Scarlet Witch meets Mantis and brings her to Avengers Mansion. Mantis’ lover, Swordsman, appears and, claiming to have reformed, petitions the Avengers for membership. Captain America refuses, but the other Avengers decide to admit Swordsman to probationary status. Thor takes Swordsman under his wing and the former villain proves himself in battle. Mantis lures the Lion God to Avengers Mansion and she and Swordsman join him in attacking the Avengers. The triumphant Lion God prepares to sacrifice Black Panther, but Mantis and Swordsman hypnotize the villain and Iron Man contains him. Mantis explains that Swordsman’s and her actions were part of a plan to defeat the Lion God, but Cap remains skeptical of the newcomers’ loyalty.
The Swordsman twice battles the Avengers (Av #20, ’65 & Av #29, ’66). The Hulk and Hawkeye fight Zzzax (Hulk #166, ’73). The Swordsman meets Mantis and decides to reform.
The Swordsman rejoins the Avengers and Mantis is made a provisional member. Though the Lion God has yet to return, his spear turns up again in Black Panther’s trophy room in BP #41, ’02.
