New X-Men #144

Part three of the "Assault On Weapon Plus" arc finds this 2003 chapter of Grant Morrison's New X-Men run in tense, purposeful motion. The cover by Chris Bachalo and Tim Townsend spotlights a young mutant in a black-and-gold X-Men uniform, X emblem on the chest, striding forward with quiet intensity against a warm amber background — a figure radiating controlled urgency. It's a sleek, striking composition that sets an expectant mood for whatever confrontation awaits inside.