Aquaman (3) #16
Title: Kings
Cover Title: -none-
Cover Date: January 1996
Writer: Peter David
Pencils: Marty Egeland
Inks: Howard Shum
Colors: Tom McCraw
Lettering: Dan Nakrosis
Asst. Editor: Eddie Berganza
Editor: Kevin Dooley
Cover: Marty Egeland and Howard Shum
Cover Price: $1.75
Continuity: IN
OVERVIEW:
Dolphin has to get miles away before she can view Tiamat's ship fully. Dolphin askes the Dolphin she is with, Kelt, why he never told (because he says he knew all along). He says it's because no one ever asked. He then points out that there are things Dolphin has not told Aquaman.
Aquaman is on top of the dome, reliving part of his dream. Only part, because there were cheering crowds in the city in his dream. He sees an air vehicle in the distance, and decides to prepare for trouble. He warns Dolphin, then tells her that he thinks Koryak is the key to the change in his dream.
Koryak, however, is facing a being made out of myth, who recognizes him as a direct descendant. And so, Kordax attacks him.
The Justice League is on the way to deal with "Aquaman"'s threats. Wonder Woman is convinced that it isn't him, but discussion on this subject is curtailed as they reach the now floating city of Atlantis. As they approach, the door opens, allowing them in.
Kordax easily subdues the Poseidonians, and takes them as his new slaves.
The Justice League enters the city and confronts Aquaman. He is wearing full armour and sporting a hand instead of a harpoon. He is courteous enough to them, telling them that he sent no transmission and that he is no threat to the world. Guy insists on checking out the city, and the other JLAers agree. Obsidian phases through the floor to check out what below, and the ship forceably expels him. J'onn grabs Arthur's hand when he goes for his sword, and it comes off. And explodes.
Arthur and Dolphin fight the Justice League. When it becomes clear that they can beat him, he floods the dome with water. They get out, except for Ice Maiden, whom Dolphin helps out the door.
The Justice League decides he constitutes no clear and present danger, and honors his wishes to be left alone.
When they are alone, Dolphin asks what is next. Aquaman says that they need to find the five lost cities of Atlantis and defend the world against the alien beings who spawned them long ago...
COMMENTS:
I want an action figure of the Aquaman in this issue. Regal and impressive armor, complete with sword for accessory. He looks really good...
I haven't been following Justice League, so I'm completely bewildered with most of these characters. I would be surprised that they thought Aquaman sent the transmission (Diana showed some sense there), except for how much he's changed.
I like Aquaman's fake hand. The attachment might just come in "handy" some day...
The JLA must not have had their hearts in the fight. As much as I like Arthur, I think J'onn alone could've taken him, even stunned as he was by the fire, and with Wonder Woman to handle Dolphin there should not have been much of a fight.
CONCLUSION:
A boring interlude with the JLA. Not really worth picking up for the JLA appearance, and the Aquaman plot is only advanced a few inches.