Doctor Strange #9
Doctor Strange #9 – A Magical Struggle in a World Gone Cold đ✨
Genre
Supernatural, Fantasy, Action, Superhero
Main Characters
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Doctor Stephen Strange – The former Sorcerer Supreme, now stripped of magic
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Empirikul – A mysterious and destructive force waging war against all magic
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Wong – Strange’s loyal ally and friend
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Zelma Stanton – A librarian turned arcane apprentice
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The Ancient One (mentioned) – The original mentor whose legacy looms large
Writer
Jason Aaron – Known for blending philosophical depth with high-stakes drama, Aaron crafts a tale that’s both personal and cosmic in scale.
Artist
Chris Bachalo – With his distinct, psychedelic visual style, Bachalo renders the chaos of a crumbling magical world in stunning, often unsettling detail.
Editor Details
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Editor-in-Chief: Axel Alonso
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Assistant Editor: Kathleen Wisneski
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Executive Editor: Nick Lowe
Publisher and Brand
Marvel Comics – Part of the "All-New, All-Different Marvel" branding
Release Year
2016
Brief Plot Summary
In Doctor Strange #9, the saga of “The Last Days of Magic” reaches a critical turning point. The Empirikul, science-wielding zealots from another dimension, have successfully purged most of Earth’s magic. With his mystical arsenal destroyed and Sanctum Sanctorum compromised, Stephen Strange is forced into survival mode. He embarks on a perilous journey across the globe, scavenging for ancient relics, forgotten tomes, and anything that might resemble a magical weapon. Alongside Wong and Zelma, he faces threats both magical and mundane, all while wrestling with the fear that magic may never return.
Notable Arcs or Storylines
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“The Last Days of Magic” – One of the most defining arcs in modern Doctor Strange lore, showcasing the fragility of magic and the resilience of its defenders.
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Empirikul Invasion – An original villain faction that challenges the very foundation of magic in the Marvel Universe.
Fan Theories or Interpretations
đ§ Fans have speculated that the Empirikul's war against magic serves as a metaphor for technological dominance over tradition and mysticism. Some believe the storyline subtly critiques real-world overreliance on science at the cost of cultural and spiritual heritage. Others suggest Zelma Stanton’s rapid growth hints at a potential future as Sorcerer Supreme herself.
Review Summary
Doctor Strange #9 delivers a somber yet exhilarating ride through a broken magical world. Jason Aaron’s writing dives deep into Strange’s psyche, revealing a man determined to fight back with or without power. Chris Bachalo’s art is gloriously chaotic, mirroring the collapse of the magical order with swirling visuals and eerie landscapes. The characters feel layered, especially Zelma, whose evolution from librarian to arcane student adds emotional depth. Overall, it’s a standout issue that balances mystical intrigue with human grit. đźđ„đ
For fans of magical collapse, inner strength, and visually stunning comic storytelling, this issue is a must-read.
Comic Resource / Read Online (External Source)