In this chapter of the Search for Mera saga, Aquaman tracks his missing queen to the mysterious realm of the Maarzons, where he discovers that Black Manta has enslaved the tribe. Manta claims to know where Mera is and challenges Aquaman to single combat. Despite being wounded, Aquaman triumphs, but Manta escapes, revealing his information was a lie. Meanwhile in Atlantis, Narkran’s tyranny deepens as Aqualad begins to recover from his injuries, setting the stage for further conflict.