For the next three issues (issues #59 to #61), the series tied into the "X-Termination" storyline, with the "X-Treme X-Men" and "Age of Apocalypse" ongoing titles. Though not officially part of the crossover, issue #59 served as a prelude to the storyline. Issue #60 served as Part 2 of the crossover while issue #61 was Part 5. The storyline focused on the Age of Apocalypse Nightcrawler's attempt to return home, which resulted in the release of three evil beings that destroy anyone they touch. Several casualties resulted, including the AoA's Nightcrawler, Sabretooth, Horror Show, and Fiend, as well as the X-Treme X-Men's Xavier, Kid Nightcrawler, and Hercules. Following the event, "Astonishing X-Men" would be the sole title of the three to continue publication.