Incredible Hulk, The (1968 series) #404

The battle in the Amazon rages as the Hulk, still under Mentallo’s psychic influence, clashes violently with the Avengers (Hercules, Sersi, the Black Knight, Crystal and Vision), manipulated into believing they are threats. Juggernaut, posing as Hulk’s father, Brian, continues to exploit the illusion—until Hulk begins to see through the deception.

In a moment of clarity and fury, Hulk delivers a devastating blow to Juggernaut’s abdomen, dropping the unstoppable brute to his knees. The impact shatters the illusion, and Hulk breaks free from Mentallo’s control. The psychic backlash is immediate and inexplicable: both Juggernaut and the Avengers collapse into unconsciousness, as if the severed link triggered a wave of mental disruption.

Elsewhere, Rick Jones faces a more personal confrontation. When Keith and Ray Chandler arrive to forcibly commit their sister Marlo to a mental institution, Rick refuses. He throws them out, defending Marlo’s dignity and autonomy despite her fragile state. The scene underscores Rick’s growing resolve and emotional investment, contrasting the jungle warfare with a quieter, but no less meaningful, stand for compassion and loyalty.