 

  

The Avengers “Too many crises!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: John Buscema

Inker: Tom Palmer

Originally published in The Avengers #80

Cover date September 1970

(Published in July 1970)

A montage of Red Wolf's origin makes up this week's second part opening splash page, drawn by an unnamed artist. with the details in the top text box and the story title at the bottom with creator's credits. As a child Red Wolf watched his tribe dance what no white man could ever see, the Dance of the Red Wolf. Which told a story that one day the warrior from the sky would lead the tribe again. As he grew into a man the white man's world would cross into his own. Some white men were good and kind, while others not.

One such man was Cornelius Van Lunt, who sought to buy the Indian people's land for his own financial gains. At that time the man who would become Red Wolf didn't care about his heritage and went off to fight in Vietnam where he was injured in combat. When he finally healed, he returned to the United States and took up a job as a steelworker in New York. Upon finally returning home, he found Van Lunt's men threatening his grandfather to sign over the land, which he still refused to sell. Later that night Van Lunt's men lead by Jason Birch gunned down the man's family, As the sole survivor the young man went to the mountains to dance the dance of the Red Wolf. In doing so he was empowered with Red Wolf's abilities and soon adopted Lobo, after in defence he killed the wolf's mother. Upon returning to New York he resumed his job as a steelworker by day. At night as Red Wolf he would stalk after Van Lunt and his hired thug, Jason Birch. Only to be interrupted by the Vision that very night. After much deliberation and conflict over their priorities, Red Wolf's plight, or their investigation in to the Zodiac. The Avengers decide to split into groups. Vision, Goliath, and the Scarlet Witch agree to leave with Red Wolf to Arizona to deal with Van Lunt, while Captain America, Thor, Iron Man and Quicksilver stay in New York to search for the Zodiac. The Black Panther would remain to continue teaching as Luke Charles. Is it a good plan or will the Avengers find themselves in the coming weeks "Divided...we fall!' 

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-Up featuring Danny Rand as Iron Fist battling the mayhem that is the man called Triple-Iron. This artwork was by Gil Kane with inks by Jack Abel and was originally used as the cover of Marvel Premiere issue 18, cover dated October 1974, published July 1974. It was also used as the cover of the Avengers weekly issue 58 in the UK.  

Iron Fist “The menace of the Monstroid!”

Writer: Chris Claremont 

Artist: Pat Broderick

Inker: Vinnie Colletta

Originally published in Marvel Premiere #24

Cover date September 1975

(Published in June 1975)

This second part opening splash page uses the original cover artwork from Marvel Premiere issue 24, by Gil Kane with inks or possible adjustments by John Romita Sr. with all the necessary bits of bob's added. The story so far, Princess Azir, heir to the throne of Halwan is visiting New York. Her rivals have turned a matured SHIELD Monstroid into a weapon to murder her. Lucky for her also at the friendly softball game in Central Park was Danny Rand when the robot attacked. Now it's up to Iron Fist to stop the Monstroid at all cost! 

As the robot follows its prime directive, Iron Fist enters the fray striking with all the power and technique his K'un-Lun tutors taught him, but unlike any man the robot's weaknesses aren't easy to find. One option is to try and blind it but it's superior strength gives Iron Fist little time to find that weakness. With Danny thrown to the floor the robot rounds on to the Princess. With the girl in the way the kung fu master doesn't panic, pushing her to one side Iron Fist strikes, rendering one of the robot's optic sensors useless. The police arrive, their guns are useless against its armour plating. Tripping the Monstroid onto its back Iron Fist smashes its other optical sensor. Calming his mind and his body Danny Rand focuses all his chi into his fist. Until it becomes unto a thing of iron he strikes, the Monstroid falls. Meanwhile, Hassan the terrorist that was hired to free the Monstroid reports back to his mysterious master, who vows to either make Iron Fist his servant or kill him. The villain will make waves in Danny Rand's life for years to come. Next week "Morning of the Windstorm!"

Dracula Lives #68

Pablo Marcos creates another Dracula Lives cover, this one sees the Lord of the Vampires stalking the Halls of Parliament.

Dracula “Singleton must die!”

Writer: Marv Wolfman

Artist: Gene Colan

Inker: Tom Palmer

Originally published in Tomb of Dracula #31

Cover date April 1975

(Published in January 1975)

Dracula stands atop of Big Ben above the smog filled streets of London in this second part opening splash page, drawn by an unnamed penciler, the inker is known though, it was Frank Giacoia.The simple new story title reads "Singleton must die!" Which is what the Lord of the Vampires is considering after killing Lord Singleton's wife and daughter in order to force him into giving up his fight in Parliament. To teach the government official what it means to disobey Dracula he places ten members of Parliament under his control and sends them to confront Singleton on his behalf. However waiting for another attack on Singleton, Inspector Chelm and the Scotland Yard spring a trap, arresting the enslaved politicians. Dracula waits knowing that the police have nothing on the politicians to incarcerate them. Later he will attack Singleton directly.

When Dracula faces Singleton, the politician isn't scared, knowing he might die, but Dracula's end is at hand. Arthur hands Dracula a folder which has material that proves to be a threat to Dracula. When the vampire lord tears up the paperwork, Singleton tells Dracula that there are many other copies. So Dracula attempts to hypnotise Arthur to get the answers, but Singleton has been trained by Quincy Harker to resist his hypnosis. Frustrated Dracula decides to make Arthur a vampire, pulling him towards him, his death-like fingers clamp the man's neck preparing for the fatal bite that will make him another mindless minion under Dracula's deadly command. Inspector Chelm with more police offers return stopping him. Wounding Dracula with a silver bullet, Chelm and his men close in on him. Before anything else can be done, Quincy Harker speaks over a radio announcing that he has the files that can lead to Dracula's death and that he's been listening in the whole time and order Chelm to kill Dracula. Finding his old foe has the means to kill him amusing, Dracula smashes out the window, changing into bat form he flies off into the night with the intent on paying Quincy a visit, as next week sees "A battle to the death" in the Harker estate. Only one can survive!

Cryptic Correspondence

Mark Trevillion from Middlesex says the artwork on Dracula was good, on the other hand, Werewolf by Night the scripts are always good but the art is starts out good, with Mike Ploog giving his utmost, but the artwork by Don Perlin is terrible. On to Frankenstein, at the start of the comic the artwork on Frankenstein's Monster was great, with Mike Ploog giving full feeling. Then Val Mayerick took over the strip and it went downhill. The strip's replacement Brother Voodoo isn't that good. The artwork was alright, but the story was terrible. Steven Dowson QNS, TTB from County Durham  answers Steven Gerraghty's suggestion when he said he would like to know what other readers thought of his suggestion about combining POTA and DL. Steven thinks it would be rubbish. Steven might get a shock later in the year. Neil Fisher from St. Helens thinks that the Werewolf series is outstanding. His own first impressions of werewolves were gained from Anthony Boucher's "The Compleat Werewolf' and Paul Anderson's 'Operation Chaos', two great works of literature. So he was at first disturbed that the "Werewolf By Night" strip did not fit in with these. He goes into details on the differences in his letter.

A Marvel Masterwork Pin-Up of the Frankenstein Monster, drawn by Carl Potts as per his signature. The original artwork can be found on Comic Art Fans where if you look his signature was actually in a different place, under the Monster's left foot, below the board walk, covered by the Frankenstein Monster logo in this pin-up. 

Werewolf by Night “The beast and the bat-battalion”

Writer: Doug Moench

Artist: Don Perlin

Inker: Don Perlin

Originally published in Werewolf by Night #28

Cover date April 1975

(Published in January 1975)

The artists behind this second part opening splash page is unnamed. Topaz had a dream that Taboo was alive in Russoff Manor. Following that premonition, Jack, Buck, Topaz and jack's longer sister, Lissa  head off to the Manor. Once they arrives they find Taboo. "Taboo" explains that after he died, Glitternight harvested his soul and created a spectre, in a similar way he had done with Topaz. 

Glitternight wanted to do the same to every soul on Earth, but the soul of Taboo refused, earning Glitternight's enmity. The Taboo's soul form hides in Russoff Manor has been preparing and wants Topaz's help in opposing Glitternight. The evil sorcerer chooses that moment to strike, just as the full moon appears, turning Jack into the Werewolf. Lissa starts to feel the curse of the Werewolf herself. Topaz and Taboo tries to calm Lissa down with their mystic powers, suppressing Lissa's transformation, while the Werewolf fights Glitternight. When Glitternight catches up to them, the corrupting effect of his magic makes Lissa's first transformation into a werewolf even more monstrous and dangerous. Next week it will be "Brother vs. sister in savagery!"

Man-Thing “Burn, Man-Thing burn!”

Writer: Steve Gerber

Artist: Val Mayerik

Inker: Frank Bolle

Originally published in Adventure into Fear #13

Cover date April 1973

(Published in January 1973)

Nick Caputo from the Grand Comics Database believes that the artists of this second part opening splash page are Don Watiz as the penciler and Dave Hunt as the inker. Catch-up boxes, credits and new story title have been added. Jennifer and Andrew Kale with their grandfather Joshua Kale have been transported to hell with the Man-Thing by Jennifer's ex-boyfriend Jaxon when he was possessed by a demon called Thog the Nether-Spawn. This version of hell would later be revealed as a dimensional realm named Sominus.

The opening splash page shows the Man-Thing grappling Thog's priestess. She knows fear and whoever knows fear burns at the touch of the Man-Thing. She was Thog's priestess and his betrothed. In retaliation Nether-energy spews from Thog's fingers burning the swamp creature, who hurls Thog's demons back at him. In desperation the demon leaps at him, turning himself into mephistophelian flame that licks and swirl around the creature from the swamp. Jennifer tries to spoil Thog's plan but Jaxon hold her back telling her that she must die. Within the Man-Things muck-encrusted mind a soundless voice screams "No! She must not!" Brutally the swamp creature grabs Jaxon's arm, throwing him to the ground. Again there is fear. And again whatever knows fear burns at his touch. But the young man is not burning, how is that possible? The Man-Thing stops, realising that they have returned to the Everglades swamp. His touch didn't burn Jaxon, but he did burn the demon who had possessed him, until it is reduced to a pile of smoulding ashes. With Jaxon alive and the Kale's are safe the Man-Thing returns to the swamp, with Joshua Kale questioning how his granddaughter knew the monster's touch would burn. He concludes that Jennifer and the creature share a special link, which makes them both creatures of destiny that holds the fate of humanity.

Planet of the Apes #68

The second Ron Wilson cover this week, this time inked possibly by Mike Esposito. Gorillas attacking humans, what more could you want? May be a gorilla looking back at the reader in a Ron Wilson signature move.

Planet of the Apes “Bought and sold”

Writer: Doug Moench

Artist: Alfredo Alcala

Inker: Alfredo Alcala

Originally published in Planet of the Apes (US) #18

Cover date March 1976

(Published in January 1976)

This opening splash page is new art created by an unnamed artist to segue last week's ending with this week's continuation. Last week Caesar, the intelligent ape whose parents came from the future, has disguised himself as an ordinary ape and infiltrated the latest batch captured from the jungles of Africa. He is currently being "conditioned" for life as a slave in the Ape Conditioning Centre, while unknown to him his former "owner" and friend Armando is being questioned by the authorities. At an ape auction Caesar is about to be bought by the Governor's aide, MacDonald, under the Governor instructions. 

Later in the Governor's penthouse suite MacDonald puts Caesar to work serving drinks, which he does too well, under Governor Beck's suspicious eyes he spills some of it confirming the human's prejudice that apes are just dumb animals. The conversation moves around to naming the chimpanzee. Beck chooses a book of male names from his book shelves. Opening it at a random page Beck instructs the apes to stab his hairy finger onto the list of names. Caesar copies the Governor opening the book at random to pick a name, then flicks through it to find the page with names beginning with "C" and picks the name Caesar, which means King! Beck ponders the chimpanzee's actions but before anything can be said the phone rings and Beck is called away to the Council Chamber. Six additional panels appear in the UK version that do not appear in the US original version, lengthening that scene to spread it across pages 10 and 11. The artwork definitely is by Alfredo Alcala so it would seem likely that the US published version's page 17 had actually been two pages before being edited down to one. Elsewhere Armando questioning is finished with only a sworn declaration needing signing confirming that none of his circus apes have ever been capable of speech. He signs it and is then taken to a room where the "Authenticator" confirms he is telling the truth. The room goes into darkness. Armando's nerves start to fray as he is asked again did he first heard the name Cornelius in the government office?  Armando panics and tries to escape, in the darkness guards grab at him and in the struggle he crashes through a blacked out window falling to his death. Next issue "the savage is king!"

 

Apes Forum

Ms Zira from Leeds writes that devoted POTA fans might like a record a group called Shabam and it is called "On the Planet of The Apes". It's a catchy little number and can be found on the PYE record label with the record id number 7N 45422. Amanda Huff from Sheffield has missed an awful lot of wonderful info and pictures about the TV series, which she adores even more than the films and asks readers if she can buy any back issues them. Steven Winetrobe from Glasgow is sad that his local TV station, Scottish Television Ltd. didn't show Planet of the Apes when it first came out, so he wrote them a letter and asks if they would show it . They replied that the programme was much less popular than they had expected, so there is no likelihood of showing it. Mark Farrel from Herts has been reading the adaptation of Escape From the Planet of The Apes and with the exception of a few lapses from the original story here and there, he is quite impressed. The comic has picked itself up a bit now, after being in a rut for quite some time. Lain Street from Warwickshire buys the POTA comic because he is fascinated about the theory that apes could one day rule the Earth. He thinks it could possibly happen in the near future.

Ka-Zar “Double, double”

Writer: Mike Friedrich

Artist: Dan Adkins

Inker: Frank Chiaramonte

Originally published in Astonishing Tales #17

Cover date April 1973

(Published in January 1973)

Again this week's opening splash page for the second part of this story was created by an unnamed artist. Bobbi Morse, Doctor Calvin and Ka-Zar watch as Nick Fury opens a vault on board the SHIELD Helicarrier to secure the Doctors latest version of the Super-Soldiers Serum within. Unknown to all, Sergeant Damian Link, official liaison between SHIELD and the NYPD, has become mentally controlled by his brother Josh and manipulated into becoming the costumed villain known as Gemini, giving him orders to steal the Super-Soldier Formula for AIM on his behalf.

With the strength, speed and agility of two men he grabs the vile containing the serum right out of Doctor Calvin's hand. Then bolting past Zabu and Ka-Zar he heads for the exit. Fury orders the Helicarrier to be placed in lock down as Ka-Zar races after the villain. Guards open fire on Gemini, but they have to cease when the savage lord enters the fray. Gemini's tricky fighting techniques give him the advantage and he sprints to a Harrier jump jet, which he uses to make his escape by smashing through the Helicarrier fuselage. In the chaos Ka-Zar leaps and grabs the front jockey wheel of the aircraft. Ka-Zar slips off as the plane lands some distance from the villains escape in rural New Jersey, where Gemini is set to meet up with his partner in crime. As Ka-Zar knocks the villain out he is shocked to discover who Gemini's partner is. Ka-Zar's own brother the villainous Plunderer "and with him stands...Gog!"

Bullpen Bulletin

Continuing with the third and fourth Items from this week's Bullpen Bulletin. ITEM! This is the week of the Red Wolf! His premiere starts in the Avengers Weekly #124, which was actually on sale the week before this Bullpen page was printed. ITEM! Make sure you don't miss this week's issue of Dracula Lives in which the Man-Thing appears in a tense, terror-tinged tale called

"Where Worlds collide!" written by Steve Gerber, with pencils by Val Mayerik and inks by Frank Boyle. Lately Marvel has been getting more and more mail about the Man-Thing's adventures so there must be some out there who are intently following the adventures of the grimmest and most silent "hero" ever. Like the Bullpen Bulletin page in MWOM that featured an in-house advert for Planet of the Apes, POTA returns the favour with an in-house advert for the Mighty World of Marvel.  

Black Panther “Once you slay the dragon!”

Writer: Don McGregor

Artist: Billy Graham

Inker: Klaus Janson

Originally published in Jungle Action Vol 2 #11

Cover date September 1974

(Published in June 1974)

Black Panther leads a force of Wakandan warriors to invade N'Jadaka Village, the original home of Killmonger in the Western Foothills of the Kinamasi Region of Wakanda. Where the villain has amassed his own mercenary forces. T'Challa stealthy takes out two guards, Tayete and Kazibe, then with the Wakandan warriors they fight the forces of Killmonger, lead by a man calling himself Lord Karnaj. There along with Killmonger's other lieutenants, Baron Macabre and Malice.

Before the battle T'Challa had baited the murderer of Zatama to show their hand, by implying he already had evidence against them. Instead he T'Challa waited patiently crouching in the trees of the jungle. A figure quietly makes their way through the forest. Like a leopard on high ground T'Challa leaps on to the interlopers back driving him to the floor. It was W'Kabi, Wakanda's chief of security. The Panther questioned why he had been skulking around? W'Kabi returns the questions, wondering if foreign shores had changed him as he isn't the same man who took over as the country's leader when his father was murdered by outworlders. The Panther tells him he is right, but he is now wiser these days only his wisdom comes too slowly. He had laid in wait for Zatama's murderer to reveal themself. To use one of the "outworlder's" phases T'Challa thinks that the "game's afoot!"

The Super-heroes #48

The penultimate Super-Heroes cover is another Ron Wilson cover, the third this week, this time the Thing and Man-Thing against the menace of the Molecule Man! The inks this time were applied by Mike Esposito. 

The Thing and Man-Thing together! “Vengeance of the Molecule Man!”

Writer: Steve Gerber

Artist: Gil Kane

Inker: Joe Sinnott

Originally published in Marvel Two-in-One #1

Cover date January 1974

(Published in October 1973)

After the last four week's adventures the Thing is still trying to return to New York, when at a New Mexico bus station while buying a ticket home he spots a Time Magazine cover featuring the Man-Thing. Upsetting his pride at the publicity the creature is getting by the similarity of his and Man-Thing's names, he decides to take a detour and travel to Florida instead to confront this Man-Thing.

The Molecule Man, after being defeated by the Fantastic Four and confined to an other-dimensional prison by the Watcher, as seen in MWOM #44, tells his son to avenge him by destroying the Fantastic Four and then apparently dies. This part of the story is very ambiguous about the nature of the Molecule Man's "son." Steve Gerber playing very fast and loose with continuity and logic makes the story more interesting, which certainly not a bad thing to do. The Official Handbook of the Marvel Universe A to Z #7 clarifies that the Molecule Man actually transferred his mind into the body of his "son" when his creation recreated the accident that gave him his powers. Well that's clear, but let's just get on with the fun of the tale and not bother too much about it. The "Son" construct then undergoes a process similar to which the Molecule Man originally received his powers, as seen in MWOM #43. He attempts to teleport to New York to have his revenge on all the members of the Fantastic Four, starting with the Thing. But instead appears in the Florida Everglades, face to face with the Man-Thing. The Thing arrives moments later and is surprised to see the Molecule Man who ties him up with swamp vines. This is a continuity error, or a no-prize, because the Molecule Man can't affect organic molecules. Or was it intended? As it was later explained that subconsciously, he was repressing disability. The story continues next week. 

Super-Mail

Mike Thompson from Burnley is 20, a confirmed Marvelite of 14-15 years standing, so he welcomed Hank Pym with more than a little nostalgia. He thinks that some of the earlier Ant Man stories would go down well. As for the Cat, it lacks excitement and action of the other features. As for the X-Men it is literary and graphic magnificence in the true Marvel Manner. Roy Leyland RFO, QNS from London is a great fan of Doc Savage, but would give his heart and soul for a few of his bantam paperbacks. P Hedling from Leeds writes that it's been four weeks since Jack Kirby ceased drawing and scripting The Inhumans. He would have been disappointed about his departure, but for in his opinion there is only one artist who can draw better than he can, and that artist is Neal Adams. The first piece of his work he saw was in Planet of The Apes. He liked it, and immediately wished to see more of his exciting style, the details in his work is uncanny. 

The Black Knight “The Black Knight reborn!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Howard Purcell

Inker: Dan Adkins

Originally published in Marvel Super-Heroes #17

Cover date November 1968

(Published in August 1968)

Roy Thomas really wanted to create a Marvel super-hero with the classic valiant knight feel. After already rejuvenating the character of the Black Knight as a hero in the pages of the Avengers, as seen in the Avengers weekly #62 and #63, he was given the opportunity to expand on the Dane Whitman character with this short adventure, before the character of the Black Knight returns to the pages of the Avengers in the Avengers weekly #107, continuity wise anyway. Yeah I realise that the Knight did appear in a Doctor Strange strip in Avengers weekly #77, as an Avenger, but that was set after the Avengers story in Avengers weekly #107. 

 

After a few brief appearances as the heroic Black Knight, Dane Whitman has traveled to the United Kingdom after learning that he had inherited Garrett Castle from his newly deceased uncle Nathan Garrett, the once villainous Black Knight. The Castle was open to the general public for tours, which Dane takes while remaining incognito. Inside the castle he wonders off from the tour party and discovers a portrait of his ancestor Percival of Scandia, the original Black Knight. The likeness to himself is incredible, they could almost be twins. Feeling compelled to press the centre of a stone in a wall, Dane falls through a secret passage way into a hidden chamber. Where he encounters the spirit of Sir Percy of Scandia, who tells the young man about his own origin as Merlin's Knight and protector of King Arthur. Sir Percy declares his descendant Whitman to be a worthy possessor of the Ebony Blade and urges him to fight the still present threat of Modred. Taking up the blade Whitman is transformed into the Black Knight, as he does so the guardian of the Ebony Blade crashes through the castle wall and fights the Knight. By striking the guardian's mace in two with the Ebony Blade the guardian is defeated. Dane is waken up by the tour guide. Still holding the blade Dane vows he will fulfil his purpose and the Black Knight will live through him. 

Giant-Man and the Wasp “The coming of...Colossus”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Dick Ayers

Inker: Paul Reinman

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #58

Cover date August 1964

(Published in May 1964)

While getting exasperated with Henry Pym for not wanting to go on another trip Janet Van Dyne storms out of his lab, leaving the scientist to modify the cybernetic headgear that allows him greater control of his growth powers without the need of size-changing capsules. Using cybernetic implants in his mask, Giant-Man succeeds in size-changing by mental command. The Wasp returns after hearing Hank striking his head on the ceiling when he grew too quickly. The two heroes are visited by their fellow Avenger, Captain America, who tells them of reports coming from the Bora-Buru region of Africa, where a small village is being terrorised by a 30-foot being called the Colossus. Although trapped on a peak, the Colossus still forces the people below into committing sacrifices to him. The two heroes leave in a jet for Africa. Upon arriving in Bora-Buru, their jet is grabbed in mid-air by the Colossus, the heroes escape via ejector seats seconds before the giant throws it to the ground. With the aid of Giant-Man's new suction-grappling hook device the heroes climb the peak at ant-size to reach the top without Colossus discovering them. Come back next week to find "Giant, giants everywhere!"

The Titans #16

The X-Men and the Banshee star on the final cover this week, as drawn by Keith Pollard with inks from Mike Esposito. To be honest the Werner Roth (penciled,) with John Tartagloine (inks,) cover from the X-Men issue 28 would have fit with a bit of adjustment, but I understand why it wasn't used on this landscape format. 

The X-Men “The wail of the Banshee!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Werner Roth

Inker: Dick Ayers

Originally published in The X-Men #28

Cover date January 1967

(Published in November 1966)

A new mutant arrives in New York, calling himself the Banshee, with powers that match the name. Flying to an expensive art gallery, the sonic powered mutant smashes through the glass and steals an expensive landscape painting before fleeing the scene. Meanwhile the X-Men are testing the range of Mimic's power-copying abilities. Mimic only gets so far before his powers fade. However the Mimic is convinced that he is the most superior member of the group. This leads to an argument between him and Cyclops who believes the team's newest member is heading for a big fall. In the city the Banshee has returned to his hideout where his partner the Ogre, has just learned the secret location of the X-Men's headquarters. The Ogre is angered that Banshee's robbery could jeopardised their mission. Banshee tries to play it down, leaving to steal tobacco for his pipe. While in Central Park Jean Grey is with Ted Roberts who is brooding over a letter from his successful brother when a radio reports about Banshee's recent theft.

The Banshee and the Ogre prepare to strike at the X-Men's base, the Banshee's sonic scream knocks out the X-Men, allowing the Ogre to kidnap the Professor and attempt to flee the scene. He is tripped by Marvel Girl's timely arrival as she uses her telekinetic powers to keep the Ogre busy. The Ogre calls Banshee to attack the X-Men but they are forced to flee and leave the Professor behind. The Banshee is hardly impressed that Ogre has returned empty handed and so heads back recollect Xavier. This time, the Professor has read the Ogre's mind and knows how he is immune to the Banshee's sonic scream. The Professor creates ear muffs for the X-Men to wear to counter the Banshee's debilitating power. The Banshee attacks again but the X-Men subdue him, sealing him within a pressurised suit and vacuum chamber. While getting an extra oxygen tank from the cellar, Cyclops notices a giant locked door which he had previously not noticed. The Ogre sneaks into the mansion and attacks the X-Men. Cyclops uses his optic blast, causes him to retreat outside where he is attacked by the Mimic. Mimic smashes his mechanical costume, defeating him and destroying all of his controls. Xavier then allows banshee to free himself. After removing the headdress he explains that an organisation called Factor Three who had planted a bomb inside of it to forced him to work for them. Banshee leaves the X-Men with some ominous words, that Factor Three intends to take over the world.

The Sub-Mariner “The wrath of Warlord Krand!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jerry Grandenetti

Inker: Bill Everett

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #86

Cover date December 1966

(Published in September 1966)

As Namor searches New York hunting the Warlord Krang when Krang’s submarine causes a tidal wave that floods the city. The authorities believe Namor is responsible and open fire on him. Fleeing the scene Namor heads to a nearby radio transmitter in order to connect Lord Vashti for help, but it can’t contact Atlantis. He then tries to contact the US Air Force. Meanwhile, Krang gloats over the damage his tidal wave has caused. Lady Dorma overhears a firefighter mention that the Sub Mariner has survived the waves attack.

Meanwhile, the military tracks down Warlord Krang’s craft and sends a submarine to destroy it. The Sub-Mariner assumes the worst and believes Lady Dorma is dead. Namor asks if there are survivors, but the men in the radio building short-circuit the transmitter, shocking the prince of Atlantis. Lady Dorma tries to flee from Krang but before she can a military helicopter drops a net over them and takes them back into the city. They realise it’s harder to breathe and that the chemical

treatment Krang exposed them to has worn off. The Atlantean Prince struggles with a group of soldiers try to apprehend him, he then overhears a radio report believing that Krang's craft was his and that they have  captured his accomplices Krang and Dorma. Namor breaks free and rushes to where they are being held, unaware that the military has set up a trap for him using Dorma and Krang as bait. Next week "the moment of truth!"

A pretty nice centre-spread of the Incredible Hulk fighting against the Silver Surfer. The artist is unknown. 

Nick Fury, Agent of SHIELD “...The evil masters of SHIELD!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Mike Esposito

Originally published in Strange Tales #142

Cover date March 1966

(Published in December 1965)

The original cover artwork from Strange Tales issue 142 by Jack Kirby (pencils,) and Mike Esposito (inks,) is repurposed as this second part opening splash page. Mentallo teams up with the Fixer to attack SHIELD headquarters from underground. The Fixer mentions that he has been assisted in his fantastic constructions by "Them" but refuses to elaborate. The two manage to make their way through the secret agency base and are able to incapacitate Fury and his men. Attaching an electronic mask on Fury's face, the Fixer reveals that Nick Fury is now theirs to command. For more shocking surprise don't yield and back SHIELD next week!

Captain America “Them!”

Writer: Stan Lee

Artist: Jack Kirby

Inker: Frank Giacoia

Originally published in Tales to Astonish #78

Cover date June 1966

(Published in March 1966)

Captain America's training in the Avengers Mansion is interrupted by the arrival of Nick Fury of SHIELD. Fury has arrived to show Cap a miniaturised brain that SHIELD had taken from enemies, the organisation known as "Them". Fury briefs the living legend on the possibility that Them would be able to create an artificial man, when they are attacked by a humanoid creature when it phases through the wall of the Avengers Mansion.

Facing the artificial man in combat, they discover it employs a variety of chemicals as weapons. The two men attack but Cap is momentarily sedated as the humanoid man releases gas from its fingers. Elsewhere in a hidden lair the tactical chiefs of "Them" watch the battle on a remote screen. They ready themselves if their Chemical android fails another battalion of artificial soldiers will follow. These "bee-keeper" hooded scientists look like members of AIM. Later stories will link the organisation known as Them with their Scientific division called AIM, which will split from its parent organisation to become independent. Fury and Cap work together to defeat the android when Fury drops a knockout gas into its mouth causing it to pass out. However, before they can act further, the artificial man self-destructs, leaving no trace. After the encounter, Captain America explains that he'd been trying to contact Fury for some time to join up SHIELD, as seen in Avengers weekly #16, but now has decided against it because he has made a commitment to the Avengers. Fury shakes Cap's hand and says goodbye leaving a SHIELD A-1 priority card in the Avenger's hand should he ever need SHIELD's help in the future mission.

Titanic Transcripts

Nicholas Wane RFO, QNS from Buckinghamshire is overflowing with ecstasy and euphoria at how on earth Marvel has managed to have five stories in one mag. He has one criticism, that is cutting the pages down the middle is a bad idea as any Marvelites who normally read straight across the page could get mixed-up with that format. John Burton from Northampton thinks that the Titans is action packed cover to cover, he can't say he wasn't surprised by the strange format and after reading it a couple of times he could see how ingenious it is. Neil Marshall from Carlisle writes that the Titans is unbelievable in more ways than one, the new shape enables Marvel to print twice as much stories as normal. The line up of the Inhumans, Captain America, Nick Fury, the Sub-Mariner and Captain Marvel are as good as you will ever get, especially with Jack Kirby drawing the first three. 

M Simpson from London writes that for 9 pence The Titans is the best value Marvel comic on the market. The contents are really great although he doesn't like Nick Fury. The centre-spread and the covers are something else. But on the whole M dislikes the size of the panels and having two original pages on the same page, as it makes reading very hard as sometimes he carries on reading the stories two pages at once. Stephen Butcher from Surrey writes that the Titans is good value and the stories are just fab, the best story is the Inhumans. They're out of this world, especially this week's encounter against the Mandarin. Peter D'Alessandri from Essex thinks at first sight the Titans looked rather odd on the Newsagent's shelf but still he bought it. In the privacy of his own room he turned over the first page to see The Inhumans which was a great story, as was Captain America, SHIELD, Sub-Mariner and Captain Marvel. But unfortunately, the artwork was of low standard. After 25 minutes of non-stop reading he couldn't made up his mind whether he should put a permanent order on the Titans or forget it. He would just have to wait one more week. One week later he purchased it again and after frantically reading through those Titanic pages he was disappointed by the continuation of The Inhumans, but all else was great! His decision was, "Yes, indeed!" he will put an order on The Titans immediately!

Captain Marvel “To face the Psyche-Magnitron!”

Writer: Roy Thomas

Artist: Gil Kane, John Buscema and John Romita Sr.

Inker: Dan Adkins

Originally published in Captain Marvel #18

Cover date November 1969

(Published in August 1969)

This second part opening splash page is by an unnamed artist. Yon-Rogg has kidnapped Carol Danvers and taken her to another abandoned Kree outpost on Earth, where the Psyche-Magnatron, a device that has long since been banned by the Kree empire is held. Yon-Rogg uses the device to create a Mandroid robot. When Mar-Vell arrives to save Carol, he has to face both the Mandroid and Yon-Rogg in a massive battle. 

During the battle Carol is injured and the Psyche-Magnatron damaged. Mar-Vell destroys the Mandroid and manages to escape as the Psyche-Magnatron explodes, killing Yon-Rogg in the process, but Mar-Vell manages to get far enough away that he is only mildly stunned by the blast. Carol Danvers' exposure to the exploding Psyche-Magnatron would later be the source of the powers that would cause her to become the super-heroine Ms. Marvel, as British Marvel readers would recall if they read the story in the Marvel UK titled Marvel Comic issue 351 from the week ending the 18th July 1979. With the battle over, Mar-Vell changes places with Rick, who is just as physically exhausted as Mar-Vell and collapses on the ground.

The inside back page features the winning artwork from the Titanically Talented competition that was run in The Titans #2. Adrian Dent's entry, from Fairwater, is an impressive effort, especially for a ten year old. And on that note I'll finish this week's blog. Next week's Power of the Beesting marks the penultimate line-up before the number of weeklies is changed. So don't miss out... 

See you in seven.

Make Mine Marvel.