Explorers of the Unknown #4

The cover of this December 1990 Archie Series issue sets a wonderfully playful trap: a gloating villainess in full ancient-queen regalia lounges with her white cat and a goblet of grapes, gleefully quipping that the Explorers are "all tied up" — and sure enough, several of the team are bound and being escorted toward a dungeon in the background. Rex W. Lindsey's artwork packs the scene with color and comic energy, from the queen's pink gown and jeweled crown to the armed guards keeping watch over the captives. The story "Menace of the Lost Valley" promises adventure and laughs in equal measure, and a small inset circle introduces F/X Clayton to the roster of young adventurers.