Chapter 3: T'Challa

King T'Challa was not ready for a lot of things.

Losing his father to a vengeful lunatic. Becoming king of Wakanda. Taking the mantle as the Black Panther. Alas, he had no choice. He did what duty required him to do.

And that included being the guardian of an enhanced teenager.

Captain America was explicit in Mr. Peter Parker's safety. He went over the details with T'Challa while Peter settled into his new bedroom. Peter needed to stay out of sight. He could not be seen or even pictured in Wakanda in case it gets to the US government. Peter wasn't allowed to communicate either. No access to the Internet or telephone. Again, anything that would catch the attention of the US government, then Peter was not allowed access. All for Peter's protection.

T'Challa was surprise by the strict rules. "What did this kid do?" he asked, thinking if he made a mistake in granting asylum to the teenager.

Captain America sighed. "Nothing. He did nothing other than being Spider-Man," he answered. "Secretary Ross saw him as a threat and attacked him at school."

T'Challa now understood. He didn't particularly like Secretary Ross. His first assessment of the Secretary was a man obsessed with control. He drafted the Accords as a means to collect and control those with special gifts. T'Challa did not believe in the Accords entirely, but his father insisted that responsibility was necessary. Diplomacy was not his greatest strength, but he had hoped to learn more through his father. But that prospect was taken away from him.

T'Challa inhaled deeply and promised Captain America he would care for Peter. Captain America thanked him. "You are a good man," Captain America said after shaking his hand. "I owe you for so much."

"It is our duty as humans to help another when in need," T'Challa responded. "A lesson my father instilled in me as a young boy."

"Your father was an intelligent, kind man," Captain America complimented, despite his uncomfortableness at the topic. "I'm sorry for his death. I wish I knew him better."

"So do I," King T'Challa responded. "Have no fear, Captain. Mister Parker will be taken care of."

"A bit of warning," Captain America said as they walked toward the royal airport. "All of this has been hard on him. He hasn't quite… recovered from it. Be patient and remember, he's Stark's protégé."

Stark's protégé? That was a surprise. He did not consider Tony Stark to be parental nor a role model to anyone. Not an ideal one at the least. It was hard to picture.

He wished Captain America good luck on his adventures before returning to the palace to become acquainted with his newest charge.


Peter Parker was indeed Tony Stark's protégé. T'Challa no longer questioned the matter.

In the first week, Peter attempted to escape the palace grounds by hacking into the security frame so that no alerts would sound when he hopped over the walls. When that didn't succeed, he snuck into the communication control room to use the computer to communicate outside Wakanda. He snuck in too many times that it got to the point that Nakia set up another security system to the communication center to keep the teenager out.

Peter reacted in a manner not surprising to all the times he was caught. He tried pleading and bartering to call only one person. An Aunt May. The teenager worried for his relative. Something about heart problems and wanting her to know he was safe. T'Chtlla was sympathetic to the boy, but he had strict orders from Captain America. No communication can be sent out. If the US government got wind that Peter Parker was living in Wakanda under T'Challa's protection, then all hell would be loose.

The best way to protect the teenager was to keep him cut off from his old world. At least, until the situation settled. T'Challa listened to the news. Apparently, America was not doing too well. The recording of the attack made airways. T'Challa heard the terrible screams of kids in terror. He only listened to it once. He didn't need to hear it again.

Tony Stark was busy cutting all ties with Secretary Ross. He denounced Secretary Ross publically and T'Challa got a feeling that Stark was involved in the confidential leak in regards to the Gamma Project that resulted in the creation of the Hulk. Stark never liked Secretary Ross. Then again, Stark never liked authority figures, which surprised T'Challa when Stark supported the Accords. But now, T'Challa wondered.

Clearly, Stark shielded Peter from the Accords madness by blindsiding Secretary Ross in regards to Spider-Man's identity. Stark cared for the teenager and had no plans for young Peter to get pulled into the mess that were the Avengers. Thus, he hid him from Secretary Ross, but not well enough. Secretary Ross found him.

Which reminded T'Challa.

Peter spent the better of his days brooding. He moped around the palace grounds, sleeping late into the mornings and barely engaging with anyone. T'Challa was at a lost to what to do, but his mother Ramonda suggested the boy needed direction. Focus. A distraction from his situation.

"Why don't you help him assimilate into our culture?" Ramonda suggested to her son. "It might help him feel more welcomed."

That gave T'Challa an idea.

He found Peter brooding as usual in the guest bedroom and asked the teenager to join him. Peter obeyed and they walked down the corridor in silence. T'Challa side-glanced at his young charge, measuring him up. How odd that the boy next to him was Spider-Man.

"Thoughts of your home?" T'Challa asked.

Peter nodded. "My family. Friends. Mostly," he mumbled. "Wondering if they are okay."

"I'm sure they are," T'Challa responded. "If not, you would know."

"Would I?" Peter challenged, before immediately and apologetically backing down. "Sorry, Your Highness."

T'Challa merely lifted his eyebrows. "Yes. You would. Just because you cannot communicate to them doesn't mean you are cut off from them. I'm sure if anything happened to your loved ones, you would be notified."

Peter did not look convinced. "Like I was about the Accords?"

"That is different," T'Challa defended. "The Accords were for Avengers. You are not an Avenger."

"That's not how Ross interpreted it."

"Secretary Ross has his own dictionary," T'Challa responded and stopped at a door. "Here we are."

T'Challa opened the door and revealed the massive training arena. A small gasp escaped from Peter's lips as the two walked further into the training arena. Right away, T'Challa spotted Nakia battling with her famous ring blades. She fought in quick sessions, leaving her opponent baffled where to strike. T'Challa couldn't help the small smile growing on his face as he watched her take down her opponent. He nearly stopped to give her a round of applause when Peter asked him a question.

"What is this place?"

"The Dora Milaje."

Peter flickered his eyes back to T'Challa. "The Dora Milaje?"

"An elite group of fighters. The best of the best in Wakanda."

Peter's eyes widened a little and he took a second glance around the arena. "Cool… um, what are we doing here exactly, Your Highness?"

Before T'Challa could answer, the Dora Milaje's leader approached. She bowed deep, before erecting her spine in a straight line. She was stoic in nature, rarely giving any signs of her emotions or thoughts. As the leader, she led by example as to what it took to be a great warrior. She sported a bald head, cleaned shaved that it was as smooth as china doll.

"My King," she said. "What is the honor of your presence?"

T'Challa clapped a hand on Peter's shoulder. "Okoye," he said to the leader. "I have someone I would like you to meet." He turned to Peter, pushing him forward to Okoye. "This is Peter Parker. My latest ward."

Okoye measured the boy with her eyes, analyzing him. "He doesn't look much like an Avenger."

T'Challa gave her a look. "Peter is not an Avenger. Not yet anyway," he said. "Peter—this is Okoye. Leader of the Dora Milaje."

Peter stuck out his hand to shake hers. When Okoye eyed it skeptically, Peter withdrew and timidly bowed, uncertain how to greet the leader of the Dora Milaje. T'Challa stopped the boy from embarrassing himself even more.

"It's nice to meet you," Peter said and he noticed the rest of the warriors make their approach. "Um… are all the Dora Milaje women?"

"You think women are not capable fighters?" challenged Okoye, the muscles in her face tightening.

Peter swallowed. "Er… no. No, I just—I mean—I thought… women are very capable of doing anything," he rambled on. "My Aunt May—she's tough. I wouldn't go up against her… like ever. And I have this friend, she's not one to ever—"

T'Challa ended Peter's ramblings as the Dora Milaje all snickered at Peter's bumbling speech. "Thank you, Mister Parker," he said and Peter went quiet. He looked to Okoye once more. "I would like you to train him."

The king ignored Peter's surprised face as Okoye took a long look at the teenager. "He doesn't look much."

"I've seen him fight," T'Challa vouched for Peter, who curled his nose at the insult. "He is decent, but sloppy. Needs refinement."

Okoye nodded, taking another measured look at Peter. "We shall see."

T'Challa thanked Okoye and leaned in to Peter. He whispered. "A word of advice," he told the teenager as the Dora Milaje moved away to give their king privacy with his ward. "Do not hold your punches."

"But… I don't want to hurt them," Peter worried.

T'Challa smothered his laughter for Peter's expense. He didn't want to embarrass the teenager. After all, Peter had no idea what the Dora Milaje was about five minutes ago. He wouldn't know of their… deadly skills.

He reaffirmed his original advice. "You won't."

T'Challa backed away as Okoye directed Peter to Nakia, who was twirling her ring blades. T'Challa watched from afar as Nakia began Peter Parker's training. As expected, Peter was beat soundly. His hesitation to hurt the bodyguards gave him no advantage and he was wiped out several times by Nakia, Ayo and Xoliswa. Okoye evaluated him with a disapproving manner. It was obvious to her that Peter had little to no training in marital arts or fighting.

"He needs a lot of work," Okoye stated after Peter lost his footing and wiped out. "He's too… soft."

"He is a boy," T'Challa reminded Okoye.

"He's a man," Okoye corrected. "A naïve man, but a man nonetheless."

"Will you continue his training?" That was all T'Challa wanted to know.

Okoye nodded. "I'll get him in shape."

T'Challa thanked her and left Peter in their good hands. Perhaps his mother was right. All Peter need was a good distraction from the severity of his situation. Get him assimilated into the culture and he would feel more welcomed. From then on, Peter trained with the Dora Milaje every day, improving his marital arts, weaponry and agility.

Next, T'Challa sought out his sister Shuri. His mechanical-genius sister spent most of her days in her workshop since the murder of their father. She worked day and night on whatever came through that brilliant mind she possessed. As expected, he found her there, reinventing the use of a scanner that would report a person's emotions to the owner. Shuri said it was the closest thing to read a person's mind if she could get it to work.

Her head was deep in the machine as she tinkered it to perfection. She hardly heard T'Challa enter. Or she simply heard, but didn't care.

T'Challa drew closer to the table. "How long have you been working on this?"

"Only a couple days," Shuri answered and lifted her head. Her dark eyes on T'Challa. "Do you need me to fix your habit?"

"No," T'Challa said as he reviewed her invention. "I stopped by to say hello and ask if you have met our new guest."

Shuri paused. "Guest?"

"A Peter Parker."

"Is he some prince or dignitary?" she questioned before her eyes narrowed. "Or one of your CIA friends?"

"He is neither. A boy from New York."

"Long way from home," Shuri commented and she switched tools. "What is he doing here?"

"He's a refugee. Seeking asylum from his own country."

"Another enhanced individual then," Shuri deduced. "How many are going to come here?"

"I am hoping it is the last," T'Challa answered. "I cannot house an entire superhero army. That will raise eyebrows and nuclear rockets."

Shuri cranked a knob on her invention and put the tool down, satisfied over the result. "So... you wish for me to meet him?"

"Yes," T'Challa said. "He's around your age. Mother said it would be good for him to be around people his age."

Shuri huffed, doubting the reasoning. "Mother is always trying to get me out of my workshop," she mumbled. "Fine! I'll speak to him, but I cannot promise to be his friend."

"That is fine," T'Challa shrugged. He doubted they would get along. His sister was headstrong and stubborn. "I'm only asking you to be nice."

As promised, Shuri met Peter Parker. Like with the Dora Milaje, Peter acted like a teenage fool. He kept tripping over his words when he met Shuri, shy and embarrassed for his blundering attempts at talking to her. If T'Challa didn't know any better, he would think Peter had never talked to a girl. Ever.

Shuri snuck a glance at him, a vow that he owed her for this. T'Challa accepted that price, mouthing a 'thank you' to her as he left to perform his royal duties.


The news of Ulysses Klaue's return into the country sent T'Challa to blow a gasket.

This was the man who enslaved his own people, stole vibranium from his country and attempted to assassinate his father years ago. All Klaue received was a branding of the word 'thief' and banished from Wakanda. T'Chaka offered mercy, but T'Challa wished he didn't.

Klaue was a maniacal man. Ruthless to the point he showed no mercy to even young children. If anything, Klaue was not only a threat to Wakanda, but to the world in large as well. He only cared about money. Everyone else be damned!

That was not the worst part of the day. After the raid on Klaue's abandoned camp, T'Challa discovered Klaue was not alone. A man named Erik Killmonger acted as a partner based on the evidence left behind and eye-witness accounts of the survivors who were taken in as brief slaves by the invaders. They described Killmonger as a native. A man with similar ritualistic tribal markings on his chest and torso of nearby tribes.

It didn't make sense to T'Challa. He's never heard of Killmonger before nor was the name native to Wakanda. Yet, according to the survivors, he sported the ritual tattoos. He asked Nakia to help him investigate this Killmonger. Nakia was honored to assist.

The next two days, they spent all their time researching and locating Killmonger. All the tribes returned with messages of not knowing any individual with that particular name. They were at a stand-still until Nakia requested that T'Challa contacted his CIA friend.

Everett Ross was a busy man, but he answered when T'Challa called. "Killmonger," Everett repeated. "Look—I'm busy over here in the States. We have a situation at hand."

T'Challa knew he was referring to the whole Parker fiasco. He received updates from America on his tablet. The US government called for a congressional hearing on Thaddeus Ross for his role in the attack on Peter Parker. T'Challa imagined that Everett's division was in turmoil.

"I am aware of your problems, but it is not as important as the one I am in," T'Challa argued. "This is a matter of national and, very possibly, global security."

Everett inaudibly grumbled. "What is it that you need?"

A few short hours later, Everett called back with his results. Erik Killmonger was an US immigrant, who resided with his family in Harlem, New York. He lived in New York since he was six years old with his mother and siblings. He went on to study at Massachusetts Institute of Technology and after that, accepted a consulting contractor position.

He had no information that connected Killmonger with Klaue. "I don't know if that helps or not," Everett said. "Keep me posted. I'll send you any information that I find."

T'Challa thanked him for the information, but… there was something off. What was Killmonger's end goal? How did Klaue recruit him? What skill did Killmonger have that Klaue needed? These questions needed answers. He asked Shuri to assist in locating Klaue using her advanced finder technology stationed all over Wakanda.

Shuri got down to business, analyzing all the traffic information pouring on the screen that T'Challa didn't quite understand. But, she grew excited in talking about what was occurring on the screen. "The facial recognition is at hundred percent. It can even locate people with similar genes with a simple snapshot of your face," she babbled on. "I got the idea from Peter to expand it. We built the program together and he fixed the glitch…"

She yammered away and T'Challa let her, drawing in his own thoughts on what to do once he located Killmonger. The machine beeped, pulling him back to reality as Shuri pulled up the results. Warrior Falls. That was the last location that recognized Klaue's face.

T'Challa thanked his sister and set off to the falls, with a small group of soldiers and Nakia and Ayo of the Dora Milaje with him. Shuri's locator was correct. T'Challa spotted Klaue's camp and Klaue directing subordinates in retrieving crates of vibranium.

T'Challa wasted no time. He sent his army upon the camp. Their surprise attack was successful. T'Challa brawled with Klaue and easily overpowered the thief. Klaue was arrested and taken into custody with promises of no leniency. Klaue only laughed hysterically, an overpowered, rambunctious roar as he was dragged away from the guards to their prison. It unnerved T'Challa to see that man happy, especially when he got caught.

He ordered the camp to be searched and have all the items itemized and stored away. Meanwhile, he went to have a little "chat" with Klaue.

As expected Klaue rambled like a crazy man with threats and promises of retribution by an old enemy. T'Challa asked if it involved Killmonger. That only made Klaue grin madly and laugh loud and proud. He spoke of Killmonger almost like a god. T'Challa got a terribly feeling that the information Everett Ross collected was only a façade over the actual truth of the man.

When asked who Killmonger was, Klaue sneered at T'Challa. "The rightful ruler of Wakanda."

That surprised T'Challa. He was the rightful ruler of Wakanda. His family carried the royal blood. No one else could claim that title. Realizing that Klaue would not betray Killmonger, he sent Klaue to the dungeons and contacted Everett Ross to update him.

Everett listened to T'Challa without interrupting. "It is possible that he changed his name," Everett said to T'Challa. "He emigrated from Africa back in the nineties. That was the name they gave to the immigration office. Do you know if there was ever a family that challenged yours? Maybe a few generations back?"

T'Challa did not remember at all. The only person to challenge them was Klaue and that was because he did not like that his father stopped his smuggling services. It was the only conflict severe enough that popped in T'Challa's mind. Nothing else came to him.

Everett decided to fly over to Wakanda. Killmonger was an American, which made it the United States responsibility. He would arrive in a couple of days after he cleaned up the mess he was currently assigned. T'Challa accepted, but it wasn't until he hung up on Everett that he realized of the Peter Parker's fugitive status in the United States. If Everett learned of Peter's whereabouts…

T'Challa groaned at the new problems that seem to never stop popping up ever since he was crowned king.


Nakia made her way to T'Challa later that night. She found something that she believed was a clue to Killmonger's true identity. "Kimoyo Beads," she showed T'Challa the advanced communication technology many Wakandans used. "They were not among Klaue's possession and his prints were not to be found on it either."

"You think they belong to Killmonger?" T'Challa raised.

Nakia nodded. "It is heavily coded," she said. "I cannot break into it to find the owner. Perhaps your sister?"

If anyone could hack through their technology, it would be the person who created it in the first place. T'Challa took the Kimoyo Beads. "I'll ask her."

He went straight to her workshop only to find it dark and empty. She was not there. Strange. She was always in her workshop. He asked his mother, who said that she last saw Shuri heading to her bedroom. T'Challa headed to his sister's bedroom. As he approached he heard noise and figured his sister must be installing a new gadget in her room.

He grabbed the knob and turned. "Shuri? I need your assistance in—"

T'Challa stopped dead in his tracks.

Before him, sat Shuri and Peter Parker. On the bed. Kissing.

T'Challa's abrupt interruption jolted the two apart, both jumping away from one another as they turned to T'Challa in a mixture of surprise, embarrassment and anger.

Shuri broke the silence first, snapping at him, "Do you not know to knock first?"

T'Challa didn't say anything. His ears were ringing. Eyes switching from Shuri to Peter. They were kissing. Shuri and Peter. Kissing.

He hadn't realized that he tightened his grip on the beads nor that he suddenly towered over Peter Parker to the point the boy had backed up against the wall. He didn't recall doing that at all until his sister tugged him away.

"Leave him alone!" Shuri demanded as she tried to get her brother's attention. "He didn't do anything wrong!"

Peter looked scared, pressed up against the wall and eyes round as fear filled him. T'Challa breathed out hot air through his flared nostrils before he commanded, "Get out."

Peter fled the bedroom. T'Challa turned to his sister. Before he could scold her, Shuri ranted. "You doos!" she shouted. "Who do you think you are? Barging into my room and bullying him!"

T'Challa scowled. His anger growing as his sister insulted him. "I am your King and brother," he declared. "I will not have my sister be taken advantaged—"

Shuri yelled over his words. "Taken advantaged? It was a single kiss!"

"He should not be kissing you!"

"Why? Because he's white? Because he's a commoner? An outsider?" Shuri vociferated off the list. "What reason, brother?"

"I don't need a reason," T'Challa maintained. "I don't want you to be near him ever again."

Shuri screwed up her face. "You're not father," she coolly retorted, crossing her arms. "If I wish to see him, then I will. I'm not a little girl! I don't need your permission." She stormed out of her bedroom, slamming the doors shut behind her.

T'Challa fumed. He knew Shuri went off to find Peter. If Spider-Man knew what was best, he would be hiding.

He forgot about the beads, Killmonger and even Klaue. Too distracted over what he accidently witnessed. He stewed over the betrayal. He sheltered Peter, provided him food and clothing and allowed him to join the ranks of the Dora Milaje, and in return, he was stabbed in the back by him. He moved on his baby sister, luring her to…

T'Challa didn't even want to think about it. It only got his heart pulsing in a raging fit. To think that he believed Peter to be a naïve, innocent boy. But, didn't Captain America warn him? Peter was Tony Stark's protégé. He should have expected something like this. Especially from someone who was being mentored by Stark.

Contemplating on whether to kill Peter or simply banish him from Wakanda, his mother confronted him.

"Shuri came to me earlier today. Sobbing," she began as T'Challa refused to make eye contact with her. "She said that you threatened Mister Parker?"

"I did no such thing."

Ramonda tilted her head knowing. "She told me what happened, T'Challa," she said. "What I want to know is why you are upset."

T'Challa finally raised his eyes. "She's too young."

"She's seventeen."

"He was taking advantage of her. In my house. As my guest."

Ramonda watched him strut out his frustration. "He's also a boy. Far from home. With no one of his age except for Shuri," she reminded him. "You cannot fault him for becoming close with her."

"He dishonored her."

"He did no such thing," Ramonda dismissed. "If you had not reacted so badly, you would have learned that it was not he who initiated the kiss. It was Shuri. She kissed him."

That did not make the situation any better. "He's only going to break her heart."

"So will many more I imagine," Ramonda said. "Shuri is a brilliant, young woman. She'll break hearts and others will break hers. That is part of life. Growing up."

Ramonda stood in front of her son. "You were the same as her once," she admonished T'Challa. "You think I was blind to your infatuation with Nakia when you were both children? Did you see me or your father berate you for such feelings?"

T'Challa exhaled. "No, you did not."

"Then do not berate your sister for such feelings," Ramonda gently chided her grown son. "She's not a little girl anymore. Despite my efforts to keep her from growing up." His mother chuckled at her own joke as she turned away from him to the doors. "Apologize to her, T'Challa. And to Mister Parker. They did not deserve your wrath."


The next morning, T'Challa sought Shuri out and extended his apologies to her. His sister gave him a hard time, throwing insults at him for his obnoxious behavior. In the end, she forgave him.

On better terms, T'Challa could not help, but ask. "I did not think you liked Peter," he said to Shuri. "If I remember correctly, you said you would not become his friend."

Shuri shrugged. "His first impression wasn't great," she admitted, "but once I got to know him, the more I found myself enjoying his company. He's a good person, T'Challa."

Which T'Challa kept in mind when he requested Peter's presence in the throne room. Peter entered the large room timidly, uncertain if he was arriving to his death or not. T'Challa gestured for Peter to stand in front of him. Peter inched closer to where T'Challa sat. "Your Highness, if I may speak—"

"You will not," T'Challa interrupted, taking command. Peter went silent. "It has come to my attention that I may have… overreacted yesterday." That surprised Peter, but the news was not enough to make him relax in his presence. "I apologize for my treatment towards you in regards to my sister. As you can see, I am protective of her."

Peter nodded in agreement. "Yes, Your Highness."

"I don't like seeing her hurt," T'Challa continued, staring down at Peter. "Physically or emotionally."

"Of course! I mean, I wouldn't… I would never hurt Shuri, Your Highness," Peter swore, his cheeks tinting a bit red. He swallowed, casting his gaze away from T'Challa. He breathed out slowly and then mumbled, "She's… she's my only friend here."

As always, his mother was right. Peter Parker grew attached to his sister. His only friend in a strange world away from familiarity and comfort. Upon learning of Shuri's skills and intellect must have drawn the two closer than he expected. Remembering his mother's words, T'Challa pardoned Peter.

But not without a last minute warning, "Mister Parker," T'Challa said as he rose up from his seat. "If you do hurt my sister, I will claw your throat out."

And Peter Parker admirably looked terrified.


Shuri did look into the Kimoyo Beads. She hacked into the system and unencrypted the data with little effort. The discovery of the identity sent her running to her brother at once.

Killmonger was no American terrorist. He was N'Jadaka. The son of the late traitor who helped Klaue enslave their people and rob them of their precious metals. T'Challa remembered them well. N'Jadaka family claimed they were forced to work with Klaue, but T'Chaka doubted them and exiled them from Wakanda.

It made perfect sense. N'Jadaka would have sought Klaue to help him in his quest to get revenge. A sense of payment from what Klaue did to them. With Klaue behind bars at the moment, that left N'Jadaka on his own. It gave T'Challa an upper-hand on the situation. N'Jadaka lost Klaue and a portion of his resources.

Shuri claimed that she could use the the Kimoyo Beads to learn of more identities or allies. And, possibly N'Jadaka's strategy against them. T'Challa approved and Shuri recruited Peter to assist her. They retreated to her workshop. T'Challa clenched at seeing Shuri grab Peter's hand. He reminded himself that it was not his business nor were they off to do anything other than hack into the Kimoyo Beads.

Nakia came over and slipped her hand in his, giving a gentle squeeze. "I think they're cute," she commented on Shuri and Peter.

T'Challa sent a look at Nakia. She only returned with a sly smile. "I think she likes having someone else around who understands her and enjoys the same hobbies," she said. "Have you ever seen her smile this much since your father's passing?"

T'Challa could not say he hadn't. Shuri had changed a bit. She no longer locked herself away in her workshop. She's ventured out more, engaging in talk. Mostly with Peter. Still, an improvement since the unexpected death of their father.

"As long as she's happy," was all T'Challa could say on the matter. He would not discuss further on his sister's love life. "We should heightened the levels of security. If N'Jadaka plans to attack, we must be ready."


Shuri and Peter discovered that N'Jadaka recruited the Jabari Tribe. Its leader, M'Baku, detested T'Challa. Even when they were mere children, M'Baku bullied and mocked him. T'Challa got angry, but his father reined him back, reminding him that not everyone liked everyone else.

And it seemed that M'Baku's hatred went to the next level. T'Challa's best friend, W'Kabi, scouted the area. It appeared that the Jabari Tribe did aligned itself with N'Jadaka. According to W'Kabi's account, it looked like they were preparing for battle.

Another war. What was the world coming to? War after war after war. No peace. Not even when the world was blessed with super powered individuals. T'Challa looked down on his ring. The same ring his father once possessed. A symbol of responsibility. Not only to his family, but to the people and the country. Fighting was not always the answer. He knew that. After witnessing the dismantling of the Avengers, he knew war was no answer. It solved nothing.

His father would suggest diplomacy, something T'Challa didn't prefer. But at this moment, if it meant to sparing bloodshed, he was willing to try it. Out of memory of his father.

His advisors tried to convince T'Challa not to seek resolution. If it was truly N'Jadaka, then no amount of bargaining or peaceful resolution T'Challa could offer would satisfied the man. N'Jadaka was on a war path. And it started with the destruction of T'Challa's family.

T'Challa promised to think it over, but he had to believe there was a way to avoid bloodshed. If not, then he would wear the Black Habit and become the Black Panther.

Nakia worried. While she opposed war, she didn't trust the Jabari Tribe, particularly M'Baku. The Jabari Tribe were known to rowdy and rebellious, but T'Challa had to believe that a diplomatic solution could come from it if they were willing to offer a branch. Was that not what his father wanted?

Later that night, Everett Ross arrived at the royal hanger. He looked worn, downtrodden. The problems at home dragged Everett even when he was miles and miles away. Apparently, the situation took a turn for the worse. Secretary Ross broke protocol and revealed Peter Parker's alias to the world. Now, Everett and team were doing their best to clean up Ross's outbursts.

Everett, however, pushed aside that problem and focused on T'Challa. He asked for an update. T'Challa proceeded to inform Everett with the situation and asked for his advice. Everett agreed that diplomacy must be offered first. If things could be easily fixed between two people rather than hundreds of guns, the better. T'Challa nodded, but he shared his concerns on N'Jadaka. If N'Jadaka truly wanted the destruction of his family, then perhaps diplomacy may not be possible.

"If diplomacy cannot be possible," Everett said. "Then the fight is between two individuals. Both fighting for selfish reasons. And those reasons always begin war."

Everett spoke of a truth T'Challa was too well aware of. His father once said something similar to him when he was a boy. "A ruler must not think of himself first," said T'Chaka long ago. "He must think of himself last."

T'Challa made his decision. He would extend an offering of diplomatic discussion, but he would conceal his Black Panther habit underneath his royal clothes in case the diplomacy abrupt into a skirmish. Better to be prepared than dead.


It was a trap.

The acceptance of diplomacy was a lure to lead T'Challa out of his palace and ambush him. T'Challa was thankful in packing his Black Panther habit. He quickly warped into the Black Panther and, with Nakia, Everett and W'Kabi at his side, his group succeeded in defeating their enemies, killing a handful of Jabari warriors.

M'Baku wasn't amongst the casualties or even fighters. It was strange. He would have believed either M'Baku or even N'Jadaka would have been present to witness his death. Unless… it was only a mere distraction. A trick to lure him out of the palace. Away from…

His family.

Klaue said N'Jadaka wanted to see the end of the royal family. That included his mother and sister.

T'Challa raced back to the palace, contacting the Dora Milaje to alert them of a possible surprise attack. He was unable to reach any of them. No one answered his calls. Heart pounding like a bass drum, breaking his ribs in pieces as it pulsed out. He only hoped he was not too late. That his mother and sister were safe. That N'Jadaka and M'Baku failed to break into the palace. He had to believe. Needed to hold on hope.

But his hope dissipated. Crashed and burned when he saw smoke coming the roofs of the palace. He was too late. T'Challa burst into the palace, still dressed in his Black Panther habit. He was met immediately by his servants and a few soldiers. They rattled on about an explosion, raid and casualties. T'Challa brushed them aside as he stormed through the palace, going directly to where the smoke arose. Nakia was hot on his heels, ring blades positioned to slice any throat. Everett not too far behind with his gun.

They entered the throne room and found it almost in near shambles. A gigantic chunk of the ceiling was gone, its pieces left in a piled heap in the center. His throne was slashed in half and drapes smoldering. Smoke rippled out through the hole from the little fires left behind from whatever blasted through the roof.

T'Challa glanced madly around, praying to not see a familiar face laying on the floor. To his greatest relief (and bewilderment) he did not see a single face amongst the rubble.

T'Challa turned to one of the palace guards. "You said casualties?"

The soldier led them to a makeshift medical bay in the east wing of the palace. A handful of injured men and women were resting on mattresses, their wounds being tended by doctors and servants. One of the soldiers quietly informed him they moved the dead to another room and away from the injured. They reported only seven died in the attack.

T'Challa criticized himself for his absurdity. To believe they would ever agree to a peaceful resolve was outlandish. Klaue warned him. His advisors warned him as well. But he listened to his heart and the memory of his father. And it was the wrong answer. He was the reason these people got injured or… or dead.

"Brother!"

T'Challa jerked his head to the right to see Shuri running to him. She leapt at him, squeezing him around the chest as she embraced him. "T'Challa! You're all right!"

"Yes, I'm fine," T'Challa said, breaking his hug with Shuri. "Are you okay? Where's mother?"

"Mother is fine," Shuri said and that brought T'Challa's heart to settle into a more comfortable pace. "Her arm is broken, but nothing worse."

And his heart rate picked up again. "What?"

Shuri explained they were blind-sided by an attack. N'Jadaka and his soldiers dressed up as soldiers, pretending to be one of the guards before they revealed their identities. They snatched her first, dragging her to the throne room to kill her. "They wanted you to find me and mother dead upon your throne," Shuri said to a sickened T'Challa.

Before T'Challa could ask what happened next, Shuri continued on. She said N'Jadaka was the there. It was he who planned to commit the execution. He mocked her and their mother over the death of father and T'Challa's weakness. He told them that T'Challa fell right into their planned trap and was probably dead.

"N'Jadaka would have killed us if it weren't for Peter," Shuri stated.

That was not what T'Challa expected to hear. "Peter?"

"W-Who is Peter?" Everett questioned. He looked to T'Challa for an answer as to why a Caucasian name was being thrown around in an African nation. "Should I know Peter?"

They ignored him.

"Yes, brother," Shuri said, face soured as she did not approve of his skepticism. "He swung in and shot a web right at N'Jadaka—"

"A web?" Everett interrupted, eyes glowing in recognition. "Wait! Who is—"

"He dropped the weapon and I picked it up," Shuri rambled on, drowning out Everett's voice. "I slashed his arm and then stabbed his soldier in the chest—"

Shuri explained the daring rescue and the fight that broke out in the throne room, which left it in its current state. Peter fought off N'Jadaka and his men, stringing them up and punching the lights out of some of the warriors who confronted him. Peter even took on M'Baku, a warrior twice Peter's size. Shuri happily informed T'Challa and his gang that M'Baku was in their custody.

N'Jadaka realized his defeat. He did not expect another enhanced human to be in the palace. To escape, he set off a bomb as a distraction. To save everyone, Peter threw it up to the windows, but it exploded before it went through the gap. It ripped open the roof and the ceiling collapsed on them.

"How are you not smashed to death?" Nakia wondered and T'Challa remembered the chunks of the ceiling in the center of the throne room.

Shuri smiled. "Oh—Peter saved us all," she answered. "He caught the roof and held it up so that we could all get out."

It was well-known that T'Challa was ever hardly impressed. But, hearing the full story of the attack, T'Challa silently admitted that he was impressed. Peter Parker saved his family from N'Jadaka and defeated M'Baku—one of the boorish fighters in Wakanda.

Everett remained confounded, even bemused. "I'm sorry… Peter? As in… Peter Parker? Spider-Man?" He glanced to everyone around him and when he realized the truth, he turned sour. "You had Parker this entire time!?"

T'Challa was not going to discuss Peter's situation with Everett at the moment. "We have more pressing concerns to consider than a fifteen year old." T'Challa looked to his sister as Everett grumbled incoherently. "Where is mother?"

Shuri led T'Challa to their mother as Nakia and Everett stayed behind to give them privacy. T'Challa overheard Everett asking Nakia about Peter.

T'Challa found his mother sitting in a chair, looking out the window and onto the palace waterfalls. Ramonda looked poised and graceful. Like a Queen, despite her arm in a sling and a bandage over his left eye. She smiled when she saw T'Challa. "I knew they could not kill you," she said, coming up to give a kiss on T'Challa's cheek.

"You are injured," T'Challa said as he examined her injuries up close. "This would not have happened if I only—"

Ramonda stopped him with a raise of her hand. "Do not blame yourself for cruel men's actions," she said. "Do not fault your compassion. You did what was right and they abused that goodness. You are the better man, my son. Do not fall to their line of thinking. It will do you know good."

T'Challa nodded. "I am still sorry I was not here for you or Shuri."

"We are safe and alive," Ramonda assured him. "It could have been worse." She paused to take another fleeting look to the waterfalls. "We owe young Mr. Parker our gratitude. He was very brave."

T'Challa nodded in agreement. Peter Parker did not have to fight. He was not a part of Wakanda, but he did anyway. Peter saved his family. T'Challa would forever be in his debt. "Where is Mr. Parker?"

"He's somewhere. Maybe with the Dora Milaje?" Ramonda replied. "Okoye and the others are interrogating M'Baku."

He thanked his mother, wishing her a speedy recovery as he whisked down to the dungeons. He had an appointment with M'Baku.

T'Challa arrived in the dungeons and immediately spotted Okoye standing in front of a one-way mirror. She side-glanced at the door and when she recognized T'Challa, she bowed. "Your Highness," she said, sounding relieved. "It is good to see you alive and well. We heard news of your own attack."

"As I heard yours," T'Challa returned. He looked through the window. It was M'Baku, strapped down and being interrogated by Ayo. "Has he said anything?"

Okoye shook his head. "Only the normal: "death to the royals" and other one liners that are not appealing."

Expected. "Everett Ross would want to take a turn to interrogate him," T'Challa said to Okoye. "Make sure he isn't too damaged."

A cunning smile blossomed on Okoye's face. "Best your CIA pet hurry then, Your Highness," she advised. "We are not known to restrain ourselves in the face of our enemies."

T'Challa was well-aware. He took another look at Ayo burning the flesh off of M'Baku's arm. The warrior grinded his teeth together as he endured the pain. The man did not wince or cringed. He was tough, refusing to bow to their demands or questions. "I fear war is now inevitable," T'Challa said. "N'Jadaka will not broker peace. If there is no peace, then war is bound."

"And we will be ready," Okoye assured him. "After all, you are the Black Panther. N'Jadaka is no match for you. A coward is what he is. And cowards do not have the strength to fight to the end."

T'Challa parted his lips to speak when the door opened and Everett Ross entered. He strode to where they stood, looking through the window to see M'Baku. "So… that's M'Baku?" Everett commented. "Said anything?"

"Nothing," Okoye responded. "Do you wish to give it the old, American try?"

Everett threw a peeved glance at Okoye's snide comment, but said nothing on it. Everett looked to T'Challa instead. "I would also like a word with you about Parker, Your Highness. We need to have a long conversation."

Peter. T'Challa remembered he needed to find the teenager. "Another time, Agent Ross," T'Challa dismissed Everett. "I would focus on M'Baku to see if he could help find your more dangerous American."

T'Challa turned away, heading back to the door. "Keep me posted on what he says."

He had a teenager to find.


T'Challa found Peter in his room. It appeared even Spider-Man did not come away unscathed. Blotches of blue and purple smudged across his right cheek. An open gash was exposed on his forearm to which Peter tried to cover up with a bandage that would not open. It kept sticking to his fingers and the teenager was growing frustrated.

When he realized it was T'Challa that entered his room, he forgot about the bandage and stood. His knees wobbled a bit, but he stayed steady. T'Challa waved him to sit again and he assisted Peter with the bandage.

Peter told him it was nothing to worry about. He healed quickly enough. Still, T'Challa opened the bandage and covered the wound. "You are very brave," he said to Peter. "I am in your debt for saving my family."

"I did what anyone would do."

They both knew that was not true. Not everyone could hold up a five ton ceiling on their own. But, T'Challa did not correct him. Only appreciated his humility. Perhaps he was nothing like Tony Stark at all like he once feared. He began to see what Stark must had seen in the boy. A better version. A better hero. One not roped up in the bickering or animosity. One didn't fight for the world, but rather the individual. T'Challa finally began to understand Peter.

What he didn't quite understand was the teenager's stressed attitude. Peter kept his gaze downcast and his hands fidgeted nonstop. His breathing was somewhat haggard, abnormal than usual. What was wrong with him?

"You did well," T'Challa comforted the teenager. "A lot of people are alive because of you."

"I know," that was all Peter said.

T'Challa furrowed his eyebrows. "Then why are you acting like everyone has died?"

Peter's hand brushed his hair back. A nervous tick. "It's… it's complicated," he murmured. "That whole fight and… and the ceiling falling," Peter let out a deep breath. "It reminded me of something."

"Something?" T'Challa pressed.

Peter nodded, still refusing to look at T'Challa. "Yeah, um… yeah, it kind of reminded me of when a building fell on me."

A building? An entire building fell on him? He must have shown his astonishment for Peter quickly added, "I'm okay! I mean… I wasn't okay then. Hurt a lot. But, I got out," he said, fingers twisting the dirtied, colored fabrics. "And that's when I realized I wasn't ready to be an Avenger. I wasn't strong enough. I wasn't capable… and today reminded me of it."

T'Challa shook his head. He knew all too well of that lingering doubt. "I am sorry you went through that. Young as you are and to be helpless and in pain, it should not have happened," he sympathized, "However, I do not think you give yourself credit. I believe you are far more of an Avenger than the Avengers themselves. You are a hero. In the mind, heart and strength."

Peter didn't look convinced, but he was humble enough to say thank you. Flustered by the compliment, Peter switched to a different topic. One in regards to Everett Ross's presence. It appeared the teenager was aware of the CIA agent's presence in the palace. T'Challa assured him that Everett would not report anything back to Secretary Ross and that he would quickly settled the situation with the agent. "Do not worry," T'Challa said to Peter. "You will not be expedited back to the United States. Not when you are under my protection."

T'Challa left Peter to give him some rest and went to meet up with Everett to discuss what all they have learned. Expectantly, Everett Ross was not happy when T'Challa explained the reason why Peter lived in the palace. Everett argued that to make their alliance work, then they had to be honest with one another and T'Challa keeping Peter Parker a secret was not solidifying their friendship. T'Challa apologized for not acknowledging Peter's existence in their country, but vehemently declared it was done for the teenager's protection. He had seen the news and heard the recording of the violence that took place in Queens, New York. T'Challa had no plans to send an innocent, young man to Secretary Ross's iron grip. Not if he could help it.

Everett, while disgruntled over the secrecy, didn't demand for Peter's custody. "I am loyal to my country," he insisted to T'Challa, "but I do have a conscious."

Everett promised that he would not say a word to anyone about Peter's location. With that promise secured, T'Challa introduced Everett to Peter the next day. Everett was surprised by how young Peter appeared, despite seeing photographs of him. Everett praised Peter on his heroics, but offered nothing else. After all, Everett didn't arrive in Wakanda for Peter Parker.

That afternoon, T'Challa honored Peter for his bravery. It was a small ceremony. No one else attended except the Dora Milaje and Shuri. T'Challa presented Peter with a vibranium ring with an inscription of a saying that roughly translated, "Throw me to the lions and I will return leading the pride." T'Challa explained to him it was a great honor for a warrior to receive a ring. It meant he was a true warrior. One of both spirit and mind. But this ring in particular, symbolized Peter's acceptance into their country. For all intents and purposes, Peter was one of them—a Wakandan.


It was Nakia who managed to pull out an important tidbit from M'Baku during her round of interrogation. She called on T'Challa, reporting what she learned. The news startled T'Challa. Enough to make him call all his advisors and the rest of the Dora Milaje to a meeting. Even Everett Ross joined in, wishing to be privy as the matter involved N'Jadaka.

Once everyone was present, T'Challa informed everyone the grave news. "It appears that N'Jadaka consumed a heart-shaped herb."

A sudden hush fell over the room as everyone absorbed what that meant. If N'Jadaka absorbed the heart-shaped herb, then it meant he also possessed the powers of the Black Panther. But how could that be possible? Two Black Panthers are unheard of. Possible? They don't know. No one has ever attempted to make more than one Black Panther.

It was disturbing to learn of this truth. Two Black Panthers would divide the country with civilians confused as to who rightfully rules Wakanda. It forced unrest, confusion and fear amongst the people. Things he did not wish upon his civilians. How many tribes would turn against him? If they believe they could follow a new leader without repercussions from the gods, then there was nothing to convince them otherwise to stop them.

N'Jadaka was clever. He hoped for a civil unrest. To bring Wakanda to the brink of doubt and insanity. In the end, N'Jadaka wanted to destroy the Wakanda that T'Challa and his family created. And that meant setting war onto the country.

The meeting lasted hours, but they all came to the same conclusion. War arrived and T'Challa needed to call in all his allies and army to fight against N'Jadaka and his army. T'Challa gave out commands to prepare for war. Everyone shuffled out to enact the procedures set up if another civil war broke out.

As Everett headed out to update his superiors on what was occurring in Wakanda, T'Challa stopped him. "I need you to do me a favor."

Everett waited to speak until the last of the advisors left the room, leaving T'Challa and Everett alone in the room. "What can I do for you, Your Highness?"

"I need you to get Peter Parker out of the country."

Everett stared for a long minute. "I'm sorry… you want me to get Peter Parker out of the country?" he repeated, "I thought you didn't want him to leave at all?"

"Things have changed," T'Challa said. "War is not for children."

"What about the other children? Will they be smuggled out as well?"

"Of course," T'Challa simply answered. "We have protocols that will have children evacuated if war comes to the city.

"But, I gave my word to keep Peter safe," T'Challa carried on. "I fear that since Peter stopped N'Jadaka's attack, N'Jadaka will seek retribution against him. Peter will be a target. I cannot have him killed."

Everett released a stream of air. "I-I don't know exactly what you want me to do," he said. "Do you want me to send him to America or…"

"No," T'Challa said. "I will make contact with a trusted ally to make new arrangements for Peter."

"You mean Captain America or Tony Stark?"

T'Challa did not confirm or deny Everett's guesses. "You will have to smuggle him out of the country. Keep him somewhere safe until my contact connects with you."

Everett looked exasperated. "I'm a CIA agent. Not a babysitter."

He needed Everett's assistance. He could not send any of the Wakandans out of the country with Peter. Not with war looming overhead. Everett was American. He knew Peter and his situation. He was the only person equipped to handle Peter. "Think of him as an asset," T'Challa offered. "Someone who needs to be looked after and protected."

Everett frowned, not enjoying the prospect that he may be in charge of handling a teenager. "This is not part of my job description," he reminded T'Challa. He inhaled deeply. "Okay. All right. Fine. I'll help the boy. But—only for a week! If I keep postponing, my superiors will become suspicious."

T'Challa clapped Everett on the shoulder in gratitude. "You are a good friend," he said. "I am honored to work with you."

Everett rolled his eyes exasperatedly. "Let's not make it into a habit of human trafficking, okay?"

A joke. Who knew a serious CIA agent like Everett could make a joke. T'Challa promised and then went into discussed details with Everett in regards to Peter's departure.


T'Challa met Peter one last time as they headed off to bed. He told Peter that the teenager was a good person and that world could use a few more good men. "Wherever you with your life," T'Challa said. "I hope you remember your lessons here and, most importantly, that you keep that good heart of yours."

Peter promised he would. His Uncle Ben and Aunt May raised him to be responsible. "With great power, comes great responsibility," Peter said to T'Challa before he wished the king good-night.

T'Challa wished good-night to Peter in return. Another form of goodbye for he would not see Peter Parker anymore after tonight. Starting tomorrow, Wakanda was at war and Peter would be far away from it all.