In a world where Reed Richards decided to wait and do the rocket launch by the books with proper shielding, the mission is a success and the rocket group becomes a cornerstone of Earth's burgeoning space industry. When the Mole Man's monsters attack, it's the army's job to investigate Monster Isle, but Reed, Sue, Johnny, and Ben opt to explore the tunnel created beneath their compound anyway. Even without powers, the foursome's courage and ingenuity lead them to victory against the Mole Man all the same. Thus begins the Fantastic Four's career as pulp adventurers.