The Mutant Factor

Peter Parker and Mary Jane's private discussions about starting a family take a difficult turn when Mary Jane voices her fear of conceiving a child affected by Peter's radioactive genetics. Seeking answers, Peter seeks out Hank McCoy, who is lecturing on genetics at Empire State University, but the visit is disrupted when the mutant Powerhouse attacks the Beast and her partner Masterblaster ignites a full brawl. Spider-Man joins the fight, but Powerhouse proves a formidable opponent. A separate subplot involving a rapidly growing baby mutant at a nearby hospital adds another dimension to the issue's central question about what it means to raise a child with powers. Written and illustrated by Erik Larsen.