Incredible Hulk, The (1968 series) #451

In the New Mexico desert—the very birthplace of the Hulk—Colonel Carolyn St. Lawrence sets a trap to capture the gamma giant. Using advanced technology, her team successfully siphons gamma energy from the Hulk’s body. But because Bruce Banner isn’t present, the transformation doesn’t reverse. The Hulk remains the Hulk.

Breaking free from military containment, the Hulk faces off against the armed forces. Outnumbered but not outmatched, he makes a decision. Rather than continue the fight, he leaps away to a new destination: Duck Key, a small island in the Florida Keys.

Once there, the Hulk destroys the island’s only road access, cutting it off from the mainland. He claims the island as his own and lays down two simple rules: leave him alone, and don’t try to leave the island.

Rick Jones, Marlo Jones, and Janis make appearances, offering support and perspective. Meanwhile, memories of Betty Banner, the Maestro, Jarella, and Jim Wilson haunt the Hulk’s thoughts, reminding him of the pain, loss, and legacy that continue to shape his path.

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