Ultimate X-Men #30

Part 4 of "Return of the King" arrives with a cover by Adam Kubert that commands attention — a powerfully built figure stands triumphant atop a massive piece of wreckage, arms raised as a brilliant crimson energy beam blazes skyward against a stormy, ember-lit sky. The raw drama of that image sets a fittingly intense stage for Mark Millar and David Finch's ongoing arc, with Finch's interiors inked by Art Thibert. If you've been following this seven-part story, issue #30 is exactly the moment where the tension feels ready to break wide open.