Namor, the Sub-Mariner Epic Collection #1
In "The Coming of... Sub-Mariner! Chapter 1 On the Trail of the Torch!", Stan Lee and Dick Ayers deliver a classic early clash as the Sub-Mariner’s arrival in New York sets off a chain reaction. When Ben and Johnny take matters into their own hands, chasing Namor in the U-Car, their reckless move sparks a tense confrontation that leaves the Atlantean prince furious—and vowing a reckoning. The cover by Gene Colan and Vince Colletta captures the moment’s intensity, while the full creative team brings the clash to life with energy and flair.
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Ben and Johnny's hi-jinks are interrupted by the arrival of a pair of LIFE Magazine reporters, who are there to interview Reed and Sue. When the news reports Sub-Mariner is heading for NYC, Ben and Johnny figure they can make an impression by tackling him on their own. Taking out the "U-Car," they find Namor, who seems to be expecting them. A fight breaks out, ending when Namor leaves, feeling he's been "lied to." Reed and Sue arrive and Ben and Johnny are chastising for ruining the peace talk Reed spent weeks to set up. A betrayed Namor vows that their next fight will be to the finish.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).