For many years, Aquaman was easily the most disrespected member of the Justice League. Despite having a variety of powers, he was routinely dismissed as only being able to talk to fish. His stock has risen in recent years, however, thanks to improved writing in the comics and Jason Momoa‘s portrayal of him. However, a recent battle in which he was forced to kill an ally with a new set of superpowers proved how dangerous he can be.
Written by Jeremy Adams, with art by John Timms, Aquaman #12 is a tie-in to the DC K.O. event. The issue centered around a fight to the death between Arthur Curry and Carter Hall, a.k.a. Hawkman. The high-flying hero thought he had the advantage, as their first round was set upon a desert plain.
However, Aquaman quickly showed that despite the friendship he and Hawkman enjoyed, he would not go easy on him. Nor would he be easy prey. This was largely thanks to Aquaman’s newfound connection to The Blue.
(Image Source: DC Comics / John Timms)
This primal force connects all water and aquatic life in the same way that The Green connects all plant life. Much as Swamp Thing can summon plants through The Green, Aquaman can summon water through The Blue. He had similar powers before thanks to the Trident of Poseidon, but his connection to The Blue is inborn and more powerful. It was this connection that enabled him to drown Hawkman and win the first round.
How Justice League’s Aquaman defeats Hawkman
Before the second round started, Hawkman was approached by the Hawk god, Horus. He offered to make Carter Hall his avatar, accordingly providing the power to face Aquaman more evenly. This connection did increase Hawkman’s strength and speed, enabling him to get the drop on his friend and carry him into orbit. Carter Hall thought that Arthur Curry would be helpless away from the ground, even with his new superpowers. He was wrong.
(Image Source: DC Comics / John Timms)
Aquaman’s newfound powers also give him control over the flow of water anywhere. Since human plasma is 98% identical to salt water, this gave Aquaman the ability to control the blood inside Carter Hall’s body. This allowed him to win the second round and the battle, making the Sea King the only combatant so far to score a flawless victory in the tournament.
Aquaman #12 is now available at comic shops everywhere.