The last story set the stage to go back into the story line with the whole Free Will robots. I thought it was going to get back to the round character of the early times of Valiant. Not to be. The book raises the issue of Free Will robots again. But without any sympathies here. Certainly, if I was a species of individual, hunted for merely existing, I would probably bear some strong ill will. But the citizenry of Synchron was a far more sympathetic story - even within its community, some individuals were for Independence, and others were for peace. I hope that the issue is raised again - and that the new enemies can be rounder again.
Blaxploitation?
The times were iconic for race and conflict - and this issue taps into both to introduce a wonderful character. I have always loved the Black Panther - and finally reading his first appearance was a great pleasure to read, even if it is a little dated. The Panther is a skilled dude - and he strikes out with skill and preparation to defeat the FF. I particularly liked how he called Reed the most dangerous of the four - especially since most people probably wouldn't truly conclude that. He fights with preparation, and attacks not with skill - not force. Great comic.