The X-Men #125

Published by Marvel Comics in September 1979, The X-Men #125 represents a pivotal chapter during the celebrated Chris Claremont and John Byrne run. The story, titled 'Deathstar, Rising', continues the Proteus saga, a high-stakes narrative arc that forced the X-Men to confront a reality-warping mutant threat. This era is widely regarded by historians and readers as a creative high point for the title, balancing intricate character development with escalating global stakes.

The issue features cover art by John Byrne and Terry Austin, who were instrumental in defining the visual language of the franchise during this period. Byrne’s dynamic compositions and Austin’s clean, refined ink work helped solidify the book's aesthetic shift toward a more cinematic and grounded style. The issue was received with significant critical enthusiasm, as it further developed the psychological tension between the team members and established the terrifying scale of the adversary Kevin MacTaggert, also known as Proteus.