The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has officially entered Phase 5 with the release of the blockbuster Ant-Man & the Wasp: Quantumania on February 17. As a result, this is an opportune moment to revisit the significant details that unfolded during Phase 4, which spanned from 2021 to 2022 and included 7 blockbuster films and 8 television series.
Phase 4 of the MCU introduced many new characters, locations, and importantly, several powerful artifacts that have yet to reveal their origins and potential powers.
The Ten Rings
The film Shang-Chi & the Legend of the Ten Rings introduced the most significant artifact for Phase 4 of the MCU: the Ten Rings. These 10 powerful rings were utilized by Wenwu, the father of superhero Shang-Chi, who also served as the original bearer of the Ten Rings, which have appeared in earlier MCU films.
Marvel Studios has not yet disclosed the origins of these artifacts. What we do know is that Wenwu has possessed the Ten Rings for thousands of years and used them to build a formidable empire. These rings not only enhance physical abilities but also grant Wenwu various superpowers.
In the comics, the Ten Rings originate from the Makluan alien race from the planet Kakaranthara. Each ring possesses a unique power, including manipulating matter at a molecular level, generating energy blasts, creating vortexes, projecting energy beams, casting darkness, controlling electromagnetic energy, creating fire, releasing lightning, creating force fields, and generating illusions.
After events in Ta Lo, a mystical dimension within the Marvel universe, the Ten Rings were passed on to Shang-Chi. However, Marvel Studios has yet to clarify the connection these artifacts have with other powerful items. Nevertheless, the post-credit scene of Shang-Chi & the Legend of the Ten Rings hints that the Ten Rings could signal something significant for characters like Bruce Banner, Carol Danvers, or Wong. It is evident that these 10 rings will play a crucial role in the future projects of the MCU and may be directly linked to the cosmic narratives that Marvel is exploring.
The Ebony Blade
Eternals is often considered one of the biggest “flops” of Phase 4, grossing over $400 million. However, this film still contains many details that are crucial for the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, particularly the introduction of the Ebony Blade, an artifact tied to Dane Whitman’s character, played by Kit Harington.
After witnessing his girlfriend Sersi being taken by the Celestial Arishem, Dane decided to seek the help of the Ebony Blade, a family heirloom contained within a box engraved with the phrase “Death is my reward.” Despite this, he still seemed uneasy about using the Ebony Blade before being interrupted by the vampire hunter Blade, played by Mahershala Ali.
In the comics, the Ebony Blade is a magical sword closely associated with Black Knight, created by the sorcerer Merlin and the knight Percy. This blade has the ability to absorb and reflect magical energy, cutting through almost any material and protecting its wielder from death. Additionally, when the Ebony Blade is unleashed, the wielder can become engulfed in a dark suit of armor.
With immense power, it’s no surprise that the Ebony Blade comes with a caveat: it can corrupt the character and alter their personality and mental state, turning them into a completely different entity.
The Ebony Blade is a crucial artifact for Dane Whitman’s future in the MCU and is expected to transform him into Black Knight on the big screen. Alongside the ongoing cosmic narratives, Marvel Studios is also subtly exploring supernatural elements, with projects like Moon Knight, Werewolf by Night, and the upcoming Blade. Dane Whitman and the Ebony Blade are sure to be significant pieces in this new puzzle.
Kamala’s Bangle
Kamala’s bangle first appeared in the series Ms. Marvel and plays a critical role in unlocking her latent superpowers as a new superhero in the MCU. Compared to its comic book origins, this bangle has undergone significant changes regarding its origin and powers.
In the comic version, Ms. Marvel requires this bangle as a conduit for her energy powers and can manifest various forms, regardless of any physical limitations. Additionally, it allows her to stretch her body, increase her size, and create “light constructs” for mobility in space. Moreover, this bangle opens gateways to the Noor dimension, the home realm of the Clandestine family featured in the series Ms. Marvel.
The bangle is a vital part of Kamala’s journey as it unlocks her strong powers tied to her family heritage and reveals her origins. Furthermore, Kamala’s bangle may also be connected to the Ten Rings, as it was discovered in a temple featuring the symbol of this artifact. Some theories suggest that both artifacts may be linked to Kang the Conqueror, a significant future character in the MCU. It is highly likely that Kang or another variant is seeking to gather these artifacts to further his own agenda within the multiverse.
The Bloodstone
The Bloodstone is the latest artifact introduced in Phase 4 of the MCU, first appearing in the special presentation Werewolf by Night. This gem is designed to resemble the Reality Stone, one of the six Infinity Stones, with rich red hues representing its mystical and supernatural powers. The Bloodstone is also the namesake for a character in many forms, but Marvel Studios has yet to clarify its origins.
As for its powers, the Bloodstone acts as a magical artifact rather than a scientific technological item. It enhances the strength of its wielder while also allowing them to extend their lifespan. Alongside this, various monsters cannot approach the Bloodstone, as it has the ability to render them invisible or weaken their powers.
Currently, Werewolf by Night is one of the least connected projects to the broader MCU narrative. However, the Bloodstone and the details introduced in this project will undoubtedly play a role in the future, as Marvel Studios continues to delve into supernatural events and elements.
