A-Next #9

The cover of this June 1999 Marvel Comics issue pulls no punches: a determined, blonde-haired Thunderstrike stands his ground at center, fists raised as green-uniformed Soldiers of the Serpent close in around him, while three imposing armored figures — including a hulking silver-helmeted bruiser, a massive iron-clad warrior, and a female Captain America — loom large in the background. The cover copy promises Thunderstrike fights alone, with a cheeky asterisk hinting that backup may be on the way. Ron Frenz and Sal Buscema deliver a cover that captures the scrappy, next-generation spirit of A-Next with real energy and flair.