His father was the greatest of Heroes, saving the entire universe from subjugation time and time again! Now he must continue that tradition , his powers are the same, but his outlook is different. He wields the mighty Nega bands and has the Celestial insight of Cosmic Awareness. The universe is his inheritance, for he is its Protector as he struggles to find his place amidst the Heavens, his buds call him Genis, but he's known and feared by his enemies as........ Captain Marvel !

Captain Marvel #73

"Striking Back"

By Ralph L. Angelo Jr

Splash page: Scene of a huge casino , all types of alien races fill the posh Gambling hall, as skimpily dressed women of to many different races to recognize carry drinks to players, as well as to offer many other things.

Narrator : The Galactic Gem gaming casino is a long standing , long ignored port of recreation in a back water part of the Omega starsystem. Away from shipping lanes and all civilized worlds, this beacon of recreation hides a far darker side as well. The local Galactic authorities are paid handsomely to look the other way at all times. The reason? Besides the legal pursuits here at the "Gem", there are far more illegal that go unnoticed. For this casino is just one of many businesses owned by "Black Sun " enterprises.

Page 2

Sitting at a table are two men, both very handsome , both are wearing suits and playing a game of Sabaac. One of the men, the brown haired one with the dark shades on seems to be enjoying himself a bit to much, as more then one girl hangs on his every word. The other man, the one with the blonde hair finally has had enough, annoyance creases his brow as he moves closer to hi obvious compatriot.

Genis: "Alright ladies, give the man some space, he needs a little breathing room here."

Pouting , the women leave, looking for other gamblers, but still oddly looking over their shoulders at the seated man.

Eros: "Ah Genis, even though we are here on a mission, there's no reason not to have a few laughs is there?"

Genis: "Most of the time you know I'd agree with you, but not this time. No more Mr Nice guy for me until this guy is stopped permanently."

Page 3

Eros: "You can be such a wet blanket Genis-Vell."

Genis: "Hey, c'mon now Uncle Eros, enough with the names. If we're going to pull this off, we need to be sharp, with no slip ups."

Eros: " I understand my friend, relax. How long?"

Genis's eyes flash, his cosmic awareness momentarily merging his consciousness with the universe entire.

Genis: "Now."

Suddenly with a loud crashing sound, the ceiling of the great casino erupts inwards, as the mighty Destroyer comes calling!

Eros: "That's our cue, go Captain, now!"

Page 4

Genis' suit changes in a blast of light to his battle uniform, the star over his left side glowing brightly, he races off behind the stage of the great hall, as all the guards present attack the flying Destroyer. Captain Marvel hovers momentarily over a predetermined spot, his face reflecting cosmic awareness, he flies down through the floor, punching his way through level after level after level, until....

Genis : (There, this should be the right spot.)

He races down a corridor, rocketing towards twin steel doors that he tears asunder !

Baroom!

Behind the doors are cages. Row upon row of dark cells, filled with people. People who were unwittingly grabbed from the above gambling casino. People without families, friends or loved ones. People who would not be missed. Instantly the hundreds upon hundreds of people begin crying for help in a cacophony of sorrowful pleas.

Page 5

Genis: "Okay everybody's getting out of here. Stand away from your cell doors, NOW!"

Genis aims his hands down both sides of the cell block, unleashing blasts of Photonic power, crumpling the locks on either side.

Shhkow!

Genis: "Now, everyone , run for your lives! Get out, find your way to the starport, find your vehicles if they're still here. If not commandeer one. I'll be there to help you if the guards attack, now GO!"

A massive flood of running screaming beings exits the cells, heading upwards, to erupt as would a pressure building volcano, onto the game room floor. There Drax the Destroyer and Starfox battle against the guards of the casino.

Page 6

Drax: "There seems to be quite a few of these guards present Starfox."

Eros: "Yes my friend, almost a limitless amount I would say."

Starfox ducks as one goes flying overhead, to land with a heavy thud against another.

Drax: "Good."

The Destroyer fires an energy blast into a half dozen armored guards, smashing them through the casino walls as if they were paper before a storm.

Eros: "Why good?"

Starfox kicks a massive Bolvian guard in the mid section, as another swings an energy axe at his head, which he ducks under.

Drax: "Watch your back Eros, because the more there are, the more I can DESTROY!"

Drax pounds the ground, smashing a huge hole in the floor, through which a dozen more guards fall through.

Page 7

Eros: "Yes well, you may enjoy all this senseless mayhem, and I do to a point as well, but I'm a lover first and a fighter second , and I think I can find a better way out of this, now that our little distraction is done."

Glancing around , Starfox finds a group of heavily armored Amazon women bursting into the room to add to the attack. He smiles

Eros:"Perfect."

Flying over to them he smiles once in there direction, ands lets his pleasure power flow outward, instantly stimulating the pleasure centers of their brains. The woman warriors drop their fearsome demeanor and begin to make googoo eyes at the Titanian Eternal as several more guards attack him anew. Instantly the female furies leap to the attack, defending the man of all their dreams, as he flies away back towards the destroyer.

Page 8

Drax: "Ah the slaughter! It has been to long since I battled against hopeless odds."

Eros: "Well the time for hopeless odds is over Art Douglas, let's get out of here."

Drax looks at Starfox almost angrily, but composes himself.

Drax: "Starfox, you know I hate when You call me that ."

Eros: "I know big guy, but I had to get your attention somehow."

Page 9

Drax : "Okay , okay. Lets find Captain Marvel and get out of here."

Both heroes streak away down the halls of the huge casino, as the guards continue to fight each other in ever escalating mayhem.

Several levels below , Captain Marvel has blasted apart another entryway, to find this time....

Genis: (I don't believe it, weapons of every kind shape and type known to the galaxies! This guy uses this place as both a base of operations and a money making pit of iniquity! Wow, I would've been hanging out at a place like this not to long ago. It's amazing how things can change so much in such a short time. If not for this creep crippling me, I would've never been turned on to his operation.)

*See our last two issues

Genis : "All this has gotta go. To much evil can be done here . Say good bye to your guns Black Sun, Captain Marvels gotta run!"

Page 10

With a blast of Photon power , Captain Marvel destroys thousands of weapons, melting them into useless slag. Then with a flash of photons, he's gone! Rocketing off into the upper levels of the Casino. Once outside he stops at the Casinos entrance, as hundreds of guests flee in terror from the raging battle inside. On the entryway, above the huge doorways is the emblazoned logo of Black Sun enterprises, an eclipsed star . Genis smiles and fires his photon blasts at the image and speeds away to rendezvous with his two friends.

We pan around to the doorway, as the black Sun logo is now seen to have a circle drawn around it with an angular line through it , running left to right. And above it, burning brightly with the power of a sun, is the eight pointed star of Captain Marvel ! We pull back to realize this was being shown on a view screen , to a very agitated Black Sun himself.

Page 11

B S : "How dare that whelp! Perhaps I underestimated his resilience, something I've never done before, but this changes nothing!"

A man stands to the dark behemoths side, impassive as his long grey, pony tailed hair streams down his back.

Man: "Actually Lord Sun, it does. The Galactic Authorities cannot look the other way at this point, hundreds of refugees from your slavery and experimentation pits have been freed and are demanding justice be done. Your businesses everywhere are now suspect."

Black Sun slams his hand down on the monitor showing the still burning emblem, obliterating the monitor.

B S : "Very well then Noctu, this boy has caused me irreparable damage in one move. Perhaps it's time to speed up our timetable."

Page 12

Noctu: "I do not know if this is advisable my Lord Sun. Experimentation is still continuing on the final process."

B S : "Then how much longer must I wait? What is the projected results at this juncture Noctu?"

Noctu: "53% chance of success. If this Captain Marvel continues to interfere, success ratio drops to 12%."

Black Sun rises from his desk, his massive figure cutting an incredible image as he rubs his chin in deep thought.

Page 13

B S : "The Captain has done much against me in only one strike. Perhaps instead of moving up my timetable I should move slower, more carefully."

Noctu: "That is what I would advise Lord Sun. He will look for you to become agitated , to move carelessly in anger."

B S :"Very good Noctu. As always your counsel is well respected and listened to."

Noctu: " I but live to serve Lord Sun."

B S : "Yes, you do."

Page 14

Captain Marvel, Starfox and Drax the Destroyer arrive at the rendezvous point, the hidden starcutter "Rapier Wit" almost simultaneously.

Genis: "I see we all made it in one piece .Cool."

The three men buckle into the "Wits" crew chairs as Starfox starts the hyper warp engines.

Eros: "Yes Gen, none the worse for wear also."

Drax: "That was a good fight. I was enjoying myself."

Genis: "Sorry Drax, as much as I would've loved to personally destroy that casino and reduce it to rubble, it's better this way. We look like the heroes (Which we are) and Black Sun is brought out into the light as a slaver and munitions runner."

Page 15

Eros: "Yes, there will be many questions now demanding answers. He will have his hands full."

Genis: "I just wish he was there. I owe him big time."

Eros: "Don't forget what "Uwey" told you *, you can't beat this guy head on. He doesn't even show up to your cosmic awareness. This is the best way."

*Last issue, if you missed it, shame on you!

Genis: "I know Eros, but...(Sigh) What if he's wrong? What If I can take this guy out mano a mano?"

Page 16

Eros: "Genis, he almost killed you! I've never seen anyone beaten that badly and still breathing."

Genis: "I know, but I didn't know what I was up against. Now with all the research I've done on him, plus with what "Uwey" himself told me, I feel I'm on even ground."

Drax stands and looks at Genis.

Drax: "Your bravery is noted Genis, but you are thinking with your heart, not your head. Do what is right for the good of all. Not just for your own ego. We stand ready to aid you until the end of this struggle."

Genis looks at them both and breathes deeply.

Genis: "Sometimes I need my friends and family to set me straight I guess. Thanks guys."

Eros: "That's what we're here for young protector, that's what we're here for."

Page 17

The "Rapier Wit" pulls into an orbit of Titan , awaiting landing clearances from Isaac. As in the distance and hidden to all forms of detection, a massive throne like chair sits , its stone faced occupant rests his chin on his fist watching. Seeing the "Wit" enter Titans landing zone he smiles to himself.

Chair Occupant: " It is time."

The three heroes disembark the "Wit", as Elysius and Mentor greet the returning champions.

Elysius: "I am so glad you all made it back in one piece. I wish you would give up this insane quest Genis. There are others who can destroy this devil."

Genis : "Mom, this is my duty. It's my responsibility, and no one elses."

Elysius: "I know son, I won't try to make you stop your quest, but I will worry, it's a mother right."

Page 18

Eros looks at Elysius , in ways he hasn't in many years, perhaps in truth, never before. But his feelings are his own, and he keeps them hidden.

Mentor notices his sons longing glance, as imperceptible as it was, Mentor saw it, and it fills him with dread.

Genis: "I have some planning to do in my private quarters gang, I'll be back out in a few hours."

Elysius: "You should take a break Genis, you just arrived form a harrowing mission."

Genis: "Believe me Mom, it wasn't all that harrowing. In fact Eros and Drax did all the fighting."

Page 19

She looks at Starfox and the Destroyer and smiles, her look saying "Thank you for protecting him."

Eros smiles, the look behind his eyes saying "Anything for you dear Elysius."

Mentor: "I think we should all relax and enjoy an evening repast together. But first a word if you please my son."

Eros is momentarily startled, but follows his fathers lead down an adjacent corridor to Mentors private rooms. They enter an opulent study and sit.

Mentor: "My son , I noticed your glancing at Elysius. I see more there then common friendship. What is happening here my son?"

Eros was startled a moment ago, now he's positively floored.

Page 20

Eros: "Uh father, in all our millennia long existence you've never taken any interest in my personal life where women are concerned , why now?"

Mentor: "I am asking you my son, to not pursue this course . It would be wrong."

Eros: "Why would it be wrong? Do you think I am merely playing at her affections again? Do you think it's wrong because of who she was married to? Father, Mar-Vell was as close to me as a brother, but he is dead, and many years have passed since his death. Elysius is one of us, an Eternal of Titan. She should be able to have a happy future. And for the first time I can remember , I am honestly drawn to someone without having to rely on my powers. I-I think I may be actually falling in love with her."

Mentor rises up from his chair and looks out the holographic window for many moments before choosing his next words.

Mentor: "Eros,.... my boy. Do not choose this path. I ....beg of you."

Page 21

Eros: "You....BEG? YOU BEG?? What is going on here?"

Mentor: "Think on what I have said my boy, that is all I ask right now. Go now, let us enjoy an evening dinner together."

Eros looks at his father, many questions appearing in his eyes, but none burning his lips as he leaves the room. Once he is gone Mentor punches up a button on his console as a holo image appears before him above his desk. It is a younger version of himself, with two young boys, one obviously Eros, the other Thanos, before his hideous transformations turned him into the rock faced being his is today. With them is a woman. A woman , who for all the world appears to be Elysius!

Page 22

Genis is in his private quarters , plotting his strategy against "Black Sun" when suddenly and inexplicably a burst of light appears in the room. Genis spins automatically, his cosmic awareness telling him who it is before the figure coalesces into view fully. Captain Marvel adopts a fighting stance in preparation for battle, he knows this will be a life or death struggle. Until the figure on the throne speaks...

Figure: "Relax Captain Marvel. I come here not to do battle or to harm you in any way, rather I come to offer my aid in your coming struggle."

Genis : "And why should I trust you? You who are the living personification of evil."

Figure: "Because my word is my bond, no matter what my transgressions may be, as any will attest to who know.....Thanos!"

Next: Need we say more? The big "T" himself, Thanos!

Link to our next great issue!

Kree-Lore C/O [email protected]

Hey Buddy!

Once again some phenomenal work coming out of your imagination! This was a

great issue, better than anything we had really seen before with Genis,

IMHO. Seeing him cope with being injured so severely actually made me

sympathize with him, something I never believed I would do with a character

created by Ron Marz! Keep up the fantastic work!!!

TJB

Thanks TJ ! As always I look forward to your comments and critique! Just so everyone knows, TJB is the newest MV1 writer, lending his scripting to Remo Williams, otherwise known as the Destroyer! And since I'm one of the biggest Destroyer fans out there I gotta tell you all, his stuff is great! Give it a read, you'll love it!

Ralph, I finally found a moment to read the new issue of Captain Marvel,

and I have to say this may be your best work yet. I liked how you used the

old "rebirth of the hero" motif on Genis. There are certain basic story

elements that will be used over and over again (including this one) but the

important thing is *how* it is used. I think it really underscored Genis'

role as protector, and was very effective. So Black Sun is literally

named, eh? Interesting. Quite a powerhouse you've come up with, Ralph,

and I can't wait to see how this battle's going to turn out.

Cheers,

Matt

Wow, high praise indeed from Mighty Matt Turnage, author of both "Iron Man" and "Captain America" on the mighty MV1 site. This guys writing is phenomenal, so be sure you check out everything he does. I know I do!

Hey Ralph!

Once again, yet another great chapter of Genis's story. I'm surprised any

other Marvel fan has ever heard of Aurelia, which is why I'm glad she made

an appearance. It made too much sense for the Kree to go after the

Inhumans. Anyway, a great story Ralph, and I can't wait to see more of

Captain Marvel!!!

TJB

Once again TJB is making me blush, I can't get enough of fans liking my stuff, and TJ always delivers! It makes it all worthwhile when someone tells you they really like what you're doing!

Great work as usual, Ralph. I liked how you handled the Inhumans --

looking forward to the special.

Barry

Thanks Barry!! I hope you enjoyed that just released special! Barry , for those of you living in a cave , is the writer of "The seekers" , a mystic/horror book in the mighty Faux marvel manner as well as "Moon Knight" . His past accomplishments are the excellent "Force Works", "Black Panther" (I wished you stayed with that one Barry, I was enjoying it.), and "All star Squadron."

Check 'em all out!

Is your Captain Marvel Annual going to be in the Kree-Shi'ar War

cross-over?

I just read your last issue of Cap.Marvel and Thor. Great work I liked

idea of having Genies being contacted by a sun. The villain also a

great idea. Can we see Thor go a couple of rounds with Blacksun or is

this a strictly a Captain Marvel villain?

I also read your Captain America one-shot. Great story you thinking

about trying your hand at any other series?

One more think how about the appearances of Quasar since Genis is going

around claiming he has his job.

Lets make it two and let me ask this what are the limits of his Quantum

Bands and how are they different then Quasar's?

Keep the Great work coming.

The ever loving blue eyed James!

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Thanks James! James has giving me a great story idea that will be appearing after the "Black Sun " Arc is completed, make sure you check it out!

That's it for this month effendis! See you soon with ....Thanos!

---Ralph