"Homecoming!"
Framing story for this issue's fill-in reprints.
Doctor Strange, the new Sorcerer Supreme journeys to the Ancient One's Himalayan retreat to inform faithful retainer, Hamir that his master has passed on to higher existence.
"The Origin of Dr. Strange"
Once there was a brilliant surgeon named Stephen Strange. He suffered from arrogance and pride, but not fools, gladly. An inopportune car crash dealt the young man a devastating blow. As a result of injuries sustained, the nerves in his hands were irreparably damaged. Strange's medical career was ended overnight.
Alcohol and depression claimed him for the following months. Wandering around rough areas, the former social elitist picks up on casual gossip about an old mystic master.
Strange tracks the myth to the Himalayas, where his destiny, the Ancient One's and Baron Mordo's become forever entwined.
Reprinted from Strange Tales (1951) #115.
"The Many Traps of Baron Mordo!"
Still seething with rage over losing favor with the Ancient One to Doctor Strange, Baron Mordo hatches a plan for revenge.
He casts enchantments over an effigy of Strange's Sanctum Sanctorum. The spell takes its effect by sealing the domicile in an alternative dimension.
Strange investigates in his astral form and ferrets a trail to Mordo's lair. Mordo had expected thus, and has Strange contained in an arcane bottleneck.
With Strange helpless and confined, Mordo returns to the Ancient One, beseeching forgiveness for his past treachery. Only, Mordo learns that he is not the only master of duplicity.
Reprinted from Strange Tales (1951) #117.