Aquaman #13
DC Comics
Written by: Dan Abnett
Art by: Scot Eaton
Inks by: Wayne Faucher
Colors by: Gabe Eltaeb
Letters by: Pat Brosseau
War is on the horizon between the forces of Atlantis and the US Government unless Arthur can stop it. After discovering the machinations of N.E.M.O, an invisible world power with massive resources, he calls in the Justice League in order to try and broker a peace with the surface before both sides escalate the conflict. While the evidence presented to the League, especially Batman, is compelling, Superman remains suspicious. When N.E.M.O begins to bombard Atlantis under the guise of a US sub, Aquaman rallies his forces to fight back with the hope of capturing N.E.M.O troops for questioning. The League offers to help, but Arthur implores them to present his evidence to the White House.
As both forces move into position for either peace or war, Mera must deal with a prophecy that could mean the end of Atlantis and Arthur. In the shadows, Aquaman’s greatest enemy continues to manipulate events as the US dispatches a team of assassins with one mission: kill Aquaman. Dan Abnett tells the story of a king wanting desperately to make peace while preparing for war. Arthur isn’t tortured or afraid in this story, he is resolute in his desire to see peace. He is willing to sacrifice all for the sake of it and the story conveys the duality of his role. While the conflict between Atlantis and the surface has played out many times over the years in previous comics, this arc does move well in its pacing. Scot Eaton’s artwork is really good and he is deftly able to convey the power of the sea on each page.
Aquaman #13 continues a compelling take on a story that has been told before with this character. The artwork is very well done and conveys the fluidity and power of the sea and its king.
*Image via AIPT