GI Combat #265 page 44

G.I. Combat is an American comics anthology featuring war stories. It was published from 1952 until 1956 by Quality Comics, followed by DC Comics until its final issue in 1987.

"Origin of the Human Killing Machine, Part 2: Samurais of Death"

Featuring Kana, The Shadow Warrior... While Kana sits in deep meditation on a Pacific island in World War 2, his spirit has taken flight back through time to 6th Century Medieval Japan. Spirit and body merge again, and in a forest clearing Kana saves young Prince Sochi from samurai assassins, only to be beaten down by the two remaining. Kana is unarmed and held down while the other brings his sword up to sever his head. Kana twists around, grabbing the end of the pike the first assassin is carrying and ramming it back into the man's throat. He then rolls out of the way just in time as the second assassin's sword comes down to bear. Kana leaps through the Prince's horse's legs and into the safety of the trees. Believing that Kana has fled, the last assassin turns his attention to the Prince. Kana removes a spiked glove from one of the dead and hurls it at the assassin. The glove hits the man, impaling the spikes into his face. With the Prince now safe, Kana is invited to his castle.

By sunset, they reach the Prince's castle atop a cliff overlooking the sea. Kana notices three men hanging over the cliff in rope cages, and the Prince explains that the men are criminals imprisoned by his uncle, Lord Daibu. As they arrive, Lord Daibu is waiting for them, and the Prince explains the events of the day to him. Daibu invites Kana to relax and enjoy their hospitality while the province prepares to celebrate his heroism. But first, Kana must surrender his arms before entering. Kana turns over his sword and weapons to Lord Daibu. As Kana leaves, Daibu worries that a ninja with such power could be a threat to him and his rule. Inside, Kana is bathed, massaged, and groomed by the estates many Geishas. Finally, Kana is lead to the great banquet hall, where he sits in the place of honor next to the Lord and Prince. They feast and drink, then Lord Daibu invites Kana to participate in the Joust of the Three Bamboo Staves. Kana catapults from his seat, and three other samurai move towards him with whipping bamboo staves. Kana makes quick service with them, toppled by the lightning-like blows of the Ninja Master. Lord Daibu is impressed, and asks Kana to try and defeat their greatest sumo champion. Kana agrees, and is immediately found within the crushing grip of the wrestler. Kana manages to wrench his arms free and begins to pound at the sumo until the huge wrestler crumples to the ground. Lord Daibu announces Kana as the champion and then dismissed the court for the night.

Kana is led back to his chamber by the Lady Murisaki, the sister of Prince Sochi. He is given a glass of wine. Kana drinks it, but discovers that it had been drugged. He falls to the floor unconscious. As dawn rises over the sea, Kana awakes to find himself trapped in one of the rope cages hanging over the cliff above the sea. Kana realizes that the Lord Daibu must have meant for him to be killed at the feast, but now instead of being rewarded for saving Prince Sochi's life, he has been condemned to death!

Inks over pencils by E.R. Cruz on DC art board and stamped on the back.