Astro City: Local Heroes #2

In "Shining Armor," newly arrived alien Atomicus grapples with Earth’s ways while hiding his identity to stay close to Irene, whose persistent attempts to uncover him mirror the classic Silver Age dynamic between Lois Lane and Superman. As her obsession escalates, the strain pushes Atomicus to his limit, leading to a dramatic departure that shocks the public and leaves Irene facing the consequences of her actions. Written by Kurt Busiek and illustrated with striking detail by Brent Anderson, with colors by Alex Sinclair and letters by John Roshell, the issue’s cover by Alex Ross captures the story’s emotional weight.