The Avengers, Vol. 1 #324A (Marvel Comics 1990)

The Avengers Vol 1 #324A concludes Marvel’s 1990 Crossing Line saga in this 36-page direct edition comic book, delivering a concentrated team-up event designed for sequential readers and back-issue collectors. The issue centers on a catastrophic dimensional convergence trapping fifteen superheroes and three adversaries near a radioactive nexus expected to render eastern Canada uninhabitable for fifty years.

Fabian Nicieza scripts “Imaginary Borders” with pencils by Paul Ryan and inks by Chris Ivy, bringing the six-part storyline to its climactic endpoint. Avengers squad members Captain America, Shaman, Fantasma, and Puck work to hold open the collapsing portal while allies Crimson Dynamo, Guardian, Perun, Quasar, and the Vision combat the Combine, a fused Russian terrorist duo created by a nuclear detonation. Guest features from Alpha Flight and Stingray expand the tactical perimeter, and opposing leaders Tyrak, Orka, and Merrano temporarily align with the heroes to stabilize the nexus and escort civilian populations away from the radiation zone.

Readers also receive the sixth segment of a backup narrative titled “Armies of the Night.” Mark Gruenwald pens the script, supported by pencils from Rik Levins and inks by Fred Fredericks. The plot identifies Mother Night, previously established in the Captain America lineup, as the mastermind behind assaults on the Avengers’ support system. Operating with Machinesmith and Minister Blood, Mother Night recruits administrative staff members J.A.R.V.I.S., Fabian, Michael, Peggy, and John as direct instruments in a coordinated campaign to disable Earth’s Mightiest Heroes.

This direct market printing contains thirty-six pages and retains the original $1.00 cover price allocated to the 1990 distribution run. Collectors verifying first impressions should note that official letters pages rectify a print error listing Tom Palmer as the interior inker, confirming his contribution belongs exclusively to the cover art. Finished story sequences and tightly grouped monthly releases create a predictable acquisition point for archives documenting the Crossing Line crossover or mapping early nineteenth-century Marvel editorials.