The Human Torch #33
In "The Ray of Madness," the Human Torch takes on a cosmic threat when thousands of animals turn violently savage, leading scientists at the Jeffersonian Institute to trace the cause to mysterious rays from Jupiter. With Sun Girl and Captain America by his side, the Torch journeys to the gas giant, where he confronts the Jovians and their leader, Kleezar, in a fiery clash that alters the course of the battle. Written by Bill Finger and illustrated by Mike Sekowsky, with inks by Vince Alascia and letters by Terry Szenics, this 1948 adventure blends science fiction and superhero action in a high-stakes tale that ends with the Torch’s flame extinguished—only to be saved by Captain America’s quick reflexes. The cover by Mike Sekowsky captures the intensity of the moment, a 10-cent comic that still crackles with energy.
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Animals by the thousands start attacking and killing people for unknown reasons. At the Jeffersonian institute, with the Human Torch, Sun Girl and Captain America in attendance, scientists announce the cause is rays from Jupiter. The Torch flies to Jupiter and is attacked by the Jovians and their leader Kleezar. The Torch destroys the edge of a fiery pool which then "drowns" Kleezar. As the Torch returns to Earth his flame goes out, but Captain America cushions the Torch's fall with his own body and saves his life.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).