2.143 (508) Black Panther 1998 #1 ... Marvel ...

There is every now and then the usual hoo-ha about how there are not enough character of diversity in the world of comics. But for me, I am Asian and in my 30 years of reading comics, I have never felt the need for this. If the story warrants it, fine but if not, it's no big deal. I just don't think it should ever feel forced upon for the sake of political correctness

And this issue is just plain awesome. I was not a fan of the Panther and except for knowing him to be from an African country that has Vibranium and advanced technology even though they still behave tribal? I know next to nothing

So when I picked this up waaaaay back when it was coming out in floppies, it was merely to flip the pages ... and please note that I am also not a fan of Tex's art but for some reason the tale within captured my attention and off and on I followed it for a good four years plus!

I mean when you open this comic and you read the first page? Come on! How awesomely funny is that? You just have to try it

Anyway, let's get to specifics. At the point of this series launch, Panther is arriving to America because of some potential frame up accusing of him being involved in some scandal or other. Naturally he bring in his troops i.e the 2 warrior women and an elderly giant of a man. As he is both royalty and head of State, the US govt attached a liaison to him to sort of be his guide but unofficially be the eyes and ears of the US govt. So intro Mr Ross

Mr Ross plays a prominent and comical role throughout the 50 or so issues becoming the soul of the series for me. He is a shrimp of a man who is not afraid to show his weaknesses and is obviously an office person more than a field person

And he is also sleeping with his superior!

Now this series flips all over the place, past and present from scenario to scenario. So you really have to pay attention but it is time and effort well-spent SPOILER ALERT what the cover doesn't tell you is that the ending has yet another guest star. Throughout this issue, it's more political intrigue and some fisticuffs than anything else but that last 2 page? Wow! It leaves you wondering what else may be coming because you see ... Ross' door was knocked (not a joke) and when he opens it ... outside was Mephisto (the devil) waiting to come in (say what?)

Ratings: 8/10