New Mutants, Vol. 1 #49A (Marvel Comics 1986)

New Mutants, Vol. 1 #49A (Marvel Comics, 1986) is a Direct Edition milestone that showcases the Ashes of the Soul storyline with cover art by Bret Blevins. Script by Chris Claremont, pencils by Bret Blevins, and inks by Val Mayerik come together to deliver a standout chapter in the New Mutants saga.

In this 36-page issue, Cannonball, Cypher, Mirage, and Warlock find themselves in a future Earth ruled by mutants. They team up with an aged Katie Power and learn that the real villains are Sunspot and Magma. Meanwhile, Magneto contemplates an alliance with the Hellfire Club.

• Creator credits: Chris Claremont (script), Bret Blevins (pencils; cover), Val Mayerik (inks)
• Key elements: time-warped future setting, ensemble team dynamics, and Magneto’s political maneuvering
• Format and edition: Direct Edition, 36 pages
• Price context: originally listed at $0.75

This issue stands out for its bold shift into a mutant-ruled future, the return of Katie Power in a surprising capacity, and the provocative twist that flips the usual villain lineup. A must-have for collectors seeking pivotal 1980s Marvel moments and rich, character-driven storytelling within the X-Men universe.