The Black Panther series has gone from the African nation to outer space and back again, but it’s the cosmic accident at the heart of that story which now may hold the key to King T’Challa reclaiming and preserving his kingdom. But to do it, he will have to first be victorious in facing the spirits of all the Black Panthers who came before him.

The past year of Black Panther comics has taken fans across the universe, along with the hero himself, stranded as a slave in the Intergalactic Empire of Wakanda. After finding a home with the Maroons who fought in tribute to their ancient T’Challa, the vacant king was restored, and eventually defeated the Empire’s leader, Emperor N’Jadaka. But after the emperor’s symbiote made its way back to Earth with T’Challa’s own forces, the fight took a disturbing turn. Claiming Black Panther’s old teacher Changamire as its host was dark enough. But now the symbiote has claimed the corpse of the original N’Jadaka – better known to fans as Erik Killmonger.

The symbiote N’Jadaka may have the wisdom of an ancient empire, but merged with the greatest Earthly opponent of King T’Challa? Now that is a worthy adversary. And what might be needed to put a symbiote Black Panther on Wakanda’s throne. But before we get too carried away, check out Marvel’s official preview of Black Panther #20 below.

Will the two combined be strong enough to defeat T’Challa? Will the combined forces of Zenzi and Tetu make it possible? The next few issues are guaranteed to be equal parts memorable and macabre, if the final panel suggests what we think it does. Until then, readers can find the full solicitation details and plot synopsis below:

  • Black Panther #20 Release Date: January 22nd, 2020 Written by: Ta-Nehisi Coates Art by: Ryan Bodenheim Cover Art by: Daniel Acuna “THE INTERGALACTIC EMPIRE OF WAKANDA” WAKANDA UNBOUND part 2 THE DJALIA UNDER ASSAULT - FROM ITS KING?! To unite the two empires of Wakanda, the Black Panther must destroy a vital piece of his own nation - the plane of all Wakandan memory and home to the griot spirits who have guided him throughout his rule as king. Can he do it? Can T’Challa banish his own father’s spirit? And will the cost be worth the gain?

Black Panther #20 will be available from your local comic book shop on January 22nd, 2020.

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