Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #87

 Hi everyone,

Today, I'll discuss the eighty-seventh issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang squaring off against Zaran, while his sister Fah Lo Suee was engaged in a sword battle with Leiko Wu in the background. The story was called "Warriors of the Golden Dawn Part 5: The Chrysalis and the Peacock." The issue had a cover date of April 1980.

The tale began with Shang and Black Jack Tarr's journey via plane from South America to Lima, Peru. The pair had posed as part of Fu Manchu's brainwashed minions. They then took a commercial flight to Morocco, where they rejoined their comrades Wu, Clive Reston, and Sir Dennis Nayland Smith at a Casablanca nightclub owned by Reston's pal Richard. 

While Smith rested, Tarr and Shang-Chi recounted their adventures in South America. Even though the Manchu they saw was only a hologram, Shang insisted that it was the spirit of his estranged father. Reston explained that New York was the likely next target, before the group began to disperse for the evening.

Shang-Chi rejoined Wu, who had a confession to make. Meanwhile, Tarr stepped outside. He soon noticed a familiar face. As he walked closer to it, he recognized both Shang's half-sister, Fah Lo Suee, and the villain Zaran.

Wu and Shang sat together, and Leiko began talking about trust. She recounted a time when she was twelve years old and attended a meeting in London while her father belonged to the Chinese consulate. During one of those meetings, she met a bright, blond-haired boy who became her first love. They spent time talking and playing board games under the tables that their parents sat at, discussing world issues. 

As Tarr confronted Suee, Wu went on to say that the boy's father was later assigned as cultural attache to Taiwan. She never saw the blond-haired boy again. She never thought that she'd find love again until she first met Reston. Leiko then said that she loved Shang-Chi.

Outside the club, Tarr was accusing Suee of deception when she tried to hypnotize her accuser. Wu admitted to Shang that she was weak and had recently spent time in Reston's arms once more, but only momentarily. During this conversation inside, Suee ordered Tarr to put down his gun and kiss her.

This drew the ire of Zaran, who violently attacked the unsuspecting Tarr. Leiko didn't know what Shang-Chi should do next, but felt compelled to be honest with him. He understood and went to the bar where Richard and Reston were talking. 

Zaran was about to inflict further damage on his opponent until he ceased fighting. He ordered several of his men to let Tarr go and to meet him and Suee at the mosque in twenty minutes. Meanwhile, Shang asked Reston if Wu had said or done anything while he was gone that he should have known about. Reston couldn't think of anything and was swiftly punched by Shang-Chi.

Richard was impressed by the strike, but the arrival of a weakened Tarr prevented any further conflict between Reston and Shang. Tarr crawled over to Shang-Chi and informed him of what he'd just seen and heard. 

Shang rushed out to meet the villains, with Wu close behind him. Before long, Zaran took on Shang-Chi, while Wu engaged in a good old-fashioned swordfight with Suee. Meanwhile, Tarr was being taken by Richard and one of his employees to rest. They informed Smith of what had just happened.

Zaran failed once more to defeat Shang-Chi. Leiko and Suee were evenly matched, but the arrival of more guards was enough to convince Wu to yield. The group then went to Shang. There, Suee explained that she now served the future MI-6, which had agreed to stop their assassination attempts on her brother's colleagues. It was a condition that she'd established before joining them.

The tape that she'd stolen and recorded over was Suee's proof that attempts had been made by the old MI-6 on Shang-Chi and his friends. She was sure that the current iteration would have destroyed Shockwave's tape and that her faction wanted to rise to power without scandal. 

Just before Smith and Reston arrived on the scene, Suee admitted that she and her ally had worked to free Smith from her father. Moments later, Karemenah entered. She was the ally that Suee had been talking about. 

Suee explained that her father would be in New York the next day. All she knew about his plans was that they were to meet at a pier. The group argued about what to do next until Smith spoke up. He didn't think that joining forces was the best idea at the time.

Smith then asked Karamenah if she wanted to reconnect with her husband. She had no interest in that, noting that she'd observed him in disguise in years past. Karamenah observed how he had moved on after believing her to be dead, and wasn't interested in disrupting the life he'd resumed without her. She added that she'd tried to approach Doctor Petrie a half dozen times before, but simply couldn't. 

The group then went their separate ways. Most notable was the split between Reston, Shang-Chi, and Wu. It seemed like the lovers' triangle and Wu's confession had driven a rift between the friends that would take some time to mend. 

This was another interesting issue. I was surprised by how quickly Zaran found his self-confidence. His battle with Tarr was kind of a test, one that he'd passed with flying colors. Unfortunately for him, it wasn't enough for him to overcome Shang-Chi's skills. To me, Leiko's infidelity didn't seem like a big issue, especially by today's standards, but Shang's sense of honor and trust probably made it a larger concern, which I can respect. I'm still at a loss for words to explain why Doctor Petrie wasn't involved in this story arc, except for this issue's flashback and mention toward the end. 

Well, that's all for this year. I'll kick off 2026 with a recap of the eighty-eighth issue of Master of Kung Fu. In that issue, we'll learn more about Fu Manchu's plans for New York City. We'll also see what Suee plans to do to combat her father's plans, and how the rift among Shang and his friends impacts their actions. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #86

 Good afternoon,

Today I'll be writing about the eighty-sixth issue of Master of Kung Fu. The cover was a brilliantly drawn picture of Shang by Mike Zeck. The story was called "Warriors of the Golden Dawn Part 4: The Phoenix and the Dragon." The issue had a cover date of March 1980.

Shang stood before his biological father, Fu Manchu, and declared that his father made him an alien. He was raised in a lost time and was sent out to a vastly different world. He likened himself to a dragon who'd been reborn in an era that was long past the one he entered the world in. 

When Manchu asked why his former son had bothered him with such facts, Shang-Chi replied that he still needed guidance. He also sought answers that his father could not provide for him, since he'd embarked upon a path that was the opposite of the one that Shang's teachers had set him upon. 

Shang continued to speak while Manchu stayed silent. As he did so, he thought about the times that he'd sought guidance and a father figure from others, but only found games of deceit, death, and betrayal. Manchu then remarked that Shang-Chi had a father, but lost him due to his betrayal. 

Manchu went on to say that he was looking for the golden dream, something he had been searching for since the last time he and his biological son met. He informed Shang about the electrodes he'd implanted in the brains of different agents from all the countries on Earth. He planned to use orbital satellites to transmit commands to his brainwashed servants, so that they could cause chaos and confusion, and make it easier for him to dominate the world.

Shang-Chi looked away, obviously disgusted by his father's obsessions with violence and conquest. He thought that it might have been better to have remained with his friend Black Jack Tarr, who at that moment found himself under attack by some of Manchu's mind-controlled drones. His one hope was to shoot at the control console, which he did. Its destruction caused his attackers to go into convulsions, not knowing what to do without the electronic feed's programming.

Tarr ran into the next room, which was occupied by Shang's half-sister, Fah Lo Suee, and a pair of cheetahs. Suee tried to seduce Tarr with a potion that was capable of conjuring powerful visions. She told him that his long-lost friend, Sir Dennis Nayland Smith, was in Morocco with Karamenah, Doctor Petrie's wife, who'd been missing for years and presumed dead. Tarr then ran from the chamber to find Shang-Chi.

Shang denounced his father, who resisted his pleading to change his ways. Just then, Tarr burst into the room and opened fire. We then learned that the image of Fu Manchu was nothing more than a hologram, and he'd never been in the room at all. As the holographic image continued to laugh, a wall behind it started to open, revealing a hollow mountain in the distance and an unidentified flying object flying from the opening at the top.

The apparition bid adieu and disappeared, right before a column of Manchu's finest warriors entered the room. Tarr and Shang-Chi fought their way toward the mountain. They found the entrance and went down a lift before coming across an underground grotto. Glowing lights underneath the water caught their attention, and the duo swam down inside a hidden pyramid. Inside were more of Manchu's soldiers. 

This time, instead of fighting, Shang and Tarr grabbed a hold of one of the glowing apparitions, which led them up through the mountain's opening. The duo slid down the mountainside and took out the two leopard cultists who were in front of a now-empty truck. Zaran and Suee watched the action with interest, but did not interfere. 

Tarr drove on, telling Shang that they needed to contact Reston and Wu. Shang-Chi thought back to his love for Leiko, not knowing that she was now in the arms of her former flame, Reston. The two had noticed a pair of leopard cultists enter through the window above them when Reston's friend Richard entered the room with a shotgun and blew away the intruders. 

The commotion had attracted Smith's attention, and he entered the room to find out what had just happened. Reston explained the situation to Richard, while Tarr and Shang came up on another convoy. Three trucks were being emptied, and their passengers were piling into a jet airplane. Tarr figured that Lima, Peru would be the next closest airport. 

As Smith informed his friends that Karemenah had told him Manchu's next target was New York, Shang-Chi and Tarr were boarding the plane, posing as brainwashed subjects. They hoped that way that they could learn more about Manchu's plans. 

I have to say that the trio of writer Doug Moench, penciler Mike Zeck, and inker Gene Day was a winning combination. They really meshed very well on this book. The stories had believable elements of fiction, and storylines like this made readers want to know what happened next with each issue that was published. I just wish that more comic book readers had caught on to this title back in the day. I was a bit surprised to see that Zaran was back in favor and took a passive role in this issue.

Well, that's all for this article. Next time, I'll recap the eighty-seventh issue of Master of Kung Fu. The action continues as the heroes reunite and share what they've learned with each other. Zaran will enter the fray, and we'll see where certain personal relationships stand. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another.

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #85

 Good morning everyone,

Today's topic is the eighty-fifth issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed the titular character on a staircase, fighting multiple opponents, trying to block his path. The story was called "Warriors of the Golden Dawn Part 3: The Ram and the Dove." The issue had a cover date of February 1980.

The tale began where the last issue left off. Shang-Chi and Black Jack Tarr were faced with trouble on two sides: alligators behind them and spear-wielding leopard cultists in front of them. Shang opted for the least dangerous path and dove under the water. Tarr quickly followed as his friend took on one of the alligators. 

This move took the cultists by surprise. They chose to stand their ground and wait to see who would be the victor of that battle. What they didn't know was that the heroes were hiding underneath the alligator, moments before they threw the creature up onto the shore, which dispersed the warriors who fled in terror.

Shang and Tarr waded back onto dry land and fought off the soldiers who'd stayed behind. Tarr told his comrade to head to their Jeep. Shang-Chi obeyed, even though he wished that they could have done more for the brainwashed captives that they would leave behind. Shang was still a novice driver, but he was capable enough of leading them to safety, while Tarr fired at their pursuers from the back of the vehicle. They planned to follow the convoy, hoping it would lead them to Fu Manchu's South American base.

Meanwhile, in Casablanca, Morocco, Leiko Wu and Clive Reston had no sooner disembarked from their plane when a young boy handed Reston a note. The note gave the location of their missing former employer, Sir Dennis Nayland Smith. They realized it could be a trap, but nonetheless hired a taxi and headed toward the location anyway.

Not far away, Doctor Petrie's previously presumed dead wife, Karamenah, assured Smith that Reston would be there soon to rescue him. She would pretend to still be allied with the leopard cultists and face whatever fate Manchu would have in store for her "failure." 

Fu Manchu was already aware of Tarr and Shang-Chi's impending arrival. He confided to his daughter Fah Lo Suee that their convoy of brainwashed subjects was already boarding a plane bound for Lima Airport. From there, the dignitaries would be dispersed into separate flights back to their home nations, all while still under his control.

It didn't take Wu and Reston very long to reach their destination. They swiftly defeated the guards and entered the building. Karamenah allowed Smith to leave, and Wu punched her hard, so that it would appear to the guards who came to her aid that she resisted the heroes' invasion. 

As Tarr and Shang approached Manchu's compound, Wu and Reston went to a nearby hideout. They were greeted by Reston's old friend Richard (who looked very similar to the late actor Humphrey Bogart), who was glad to give his friends a place to stay temporarily.

Shang-Chi and Tarr crept up to the compound's door, only to find an assorted army of Manchu soldiers right behind them. Tarr fired his machine gun to drive some of them away. He and Shang entered the building to find even more warriors waiting. Tarr's ammunition ran out, and the duo were forced to combat each attacker individually. Shang-Chi soon fell into a hole in the floor, while Tarr ventured further inside the complex.

At the Moroccan hideout, Wu and Reston had some time to talk alone. Old feelings were rekindled, and the pair embraced. Wu explained later that their gathering was just for the moment. Reston agreed, knowing how strong here feelings were for Shang. They were then ambushed by leopard cultists.

In the compound, Tarr found his way inside a previously locked room. Inside, he found several more captives who had been brainwashed. At the same time, Shang made his way into his father's complex. The evil ruler quietly welcomed the man whom he now called his former son. 

Fans had been asking for a Shang-Chi/Fu Manchu rematch, and they were finally about to have it. This was another interesting issue. I was concerned that Wu and Reston's former romance would resurface, but I'm glad they realized that their brief fling wouldn't last. One concern I had was the fact that we saw Doctor Petrie's wife in this story arc, but as of yet, there was no mention or appearance of the doctor himself. I was kind of hoping for them to be reunited at some point. 

Well, that's all for now. Next time, I'll cover the eighty-sixth issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll see Shang and his father together for the first time in three years. We'll learn more about the evil tyrant's master plans, including those strange, colorful orbs that we saw a couple of issues ago. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #84

 Hello everyone,

Today's focus is the eighty-fourth issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang and Black Jack Tarr surrounded by alligators behind them and spear-wielding opponents in front of them. The story was called "Warriors of the Golden Dawn Part 2: The Bull and the Dragon." The issue had a cover date of January 1980.

The tale started with Tarr and Shang-Chi situated in a jungle lookout. Tarr was just doubting that any of Fu Manchu's leopard cultists were near, when a trio of those warriors leaped down at them. The heroes quickly defeated their opponents, who ran off deeper into the jungle. Tarr and Shang opted against pursuing them, since their foes obviously knew the jungle better than they did. The brief attack did prove that Lyman Leeks' interrogation methods were effective.

Leeks had interrogated another leopard cultist back in the UK, before Shang-Chi and Tarr embarked on their mission. He'd fired his pistol near the captive's head, which apparently was enough to frighten him into disclosing some important information. Tarr and Shang-Chi drove on in their Jeep, hoping to capture another cultist and force him to tell them where their comrade, Sir Dennis Nayland Smith, was.

Meanwhile, at Manchu's South American compound, the evil tyrant was frustrated. He confided in his daughter, Fah Lo Suee, that he was concerned that Smith had not yet been delivered to him by Doctor Petrie's wife, Karamenah. Smith was the most important part of his mind control scheme. Suee promised her father that she would obtain Smith if Karamenah failed. She then gave Manchu the information packet that Leeks had compiled. 

Most of the names on the list were people whom Manchu's men had already kidnapped. Suee swore that her younger half-brother, Shang, had not been privy to. She then asked her father if Shang-Chi would be granted life or death. Fu Manchu replied that it wasn't the time to discuss such matters and that his first convoy was heading to the airstrip.

We then saw a truck carrying several prisoners in the back. As the vehicle hit a bump in the road, we could notice a transmitter affixed to one person's head. Three trucks carrying mind-controlled prisoners drove on past Shang and Tarr, who were watching from a close distance. 

Before the mission began, the group was still at Clive Reston's residence when Leeks turned on the radio. A news broadcast said that several brilliantly colored unidentified flying objects were observed in the night skies over parts of South America the previous evening. The group was listening to the report as Clive's housekeeper, Miss Haversham, delivered a telegram to her employer.

The telegram invited Reston to Casablanca, Morocco. Just moments earlier, the news broadcast on the radio stated that very city had also witnessed several of the spectacular unexplained lights in the evening sky. The group decided to split up. Tarr and Shang-Chi would go to South America, while Wu and Reston would check out the lead in Morocco. Melissa Greville would stay behind with Haversham and Leeks.

Meanwhile, in Manchu's grotto, the evil leader and his daughter watched the light phenomena emerge from underneath the water. Manchu explained that he was using them as diversions, to create chaos and confusion for effect. He was disappointed that one of them had not brought Smith to him yet.

In Morocco, Karmenah ordered her leopard cult soldiers to wait for her outside. Now she could talk with Smith privately. She explained that she was the one who had sent the telegram to Reston, and went on to describe Manchu's plan, a plot that he'd first concocted back in 1933.

Direct mind control was the linchpin. She then removed her wig to reveal a pair of small antennae on her head that had been used to control her, until someone recently disrupted the electronic feed control to free her. She was not ready to reveal to Smith who had assisted her. It was something that she might never admit to anyone else.

A while later, Manchu and Suee watched Zaran continue to spar with one of the Thuggee warriors. Their amusement was interrupted by the arrival of the three leopard cultists that Shang-Chi and Tarr had defeated earlier. Speaking of our heroes, they continued to follow the convoy, which had finally stopped for the night. Tarr wanted to sneak down in an attempt to get one of the captives to speak with them. 

Unfortunately, the brainwashed, caged prisoners were in no condition to confess anything. Shang and Tarr's arrival was noticed by one of the guards, who swiftly called out to alert his companions. Another fight ensued while former lovers Wu and Reston prepared to embark on their mission together. 

Tarr and Shang fought bravely, but they were soon outnumbered. They also noticed several large alligators began to approach them from behind. On the shore stood even more leopard cultists. 

This issue ended on the cliffhanger that the cover had foreshadowed. It also set up some interesting possibilities for both teams that were sent out in the field to take on the potential threats. More questions were still left unanswered, of course, but this storyline continued to chug along at a good, even pace.

Well, that's it for this article. Next time, I'll recap the eighty-fifth issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll find out what happened to Tarr and Shang-Chi after they were surrounded by formidable foes. We'll also learn if Leiko reached their destination and were able to save their former employer, Smith. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #83

 Hello there,

Today's topic is the eighty-third issue of Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed the titular character, with a snake and a familiar face in the background. The story was called "Warriors of the Golden Dawn Part 1: The Phoenix and the Snake." The issue had a cover date of December 1979.

The tale began with an excerpt from the journal of Fu Manchu. Shang's father developed a new work of art, in the shape of a pentagon with a snake in the middle. When it was done, he walked out to his balcony and observed his soldiers sparring below.

After several moments, he snapped his fingers to draw their attention. Everyone ceased what they were doing and turned to praise their leader. Manchu raised his talisman and asked that the Si-Fan, Phansisgar, Thugee, Hashishin, Templar, and Leopard cult members hear him. He announced that all of those warriors were now brothers, belonging to the Order of the Golden Dawn. 

Back at Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's ancestral castle in Scotland, Clive Reston was lamenting the fact that the leopard cult now had the original information packet and Smith. He wondered how they knew about the packet's location. Lyman Leeks noted that his clues should only have been obvious to Smith, Doctor Petrie, and the doctor's wife, Karamenah, who was believed to have been deceased for quite some time. The doctor was also rumored to be out of commission.

The attention then turned back to Manchu. He opted to meditate in his pool, as his loyal servant Ducharme provided him with the elixir vitae that continued to extend his life beyond that of most mortals. He smoked and started seeing visions. One apparition was that of him leading men on horses to triumph. Another showed Manchu working towards his goals of success. The third vision was that of an offspring born twenty years before, one that could interrupt his quest. Manchu's visions were not entirely pleasing to him, partly because he felt that his child should have been born in the middle of his plans. 

While Melissa Greville wallowed in guilt for allowing Smith to be kidnapped, Manchu was meeting with his daughter, Fah Lo Suee. She presented her father with a gift: Zaran, the weapons master. Zaran faced Shang-Chi three times and was defeated each time. When asked how his son was doing, Suee replied that he was in confusion. Manchu remarked that Shang's spirit was in the greatest stage of possible growth.

Manchu then called for one of his Thuggee warriors, for Zaran to prove his mettle against. Zaran was defeated easily. Manchu called Zaran unworthy, but allowed him to stay, so that he could attempt to improve himself.

As Leiko Wu and Shang packed for their next mission, Manchu moved on to another chamber. This one contained several people who had been kidnapped. These individuals from the United Nations had been implanted with electrodes and experimented upon. Meanwhile, his next subject was on his way. 

Smith was being led to a room by several leopard cultists. They finally stopped and removed his blindfold. Smith was stunned to see Petrie's wife, Karamenah, standing in front of him. She explained that Manchu's elixir vitae had both preserved her life and reversed the aging process. 

At midnight, Manchu left his abode and wandered to another building. Once inside, he descended in a lift and walked to a pool. He cast gold into the water and watched as several brightly colored orbs began to rise. He bid them to venture out into the night skies, and marveled at their brilliance as they did just that. Meanwhile, Shang-Chi and Wu were continuing their conversation about why they ever wonder why. He commented that wondering might be somewhat akin to being born anew, or seeing old secrets through a new pair of eyes.

Fans finally got their wish: Fu Manchu was back! Writer Doug Moench moved toward the supernatural in some of his Manchu storylines, and this particular one was no different. It was interesting to see how all of his warrior sects had now been combined under the same umbrella. There was no need for competition or in-fighting between groups. I wasn't surprised to see Suee ally herself with her father once more, but I didn't expect to see Zaran fall so far so fast. He was initially very confident in himself, but it seemed like each loss to Shang-Chi made him weaker internally. 

Well, that's all for this post. Next time, I'll recap the eighty-fourth issue of Master of Kung Fu. It's the second part of this story arc. The focus will be on Shang and Black Jack Tarr as they encounter more of Manchu's soldiers. We'll also learn more about what Karamenah's been up to since Smith saw her last. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #82

 Hi everyone,

Today, I'll discuss the eighty-second issue of Marvel's Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang jumping down from a helicopter as knives were tossed around him. We also see Clive Reston standing on a ladder and firing at enemies below. The ladder is from a helicopter that we see Leiko Wu in the background. The story was called "Like a God Keeping Fire." The issue had a cover date of November 1979.

The tale began in London, as Shang-Chi, Wu, Reston, and Black Jack Tarr were reading the note that was inside an information packet that had been hidden in a tapestry at the London Museum. The note read "fooled again, little spirit." This was from Shang's half-sister, Fah Lo Suee, who was obviously mocking her younger brother. 

The quartet decided to return to Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's Scotland Castle to find out more from Lyman Leeks, who had placed the real information packet inside the tapestry. On the way to the helicopter, Reston asked Leiko how Melissa Greville was doing. She replied that Melissa was fine, but acting differently. Wu wasn't sure if Reston's current girlfriend was fit for this type of life.

Reston admitted that Greville lacked the type of connection that he'd had with his former love, Leiko. Wu wasn't about to go crawling back to him, especially since she and Shang-Chi were now an item, but reassured Clive that things would be okay. Reston agreed and worried about his current girlfriend being all alone in the castle with Smith.

At the castle, Melissa was growing restless. She didn't like being viewed as the stereotypical helpless blonde. Greville wanted to do more, but she wasn't quite sure what just yet. Smith did his best to comfort her, telling her that nothing would happen to her, not knowing that more leopard-skin-wearing warriors were just outside the building.

The helicopter had landed on the rooftop of Reston's home. He and his friends regrouped there with Lyman Leeks and Reston's housekeeper, Miss Haversham. Shang seemed to be fascinated by Reston's collection of model cars, to which Reston replied that Shang-Chi needed some kind of hobby to help him forget the realities of the modern world. 

While Haversham went off to bring refreshments, the quintet started to talk. Meanwhile, while Smith was continuing his attempts to build Greville's self-confidence, the door opened, and they were attacked by the soldiers in leopard skins. One of them knocked Smith out and was about to take him to their waiting plane. Melissa managed to escape and ran toward a car parked in the driveway.

At Reston's home, Leeks started the conversation off by saying MI-6 believed that Fu Manchu had been kidnapping important scientists and officials from across the globe. He had a short list of names at his South American safe house and shared what he knew from memory.

One day, an Indio from the Andes Mountains told him that he'd heard of his standing offer for information of any odd happenings in the region, and told Leeks about the ball of light which he had several others had witnessed soar across the sky before crashing down in a nearby lagoon. Tarr presumed that it was Manchu's spacecraft (last seen in MOKF #50) that had reentered Earth's atmosphere. The friction heat from entry could have caused the body of water to boil temporarily. 

The natives saw someone appear from the flames. This individual would go on to help heal sick residents of the village and earned the moniker Devil Doctor as a result. The doctor's "apostles" later arrived (probably after being contacted via radio), and "giant birds" in the skies soon appeared, dropping various gifts, such as supplies.

Several "magic gifts" were then used to do things like change water flow (by using explosives). The natives were undoubtedly new to technology, and the stranger used that to his advantage. Before long, he'd coerced natives to work for him and build and create things for him. Several of his loyal followers became new members of his Si-Fan leopard cult. 

Leeks then provided satellite images of the area. One blown-up photo showed a pagoda that looked like it was built rather recently. It seemed quite obvious that Shang-Chi's father was indeed up to his old tricks. The only concern that Lyman had now was that Smith wasn't quite sure if he could still completely trust his longtime associate, Doctor Petrie. 

Shang and his friends decided to leave Leeks and Miss Haversham to their budding romance and reconnoiter with their friends at the Scottish castle. They traveled by helicopter, and soon saw Melissa emerge from the car they'd left behind at the castle. Reston and Shang-Chi descended down the rope ladder to protect their friend from the leopard warriors in the van that had been trailing Greville's car.

The warriors fled into a nearby windmill. Shang-Chi pursued them, and another battle ensued. He was victorious, and Tarr remarked that at least one of Shang's foes survived the encounter. Greville was inconsolable at the time, stating that she'd failed to stop Smith from being kidnapped. 

Longtime readers had been clamoring for the return of Shang's deadliest foe, and they were about to be rewarded. I grew to appreciate the Lyman Leeks character, and I wish he had hung around for a longer period of time. This was another action-packed epic, portrayed brilliantly by Messrs Moench, Zeck, and company.

Next up is the eighty-third issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll find out if the rumors are true and what happened to Smith. We'll also see the return of a couple of popular characters as another new story arc begins. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #81

 Good afternoon,

Today's topic is the eighty-first issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed the titular character surrounded by a pair of leopard-skin-wearing foes who carried knives, above what might be a scale model of London. The tale was titled "Breathless." The issue had a cover date of October 1979.

The story began with Shang, Black Jack Tarr, and Clive Reston being pursued as they drove by a pair of vehicles that were firing at them. Tarr's car was soon overturned and stuck against a wall. The trio stood their ground until a bullet struck both of their assailants' cars, knocking them out of action. Shang-Chi was then able to push the car over, and they sped away.

Reston recovered one of the knives that had been thrown at them during the battle. It was identical to one that had stabbed and caused the death of Lyman Leeks, their contact that they had planned to meet at the train station. As soon as the heroes found a phone booth, Reston called Sir Dennis Nayland Smith, who was waiting at his Scottish castle home along with Melissa Greville and Leiko Wu.

Smith was surprised to hear that Leeks had been killed. He figured out that the clue he'd given about Hanemark was actually the word Karemenah spelled backwards, and that the two trees must mean 1933. Karamenah was his friend, Doctor Petrie's wife. Smith also deduced that the rainbow bridge referred to an incident in 1933 that he, Petrie, and Leeks were involved in, where the evil Fu Manchu had tried to kidnap members of the League of Nations. 

Reston was shot at once more before Smith could relay additional details. He, Shang-Chi, and Tarr found themselves in another firefight. As they battled, Smith told Reston over the phone about their adventure in 1933. He and his associates had learned about Shang-Chi's father's plan and had breached the Singapore base of his Si-Fan operatives. 

The conflict was fierce, but Smith and his crew eventually managed to free Petrie's wife. She gave them a statue of a peacock, or the "rainbow bird." Petrie later donated the statue to the London museum, where he believed that his associates had to reach by dawn to figure out the last part of the puzzle. After hanging up, Smith directed Wu to take them to that same museum.

Tarr, Reston, and Shang decided to head toward the museum. Tarr insisted on making a stop at Whitechapel first. They left the body in their vehicle, which was soon discovered by his double. After unlocking the front door, Reston went to retrieve the body, only to be startled when it awoke.

Leeks explained that he was the real McCoy, and that he'd stashed his impostor in the car's trunk. Moments later, the quartet found themselves under fire. Tarr drove for safety. As he did so, the body of the impostor flew from the open trunk and landed on the hood of the car pursuing them, causing that vehicle to crash into a post. 

Later, while Reston was lamenting the poor health of some of his plants, Tarr was searching for more ammunition, mere moments before they were fired upon yet again. He, Reston, and Shang drove off for the museum, leaving the housekeeper and Leeks to tend to the mess.

The car arrived at the London museum at dawn. Reston and Tarr were examining the patterns shown by the light reflected from the tailfeathers of the peacock statue right before more attackers in leopard costumes arrived. One attacker made a beeline for the tapestry on the opposite wall, tearing it with the false claws from his uniform. He made off with the information packet that had been hidden inside. Shang-Chi followed close behind.

Shang was led to the rooftop, where he battled two warriors. He was rescued by a helicopter that was operated by his friends from the castle. Wu dropped down a ladder for him before tossing a gas grenade. After the battle, Shang descended the ladder to rejoin Tarr and Reston.

The packet was opened. All that was inside was a note that read "fooled again, little spirit." This was an obvious insult for Shang-Chi from his half-sister, Fah Lo Suee. Tarr slammed his fist down angrily on the top of his car, which seemed to cause it to finally fall apart. He and his friends headed toward the helicopter, wondering what else was in store for them. 

I didn't mention this before, but I was pleased with the addition of Gene Day as inker. His work complemented Mike Zeck's pencil art perfectly. This was another enjoyable issue. There were still plenty of questions that were thus far left unanswered, but at least the storyline was intriguing enough to want to find out how everything fit into place.

Well, that's a wrap for this article. Next time, I'll recap the eighty-second issue of Master of Kung Fu. Greville will play a more active role, and we'll find out what Leeks wanted to share in person. We'll also see more of the leopard warriors and find out more about what they have planned. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #80

 Good morning,

Today's topic is the eightieth issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover depicted Shang in a defensive pose while four opponents dropped in on him from above. We can see several train cars behind Shang-Chi's left shoulder. The story was called "The Pride of Leopards." The issue had a cover date of September 1979. 

The tale began with Shang mediating to loud music after having slept for sixteen hours. The noise was enough to annoy Black Jack Tarr, who approached Shang-Chi's quarters along with Clive Reston to invite him to a meeting downstairs. Shang replied with a quote to help calm his friend: "Make every song your favorite tune," a line from Mick Jagger. That showed how much Shang-Chi had changed from his father's strict upbringing in Honan, China.

Sir Dennis Nayland Smith had requested their presence, as well as that of Melissa Greville and Leiko Wu. He began the meeting by discussing Sarsfield's claims that Shang's father, the notorious Fu Manchu, may still be alive. Smith doubted that the tyrant could ever die. The tape that he'd played the other day seemed to confirm his suspicions.

The tape that had previously recorded the words of their former opponent, Shockwave, had been taped over. The voice that could now be heard on the recording belonged to Shang-Chi's half sister, Fah Lo Suee. She was the one that Shang saw talking with Zaran outside of his lodge (in a recent issue). Shang-Chi realized that she had made the recording while discussing plans with Zaran. 

Tarr deduced that Zaran's new employer was Suee. He questioned if Shang's half sister was now allied with or against Fu Manchu. Smith was curious as to how she'd escaped from prison. The group assembled around the conference table began postulating about their former organization, MI-6, including the possibility that Manchu may be associated with it. 

Shang-Chi brought up an important point. He said that he'd seen very little truth ever since joining Smith and his comrades. He noted that nothing is ever what it seems and that the rules often change with every roll of the dice, adding that the meaning of his own name, the rising and advancing of a spirit, had become alien to him.

Smith then brought up new business. He showed the group a photo of his associate Lyman Leeks. Leeks had been working at MI-6's South American bureau, and thought that he had evidence that Manchu had a presence there. He also thought that Smith was still in a leadership role with the organization, which was why Leeks made his report directly to Smith instead of sending it to Whitechapel.

Meanwhile, in an undisclosed location, a pair of men sat in a hotel room waiting for two others to join them. Once they arrived, all four of them opened their briefcases. They were evidently preparing for a mission. 

Back at Smith's estate, Smith went on to say that the meeting with Leeks would have to be in person for security reasons. He asked Shang to participate, and he agreed. Smith noted that there may be MI-6 agents as well as others who might want to interfere with the contact that would take place at Victoria Railway Station. 

While we saw the four strangers adorn odd-looking leopard costumes and prep for battle, a man at the rail station was shot at by gunmen from an oncoming car. Tarr drove off in pursuit of the gunmen's vehicle. Reston approached the gunmen's target, while a pair of strangers in the crowd fled. Reston noticed a knife sticking out of the back of the man he'd just approached.

Somewhere in South America, a warrior named Maru was locked in combat. His rivals were strong, but not strong enough to defeat him. The person overseeing the match was in shadows, but his profile looked familiar to long-time readers. We also saw that Maru's opponents adorned costumes similar to those worn by the men in the hotel room just a few pages earlier. 

The two men in trench coats who had just fled soon shed their disguises. Shang-Chi caught up with them and quickly found himself face to face with a sextet of warriors in leopard costumes. At the same time, Tarr found himself being boxed in by other cars. He ducked to avoid more gunfire and was able to accelerate into a pair of cars, knocking them out of the fracas.

While Shang fought, Reston tended to the wounded man. With his last few remaining gasps, the man told Reston Hanemark in two threes and chemist's rainbow bird at dawn before passing away. Shang-Chi returned to Reston's side after his foes fled when they saw the lights of an oncoming train before them. 

Shang-Chi and Reston helped to put the dead man's body in the back of Tarr's vehicle. As the quartet drove off, Reston was trying to figure out what their contact's last words meant. At the station, another man who looked identical to their contact stood around waiting for a meeting. 

This was the very first issue of Master of Kung Fu that I ever read. I picked it up in the discount bin at my local comic book store and was impressed with the story and layouts. It made me want to know more about the characters, and I eventually wound up acquiring all of the issues. I really wanted to know what happened after this issue, and I'm glad I took a chance on a title that I previously would have ignored. It really has become one of my favorite Marvel comic book runs. 

Well, that's all for this morning. Later today, I'll delve into the eighty-first issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll learn more about the new foes that Shang just faced. We'll also find out more about Suee's involvement and why there seem to be two Lyman Leeks. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #79

 Good afternoon,

Today I'll be writing about the seventy-ninth issue of Marvel's monthly comic The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang ready to defend a battered and bruised Leiko Wu, who was sitting behind him. The tale was titled To Sleep...This Side of Death." The issue had a cover date of August 1979. 

The story started with Wwu and Shang-Chi driving toward Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's family castle in Scotland. As Leiko drove, Shang brought up the adventures from recent issues, including their encounters with Zaran, the weapons master, and his near-breakdown beforehand. The first battle with Zaran left Wu with a concussion after crashing her previous vehicle. She admitted that the accident forced her to finally rest, unlike her love, who hadn't even been sidelined for illness since he was little. 

As they neared the castle, Zaran spoke to the captives Smith, Black Jack Tarr, Melissa Greville, and Clive Reston. They had been captured by rogue MI-6 agent Sarsfield, who now lay dead after being killed by Zaran (in the last issue). Zaran noted that his new employer viewed all those in attendance at the table, living and dead, to be his enemies. 

Tarr had almost freed himself from his bonds and needed a diversion to finish the job. He asked Zaran who his new boss was. The villain laughed at Tarr's supposed naivete. Fortunately, Wu's knock on the front door was the diversion Tarr needed. He freed himself and punched Zaran down onto the dining table before them all. 

Unfortunately, the sight of Zaran seemed to weaken both Leiko and Shang-Chi. Wu started feeling the effects of her recent concussion, while Shang seemed to be in a state of shock, which could be partially attributed to his fatigue and lack of recent sleep. Zaran took advantage of his foe's condition and attacked. Only reflexes helped Shang-Chi prevent himself or his love from being seriously injured.

The smell of his own blood during the attack was enough to rouse Shang from his stupor. He gained a sudden surge of adrenaline and fought mercilessly until Zaran tossed an explosive knife up at the ceiling. Shang instinctively dove to protect Smith from being injured by the falling plaster. The villain had escaped again, but at least Shang-Chi and his friends were safe.

Afterward, Greville and Wu made sure that Shang got some much-needed rest. Smith, Tarr, and Reston talked about making the castle their new base of operations. Smith also located the tape reel, and began to play it. However, instead of hearing Shockwave, the voice of the person who had recorded over that conversation was Shang-Chi's half-sister, Fah Lo Suee. She was the one that Shang had noticed talking with Zaran outside his cabin before he burst in (to attack last issue). Shang-Chi still felt feverish, but no one in the assemblage thought that her message foreshadowed anything good. 

Longtime Master of Kung Fu readers like myself undoubtedly enjoyed the return of Shang's half sister. After all, if she was back, could Fu Manchu be far behind? After first reading this issue, I wondered just what she had in store for the remaining members of MI-6, as well as her plans for Shang and his friends who had long since left the agency. 

Well, that's all for this issue. Next time, I'll recap the eightieth issue of Master of Kung Fu. The group will convene in their new base to determine their next steps. We'll also see the debut of a few new characters, some good and others not so good. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #78

 Good morning,

Today's focus is the seventy-eighth issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover depicted the titular character breaking through the door of what appeared to be someone's game-hunting trophy room, as a person in purple shadows stood before him with a bow and arrow ready to fire. The story was named "Tread the Night Softly." The issue had a cover date of July 1979.

The tale began with Shang carrying the unconscious Leiko Wu and walking toward the nearest town. Inside a tavern, he asked the bartender for medical assistance before placing Wu on a table before him. Shang-Chi explained that they had been in a car accident to the proprietor and his wife before asking if they'd heard of a man named Zaran.

The owner was familiar with the self-styled weapons master and informed Shang that Zaran had a lodge out in the woods. Shang-Chi hired a car to take him to Zaran's dwelling. He asked the driver to stop before approaching the front door. Shang found a secluded spot to rest and watch for Zaran's arrival.

Meanwhile, at Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's family castle in Scotland, the captive Black Jack Tarr said that for all they knew, Fu Manchu was presumed dead. His captor and former MI-6 associate Sarsfield begged to differ. He thought that the evil warlord was very much alive, and that Tarr and his friends knew more about that than they'd divulged thus far.

Back at the tavern, a doctor was examining Leiko. She was diagnosed with a concussion, but nothing more serious than that. The doctor called for an ambulance to pick her up and take her to the local hospital.

At the same time, Shang-Chi was still waiting patiently outside of Zaran's lodge, ready for a rematch. While Tarr and Reston were making silent plans, Shang finally saw his foe outside his lodge. He was speaking with another person who was hidden by shadows. After the stranger left by car, Shang-Chi made his move. He crept into Zaran's lodge in his quest for the stolen tape (that could help his former foe, Shockwave, whom Zaran stole last issue).

Back at the tavern, Wu was awake and refused further medical assistance. Her one goal was to find Shang, who was busy with his rematch with the weapons master. Zaran eventually fled by boat, but not before he dropped a small orb. Shang-Chi inspected the orb and found that it was a glass eye. It matched the one in the animal head above him. In its traditional place was the missing tape reel. 

At Smith's castle, Sarsfield disclosed that their intelligence had reports that Shang's father, Fu Manchu, may have established himself somewhere in South America. Shang-Chi had no sooner retrieved the tape when he heard another car approach. This one had been driven by the weakened Wu, who wanted them to head for Smith's Scottish castle.

Tarr was still trying to free himself from his bonds when a visitor arrived at the castle. It was none other than Zaran himself. Sarsfield was surprised to see his ally, who informed him that their plans had changed before plunging a knife into Sarsfield's stomach. Zaran announced that he was under new employment, but that change would not affect the fate of the three captives, whom Wu and Shang were headed toward at that very moment. 

Zaran proved to be one of Shang-Chi's more competent opponents. He actually seemed to know what he was doing, and I appreciate the fact that he wasn't blindly loyal to any specific person, cause, or organization. This was another well-crafted issue by Moench, Zeck, and company.

Well, that's all for now. Later today, I'll recap the seventy-ninth issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll learn more about Zaran's role in this mystery and see his rematch with Shang. We'll also find out just what was on that tape reel. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #77

Good afternoon,

Today I'll be discussing the seventy-seventh issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang fighting a new foe named Zaran atop a train, while what appears to be Leiko Wu speeding on the road above the train tracks in a yellow sports car. The story was called "Weapons!" The issue had a cover date of June 1979. 

The tale began with Shang and Wu preparing to leave for Scotland after receiving a call from their friend Black Jack Tarr (as seen at the end of the last issue), warning them about possible danger at their former employer, Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's family castle, for Smith and their missing colleagues, Clive Reston, and Melissa Greville.

Shang-Chi was willing to return to a possible battle even though he still yearned for peace. He gave Leiko the tape he'd saved from their last mission that might be able to clear Shockwave of wrongdoing. They left quickly, leaving Shang's Siamese cat behind once more. 

Meanwhile, outside the castle, Tarr took the initiative to gain access. He found a door that was slightly ajar and slowly made his way to the dining room. There, he found what appeared to be his missing comrades.

It wasn't long before Wu and Shang-Chi were on the road, headed toward the Scottish castle. However, they soon found a truck blocking their way. They were about to see why their drive had been disrupted, just as Tarr noticed that his friends were unconscious and had their mouths taped shut. 

Tarr heard a gun's safety being switched off and ducked just in time to avoid gunfire from above. A pair of masked men began firing, and he was forced to leave the room. As he returned fire, Tarr started wondering who had sent these attackers after him. 

Leiko and Shang stepped out of their car and headed toward the orange truck that had cut in front of them and suddenly stopped in the middle of the road, blocking their path. Several gunmen emerged from the rear of the vehicle, and the driver stepped out. The hooded figure carrying a tall spear identified himself as Zaran, the same person who had sent goons out to kidnap Shang-Chi before (in the previous issue).

The evil weapons master wanted the tape that Shang had made. Wu was carrying it and tossed it to Shang-Chi. A knife thrown by Zaran intercepted its path, and the tape dropped onto the lumber cart of a train beneath the roadside. Both Shang and Zaran pursued it, while Wu took out the gunmen one at a time.

Shang continued to fight. While he still abhorred violence, Tarr, on the other hand, had no problem with taking headshots that eliminated his attackers. Unfortunately for him, the second managed to shoot him in the chest.

While Zaran and Shang-Chi battled atop one of the train cars, Wu had returned to her car and sped on to join them. At one point, Shang spotted the tape lodged between logs on the next car and leapt to retrieve it.

After falling backward following his injury, Tarr was grabbing for his pistol when a man in front of him stepped on the gun. He looked up to find that his was his former MI-6 associate, Sarsfield.

As Zaran continued to toss knives at Shang-Chi in an effort to prevent his foe from reaching the tape that could exonerate Shockwave, Sarsfield admitted to his ex-coworker that they believed that Fu Manchu was still alive and active, and were quite ready to execute the four of them, plus Shang and Wu, if needed. 

Wu fired her gun while driving at Zaran, not knowing that his staff doubled as a blowgun. He used it to shoot a dart that punctured the left front tire of her car, sending it skidding. Shang jumped to save her from certain doom, as his foe escaped with the tape.

Sarsfield confessed to Tarr that his actions may be suspicious or cautionary in nature, as Shang-Chi carried Leiko to safety. She told him that they would cross the bridge together before massing out in his arms. Shang looked uncertain as to what to do next. 

Zaran proved to be an impressive adversary, one that would continue to pop up in various storylines during the remainder of this title's run. He was one of the few opponents who posed a significant threat to Shang and his friends. I liked this issue for that reason, and the fact that the MI-6 mystery continued to deepen.

Well, that's all I have for today. Next time, I'll tackle the seventy-eighth issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll learn Leiko's fate and see Shang's rematch with Zaran, the weapons master. We'll also discover how this connects with the MI-6 plot. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. Merry Christmas!

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #76

 Good morning, 

Today's topic is the seventy-sixty issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed the titular character squaring off against a pair of foes on a dock, with one opponent already down and a fourth in the distance preparing to join the fray. The story was called "Smoke, Beads and Blood!" The issue had a cover date of May 1979.

The tale began in a smoky bar. That evening, Shang was talking with a wizened old man about life. He said that he never wanted to fight, but was constantly being placed in situations where he had no choice but to fight. His associate said that he then was a fighter, and that to deny the truth of his identity was meaningless. 

Shang-Chi wished to engage in quiet pursuits, such as solo tranquility, universal peace, or looking for harmony. The old man replied that those things were only illusions, and that harmony's only purpose was to coexist with discord. Shang talked about the one with whom he'd found perfect harmony, to which his comrade remarked that harmony with another spirit was hardly universal. He advised Shang-Chi to acknowledge that life's truth existed on a plane that was set lower than his ideals.

Shang went on to say how his own name meant the rising and advancing of a spirit. After that was disclosed, the old man offered to show his young companion something. The duo left, but their exit didn't go unnoticed by other patrons. 

Meanwhile, outside Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's family home in Scotland, Black Jack Tarr noticed Smith's car outside the residence. No lights could be seen from the outside. Tarr decided to check things out for himself.

Back in New York, the old man escorted Shang-Chi to another house and a room behind a beaded curtain. Shang was trying to find out why his spirit was constantly broken. He'd come seeking answers, only to find betrayal, as moments later, gunmen arrived to take Shang-Chi outside to the alley.

While Tarr was creeping along the perimeter of the Smith family home, Shang was being led to an empty dock. As they walked, Shang-Chi kicked a small stone at a crate. The noise was enough to distract the gunman behind him. Shang took advantage of this and lashed out at his opponent. His foes continued to grow in number during the skirmish, but none of them proved to be capable of defeating their target.

After the battle, one of his attackers confessed that they were supposed to deliver him to a man named Zaran, who would pay for his delivery. Shang-Chi returned to the old man, who was now cowering alone where he'd left him. Shang tossed the money from his opponents at him, saying that the elder could buy back his soul. He then left Malay Jack's bar once more, his mind still filled with questions.

Tarr was driving around looking for a telephone in Scotland by the time Shang returned to Wu's home. He explained that he wanted to take a walk while she slept. The duo sat down together on the couch and talked about their last romantic interlude, and how it, like the jigsaw she'd been working on at the time, had been shattered by Smith's arrival.

Tears began to swell in Shang-Chi's eyes as he wondered aloud why their peace had to end, and why their satisfaction was regularly interrupted by violence. Before Leiko could come up with a suitable answer, the phone rang. Tarr was calling about his visit to Smith's Scotland castle. 

He spoke with Wu and Shang. After the call, Shang-Chi told Wu that Smith, Clive Reston, and Melissa Greville were all in trouble, and that Tarr probably would be soon as well. He said that they will do what they must. As we saw enemies from Shang's past in the last panel, it seemed quite obvious what their course of action would be. 

This issue definitely brought out a side of Shang-Chi that most loyal readers had never seen before. He was a man of peace who was consistently brought into different private wars. His sense of honor and duty kept him committed to those he was loyal to, even if it meant disturbing his calm and peace time and time again. This issue was one reason that helped me to appreciate the main character even more than before. He couldn't even have anger at the old man who'd betrayed him, and even provided him with a way to help himself in the end. Marvelously done, Moench, Zeck, and company!

Well, that's all for this article. Next up is the seventy-seventh issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll find out just what happened to the missing former MI-6 employees as we peer inside the Scottish castle again. We'll also see the mysterious Zaran in person for the first time. Until then, have a great week, and don't forget to be kind to one another. Merry Christmas!

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #75

 Hi everyone,

Today's focus is the seventy-fifth issue of Marvel Comics' The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang in the clutches of a gigantic sea monster, as a person in scuba gear below the creature looked on. The tale was titled "Shattered Crowns." The issue had a cover date of April 1979.

The story started with the creature threatening to capture Shang-Chi, Leiko Wu, Black Jack Tarr, and Shockwave, under the instruction of Brynocki, who had donned scuba gear and was giving verbal commands to his monstrobot. Shang was his first target, and the robot quickly dismissed Shockwave, who then fled to the surface.

Shang-Chi was soon caught in a mighty fist, but managed to free himself and kick and destroy one of the robot's eye sockets. Brynocki swam away to pursue other tactics. Shang entered the robot's mouth to take its voice recorder before rejoining his comrades on dry land. 

Tarr and Wu were just fine, but they were concerned about Shockwave, who appeared to be quite perturbed upon seeing his own damaged face now that his costume's faceplate had been removed. Shang-Chi suggested that Wu speak to their former foe, but they were swiftly shunned by Shockwave, who didn't want anyone to so much as look at him.

Meanwhile, Brynocki surfaced in a hidden grotto. He was thankful that Sarsfield and his MI-6 agents constructed the hollow grotto. It was something that his late master Mordillo probably would never have even thought of. He now wondered aloud what to do next as he paced restlessly in front of his automated companions. 

Meanwhile, our heroes were waiting for the pickup plane, which had failed to show up at the designated time. Tarr knew that the longer they stayed on the island, the more likely that more of Brynocki's mechanized marauders would continue to attack them. They knew that they had to leave sooner rather than later.

Back in the UK, Clive Reston, Melissa Greville, and Sir Dennis Nayland Smith were sitting in an otherwise unoccupied room of Smith's family home, as prisoners of Sarsfield and his masked men. They knew that their former ally would return for them eventually. For the time being, they still had a lot to figure out.

At the same time, their friends on Mordillo's island began to postulate when or if the pickup plane would ever return. Shockwave admitted that he had his own seaplane on the north side of the island. The quartet set off for it, before being faced with a pair of giant green robotic crabs that blocked their path. Wu deduced that the robots' photoelectric sensors were motion-activated and that they needed a decoy.

Tarr volunteered Shockwave for that job. Shockwave rejected Tarr's claim that he was a freak before talking about his past. The man who was born Lancaster Sneed grew up as a quiet, lonely child whose parents had dropped him off at a boarding school. The only friends his parents seemed to have were Smith and Doctor Petrie. 

He thoroughly enjoyed Petrie and Smith's stories of encountering Shang-Chi's father, Fu Manchu. They made him want to become an agent of MI-6. However, on the very first mission in North Africa, he was seriously injured. His face was destroyed, along with his courage and self-confidence. From there, Sneed went to the Orient to train in the martial arts and gradually developed a new costume and persona for himself as Shockwave. 

Shockwave started making a new name for himself as a traveling show performer. Smith and Petrie's stories still remained in his mind, and after his uncle Smith had fired him, he became a free agent. Manchu became his new employer, and Sneed failed in his missions to defeat Shang. He was returned to MI-6, where he underwent conversion to their way of thinking, which made him become an unwitting assassin.

Sneed never had the opportunity to think for himself or to be his own person. Tarr quickly apologized, and Shang-Chi was about to console his former rival when Brynocki dispatched more of his unique robots after his island's intruders. Wu offered ways to help Sneed when Shang announced that he would go for the seaplane by himself.

Shang knew that Mordillo's minions would never let the four of them depart together and was soon off toward his goal. Tarr and Wu stayed behind with their broken comrade. Tarr and Wu wondered if removing the faceplate and depowering his electroshock costume might have brought him back to reality. They also guessed it might be part of another trap.

Speaking of traps, Sarsfield was back to torment his prisoners. He ordered Smith to either confess everything or be subjected to mind-alteration. He admitted that the War-Yore operation had been approved by top brass, until it later became adjusted. Reston asked just what they were supposed to confess to. Sarsfield went on to presume that his captives may have been tainted by the enemy Fu Manchu, a foe that, for all the trio knew, was dead. Smith and Reston agreed to confess to a work of fiction that also had to be believable. 

Shang-Chi had finally located the seaplane just as more of Mordillo's fantasy creatures set upon his colleagues. He was able to figure out the controls in time to come to the aid of Wu, Tarr, and Shockwave. Sneed yelled to him where the weapons controls were, and Shang fired a pair of rockets at the large robots moments before his friends ducked for safety.

Tarr took over the piloting after everyone was safely aboard the seaplane. As they departed, he and Shang-Chi talked about who could rectify Sneed's situation. They weren't quite sure who to trust in their former agency anymore. On the island, Brynocki admitted his defeat to his late master, Mordillo, whose skeleton sat in a command chair.

Shang remembered that he'd had the tape recorder in his pocket and played back Sneed's diatribe to his friends. Hopefully, that would be enough for the prime minister to become aware of what had happened and convince him to take steps to remedy the situation. While he and his friends rejoiced on their way to freedom, Brynocki walked disconsolately, as he thought about going off to rust somewhere. 

Author's note: I just realized in re-reading this issue that Smith's castle was in Scotland, and not Great Britain as previously reported. I thought that this was another enjoyable epic. I loved getting to know more about Sneed and how he became the villainous Shockwave. He reminds me a bit of the old Punisher foe Jigsaw. Brynocki is an entertaining character, and rest assured, this wouldn't be the last time he'd face Shang and company.

Well, that's all for now. Next time, I'll recap the seventy-sixth issue of Master of Kung Fu. Shang-Chi returns home and embarks on a solo mission. Afterward, he'll rejoin Tarr and Wu as they contemplate what course of action to take to help their missing friends. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. Merry Christmas, everyone!

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #74

 Hello,

Welcome to my 150th comic book blog article! Today's topic is the seventy-fourth issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang and his rival Shockwave battling several different robots, including one that looks similar to longtime Marvel villain Ultron. The tale was titled "Brynocki Triumphant." The issue had a cover date of March 1979.

The story picked up right where the previous issue had left off. Leiko Wu and Shang were on the run from a giant dragonfly ship that was shooting laser beams at them. The craft was piloted by their old enemies, Shockwave and Brynocki. The pair had arrived on Brynocki's island to rescue their comrade Black Jack Tarr, who was the villains' prisoner. 

Tarr had just awoken and saw that his friends were in trouble. From his vantage point in the giant skull before them, he knew that he had to do something. Tarr found a giant laser cannon nearby and was able to fire it at the dragonfly vessel, causing damage to its body. The craft quickly crashed back down onto the island surface. Brynocki carried the unconscious Shockwave outside and then abandoned him once he saw Shang-Chi and Leiko approaching.

While the two heroes were trying to figure out how to assist their fallen foe, Clive Reston was investigating Melissa Greville's disappearance at Sir Dennis Nayland Smith's family manor in London. He noticed an empty picture frame that served as an escape tunnel. Meanwhile, a pair of masked men approached his former employer, who had dozed off in front of a cozy fire.

Shang went to find Tarr, who was about to attempt removing Shockwave's helmet, when the villain awoke and struck out defensively at him. Shockwave confessed that he had to kill them because he was ordered to by higher-ups within MI-6. The ones who gave him that command were the ones that he really wished to slay. 

Brynocki observed this from above, realizing how Shockwave's mental state had deteriorated. He flew off after ordering more robots to attack the island's intruders. Waves of thug-drones then surrounded Shockwave, Tarr, Shang-Chi, and Wu, who were forced to work together to defeat them.

While the quartet was headed toward a generator that might be able to stop the robots if it was put out of commission, Smith found Greville imprisoned in the same room of his London home that he had just been escorted to. He informed his captors that Reston would be looking for them, but was told that the entire house had been compromised by MI-6. It seemed likely that Reston would soon be a fellow captive.

As Shang and Wu were focused on defeating the robots, Tarr and Shockwave made their way into the complex. Once inside, Shockwave used his suit's power to try and create a strong electrical discharge. The resulting blast knocked out most of their opponents. It also cleared an escape path; however, not all of their foes had been harmed.

A pair of robots flanked them, while Brynocki flew above, trying to prevent the intruders from escaping. Shang-Chi tore part of Shockwave's costume and kicked him into the water so that he would not be electrocuted. He then followed the rest of his friends as they each made their own splashdowns.

Reston found his missing comrades, just as their rival revealed himself. It was none other than Ward Sarsfield, who had just been promoted to lead MI-6's Project: Sinking Ship. He stated that it was his responsibility to flush out the unimportant members of their agency.

Back off the coast of Mordillo's island. Shockwave, Tarr, Wu, and Shang decided to go underwater. There, they could defeat the remaining robots while waiting for their pickup plane to arrive. What they didn't know was that Brynocki had even more dangers in store for them. 

With each issue, I found myself enjoying Mike Zeck's pencil art more and more. His artistic style is perfect for a storyline like this. It allowed him to be very creative in conjuring the opponents that Shang-Chi and his friends encountered on the island. I was also surprised to learn who the mastermind behind the MI-6 program that was eliminating supposedly "rogue" agents was. He was a character that writer Doug Moench had yet to give much substance to.

Well, that's all the time I have for this post. Next up is the seventy-fifth issue of Master of Kung Fu. We'll find out just what terrors await our heroes underwater. We'll also gain some insight into Shockwave's history and just what Sarsfield had planned for his former colleagues. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #73

 Good afternoon,

It's time for me to discuss the seventy-third issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang-Chi and Leiko Wu surrounded by one-eyed, furry, club-wielding monsters. The tale was titled "Prisoners of the Crown." The issue had a cover date of February 1979.

The story began with Wu and Shang parachuting down onto the unique island that was once owned by the late criminal mastermind known as Mordillo. Mordillo's solar chute had burned the island (back in issue #35), but it was still very much capable of sustaining life. Wu assumed that the plants on the island may have mutated due to the radiation to which they had been exposed.

Just after the pair's arrival, a trio of giant snails approached, each with its own soldier mounted on top. Leiko and Shang-Chi attempted to flee, but a small volcano erupted behind them. Instead of spewing lava, this volcano exposed a talking, purple, and green dragon, which blew flames from its nostrils at the new intruders.

It didn't take long for the heroes to realize that they were fighting robots. Shang was able to use the dragon head to attack the robot snails and their riders. Moments later, he ended the conflict by tearing the metal dragon head from its base. 

Afterward, Shang-Chi and Wu discussed who could have been behind their attackers. Wu thought back to her phone conversation with Black Jack Tarr (which began last issue). We then learned that after being confronted by Mordillo's artificial associate Brynocki, the villain's ax contained a powerful gas that overtook their friend. By the time Shang and Wu arrived at his hotel, Tarr had disappeared.

What they didn't know was that Tarr was lying unconscious in a craft piloted by Shockwave and Brynocki that was heading to that same island. Shockwave wanted to force their prisoner to tell them confidential MI-6 secrets, so that he could add names to their list of people to kill. Brynocki wasn't as pleased with him as he was with his old boss, Mordillo, but nevertheless agreed to his plans.

While their plane landed on the opposite side of the island, Wu and Shang met another automated entity. This one was a motorized caterpillar, like something out of Alice in Wonderland. It offered them a ride to their destination across the island, and they warily agreed.

Meanwhile, back in London, Clive Reston, Melissa Greville, and Sir Dennis Nayland Smith were driving toward a castle that had belonged to Smith's family for generations. The former MI-6 leader hoped that it would be the least obvious location. Little did the trio know as they entered the manor that they were being watched. 

At the strange island, Shockwave and Brynocki reached the secret headquarters, which was housed inside of a giant skull. Uttering the magic words open sesame granted them entrance, and they soon faded from view with their captive Tarr. Minutes later, Shang-Chi and Leiko's transport arrived in front of the same skull. 

The couple stood in front of the creepy skull and affirmed their love for one another. Back in Britain, another couple (Reston and Greville) stopped to chat. Reston gave Greville a handgun, which they both hoped she'd never have to use.

Moments later, a pair of one-eyed giants exited the skull, brandishing clubs that they swung at the island's intruders. They were strong, but not very agile. As Greville unpacked upstairs, a pair of masked men entered from a portrait opening behind her. She turned the gun on them, but quickly tossed it aside, knowing that she could never shoot someone in cold blood.

Wu and Shang managed to get their opponents to knock each other out, just as Shockwave was trying to revive Tarr to interrogate him. The villains then opted for another plan after seeing how their foes had defeated more of their machines. Shang-Chi and Leiko stood in front of the giant skull once more and observed the top halves beginning to open.

As that happened, Reston entered Greville's quarters, only to find her missing. At the same time, Brynocki and Shockwave were piloting another odd-looking craft. This one resembled a giant dragonfly, one that was about to bear down on their opponents, with a few strange island residents behind them fleeing for their lives. 

I always enjoy a good Brynocki story, whether it's in the pages of this title or elsewhere. Doug Moench and Mike Zeck's vivid imaginations were on full display during this epic. My only question was who the four masked men were back in Britain and what their mission was. 

Well, that's all for now. Next week, I'll resume this series by recapping the seventy-fourth issue of Master of Kung Fu. This storyline continues, as we'll find out just what that giant green dragonfly is capable of, and how Tarr gets involved in the conflict. We'll also learn more about the mysterious men in white masks and why they were after Smith and company. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #72

Good morning everyone,

Today's topic is the seventy-second issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed the titular character trying to evade an attack by his old enemy, Shockwave. The story was called "Traitors to the Crown." The issue had a cover date of January 1979.

The tale began with Sir Dennis Nayland Smith collapsing into Leiko Wu's arms as he arrived seeking the help of her and Shang-Chi. Their battered former employer explained that he'd been attacked by his nephew, Lancaster Sneed, who was also known as the villain Shockwave. His explanation came just as Clive Reston and Melissa Greville were on their way to visit Wu and Shang and were confronted by Smith's nephew.

Hearing about his old nemesis made Shang think back to the day at the London MI-6 office when Reston and Larner first informed him about Sneed. They explained how he'd been injured in an accident and was rebuilt with metal plates instead of plastic surgery. Sneed made a name for himself as a martial arts expert on the carnival circuit after coming up with an electrical exoskeleton that could generate shockwaves, hence his new moniker. 

Shang-Chi also remembered his first encounter with Shockwave at the Oriental Expediters Limited storefront, a battle that left him with burns severe enough to hospitalize the young warrior. Their second battle ended in Shang's favor, as he was fortunate enough to push his opponent into a pool of water. He later learned that Shockwave had wanted to serve his half-sister, but was actually a pawn in his father, Fu Manchu's, schemes.

As he lay resting on Wu's couch, Smith admitted that his nephew now served MI-6. Meanwhile, Shockwave was overpowering Reston. He sent Greville to find their friends to help, and did his best to try and prevent his foe from going after them. While he did so, Smith explained how their former company had been infiltrated with madmen who had no issue with slaying fellow agents just because they feared they might know too much about their internal operations. 

Just then, Greville burst into the room, pleading for help. Shang-Chi burst through the window to confront Shockwave once more. While their battle continued on the street, Greville started to realize which side would support them after Wu reminded her of how much their former employer had changed. 

Shang was finally able to knock his rival to the ground. He evaded Leiko's gunshots as he retreated, swearing that he would return. Shang-Chi then ran to Reston's side to help his friend.

Black Jack Tarr was occupied at the time, hanging Frazetta works of art on the walls of his hotel room. He stopped his chore after Wu called to inform him of what had just happened. He had no sooner become aware of those events when his door opened. In front of him was the diminutive artificial menace known as Brynocki, who had clearly arrived looking for a fight, as he brandished an axe in one hand. 

This was yet again another interesting issue. I sometimes wonder what would happen if Shockwave and Spidey's foe, the Shocker, ever teamed up to cause chaos. Shockwave is a formidable opponent, but after their first skirmish, Shang-Chi learned how to overcome his powers. The idea of their former agency turning rogue was also intriguing.

Well, that's it for this article. This afternoon, I'll tackle the seventy-third issue of Master of Kung Fu. Our heroes will return to Mordillo and Brynocki's unique island of horrors. We'll also follow the search in Britain for the reasoning behind Shockwave's attack. Until then, have a great day and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Recap: Master of Kung Fu #71

 Good afternoon,

Today's focus is the seventy-first issue of Marvel's The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The cover showed Shang-Chi, with a jigsaw puzzle of the yin-yang symbol behind him. The symbolism of the background will become apparent as you read the issue. The story was called "Nightimes." The issue had a cover date of December 1978.

The tale began several weeks after Shang's return from New York. He was back in London, thinking about his recent experiences. The memories of his encounters with the villains Skullcrusher, Pavane, and Kogar, as well as his forays with Shen Kuei (aka The Cat), Juliette, and his friends Clive Reston, Black Jack Tarr, Melissa Greville, and Leiko Wu, were all displayed on the second and third pages like pieces of a puzzle. 

He thought about his battle with Skullcrusher at the monastery in Hong Kong, only to see Juliette rush to his opponent's side after Shang-Chi's victory. His feelings for her still remained even after rejoining his comrades in the United Kingdom. Shang also thought about how Tarr opted to isolate after losing his beloved Anna once more (as depicted in the previous issue of this comic). He knew that Tarr would eventually get over his heartbreak and rejoin his friends. 

Shang was home, but had not yet settled into a comfortable routine. He was deciding on rest before getting up to observe Wu's progress on the jigsaw puzzle. The puzzle was nearly completed when dinner arrived.

They sat down to enjoy pizza and music from Fleetwood Mac, knowing that Shang-Chi's siamese cat probably wouldn't enjoy their dinner selection. Shang thought back to his first experience with pizza back in New York with a woman named Sandy, whom he'd soon fallen for. He was then reminded of his recent kiss with Juliette back in Hong Kong.

The apt musical lyrics brought Shang-Chi back to the present. He turned, looked at Leiko, and knew where his heart belonged. After an interlude, the lovers left for their evening routine. As the apartment door closed, we saw that the jigsaw puzzle on the table was that of the yin-yang symbol, a puzzle that appeared to be completed as the cat decided to sit upon it. 

Wu and Shang were about to begin their workout at a nearby martial arts academy. The pair impressed the other patrons as they showcased their skills and abilities. Wu and Shang-Chi faced off against each other and proved that they were equally matched. However, only Wu fell to the floor at the end. 

Afterward, Wu and Shang-Chi went to see the new science fiction blockbuster movie, "Close Encounters of the Third Kind." A quiet dinner and romantic ride in a horse-drawn carriage completed the evening excursion. They returned home to find the cat purring for them.

Leiko was about to provide the Siamese cat with leftovers when a thump could be heard from the other side of the apartment door. Shang-Chi rushed to see what it was. It opened slowly, revealing the bruised and battered Sir Dennis Nayland Smith, their former MI-6 director. As the couple asked him what had happened, Smith explained that he couldn't take the rottenness of his employer any more, and had just resigned.

This was a much more peaceful story than other recent issues, except for the final page. It was refreshing to learn what Shang had chosen after his adventures abroad. I was happy to see Shang-Chi and Leiko together again, as I thought right away that they were a great match. The one real question that still lingered was how the former MI-6 coworkers would remain together after deciding to break ties with the agency.

Well, that's all I have for today. Tomorrow, I'll discuss the seventy-second issue of Master of Kung Fu. Shang-Chi and Leiko will learn more about what happened to Smith before he arrived on their doorstep. We'll also see the return of a couple of popular adversaries: one that's generally expected, the other less so. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another. 

Retro Comic Review: Master of Kung Fu #70

 Good morning,

Today's topic is the seventieth issue of The Hands of Shang-Chi, Master of Kung Fu. The Pat Broderick-drawn cover depicted the titular character evading traps in a kind of murder mansion. The story was called "Home to Die." The issue had a cover date of November 1978.

The tale began outside a stately manor in Long Island, New York. Shang and his friend Black Jack Tarr were standing in front of the residence. It appeared that it was a place that Tarr was familiar with. 

Shang-Chi thought back to three days prior, when he and Tarr met at Buckingham Palace. Tarr conveyed news from Sir Dennis Nayland Smith that a Chinese scientist wanted to defect to Britain. The scientist was visiting New York and Washington, D.C. Smith wanted Tarr to escort the scientist back to Britain, and Tarr chose Shang as his partner for that mission.

Tarr went on to say that he didn't really need a partner, but showed Shang-Chi a picture of members of the Black Demon sect who were most likely after the scientist. Shang agreed to join him. They arrived in New York a week early because of a message Tarr received on the day that Smith proposed the mission to him.

The note was sent by a woman named Anna. Tarr said that he was going to town the next day to see her for the first time in thirty years. He pulled out a locket that he'd given her, and began to reminisce about their days working together for the British Secret Service in Hong Kong. They eventually fell in love and were together until her disappearance. Tarr wondered what had happened to her. He was broken out of his nostalgia by Shang reminding him of the rain that was now starting to fall.

The duo went inside the house, and were soon trapped inside by the Black Demon sect. Several warriors and traps awaited them. After overcoming the first few obstacles, Shang-Chi noticed a camera watching them. Tarr remembered where the electrical cables were installed, thinking that cutting them could prevent from being spied upon. Shang kicked the wall panel, exposing the cables that Tarr then cut.

However, there were still more dangers in store for Shang-Chi and Tarr in the mansion. Meanwhile, a pair of CIA agents were checking on the scientist named Chow. Local authorities were convinced that the scientist was a real Chinese defector. It appeared that the CIA was privy to more details than that. 

Back in the New York mansion, Tarr and Shang battled their way to a monitor room. There, they interacted with the sect's leader, who seemed to hold Tarr's long lost love Anna hostage. Neither hero was about to surrender, and the fights continued until they finally encountered the masked villain, who was none other than Anna herself.

She claimed that Tarr had chosen his work over her, stating that she'd just wanted a normal life. She made the best of it, but later had a better offer from the other side. Tarr was stunned by the truth of her words. Afterward, he stood outside with Shang-Chi. The locket that he'd shown his companion was something that now meant nothing to him. Tarr tossed it into the waters below, knowing that the house was no longer home. 

This was an interesting one-off story. We rarely got to know much about Black Jack Tarr, and it was a nice insight into his background before becoming involved with Shang and company. I wished that writer Doug Moench would do more of this type of tale in this title, maybe as a backup or second story. Guest artist Pat Broderick's art here was just as impressive as it is during his runs on titles like The Micronauts and Doom 2099. 

Well, that's all for now. Next time, I'll recap the seventy-first issue of Master of Kung Fu. That issue takes up where the recent Hong Kong epic left off. Shang has returned from that mission and reunites with Leiko Wu. We'll also see what happened to their former MI-6 commander. Until then, have a great week and don't forget to be kind to one another.