The story picks up shortly afterSecret Wars.
Wakanda has been invaded and devastated, and Black Panthers sister Shuri slain.
Even as TChalla tries to pursue his telepathic opponent, he struggles against this newfound dissent among Wakandan citizens.
So far, the story lives up to its title: A Nation Under Our Feet.
For a superhero comic, Coates and StelfreezesBlack Pantheris interested in tough questions: What makes a nation?
What is a kings duty, and what is his responsibility to his people?
But the story doesnt just focus on TChalla alone.
The other most fascinating element of the story so far involves TChallas former bodyguards.
Luckily, Ayo steals two prototype robot suits and breaks her comrade (and lover) out of prison.
Together they become the Midnight Angels, armored AfricanFuriosasdedicated to protecting their fellow Wakandan women from patriarchal violence.
Four issues in,Black Pantheris obviously far from completing its story.
But this first volume is extremely promising.
Theres a deep, interesting cast of characters, a fully-realized world, and interesting politics at play.
Its vibrancy is also a demonstration of how diversity can breathe new life into old concepts.
Its a new kind of Marvel story.
Lets hope theres more to come.A-
