Amazing Fantasy #9

Part of Marvel's "Next" initiative, this 2005 installment of Amazing Fantasy spotlights Scorpion in a cover by James Jean that crackles with kinetic energy — a dark-suited young woman launches herself airborne on a flame-decorated skateboard, scattering birds against a pale sky while gothic spires and a sleek car loom below. The story title "Czech Mate!" and the striking Eastern European backdrop give the whole image a globe-trotting, spy-thriller charge. Fred Van Lente scripts "Poison Tomorrow, Chapter Three: Identity Politics" with Dave Ross on pencils, making this a great chapter in what's shaping up to be a punchy, internationally-flavored arc.