Superman: Secret Origin #5
In "Strange Visitor," Superman's growing presence in Metropolis draws the attention of Lex Luthor and General Lane, who see him as a threat to be controlled. As tensions escalate, Clark Kent finds himself caught between protecting Lois Lane and facing a new enemy in the form of John Corben, whose transformation into Metallo is both sudden and perilous. Written by Geoff Johns and illustrated with striking precision by Gary Frank, with inks by Jon Sibal and colors by Brad Anderson, this pivotal issue sees Superman tested like never before—his strength challenged not just by steel and Kryptonite, but by the very people he’s trying to protect. The cover, also by Gary Frank, captures the moment of confrontation with chilling intensity.
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Superman helps firemen at a fire, which angers Luthor. He and General Lane team up to confront the perceived threat, using a metallic war suit. John Corben stops by the Planet to see Lois and discuss things. Clark intervenes, taking Lois to lunch. General Lane starts another fire to get the attention of Superman, and invites him to a meeting; but that turns into an interrogation, which Superman refuses to tolerate. As he walks out, he is attacked, first by soldiers but then by Corben in the Metallo suit, which contains Kryptonite. Superman is weakened, and hurt by bullets, but Corben is also badly injured by a ricochet. Superman manages to escape, and Corben undergoes surgery by Luthor to save his life. Meanwhile, General Lane shuts down the Daily Planet.
Plot details indexed by the Grand Comics Database (CC BY-SA).