The X-Men #78

The October 1972 issue of The X-Men pits the mutant team against a boastful sorcerer who claims to be the greatest of all — Merlin himself — in "The Menace of Merlin!" The cover by George Tuska, Jim Starlin, and Frank Giacoia crackles with tension: Merlin looms at center, blazing with magical energy, as Cyclops and a fallen X-Man struggle at his feet, Marvel Girl is seized and declared his prize, and Angel is sent reeling through the sky by a blast of sorcerous power. It's a vivid snapshot of the classic X-Men lineup under serious pressure, with the team's unity — and Marvel Girl's freedom — hanging very much in the balance.