War... Beneath The Waves! Running into Hawkeye in the streets, the Defenders engage in a brief battle with the bowman, until it's realized that they're all on the same side. Explaining his recent troubles and leaving the ranks of the Avengers, Hawkeye likes the idea of the Defenders, and asks to join them.
Traveling to Dr. Strange's Sanctum, they are informed by Wong that Strange is not home. There they are visited by one of Namor's followers who informs them that Attuma is going to attack the surface world. Going to the beach where Attuma is launching his attack, the Defenders are deserted by the Hulk who does not wish to go into the water.
The group is captured along with marine biologist Prof. Jennings. Taken aboard Attuma's ship they are separated from Namor, and learn that Attuma is working with the Red Ghost, and that they plan to use the Ghost' knowledge of cosmic rays and Jenning's marine biology expertise to create a cosmic powered aquatic army to take over Atlantis. Val and Hawkeye manage to break out of their cells, however just before they can attack the Red Ghost, he sends Namor (who has been brainwashed) against them.
