Avengers #40
(May 2001)

Title: THOOM
Story: Kurt Busiek
Art: Alan Davis/Mark Farmer/Tom Smith

Summary: The Avengers continue their battle against the gigantic "Hulk" created by the merged Greek villagers. They are aided by Dr. Bruce Banner, who transforms into the true Hulk and merges with the gigantic version created in part by his energies. Once inside, Banner wins control of the Hulk-like behemoth and manages to split the villagers back into the original forms.

Meanwhile, Silverclaw continues to battle the source of this meance, Diablo. She manages to hold him at bay through an impressive display of battle skills and willpower. Despite Diablo's condescension and taunting, she manages to keep him there long enough for Wonder Man and Triathlon to show up and help take the villain down. Once captured, Diablo is revealed to be a mere puppet of the true villain and dissolves.

Simultaneously, the Avengers are being observed by Kang and his son, the Scarlet Centurion...who happens to bear a striking resemblance to Marcus Immortus!

NOTE: This issue provides a great spotlight for Lupe! Her solo battle against Diablo demonstrates both her prowess as a fighter and the fact that she has the spirit of an Avenger! Diablo calls her "plucky", but Lupe shows that she has the goods to back up her membership among Earth's Mightiest Heroes!

This issue also introduces some new aspects to Silverclaw's powers. She transforms into a GIANT sloth-form, indicating that she may be able to control her size as well as her form. She also manages to overcome a transformative spell cast by Diablo who transformed her into salt! Not only did she maintain consciousness once transformed, she was able to resume her Silverclaw form through willpower alone! Apparently, her form cannot be held in any shape against her will.

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