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Happy Anniversary

“It's a simple formula: do your best and somebody might like it.” - Dorothy Baker

Compiled and Edited by John Schwirian

Acknowledgments Special thanks to Russell Burbage, Chuck Dill, Richard Duncan, Tony Isabella, Andy Luckette, Shaun McLaughlin, Joe Mello, Steve Peterson, Steve Skeates, and Christine Zeigafuse

The Chronicles #21 is published by John Schwirian. 700 Mayton Court, Bel Air, Maryland, 21014. [email protected]

First Printing. May 2012. Printed in the USA.

All material printed here-in is for historical purposes and for literary criticism and review. It is not designed to plagiarize or otherwise infringe on the rights of any copyrighted material contained herein.

Aquaman and related characters are ™ and © 2012 by DC . Other characters are ™ and © 2012by the current copyright holders.

All legal inquiries should be made to the publisher, John Schwirian.

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1…Aquamail 35…Aqua Puzzles By Steve Peterson 2…On the Other Hand… Words of wisdom by ye olde editor. 38…Tiny – Tossed Out! John Schwirian explores the final fate 3…Current Events of the award winning series. , and beyond. 41…Steve Says… Steve Skeates clears up misconceptions 14…Aquaman in about Sub-Mariner #72. By Chuck Dill 51…Christmas at 22,300 Miles… 19…Sneak Peaks with the by Andy Luckett New releases in toys and collectibles 59…Fans Across America 23…The Age Track the Chronicles in mail boxes John Schwirian reviews Adventure around the country. Comics #130-135. 60… Into the Aquaverse 30…Tony’s Tips Crosswords from Richard Duncan Tony Isabella’s plans for Aquaman in 1976. 62…A Busy Birthday By Christina Zeigafuse 32…Collectibles Corner Make your own Aquaman tissue box 73…the Origin of the Aquaman courtesy of Leisure Arts Chronicles John Schwirian. 34…Why Aquaman? Commentary by Steve Peterson

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John... Also, I'm never sure which I'm

I am enjoying the heck out of this getting, the super hero or the enemy of fanzine. Is it available to the general public? surface dwellers everywhere. At least Because I'd like to write about it in my blog. Aquaman is always a friend. As for an Aquaman or Sub-Mariner Tony Isabella movie... that idea both excites and scares me. Marvel has done well with its Avengers True to his word, Tony series, but considering how Warner Bros. has sang praises about issue handled its super hero franchises, I'd rather #20 in his blog on Monday not see them mess things up Yup, best leave December 12, 2011 old Arthur in the comics. http://tonyisabella.blogspot.com/ 2011/12/monday-meanderings.html

And be sure to check The following comments arrived via out Tony Isabella's The Facebook: Grim published by Atlas Comics. It reminds Hey, I've been meaning to write and me of the way stories were thank you for sending along the latest issue told in the good old bronze of the Aquaman Chronicles! A letter from age of comics. me, an article by me, and a piece about a Hi John-- character I created -- wow, my ego loves this ish, and the rest of me rather likes it too! Congrats on the latest issue. Admittedly, Best of all, I had of course heard that others since the age of five I've been more of a made use of Thanatos but didn't know Sub-Mariner fan, but at this stage it's hard to exactly how they did so! Now I know! deny that Aquaman has entered the national language and consciousness more than Stephen Skeates Prince Namor has. It may well take a movie- -either "Aquaman" or "The Sub-Mariner"-- to move the goal posts further. Chronicles Dig the new " "!

Best wishes, Shaun McLaughlin

While I have always like Subby, I never really considered him to be in the same cate- Thanks so much for the new issue of the gory as Aquaman. Aside from and Aquaman Chronicles. I caught my mom water action, the two are nothing alike. reading it! :) Namor is more like than Aquaman. Jeffrey P. Worthen 1

Eleven is One Louder...

You know, when I started the Aquaman Chronicles back in 2001, I expected it would be about 25 pages an issue, come out four times a year, and last maybe two or three years. Little did I know that, twenty issues later, the fanzine would have survived eleven years averaging two issues a year at an average of 66 pages each. I also thought that it would really just be a silly thing, filled with self-indulgent fiction and art on my part. How was I to know that so many fans and pros alike would jump on board and contribute to the This Is Spinal Tap development of the Chronicles. I am amazed to be here, eleven years Nigel Tufnel: The numbers all go to eleven. Look, right across later, with twenty one issues under my belt, the board, eleven, eleven, eleven and... still plugging away with no end in sight. I Marty DiBergi: Oh, I see. And most amps go up to ten? Nigel Tufnel: Exactly. still have plenty of material to explore, with Marty DiBergi: Does that mean it's louder? Is it any louder? at least ten more issues planned at the Nigel Tufnel: Well, it's one louder, isn't it? It's not ten. You see, moment. Who knows when this will end? most blokes, you know, will be playing at ten. You're on ten Of course, I am certain that you are here, all the way up, all the way up, all the way up, you're on wondering - Why is the anniversary issue ten on your guitar. Where can you go from there? Where? coming out after eleven years instead of ten? Marty DiBergi: I don't know. Nigel Tufnel: Nowhere. Exactly. What we do is, if we need that Well, as many of you have probably extra push over the cliff, you know what we do? guessed, based on my track record, things Marty DiBergi: Put it up to eleven. happened that delayed the arrival of issue Nigel Tufnel: Eleven. Exactly. One louder. twenty (which was supposed to ship in Marty DiBergi: Why don't you just make ten louder and make December of 2010) which of course pushed ten be the number and make that a little louder? back work on this issue (planned for Nigel Tufnel: [pause] These go to eleven. February 2011). And that is why we are here, a year past the traditional tenth anniversary, instead celebrating our eleventh year in print. Sort of like the Image Comics Tenth Anniversary hard back that shipped in 2005, three years after the official tenth anniversary date. Well, better late than never I always say. As Nigel Tufnel said in This Is Spinal Tap, "These go up to eleven."

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approach. We see great opportunities to Another worthy complaint by long time tell new, contemporary, cutting edge stories comic collectors is the cancellation of that make up each of the title's back histories Action and only to restart ... aggressively reaching the widest possible with new number one issues. Both titles audience worldwide." were approaching the epic 1,000th issue Sounds too good to be true. Let's take a mark (Action ended at #904 and Detective at closer examination of this. First of all, while #881). Why destroy these upcoming it is true that this creates a great jumping on landmark, once in a lifetime events? DC point for new readers, however, it won't stay stated that they "thought long and hard about new reader friendly for long. As we have this. It was a decision not taken lightly. A seen, the new number ones all kicked off a partial renumbering would not have had the six-issue storyline, so readers are still facing same impact we needed to the the problem of not being able to jump on at amazing changes and direction we have any single issue in a series history. planned for the new DC Comics universe of Secondly, why did you need a restart in characters. Counting issue numbers is order to tell "contemporary, cutting edge focusing on the past, not the future." So, stories?" Lastly, as the distribution system now the focus is on the future, not the past, has not changed, how is this "aggressively" despite having stated that they are "building reaching a wider audience? The answer: by on the past"? making the stories available for purchase as One other statement bothers me more computer downloads. Wasn't that possible than any other. "We've asked the best before the New 52? creators in the industry to modernize, update Personally, I'm not against the restart. and enhance the books with new and I've been rooting for one for years. exciting tales." Really - the absolute best in Unfortunately, this one just rings hollow. It the field? More like creators who worked sounds more like a publicity stunt than a for Jim Lee's WildStorm and those few who truly well-planned attempt to bring in new were personal favorites of the current upper readers while still pleasing the old fans. management. Many awesome writers and Despite all of DC's spin-doctoring, the New artists found themselves unemployed by this 52 alienated a large number of long-time move and were replaced by people relatively DC die hard readers. unheard of prior to this. "This is a new beginning which builds Overall, I am very disappointed that DC off the best of the past," the press statement turned its back on old-time fans in favor of reads. "Many of the great stories remain." reaching new readers. Action and Detective Really? From the eight months worth of could have continued as books outside of the stories that have emerged so far, it seems New 52. This was also an opportunity to like the New 52 is a complete re-imagining return to worlds like the original Earth-2 and of the classic characters that simply Earth-S for brief visits. Evidently, DC has maintains some elements of the past 75 not yet realized that it can't reject its past. years. Those great stories cannot possibly As many historians have frequently pointed still stand untouched by this restart. Worse out, those who do not learn from the past are yet, as the relaunch started in mid-stream, doomed to repeat it. five years into the main characters' continuties, readers are left guessing as to Here we go again. what remains from the past and what has been jettisoned.

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But for me it kind of was. The only I was a new father at the time, and had cartoons were Marvel and . The difficulty reconciling to my son the only movies were Batman. The only toys Aquaman of my favorite comics and were Marvel and Batman. And there was cartoons with the Aquaman that was no sign of Aquaman on the comic stands. I appearing on and was took pride in my Super Powers toy available in toy format at the time. There collection, but was a little wounded that the was no sense of permanence that most of the Justice League those Super Powers figures other Justice League members had. Even represented no longer existed. The in , who's a favorite of mine but the comics wasn’t the same as arguably less popular than Aquaman, had action figure; Hawkman wasn’t the same as consistency. Change his story, identity, and the Hawkman figure; and wasn’t the costume as much as you want but the iconic same as the Robin figure. was imagery of a big guy with wings, a mace, gone. Martian had become a and a striking helmet was always there. In joke. Batman was far too serious. Dr. the nineties, Hawkman as a character was Fate… confused. And Aquaman, just screwed up and confusing as Hell. But I had missing in action - Relegated to group shots the nagging feeling that at that time he was in major crossovers. DC promo materials still more iconic than Aquaman. included characters like Lobo. It was dark days for a Bronze Age comic fan. But all that's fixed. Aquaman has been reverted to a classic interpretation with a Then after awhile, Peter David’s direction heading forward. And that’s what Aquaman series brought Aquaman back into I’m enjoying most about this “New 52”. prominence. But certainly not in the way I He’s right there, in classic garb and back would have liked. Gone was the classic with his own book again. A comic to be look and the Silver Age sensibilities. Here written by my favorite modern comics was a tough, pointy, hairy, nineties writer! I’m very much looking forward to Aquaman that was much more marketable to this event and what may happen to my the comic buyers of the time. I was happy favorite characters. my character was back and relevant again. And happy, of course, that the true Justice League was brought back. But the nagging thoughts of what makes an iconic character iconic and the knowledge But in my opinion, that’s not the most that Aquaman was no important thing happening this August. DC longer immediately is going digital for realsies with same day recognizable by the general digital publication for all titles! You may public bothered me. How disagree, but I feel like the future of comics can you sell mugs and is saved. chains through Six Flags gift shops and Warner In my job, I get to see how paperwork is Brothers stores with an handled by the Government. It’s an Aquaman no one incredible, overwhelming amount of filing, recognizes? tracking, and storing. And we’re talking about just the last year’s worth of paper

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Recently, I finished reading [digitally] Aquaman comic directly. To support a every Golden Age Aquaman appearance in Hawkman comic. I’m sure Justice League More Fun Comics. Have you done that? won’t need my support, but I’ll be paying With paper comics? How easy would it be for that too. Mr. Terrific??? Yes please. for you to find and pull out those physical The Fury of Firestorm? Absolutely. And comics for reading if you had them? I don’t I’ll have access to these comics without have the money to own the original, out-of- them taking up too much space on my iPad. print titles. Even if I did, how often would I That’s because you can buy the comics pull them out of boxes and through the iPad app and sleeves to read? remove them when you’re done reading. But in a digital To me, with my lack of world, they’re mine to access physical storage space and the with ease, when and where I conv enience of getting and choose. reading comics on the iPad, the news that DC is rebooting the Will a Mr. Terrific series line is minor compared to the work? A couple of years ago news that DC will be going all- we would all have said “No” in on digital comics. So let’s and been correct. The recent chat for a minute about paying Manhunter series was great, for digital comics. and critically well-received … and then cancelled. But now? We all know that comic Will digital delivery on the piracy is out there. Currently, iPad and other tablets increase there are people out there revenue to the point where DC uploading digital comics on the can make these sort of very day of release. There are offerings last? I don’t know. also arguments about how this I’ve never lucked into an is a good thing for comics. article about the breakdown of Arguments like preservation, profit from digital sales to the publisher, but reaching a wider audience, sampling the cost of printing and distributing has to be something new before buying, things like more than the cost of having a company like that. But the validity of these arguments is Comixology host the DC digital website. moot in the of the fact that it’s illegal. And if digital distribution can make a comic Scanning and sharing comics for free is like Mr. Terrific work, then an Aquaman illegal. Scanning comics for your own comic will be a no-brainer. An Aquaman personal use is another fuzzy grey area, but I comic headlined by a superstar writer and choose to view that as I would loading a CD artist is sure to do well. into iTunes and putting the music on your iPod. And that is not illegal as far as I After Infinite Crisis, I LOVED Gail know. I’m not a lawyer. Simone's work on the Ryan Choi Atom. It was solid stuff and very entertaining. Part Whether it’s legal or not, moral or not, I of me feels that this would have succeeded if plan to pay DC for digital comics in it was digital. On one hand, digital comics September. In fact, I can’t WAIT to pay DC have the potential to make money to the for digital comics in September. I feel like right people to extend the life of such a this is my first chance to support an project. On the other hand, it had the chance

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By Steve Peterson

Most of the heroes I relate to are yet to explore. The abundance of marine life basically humans taken to the ultimate level. in the depths still holds many secrets. With the proper training and dedication, any Yet, any one of us can learn to swim. one of us could be or Green While ordinary humans can't breathe or the Lone Ranger. Those skill sets underwater, equipment is available to allow are attainable, whereas most of us weren't us to stay submerged longer and go deeper born or rocketed to Earth from than our bodies can withstand unprotected. another planet or formed from clay and granted life by ancient goddesses. While no ordinary human can actually converse with various sea creatures, we have Aquaman doesn't fit that mold. He is learned enough to recognize patterns and more than an ordinary human taken to peak communication value in whale song and the physical and mental condition. He has chirps and clicks of dolphins. We extraordinary abilities in that he can breathe acknowledge that they do indeed "speak" to underwater, withstand the intense pressures each other. As that knowledge grows and of the ocean depths and communicate with expands, we may one day be able to do more all manner of marine life. Aquaman truly is than merely mimic that communication, and super human. actually talk to marine mammals. So why is this super-powered figure Any character in the hands of a good among the heroes I most enjoy? writer can inspire humanity to new Because as fantastically alien and out- heights and break barriers. Through his 70- of-reach as his natural underwater element year history, Aquaman has entertained can seem, that world is also a very real, readers with many wonderful stories by physical place within our reach as ordinary dozens of different creators. But beyond human beings. this, the character of Aquaman helps us to imagine the riches possible in the oceans Aquaman can be a reader's window into which cover three-fourths of our world, and a world as different as the most fantastic he also inspires us to explore and understand science-fiction setting. There are many part of our own world we rarely experience. parts of the world's oceans that man has So, why Aquaman? Because he represents a part of our real, physical world and all of the potential that envelops, while also incorporating the most fantastic concepts and possibilities the mind can imagine. Aquaman isn't an ordinary human any one of us could be, but given an open mind, he can infect and inspire any one of us as he does me.

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Word Search by Steve Peterson

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By Steve Peterson

Complete this basic fill-in-the-blank style Aquaman quiz. Then locate each of the answers in the accompanying Word Search grid. Quiz and Word Search answers can be found on page 18. Enjoy!

1. This puzzle can be found in The 13. ______Jack is the first Aqua Foe to ______Chronicles. become a recurring character.

2. Aquaman's teenage ally, ______, 14. The Sea ______are an underwater debuted in No. 269. team of adventurers who sometimes aid Aquaman. 3. Aquaman's is known as the ______, not the Batcave. 15. ______are slithery underwater serpents that can sometimes be electric. 4. A ______is a three-tined accessory sold with most Aquaman action figures 16. A sea ______is a mythical creature but rarely seen in the actual comics. feared by ancient sailors.

5. Alex ______was the Aquaman artist 17. Aquaman's surrogate mother figure was on the character's backup feature in a dolphin named ______. . 18. A social group of whales, dolphins or 6. Aquaman rode a faithful sea horse porpoises is called a ______. named ______in his early animated adventures. 19. Aquaman's Atlantean name is ______.

7. Aquaman's ability to communicate with 20. An eight-legged invertebrate sea creature sea life is a form of mental ______. is an ______.

8. Aquaman finally married his longtime 21. The Aqua Foe Ocean ______is really girlfriend, ______, in issue No. 18 of Aquaman's half-brother. his first solo series. 22. Black ______is another well-known 9. Aquaman is friends with Superman's Aqua Foe. mermaid girlfriend, ______Lemaris. 23. After his stint in More Fun Comics, 10. Aquaman debuted in ______Comics Aquaman's adventures moved to No. 73. ______Comics.

11. The blue ______is one of the largest 24. The adult changed his hero animals known to man. name to ______.

12. ______is an Atlantean scientist who 25. Aquaman and Aqualad had a pet walrus befriends Aquaman and becomes his named ______on their first animated trusted adviser. series.

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26. Aqualad fell in love with an Atlantean 40. Aquaman's animated steed was a sea orphan named ______, also known as ______named Storm. . 41. Peter ______enjoyed a lengthy 27. ______Marquez became the second modern run as writer of Aquaman's Aquagirl during the Sub Diego story arc. comic appearances.

28. Writer/artist Dan ______had a short 42. ______was a member of the but popular run writing Aquaman's Forgotten Heroes and an ally of adventures in 2000. Aquaman's.

29. The Roman god of the sea is named 43. Alliteratively speaking, whales, dolphins ______, same as the eighth planet in and porpoises are all examples of our solar system. ______mammals.

30. Paul ______is the first artist to work 44. Some of the denizens of Atlantis are on the Aquaman character. merfolk, either a merman or a ______.

31. The Atlantic ______is the body of 45. A frequent babysitter of Aquaman's son water just to the east of the United was ______the octopus. States. 46. The Marine ______is a villain who 32. Jim ______has a very recognizable fought Flash while using mind control art style and drew Aquaman for many on Aquaman. years. 47. Aquaman is King of the ______. 33. Aquaman's human name is ______Curry. 48. Another name for a sailing ship would be ______. 34. Aquaman's biological father is the Atlantean mage known as ______. 49. 50. ______and ______are the two city-states which make up the nation of 35. Tritonis and Poseidonis are the two city- Atlantis. states which make up the nation of ______. I’ll take sea creatures for one 36. The hard protective covering for a thousand, Alex! snail, crab or lobster is its ______.

37. The Florida town Aquaman and briefly adopted as their base of operations was New ______.

38. Aquaman's half-brother is ______Marius.

39. Aqualad's real name is ______.

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“Arthur, your gift moves me beyond “J’onn,” Arthur began. “My oldest words. You are every bit a King in your friend here. I believe you and I have much compassion. I cannot thank you enough for in common, and I’ve been pleased by how this incredible blessing. I will divide my we’ve been able to strengthen our friendship time, from now on, with my current this past year. You know more acutely than residences and your domain. I cannot wait anyone how much I’ve lost this year, and to begin my exploration of your culture.” not because you’re a telepath. But I’m Aquaman did not answer, but smiled the proud. We both entered this group most pleased smile I’ve seen in a while. , and we’ve come far, J’onn. Do Satisfied, he turned his attention to his next you agree?” beneficiaries. J’onn answered, in that strange “Hawkman and rumbling, soothing tone he uses, “I are next. You two can step agree, Arthur. We’ve made forward if you like.” encouraging growth in our Hand in hand, the policeman struggles. I also am proud of our and woman from planet Thanagar progress, my friend.” moved as one up to where the King Aquaman’s strong face beamed was standing. proudly as he continued on. “I “Hello, Arthur”, said wanted your gift to be something Hawkman. Hawkwoman specially tailored to your followed with, “We can’t wait to passions. You and I have see what you have for us.” discussed your appreciation and “That’s a good thing,” awe for the overwhelming asserted Aquaman, “Because your diversity of the human race, and gifts are rare and… ‘specialized’. while I may not quite understand I think you’ll like them. I’ve been that sentiment as well as you, I do uncovering the tanks so far, but envy your giving spirit. Here is perhaps you two would like to lift my gift to you, J’onn: lifetime yours together.” citizenship in any province or city-state “Sure, we could do that.” Hawkman anywhere in of Atlantis. I moved his large frame, and his wife by the know that you are able to use your shape- hand, over to another fairly large, though not shifting ability to create gills and breathe huge tank. The two Hawks lifted a side of underwater. You are welcome to assume the cover, revealing a simple sandy bottom any form you wish and explore my kingdom and a head of coral. for as long as you like. You have that “Look close into the coral.” Aquaman freedom, old friend. What do you think?” turned and looked into the tank himself. J’onn did not answer at first, and Suddenly two fish shot out from within the actually seemed to be taking time to coral and hovered in the water. compose himself. **J’onn is a great man, “These are Hawkfish”, he intoned. always respectful but at times hard to “Long-nose Hawkfish, from the Galapagos read.** After a few moments, he responded. Islands. Pretty fitting, wouldn’t you say?”

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Everyone chuckled. Of course, Green tonight than the entire time I’ve been on Arrow was the one to say something. Earth. Thank you so much.” “Hey feather-head, did you hear that? Hawkman turned from his perch by the ‘Long-nosed’! Just like you! Hey, ask Artie tank and put a huge hand on Aquaman’s if those fishies are bird-brained fascists, shoulder. “They are perfect. Thank you for too!” putting so much thought into our gifts. I I saw Hawkman’s jaw tighten as he think we have a perfect place for them in started to move toward GA, a natural teaser Midway City. Hawkfish, who knew?” whose favorite target was the big Hawk guy. Aquaman practically radiated pride as he Hawkwoman put a hand on his shoulder related, “I’m so glad all of you are enjoying as , ’s mate, your gifts and learning about different spoke to calm the situation. species. The astonishing variety of sea life “Arrow, back off and let them have their is one of the great joys of my life, and I’m moment! You’ve put your foot in your fortunate to have a chance to share it with mouth, now keep it there!” my friends, my comrades-in-arms. Let’s Both men visibly softened their tense move on to our lovely .” stances and relaxed, as Arthur took Zatanna walked forward and the momentary quiet to reestablish stood in front of Aquaman. In her order and continue. day job as a stage , the “As neat as Hawkfish are, with daughter of the legendary their preference to live in coral and magician worked hard to dart out to grab prey, these two make herself the center of carry a little something extra. All attention, but in this case it seemed species of Hawkfish, from the she was suppressing her natural Dwarf Hawkfish of Malaysia to the theatricality in of King Spotted Hawkfish of Indonesia, Arthur of Atlantis. Not to say that almost never survive in captivity. But this she seemed intimidated, just respectful as species, the Long-nose, does and has had she waited to be addressed. Aquaman didn’t plenty of success with it. And yet, that’s wait long. still not the best part. These two are mates, “Hi, Zatanna. It’s great to see you again. for life. They are breeding and will In my view, you’ve been instrumental this probably produce offspring within the next year, getting us out of some of our deepest few months. Not that I’m putting any jams, and in a few cases, saving our pressure on you two or anything…” dimension almost by yourself. I personally Again, everyone laughed. Green Arrow have been amazed and delighted to see you kept his mouth shut just in case, rather than grow and wield your power with such skill risking another public tongue lashing from and maturity. My gift to you is something his “pretty bird”. that no surface-dweller has ever received, The Hawks were anything but silent. and only a select few beings have ever They crowded around the tank for a closer experienced. As you all know, my position look, clearly taken with their new as Monarch allows me certain concessions acquisitions. that would be impossible otherwise. As Hawkwoman spoke first. “Arthur, how such, Zatanna, I believe that you are ready to perfect! We love them. Just as Ralph said, receive…this.” we had no idea of our undersea counterparts. Rodunn and Kouron stepped silently up I think I’ve learned more about sea life behind Arthur, each holding the long side of

52 a gigantic book. They carried it easily, so I translated her spell as “Let Aquaman feel don’t think it was especially heavy, but my gratitude psychically.”) Aquaman took it from them and held it in As she said that, Arthur’s face the crook of one arm as he began to speak brightened. He smiled at Zee and said, again, this time slower and with more “Thank you.” purpose than before. It was clear that her spell had had the “I hold in my hands The Akuatika desired effect. King Arthur turned back Magisterius Atlantid, the most complete around to his attendants and handed them tome of magical knowledge and magical the book, which they immediately locked history of all known undersea civilizations, back up in its case. Zatanna, still staring at least all those that are still in gratefully at Aquaman, took her place back communication with our main network of in the crowd. city-states. Every secret of And then Aquaman said the undersea segment of the something sort of Homo Magi species. Zee, I surprising. “Why don’t we know you’ve learned more take a break from the gifts? of your magical heritage this I’ve brought a little year, unfortunately at great refresher. If anyone’s cost to your family. interested, please gather Hopefully this tome will be, around.” among other things, a source He turned to a long of connection to a segment covered structure that I had of your ancestors and assumed was another tank, contemporaries.” but his assistants revealed Zatanna’s eyes became to be a heavy banquet table. dinner plates as she studied On the table, on , was an the ornate, gold cover decorated with all assortment of edible dishes I didn’t sorts of elaborate symbols and images of sea recognize. Flash was the first to ask what creatures. However, she stayed silent, they were. mouth open in awe. “Well, Flash,” Aquaman voiced, “this is Aquaman began again. “I’m assuming a small sampling of Atlantean cuisine. by your reaction, Zatanna, that you know Nothing major here, just examples of what how important and how historically valuable you might call ‘finger foods’. Many of this gift is. It is not yours to keep, but I these dishes are served regularly at our royal wanted you to see it, touch it. The real gift dinners. Kelp recipes, sea grasses, even is, you are welcome to visit The Atlantean dishes that use coral. You might notice that Archives and study this book, and others, as there is no meat to be found. At this point in much as you’d like. You’ll enjoy a privilege my life, I personally cannot eat any creature no other surfacer has had to date. What do that I am able to communicate with, which you think?” basically leaves me with aquatic plants. Finally, Zee (as we all like to call her) Fortunately, there is a large variety to responded with her remarkable way of spell- choose from, and our royal chefs are truly casting. skilled in their preparation. I think you’ll “Tel namauqA leef ym edutitarg like them.” yllacihcysp.” (Zatanna casts her spells by At that we all formed a line behind speaking them backwards, and we later Superman and made our way down the

53 buffet. I was somewhat skeptical at first, but my expression. “Happens to all new the Professor assured me that I would Leaguers.” “benefit from trying something new”. I “Good one, Aquaman,” I said, suddenly decided to try just a little of everything, but wishing I could trade powers with The Atom was pleasantly surprised by how tasty and shrink out of sight. everything was. One piece in particular I Arthur shot me a sly smirk and then really liked, and asked Aquaman what it continued with his presentations as his was. guardsmen re-covered the food. “I believe “Which food do you mean?”, he asked. is next. You and I have been I hadn’t realized that I’d eaten all of mine, in the League since the beginning, GL, and so I walked to the table and snatched up we know how to work together in battle. I another handful of the golf ball-sized green appreciate that, so I thought long and hard pieces. about what to get you.” “These,” I said, holding them He strode back toward his up. covered gifts and picked up a small “Oh, those. That’s sea tank, only a few gallons I thought. cucumber. Fascinating organism. “GL, we’ve had a chance to Did you know it’s essentially one talk a lot, during those long, boring long anus?” hours on monitor duty, about our I stopped chewing. So did lives. I know you’re a little everyone else, as a stunned silence apprehensive about your new job gripped the room. Even Flash, who driving that truck, so I thought an by that time was on his third ideal gift would be something to helping. Everyone began make your time on the road looking down at their plates, more enjoyable.” then back up at Arthur. He Arthur then removed the flashed a quick smile, followed covering, revealing a modestly by a deep, boisterous laugh in decorated aquarium with a fair my direction. I’d never heard number of small fish. Aquaman laugh before. It was “What are they, Arthur?” sort of how I’d always imagined a King GL asked politely. might laugh, like one in a fairy tale. Arthur “They’re a mixture of green neon tetras, finished laughing and explained himself. green swordtails, and greenstripe barbs, all “I’m kidding. It’s true what I said about freshwater. I think you can guess the the sea cucumber, but that’s not on the theme…” menu. The sea cucumber is technically an The Lantern answered, “Sure.” animal, although not one I communicate Arthur continued, unabated by the ring- with often. Still wouldn’t want to eat them, slinger’s seeming reluctance. “The water though, for obvious reasons. I just wanted they’re swimming in is full of luminescent to see the look on Firestorm’s face when I algae, also green. In the dark, the green said that.” algae will pick up the green on the fish and I just stood there, stunned, as the others really make it shine. I thought you could chuckled in my direction. install the tank in your truck, to glance at “Just a little ‘rookie hazing’, Firestorm.” during your long trips. It’ll only need a little said Green Lantern, clearly still amused at upkeep, adding extra algae and making sure the filter’s working.”

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Arthur stopped for a moment as if man, even Superman. I always wondered considering something, and then added, why Batman showed up to the meetings he “Oh, and I made sure to not include did, or to any for that matter. When he did, anything yellow, just in case.” he was pure business, always devoted to the The whole room laughed at that one, an task at hand. The only reason I could think in-joke that I can’t reveal in this writing, but of that he would attend these holiday rest assured, is very funny. meetings was out of respect for the GL smiled warmly, very satisfied. presenters. “That’s just what I need, Arthur, thank you Batman stayed silent as he planted in so much. These fish will make my trips front of Arthur, unmoving as a wall. cross-country much more fun. And you’re Undaunted, Arthur restarted his tribute. right, I do love the theme. Another “Of all your considerable skills, thoughtful gift. You’re batting .1000 so far, Batman, your dedication to what we do, and old bud. Thanks again.” your unstoppable commitment to , I “You’re welcome, Lantern. My men are am most impressed by your pursuit of prepared to install the tank in your truck any knowledge, of yourself and the world time you’d like. I understand it stays in around you. I wanted to give you something orbit until you need it?” that would honor that code. You have spent “Yes, that’s right,” GL said. time in the Orient, is that correct?” “Although I’m not sure how you “Yes, Arthur, I have,” Batman know that, I haven’t really told answered in his perfectly chilling too many here.” baritone murmur, designed, I’m “Well,” Aquaman retorted. sure, to terrify the criminal element. “To prepare for this venture, I had I wonder if he knew the effect it had to employ my sources. I’m on the law-abiding. sure your secret is safe But it seemed to with all of us.” intimidate Aquaman not at GL chuckled. “Oh, I all. “This tank,” he gestured know it is. I ‘m just a little toward another medium surprised you knew that. container over by the You’re sneakier than I previously-revealed others, thought, Aquaman. We’ll “contains a rare denizen have to keep a bigger eye on you from now custom-made for your subterranean on.” headquarters.” Everybody chuckled again. Well, Whipping the cover off with no effort, everybody but Batman, who was continuing the King of the Seven Seas revealed another his brooding off to the side. I noticed sandy bottom and a very oddly-shaped Aquaman notice the “Dark Knight’s” self- creature moving along the back edge of the imposed solitude, and turn to him with full enclosure. attention. “This is the Oriental Flying Gurnard. “Batman. I have something I hope Have you heard of it, Batman?” you’ll enjoy. Please join me up here at the “Dactyloptena orientalis. Also known front.” as the Batfish. Found in the deeper waters Batman flapped his cape close around of the Atlantic Ocean. Very appropriate, his large frame and strode forward with Arthur.” more purpose than I’d ever seen from any

55

“I thought so,” Arthur responded. “Your mimicking Arthur’s expression. Finally the underground fortress has its share of flying Marine Marvel spoke up. inhabitants, and I’m sure it would benefit “Confused yet? True, most of us can see from a swimming version.” nothing but water. Superman can see, and “You’re right, Arthur, it will. I have a has; I can read it on his face. But there is fine place in mind for it. Its walking another here among us who can figure out behavior is quite interesting; I’ll enjoy the mystery of this tank, and he’s welcome observing its interactions. Thank you.” to reveal himself now.” That surprised me, Batman saying For those of us, like me, who chose that “thank you” for anything. Not that he is a moment to look around the room missed jerk or anything, but I had never seeing the small figure of the Atom heard him express much in the way appear on Aquaman’s shoulder. of personal emotion. It gave me “How was it in there, Atom?” hope, and a very specific pride in asked Arthur. being a part of this mythic group. “Breathtaking in its detail, Batman took the tank in hand as Aquaman,” said the six-inch he strode back to his corner, crimefighter in the red and blue already examining the contents costume, using the special with an analytic eye. (**Actually, I microphone he had installed in his couldn’t see his real eyes. tiny cowl. It was the best Batman’s cowl has those way to hear him clearly at white lenses that frequently that size. While some of creep me out.**) us were still a little The mood noticeably confused as to what he was brightened in the room as talking about, Aquaman Aquaman moved on the explained. next recipient on his list. “For the last few But instead of announcing minutes, you may have who it was, he simply noticed that our friend the walked over and lifted the Atom was nowhere to be same orange covering off another tank, found. You see, I gave him access to his about the same size as Batman’s had been. present a little early. Using a set of ‘pre- However, the contents were very different. shrunk’ scuba equipment he designed, Atom Squinting as hard as I could, I saw nothing has been diving among the wide variety of but water. Having been silent for an plankton and microorganisms in the tank, all amazingly long time, Green Arrow once invisible to the naked eye. But to a again said what we were all thinking but too microscopic adventurer…” polite to wonder aloud. The Atom picked up from there. “It’s “Uh, Artie? Did you forget to add incredible to see these specimens up close. something important? Does anybody see So many different varieties, many as anything in there?” intricate and delicate as snowflakes. It Aquaman stayed silent for a long would take me years to explore even a small moment, causing a few of us to glance at portion of what is in that tank.” Superman, all thinking he might see “Well, that’s hopefully the idea, Atom. something with his telescopic , I All the major classifications are represented, believe he calls it. He just smiled slightly, phytoplankton, zooplankton, even

56 bacterioplankton and the holoplankton that walk down the corridor, we arrived at the live within them. These plants and animals viewing area for the rainforest biome. are the building blocks for the oceans’ food Arthur picked up where he left off, more or chains, sort of like atoms are the building less. blocks of life. I thought the comparison was “Flash’s present needed a certain amount apt.” of room, and fit in very well in this “Thank you, my friend.” The Atom environment. As you know, this room nearly gushed. “You do realize that this will simulates the self-sustaining ecosystem of take up a huge amount of my leisure time the deep Amazonian rainforests. It’s where now, don’t you? Not that I’m complaining. our Satellite gets more than 65% of its I mean, who gets to see an ever-changing oxygen supply, and it makes a perfect home alien world whenever they want? for creatures great and small. Thank you again, Arthur, for Hmmm…” he said at this point, “I everything you do.” don’t see him at the moment. I’ll “Once again,” said the man also have to call him. Watch the stream known as Arthur Curry (though not that flows up to this observation as a secret identity), “you’re all window.” very welcome, and I’m glad you’re Arthur closed his eyes and enjoying the gifts. I believe we furrowed his brow, both sure signs have one more member to go, am I that he was communicating with right? Flash?” something in the enclosure. In no “Right here, Arthur, time at all we saw it. and very curious.” The Coming up fast, a large Flash, the Fastest Man green lizard running on Alive, walked briskly, its hind legs. But that but did not run, up to wasn’t the amazing part. where Aquaman stood. It was running ON the “I saw you were stream. On the water enjoying the food, itself. It ran across the Flash.” The Sea King surface of the rushing smiled warmly. liquid until it reached a “Yes, very much. grassy spot close to the All extremely unique tastes, but I’d gladly window. Then it waited, as if expecting eat them frequently if I could, my friend.” further instructions. We were all very “Hmmm.” Aquaman thought aloud. surprised and delighted to see such an “That could be arranged, perhaps. But first, incredible display, but Arthur calmly spoke. let’s take a look at your gift. You might “Remember when I said earlier that I’ve have already seen that I’ve given all the been having some increased telepathic tanks I brought with me. That’s because ability with reptiles and amphibian your present is already at home. Will physiology? Well, meet one of the most everyone follow me to the rainforest successful examples. This is a Green biosphere on this level?” Basilisk lizard, from Ecuador. As you’ve It was a strange request, but with the just seen, he shares a useful talent with our wonders we had seen from Aquaman fleet-footed compatriot: his ability to run on already that night, we knew he was leading water. Using his tail and feet for balance, up to something interesting. After a short this lizard, along with a few other species, is

57 able to run for short distances without through, but now that the moment had breaking the surface tension of the water. arrived, we flooded the hall with thunderous Flash, you’ve often done the same feat, but clapping of gloved (and ungloved) hands. for much longer distances. I thought you Arthur was deluged by pats on the backs and two would like to meet.” expressions of gratitude and wonderment. I Flash was suitably excited at the think he found the response he had wanted. introduction. “Wow, Arthur, he’s incredible! So here it is more than a year and a half I thought no animal on Earth was capable of later. I have only just gotten to this report as such a thing, except maybe small insects like it was marked “not urgent” and relegated to water striders. But a large animal like a the bottom of the bottom of a large pile. lizard…I’m astounded. Can you make him However, it fills me with warmth to be do it again?” finally able to relate the events of that night, “Well,” Arthur replied, “I can, but I’d as they comprise one of my fondest rather ask him if he’d like to. But he hardly memories of being a part of this League. needs my intervention; a Basilisk will most My tank is still here, still filled with all its of the time prefer to run over water rather original inhabitants in great health. I try to than swim through it, although they are visit it and the others here as often as I can, excellent swimmers who can stay under for even when I should be doing monitor duty 30 minutes or more. What I will do is or inventory, or reports. And that is a great stimulate the predatory mechanism in his a testimony I can give to the quality of those brain, and see if that motivates him enough gifts, and their giver, as I can imagine. to search for food.” Arthur did not close his eyes this time, but rather stared intently for a second at the Firestorm – Member 16-A lizard, who quickly turned and shot back across the stream the way he had come. End of Case File. Status : Closed. “He is yours to care for as you would like, Flash, but I would suggest keeping him here in the biome for his own well-being. Do you agree?” Flash considered for a moment, and said, “Yes, I do agree this is the best place for him. But I’ll be sure to visit him whenever I need a pick- me-up. Maybe Jay would be a good name for him.” Arthur smiled again. “This evening has been very enjoyable for me, especially witnessing how you all react to the gifts I’ve chosen. Have you all enjoyed yourselves?” We had been saving our applause until Arthur was

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Whenever I head to the post office to mail out the latest issue of the Aquaman

Chronicles , I am always amazed at how many states it travels to. Currently, this fanzine ships to 27 states, the District of Columbia, Canada, and Australia.

Odd, I now feel this strange urge to try to find subscribers in the remaining 23 states...

You can find Aquaman Chronicles readers in:

 California  North Carolina  Colorado  Ohio  Delaware  Oklahoma  Florida  Oregon  Georgia  Pennsylvania  Hawaii  Rhode Island  Illinois  South Carolina  Kentucky  Tennessee  Maryland  Texas  Massachusetts  Virginia  Minnesota  Washington  Nebraska  Washington D.C.  New Jersey  West Virginia  New York  Wisconsin 59

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13

14 15 16

17 18 19

20 21 22

23 24 25 26

27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35

36 37 38 39 Q U 40 41 42 Q U 43 44 45 46

47 48 49

50 51 52

53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63

64 65 66

67 68 69

70 71 72

NOTE: In this crossword puzzle the letters “Q” and “U” must be written in a single square. Examples are shown above. “QU” appears 9 times in this puzzle.

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ACROSS DOWN 1. Mera’s title 1. Crazy ______, obscure Bat-villain. 5. _____cave or _____ mail. 2. Switch______. 8. “Brightest Day” battle. 3. Mapquest or Google Earth document. 14. ___ La Douce, (’63 movie). 4. Aquatic marvel. 15. The late . 5. Ray Palmer, since 1961. 16. Ironic literary form 6. Victor Sage alter-ego. 17. Type of soil. 7. Lemon drink. 18. Sugary ending. 8. Beasts of burden. 19. Leans or tilts. 9. Moral reservation. 20. Loyal 8-legged friend. 10. Above. 21. ___ Olympus. 11. Clean off. 22. Aqualad or . 12. enemy. 23. Prefix meaning again. 13. Remainder. 25. DC’s Egyptian Superheroine. 22. _____ the season! 27. Amount (abbr.) 24. Illegally exert pressure. 30. Marvel’s Magneto and others. 26. Mera or Amphitrite, for example. 32. Outdated exclamation. 27. Popular Bat-character, Harley _____. 36. Syllable after meteor or krypton. 28. 1980s TV adventure series. 37. The platinum Metal “Man.” 29. Unfamiliar with. 38. Name before “Chronicles” 31. Bona ______. or “Shrine” 32. Day-night balance. 40. or . 33. , ____ Logan. 42. Blackjack or Jack Sparrow, 34. Recurring JLA villain android. 43. ______or nurture. 35. Went out. 44. Sports network. 38. Mtg. 46. Nickname for female JLA member. 39. Must have. 47. French Alp. 41. Not a Bat-weapon. 48. Ensure that. 45. Seismic threat to Atlantis. 49. ____ man out. 48. Computer network (abbr.). 50. ____-mite. 50. Musical team-ups. 51. Child’s t-shirt size. 52. British Robin counterpart. 53. JLA No. 73 (Aug.’69) villain. 53. _____ Fortune, JLA foe. 58. Status ____. 54. Johnny ______, JSA member. 60. Magic friend from 55. Side protected from the wind. Aquaman No. 1. 56. Abnormal lung sound. 64. Distance (alternate spelling). 57. “_ ___ rhythm.” 65. Spock feature. 59. Aquaman’s Atlantean name. 66. Retirement savings accounts. 61. Metal Men member. 67. Wild cat. 62. Beach base. 68. Black Racer vehicle. 63. Leaky lifeboat sound. 69. Reagan and son. 65. Extreme ending. 70. JL International robot. 71. Ben ____: Alien Force. 72. Finishes.

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by Christina Zeigafuse

Here I am again - long time, no see. I have written a fun story, that I cooked up in 2001 at Charlotte NC’s HEROES Convention. I was reluctant to publish it because I feared I might offend someone. But after the passing of the late, great , I remembered something he told me. He said, "Write it down, no matter how bad. At least you did it and you learned from it." I took his advice to heart and finished it. This story is fictional, but some of the characters are composed from real people, who have been in some way, shape, or form involved with Aquaman. The idea is to pick them out and guess how they are affiliated with the character. Please, to all who are mentioned, don't be offended. This story is meant as a celebration of your work and who you are, and on the same note, also to celebrate a young character (Arthur Jr.) who did not live to enjoy a birthday party. Read and enjoy. See how many you can figure out. List of answers to be printed next issue. Best Regards, Christina Z.

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“Good morning, Your Highness!” A servant the frightened man a look of inquisition. “What said, as he opened the curtains to the bedchamber. celebration?” The artificial light from the dome shone in, letting the The servant blurted out.“ Sire, I thought you King of Atlantis know that it was morning on the knew. Today’s a national holiday. You declared it a surface, as well as below. year ago, yourself.” “What’s so good about it!” the king snapped and The king released the servant’s hand. “I’m sorry. slowly pushed the weighted covers off him. The I seemed to have forgotten, please remind me.” servant jumped at the sharpness of his king’s voice. Aquaman turned around and let the man proceed in Aquaman rubbed his bandaged left shoulder. The shaving him. “Your Highness, it is Prince Arthur’s pain jabbed at him. The battle with the Birthday.” had been a rough one. Sitting on the edge of the bed, Aquaman cursed “ Garn D’aanuth!!” He he glanced at the nervous servant. smacked his forehead. “I'm sorry, Halvor, I didn’t mean to yell. It was a “Mera’s going to kill me. That is why she didn’t long day, yesterday.” He looked at the torn and soiled wake me herself. She wants to make it a public shirt lying crumpled by the bed. “I’m sure it will be a execution! In front of the country, my friends, and the better one today.” world.” He gulped, “here stands the worst father who “That is quite alright, Sire,” the servant said as ever lived!!” he pulled a new orange shirt from a dresser. “But “Sire, please. I must get you ready.” Halvor said Sire, if I may correct you, you have been asleep for “If it is any consolation, The Queen didn’t seem two whole days.” He put the shirt next to a black and angry at all when she asked me to wake you.” green pair of pants hanging from a gold octopus shaped wall clamp. “She didn’t?” The King sat up straight, with a baffled look on his face.” “Two days, huh,” Aquaman said as he headed to the bathroom. He discarded the black and green pants “Yes, Sire. Although she seemed quite busy.” he had been wearing. Then pulled the bloodstained Halvor quickly finish shaving his king. “Her exact bandage off. words were, ‘Please wake Arthur and make him presentable’.” “Mera sent you to wake me, no doubt.” He smiled. “Smart girl.” Aquaman sighed with relief, that Mera had called him by his real name. That meant he wasn’t in He entered a sonic shower, to clean any parasites too much trouble. He stood up and grabbed the or fungus from his skin. Aquaman exited the shower, armored orange shirt from the wall and pulled it on. took his pants from the gold clamp and put them on. “Thank you, Halvor, for getting me up to speed.” “Where's Mera?” He asked and seated himself “You’re welcome, Sire,” the servant said as on a waiting chair. The servant began to treat his Aquaman bolted out of the room. shoulder. As he swam though corridors, the palace guards “The Queen is in the main banquet hall, with the snapped to attention in their best dress uniforms. The Prince.” The servant sighed as he placed some halls had been decorated in brightly colored numbing ointment on the large bruise. “I’m sorry, translucent cloth streamers. The rainbow of cloth Sire, the healing is not working as well as it danced in his wake as he sped toward the banquet should.” he said as he finished bandaging his king. hall. “For some reason it didn’t quite finish the job. I will have someone look at it.” Aquaman halted at the entrance to the room. He hesitated. A guard spotted him and said, “Good “What’s she doing in the banquet hall?” morning Your Highness!” in a very loud fashion. Aquaman asked. He glared at the guard for not giving him time to “The Queen is making preparations for the compose himself before facing his wife. guests, who will be arriving this evening for the celebration.” The servant came toward Aquaman’s “Come in Arthur!” Mera's voice echoed from face with an instrument to remove the stubble from inside banquet hall. “I'm glad to see you make an his face. Aquaman grabbed Halvor’s hand and gave appearance in the land of the living.”

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Arthur peered into the room. The banquet hall Aquaman swam back to his bedchamber, and was a flurry of activity. There were servants hanging startled Halvor as he was cleaning the room. colored streamers in a woven net pattern on the “How dare she... So I forgot...” Arthur muttered, ceiling. Others were arranging sea flowers and coral “…like she’s never forgotten anything.” into large gold vases about the room. Some were setting long tables. Mera was dressed in a long green “Anything wrong your, Highness?” Halvor gown, with a gold and jeweled filigreed edge at the asked, “May I be of assistance?” bottom. She was in the middle of the room, working Aquaman stopped talking aloud and stared at the on a large gold vase on the main banquet table. The Prince was at her feet. He was playing with the edge man and realized he was not alone. of his mother's dress, instead of the set of rock crystal “Are you a father, Halvor?” letter blocks that were placed before him. “Ahh, no Sire.” Halvor answered. “Is that a “Please my lord. Come and grace us with your problem?” .” She called. “I don’t think you can help me,” Aquaman Aquaman swam over the top of one of the long grumbled. “But you'll have to do. Try to answer this tables to get to his wife. He kissed her on the cheek. for me,” he pointed at the servant. “You look so beautiful today.” “If it were your son’s birthday. What would you She didn't look at him, but smiled. “My, you are give him?” The King eyed him for answer. the flatterer today. I wonder why?” She placed another piece into the arrangement. Halvor gulped and said, “If I had a son I would give him a gift like I had when I was a child.” “Because you are every time I see you,” he purred and then bent down and plucked his son from Arthur smiled and grabbed Halvor by the the floor and spun him around in a circle. The child shoulders. “Thank you so much.” He released the squealed with delight. Aquaman held the boy above stunned man and rushed about the room opening his head and flew him about. He brought the Prince drawers. Aquaman found an old yellowing watertight in for a landing in the nook of his arms. The baby bag. gurgled and grabbed the king’s nose. “Ow! That quite “Tell Mera I will be back in time for the party.” a grip you have there, young man.” Aquaman Said the King with bag in hand and sped from the wiggled himself free of the boy’s grasp. The little one room. laughed. Away from Atlantis he swam. Up the coast to the “He gets it from you,” Mera smirked. “And his city of . There he emerged onto the nearest looks. I just hope he hasn’t got your memory.” pier. The dock was a busy place with cargo being “What are you talking about? What did I loaded and being unloaded. Some of the dockworkers forget?” Aquaman said while trying to look stern at gave him a glance but nothing more. This was the his amused wife. home of Superman, strange things happen here daily. Seeing someone dressed like Aquaman was nothing “Your son’s birthday party,” Mera said. new. “I didn’t forget!” Aquaman growled and looked Arthur stopped a one of the dockworkers by the at Mera then said ever so meekly, “it just slipped my shirt. “Maybe you can help me.” mind, okay.” “Sure Mister. Just don't hurt me,” the nervous Mera shook her head “I thought it probably worker replied. would. So, I took the liberty of picking out your gift.” She spun the vase around to see that all sides were “Where may I find the closest phone?” Arthur even in the arrangement. Deciding it was finished, asked. she confronted her husband. “I know how busy your “Ohh. That’s easy. ‘The Old Crow’. Two lanes life is.” down.” The worker pointed over his shoulder. “That The Prince started to squirm in Aqua man’s way.” arms. “I can pick out my own gift, thank you!” He “Thank you,” Arthur said and released the man’s handed the child to his mother and swam off. He sped shirt. out so fast he didn't hear what Mera called after him. She started to go after him, but was detained by two “Don't mention it,” the man said and hurried of the workers in the banquet room. himself away. 64

He headed toward the direction given. Aquaman “Why is that?” Arthur inquired. opened the bag he was carrying on the way. The bag “Why is that?” he asked. “It’s the month of contained a roll of Atlantean gold coins, a few dollars March. Aren’t you even a little bit cold?” Russell and some change, a white T-shirt, a Hawaiian shirt, a almost dropped the glass he was putting back on shelf pair of shorts and sandals. from laughing. “I wouldn’t want to be you for all the Aquaman found the pub ‘The Old Crow’. Its money in the world, mate!” faded sign swung lightly in the chilly breeze that Arthur just glared at the bartender and said very blew through the streets. Two intoxicated men were heatedly, “I don't have time for this!” and he stomped lingering outside the pub. out. Aquaman had forgotten that Atlanteans don’t “Hey, ! Give a message feel temperature like humans do. Atlanteans have from me! Kiss my a--!” the one drunken man said. built in insulation in their skin to help deal with extreme temperature s of the ocean. The other man said. “The same from me…too.” The laugher followed him outside. Aquaman sat He walked past the two and into the bar. The down on the curb to wait for his cab. The two hang- place reeked of alcohol, smoke and sweat. abouts were still there. A bartender with light brown hair and beard “Hey, Dave. Look who got thrown out, too,” the spotted him immediately. “What do you want here, one hang-about said to the other. hero? A pint?” Some of the patrons laughed. “I didn’t get thrown out,” Arthur stated. “No sir. But the nearest phone would be great.” He asked. “Look Stewart, they must have stolen his superhero suit, too,” Dave said sitting against the “I don’t like the look of you. You spandex boys building. are nothing but trouble. So, the sooner you’re out of here the better.” The bartender pointed to the “They didn’t steal my suit,” Arthur sighed. payphone next to the restrooms. “Well mate, we’ll be your friends. Won’t we “Then we’re in agreement,” Aquaman remarked Dave?” Stewart draped his arm around Arthur and his and made a beeline for the bathrooms. He opened the foul liquor breath wafted around them. Dave just restroom door. nodded. “Uhh. This will just have to do.” he whispered to Arthur shrugged Stewart off. “Listen, I don't himself in disgust and went to change into his street want any trouble. Please leave me alone.” clothes. “No trouble. You just look like you needed a When he emerged from changing, he used the friend,” Stewart said and shrugged his shoulders. He payphone and had the operator call a taxi company went back to his place at the entrance to the pub. for him. Just then three men came strolling up to the pub. “Hey bartender, what’s the address here?” Arthur One of them said to Dave and Stewart, “so, this is yelled across the room. where you two have been hiding out.” “What do I look like? An information booth!” “Dean, we just came down here to talk to the bartender growled as he was pouring drink from Russell,” Stewart explained. the tap. “6457 Fisherman Street!” “You know he doesn't like being bothered while “Thank you. You’re too kind,” Arthur said he at work,” Dean scolded. sarcastically and told the dispatcher where to pick “We were just…” Dave was cut short. him up. “Come on, mate! Let's get back to the hotel and “Hey, Russ!” one of the patrons yelled to the dry you two out,” One of men said. “We have a lot of bartender. “Hero boy thinks he’s at the beach.” rehearsing to do before the gig.” He helped Dave up. Another one sounds off, “you’d think we were “I was hoping we see Superman while we were having a .” here,” Stewart sighed. “I only got to meet him. “That's a real low profile disguise, mate,” Whoever he is.” He pointed to Arthur who was trying Russell smirked. “No one would ever guess you’re to look as incognito as possible on his little spot of not from around here.” curb.

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“Him a superhero? Come on!” Dean smiled and Aquaman stepped from the cab and turned to the grabbed Stewart’s arm. driver. “Shaun, I’m hoping this won’t take very long. Please wait for me.” One of them laughed, “Maybe he’s Mister Freeze! He’s dressed for a luau.” “No problem. The meters running,” Shaun said as he put his arms up behind his head and got “That’s Gotham. You know, Batman, mate,” comfortable. another one said. Arthur approached a red door. A sign on the A yellow cab came flying up to the curb. Arthur door reads ‘Push button for service.’ He pushed the let out a loud sigh of relief, “About time.” button. It made annoying ringing noise. He heard a He opened the car door and gazed out at the click and the door unlocked. Arthur pulled the door gang. “Have you guys ever heard of Aquaman? open then walked inside the beat up brick building. It Being from Australia, I thought you would’ve.” He was well lit inside. There sitting at a cage enclosed watched their faces. “No! Well, I will tell Superman long counter was an overweight balding middle-aged and Batman, you asked about them.” He smiled at man with glasses. He was reading a paper called ‘The their astonishment. He closed the door with a slam of National Inquisitor’. The paper partially hid his face. irritation A photograph on the front page caught Arthur’s eye. The blurry picture was of him, his wife and son at the “Damn Tourists!” he growled and told the driver beach on vacation. The clothing he wore was the to go. same as in the photo. The article’s headline in bold “Where would you like to go, Sir?” the driver lettering read ‘Atlantean Prince Turns One!’ Arthur asked. craned his neck out a little to try and read some of the article. Aquaman spotted the driver’s identification hanging on the safety glass window. The picture was “Can I help you with something. Or did you just of a thin bald man. “Ok, Shaun is it?” The driver come in here to read the paper,” The man said as he nodded at his name. “Shaun, you and I are going to looked over his paper. spending a lot of time together,” he paused to pull the “Uh, no.” He paused as he pulled the coins from roll of coins out of his bag. “The first place I need for his bag. “I have some gold coins to sell.” you to take me is somewhere I can turn these into quick cash.” He held up the roll so the driver can see The man roughly folded up the paper and threw them. it down on the counter and pushed his glasses back on his nose, “Ok, let's see what you've got,” he said “What are those?” said Shaun. as he put his hand out. Aquaman gave him the roll of “Gold Atlantean coins.” Arthur put the roll back coins. into the bag. The man opened the roll. He picked up a coin “Alright Mister, I’ll get you were you need to and inspected it with a magnifying glass. The dealer go.” Shaun turned corner. “I know just the place.” frowned, “you do know there’s not much of a market for foreign currency.” The cab driver made several turns. He stopped at a shop with a sign that says ‘Pete’s Coins and “What that’s mean?” Arthur asked. Precious Metals’. The shop had bars on the windows “That means these are going to be hard to sell,” and was a little bit rundown. the dealer put down the coin. “I can’t give you much “Nice place,” Arthur said. “Do they rob you out for them.” on the street, or in the building.” “But they’re gold!” he protested. “And they are “It depends on your character,” the driver Atlantean. You’re trying to tell me that there are a lot smirked. of these in Metropolis?” “What do you mean?” Arthur asked. “If I had a dollar for every fake Atlantean coin someone tried to sell me this week. I would be “If he likes you he’ll treat you good, if he retired, and writing a novel,” the dealer said with doesn't...” Shaun remarked. annoyance. “He’ll treat you like sh...,” Arthur finished for “Fake!” Arthur couldn't believe his ears. him. “Yes, fake. Ever since the Atlantean Prince's “Right,” Shaun smiled. birthday been announced. Every crackpot in town has 66 been trying to sell me their foreign gold coins as no choice, I have to take it.” Arthur handed the paper Atlantean fare,” The dealer explained. back to him. “I’m sorry to disappoint you, but those are very “Next time, don’t try to con me,” the dealer said real,” Aquaman confirmed. “Have you ever seen a as he wrote up a receipt. “Maybe we would have got real Atlantean coin?” along better.” He passed the receipt and a pen to Arthur, “here sign this and not ‘King of Atlantis’, “No,” he answered. “But they are supposed to please. I’ll be right back.” The dealer headed for the have the head of the king on the front and on the back backroom to get the money from the safe. the royal .” The man picked up one of coins and spun it between two of his fingers. Aquaman signed the receipt, ‘Arthur Curry’ “I’m hoping there won’t be a next time,” he whispered “Then how do you know it is a fraud?” Aquaman under his breath. folded his arms in contempt. “Here you go.” The dealer counted out the “Listen buddy, I don't know who helped you money, “Nice doing business with you, Mr. Curry” mint these up,” The dealer smirked. “But the face on He ripped off a copy of the receipt. He handed the these looks just like you. I surely doubt the king of money and receipt to Aquaman. Atlantis would need to hock coins in this town.” “Thanks lot!” Arthur said peevishly. He turned “I am the king!” Arthur stated, “I need the on his heel and headed out the door. He slammed the money to buy my son a birthday gift.” door hard as he left. The man started laughing and points at the Arthur returned to the waiting cab, finding the picture in paper. “Nice outfit, Your Highness... next back door locked. He tapped the side window to get time you pull a scam don’t copy the picture in the the dozing driver's attention. paper... now I have seen and heard everything.” Shaun unlocked the door. “You can't be too Arthur realized how stupid the statement he just careful in this neck of the woods.” He noted his said sounded and how much time this was taking. customer demeanor. “It didn’t go well, did it?” “Sir, I think we got off on the wrong foot. How much will you give me for the coins as they are?” “No! It didn’t!” Aquaman growled “Please drive me to a ‘nice’ toy store. I hope you can help me out “Wha...” the man wiped the tears from his eyes. better this time.” “How much will give me for them as they are,” Shaun drove away from the coin shop. “I’m he said again. sorry, man. I didn’t think there would be much of a The dealer regained his composure, “Let’s see problem. He’s always been pretty good to anybody how much gold they contain.” He took a small brown else I brought here. You sold your coins didn’t you?” bottle out from under the counter. Unscrewed the “Yes. I did, but he used every excuse in the book bottle and placed a drop of the substance on one of so he didn’t have to give me a fair price.” Arthur the coins. It foamed up a bit. He then wiped it off. shook his head, “at least I can chalk all this up to a “You’re telling truth on one level, these are gold. good learning experience.” Nice quality too,” he said as he replaced the bottle back under the counter. “That’s the spirit,” Shaun smiled. “May I ask? What did you learn?” Arthur listened patiently trying not to lose the rest of his cool. Being called a liar was a bit hard to “When I get some time, buy some new clothes.” take. Aquaman tugged on his red floral Hawaiian shirt. “And first thing I do when I get home, is to start a The dealer rubbed his stubbly chin and pulled currency exchange program with the world banking out a scale from under the counter. He weighed the system.” He put his chin in his hands, “And never, coins. Then, he placed a pad on the counter and took ever forget my son’s birthday again.” a pen from his pocket and wrote some figures on it. “Here you go, Your Highness.” The dealer tore the “I wondered about the clothes, but was afraid to paper from the pad. “This is my best offer, take it or ask,” Shaun said. “Are you from a foreign country or leave it.” He handed it to Arthur. something?" Arthur snatched the paper and read it. He “You might say that.” Aquaman answered as he frowned, “If this is your best, I hate to see your looked out the window. “I don’t get out as much as I worst.” He shook the paper at the dealer, “But, I have would like. My job too, has a tendency make me

67 forget some of the important things ordinary people “I am sorry, but...” he began to say. take for granted in life.” “It will only take a minute. Please?” she said in a “Sounds like a rotten job,” Shaun said. “But kindly voice. there must be something good about it or you “Ok. But, I don’t have much time,” he said with wouldn't do it. Right?” He was driving uptown. as much patience as he could muster. Aquaman got a glance of the out his window. “I need you to turn your head this way.” She placed his head at a three-quarters view looking “Yes, there is. I help a lot of people who don’t down with her time worn hands. “Please hold that have the power to help themselves,” Arthur said position for a moment.” She deftly drew his likeness. thoughtfully. “Thank you very much. You may be on your way “I always thought if you try to help out at least now,” she said and began to pack up her things. one person, you can make a small difference in this “Do you mind if I see what I helped you with?” crazy world,” the taxi driver said. Arthur said curiously. “So, by helping me you’re making things a little “Sure.” She handed him the pad. “I needed to bit better,” Arthur said. “I guess that would make you finish it today, it’s for a feature article in the Daily a hero.” Planet’s Sunday magazine.” Arthur was looking at a Shaun stopped the cab at a place called the pencil drawing of him holding his son. “An interview Metropolis Mall. He turned around said, “This is with the king of the sea, himself. They wanted an your stop. I hope you find what you're looking for illustration because it’s cheaper than an underwater here.” photographer.” “Here you go Shaun. Keep the change.” Arthur Aquaman suddenly felt ill. “Great,” he thought handed him some money. He got out of the cab and to himself, “one more thing I forgot.” said to Shaun, “Keep on helping people, maybe I’ll “What do you think? I used the fountain for get lucky and you’ll put me out of a job.” inspiration. The photo reference was really Arthur started to walk away but what Shaun said unusable.” She showed him the blurry photo that had stopped him short, “Sometimes, Aquaman people been in the Inquistor article. “I thought it was strange need superheroes to inspire them to become heroes that I couldn’t get it quite right until you came themselves. I hope you never lose that part of your along,” job.” “I think that this is better than any photograph. “How did you know?” Aquaman said surprised. You’ve captured a moment most folks would never see; a famous man just being a loving father,” Arthur “Beyond the obvious... Atlantean coins... being stated. down by the docks... out-of-season dress... and not to mention your son’s birthday,” Shaun smirked with To himself he muttered, “When he’s not being a satisfaction. He pointed to the mall, “Try the forgetful dimwit.” Toyman's Playhouse, it’s the biggest toy store in As he handed back the illustration, he sighed Metropolis. Good luck on your quest.” Shaun waved heavily and said, “I really must be going. I’ll be sure as he drove away.” to pick up a copy when it comes out.” He waved to Arthur a bit flabbergasted, but undeterred, shook her and hurried off. the feeling off by saying to himself, “Never a dull Arthur walked down main concourse. He raked a moment in my life.” hand through his blond hair and thought, “What else The Mall had a huge courtyard at the main can happen?” He walked until he reached the store entrance. A large fountain stood in the center. The that Shaun had recommended. He entered the huge fountain had a figure of Poseidon spearing a sea toy store and was accosted by a man in a colorful serpent. Not many people were about. A few kids on costume wearing a mannequin-like mask. “Welcome skateboards and an old woman sitting on a bench to my playhouse.” The little man gave him a paper. sketching the fountain. She had graying dark brown “Here’s a map of the store, Sir.” hair and wore brown toned clothing. Arthur strode “Thanks.” Arthur walked on examining the map. past the fountain, but was stopped by the woman. “Excuse me, sir could you please do me a big favor?" Giant aisles of toys, sprawled before him in a She said looking over her glasses at him. curious maze. He worked out his path to the baby

68 toys. “Now I know why you need map, this place is Jim stepped in. “You see sir, we’re in incredible,” he murmured, as he looked around wide- advertising, me, Steve, and our other associate.” eyed. “And he’s running late, again,” Steve As Arthur wandered past the action figure aisle, interrupted. something caught his eye. It was a whole wall of “As, I was saying,” Jim said patiently. “We’re Superman toys. He plucked one from the rack, and working on an ad campaign to promote Aquaman’s looked the doll over carefully. new and tougher image. The toy manufacturer “Doesn’t look much like him. I wonder if he decided Aquaman wasn’t as selling as is. So, the guys knows about these?” He smiled and placed it back on in marketing made a few changes.” to rack. “They made him look like a pirate on steroids,” He moved farther down the aisle and stopped Steve grumbled. again. Arthur caught sight of a Green Lantern action “You must excuse Steve, he’s a bit of a purist. figure. Then he recognized other fellow heroes toys He believes if you’re going to do a toy or image of a hanging on wall. “I wonder if I’m here,” he thought person, it should at least resemble the original. Not to himself as he scanned the racks. create a whole new person.” He was about to give up his search, when Arthur “They turned him into a seagoing gladiator,” spotted his alter ego’s name. He frowned and said Steve continued. very loudly, “That can’t be right!” Arthur almost didn't know what to say. Out of all “You see Jim, even this guy agrees with what I the insults he had endured today this had to be the said,” said a tall gray-bearded man with glasses. He worst. “I can’t believe this.” was dressed in a white turtleneck with a navy sports coat and tan pants. Around his neck he had a string of “Believe it,” Steve said. “I don’t think this would multi-colored beads. He was talking to a thin balding go over well with The King of the Sea, himself,” he older man with glasses. The had a pencil sighed. “But, I only write. I don’t own company. One placed behind one ear. can only hope the consumers will change their minds.” “Excuse me, Sir,” the bearded man said as he reached in front of Arthur and pulled the Aquaman “Yes, I’m sure he would be a little offended by figure from the rack. this,” Arthur said appalled. “But Steve, It’s no big deal. I can draw him the “You see Steve, maybe you will get your wish,” other way or like this. It’s easier to draw a harpoon, Jim said trying to calm his partner. “If enough people than a hand anyway,” Jim said. feel the same way, anything is possible.” “You missed the point. Look at this, the hook “The only thing I wish right now is that Nick thing is inept.” Steve debated, showing the figure to would be here to be a part of this conversation,” Jim. Steve said. “I agree, the design isn’t very practical. But I’m “He’ll be here,” Jim stated. “He might have not in charge of marketing,” Jim said. “I just draw the gotten lost. This store is awfully gigantic.” advertising.” “Well, nice meeting you guys,” Arthur turned “Excuse me, I hate to interrupt your and waved. “I hope you can fix this injustice. I’m conversation, but,” Arthur asked. sure Aquaman would appreciate it very much.” “Why do I... I mean... does he have a harpoon for “We can only hope,” Steve said. a hand, ridiculously long hair, and what looks to be a Aquaman wound his way through the rows. A metal bra?” colorful overhead sign told him where he was, Babies Steve and Jim just stopped talking and looked at and Toddlers. him for second. Then Steve answered. “You’re not from around here are you? That’s very plain to see.” He scanned the two very daunting aisles. “This is going to take longer then I thought,” he murmured. He pointed to the action figure he was holding. “Money, that sums it all up!” He looked through the toys searching for something that will survive the ocean. He looked at “Money?” Arthur said looking confused. the tub toys. “Too much metal. Too many moving parts,” he thought. “Needs batteries.” 69

As he searched among the toys, he failed to He decidedly headed for the door. “I’ve had notice a young boy shadowing him in the aisle. The enough of this lunatic asylum. I don’t know why child seemed to be inspecting the same toys as he. Superman protects these people!” he growled. Arthur found a plastic tugboat. It’s almost like As Arthur hurried out he bumped into an old one that he had as a child. The only problem with the man with glasses. The man had on a blue blazer and boat is that it would to float the surface if let go. He tan pants. He was carrying a bunch of papers, which remembered he had the same difficultly with his fell to the floor. “Oh, I’m sorry, I didn’t see you,” he childhood wooden version. His father solved it by apologized. “So busy looking for my friends, I wasn’t fastening a rock to the bottom. So he could play with looking were I was going. I’m so sorry.” He slowly the boat, in the shallows by his father's lighthouse bent over to pick them up. home. His temper cooled at the sight of the old man As Arthur reached for the boat, the boy who had having trouble retrieving his papers. “That's okay, been following him snatched the toy from the shelf I've been having a not so great day myself.” Arthur and yelled, “Mommy!! Mommy!! I found Tootie! I sighed and started helping him pick up his papers. He found Tootie!” Bouncing about as he shouted. saw many different beautiful drawings of his wife Mera. “Wow! Did you do these?” Arthur noted that it was the last one on the shelf. He tapped the boy on the shoulder, “Hey, kid.” “Yes, they’re the designs for a new doll.” He smiled, “Do you like the Atlantean Queen? Here look The boy turned from his gleeful dance and faced at this one.” He handed Arthur the drawing, “Best Arthur. “Yeah, what do you want?” one I ever did” The picture was an exquisite portrait Arthur bent down to the child’s level. “I’d like to of her face. “That one I’m keeping for myself,” he have that toy you have there.” said very proudly. “No!” The boy started inching away, “You can't Arthur stared at the picture. He felted his heart have Tootie!” sank. This had been a horrible day. All he wanted to do now was go home, even if it meant facing Mera’s “Don't get me wrong, I’m willing to trade,” for leaving so abruptly on this fool’s errand. Arthur said with his best diplomatic smile. He handed the drawing back to the elderly gent “Trade?” the boy eyed him curiously. and said, ”Yes, it’s a grand likeness. I hope your “Yeah, I sure there’s lots of other toys here, that design’s successful. She would be the most beautiful you love to have,” he pulled a twenty-dollar bill from doll on the shelf. his pocket, “and your mommy can’t afford.” The man smiled, “Thank you, sir. Now if I could “Is that for me? the boy asked. only find my partners? I would be all right. “If you give me Tootie, I’ll give you this.” He “Maybe I can help? Would your name happen to showed the bill to the child. Arthur scrunched his be Nick?” Arthur asked. face up making a sour look. “You’ll probably get “Why yes? How did you know? The gentleman something a lot nicer than that.” brightened. “Okay,” the boy said. “I met your two friends, Steve and Jim. They’re Just as the exchange was about to be made, in the action figure aisle. Arthur said as he pointed Aquaman was hit from behind. out the general direction. “They are four rows down to the right”. A woman shrieked, “Stay away from my son! You pervert!!” She was beating him with her large Aquaman heard a bit an uproar coming their handbag. way. As he put his hands up in defense, Arthur tried to “Thank you so much, sir.” Nick grabbed his calm her, “Please M’am! I’m.... not... trying...” but hand and shook it. between the flailing and the noise, she apparently did “You’re welcome,” Arthur said as he spotted that not hear a word he was saying. The fuss would draw woman from the baby toy aisle. unwanted attention. He had no choice but to flee. She didn’t follow him, but stopped to console her child. She was pointing and yelling to a security guard “That bad man didn’t hurt you, did he?” that was with her. “That’s the pervert!!!”

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“Gotta go! He regained his hand from Nick. “I “I’ll tell you fellows, this is the place to see hope you have a better day, then I’ve had. Bye.” Nick superheroes,” he said. waved to him as he made a hasty retreat from the One of the patrons said smugly, “Sure Dick, store. Aquaman rushed past the courtyard, fountain You’re going tell us next that you know Superman and though the mall doors out into the street. personally, right.” The evening had snuck up on Aquaman. He felt Dick didn’t seem hear all of the comment. it was in his best interest to walk back to the dock. “Superman, Oh no. I’m drawing The Batman. He was So, he could walk off his anger. He used his in here about a week ago.” He held up the napkin Atlantean senses to help him find his way back to the with a well-drawn headshot of the Cape Crusader. sea with ease. “This is what he looks like.” He grumbled aloud. “All parents can do Aquaman tried to slip into the restroom to something as simple as getting a gift for their child, change back into his costume, without anybody but me. Oh! No, not me!” noticing. But is caught by the sharp-eyed barkeep. He walked past a lot of people on the street. “See the tourists have already heard about this Pedestrians gave him a glance and nothing more. place.” Dick pointed his pen at him. As he got closer to the docks, the sun had left the “Sir, how did you hear about this place?” sky totally and the people seemed to disappear from the streets. He passed a lit lamppost with a man “One of the workers from the dock,” Arthur leaning up against it. The man had thinning hair and replied. was wearing a leather jacket. The jacket had an Dick eyed him for a minute then says. “I’m embroidered signet of “The Savage Dragons” on it. sorry. My hearing is a bit bad. Could you please “Hey! Hawaii five-O!” the guy shouted at Arthur speak up a little?” and began following him. Arthur yelled back at him, “A dock worker!” “What do you got in the bag? Coconuts?” “I told you fellows, this place will be famous one Aquaman ignored this character. He had his eye day,” Dick smiled proudly. on the familiar light of ‘The Old Crow’. While the bartender was talking to his customers, “Hey jerk! Can’t you hear?! I’m talking to you!” Arthur slipped into the restroom and changed. He The man hounding him shouted. He then ran up and heard one of the guys at a table sound off, “Dick, grabbed Arthur by the shoulder. “Give me the bag!” what makes you think that superheroes will come around this dump anyway!?” Aquaman heard the click of a gun’s hammer being pulled back. He automatically turned with his With the biggest grin that Aquaman could superhuman speed. He knocked the gun from the muster. He strolled though and said, “Location, man’s hand, with his sack. Location, Location!” He waved, and then exited the bar. “You want this so badly! Well, here it is!” Arthur then punched the guy in the stomach. You Arthur walked to the dock. He listened to the should learn to treat people with a little more respect! ship’s signal horns. Gazing out into the dark ocean, He then hit his assailant’s jaw and sent him spralling he sat down on the edge of the pier. unconscious onto the pavement. Arthur picked up the gun and crushed it. “I might as well finish the day out and face Mera.” “Children shouldn’t play with guns. Especially “What is it, son?” a scratchy old voice surprised big kids like yourself.” He threw down the gun by the Arthur. Out from behind some crates, stepped an old crumpled form. Arthur turned back to his heading. sea captain. “You look like someone punched a hole He entered The Old Crow. It wasn’t as populated in your boat.” as it was when he was there earlier. He settled in next to Arthur. The captain pulled The bartender was a totally different sort of man out a little wooden boat from one of his coat pockets. than the first one. He had white hair and moustache, He then fished about in another pocket and withdrew befitting his age. The black rimmed reading glasses a pocketknife. “No use moping,” he said and began sat firmly on his nose. He seemed to be sketching on whittling away at the boat. “It can’t be all that bad. I a drink napkin.

71 think she will understand. Sometimes things don’t vanished with it. Leaving the hero to question his always go as planned.” senses. Aquaman eyed him. The old captain seemed to “I’m going home,” Arthur stated and put the toy look familiar, but he couldn’t place the face. “Do I boat in his bag. “Before I lose my mind in this place.” know you?” He dove off the pier into the dark water. He felt The captain didn’t look up from his work, but himself being dragged down into the blackness. replied, “Does the child ever truly know the parent?” Aquaman tried to fight it found himself paralyzed. As he began to sink further down Arthur heard the voice Arthur stared dumbfounded “Dad?” of his father. “Wake up, son... wake up... wake up.” “Yes, son,” Tom answered. All the while still Then the voice changed. Mera was calling to him working on the boat. from a distance. “Wake up… my love... please... wake up.” “What are you doing here? Aquaman asked. Aquaman awoke in his bed at home in Atlantis. “I don t have time to explain. Please, just listen He was cold and his shoulder was throbbing angrily to what I have to tell you,” Tom said. “You must in pain. wake up to the fact that your family loves you very much. They don t care if you’re a king or a hero.” He “Where am I?” paused. “All they want is your presence. And that, “He’s awake!” Mera hurried to his side. “Thank dear boy, is the best gift of all.” Neptune! Oh my love! I was so worried. Her face Arthur sighed. “I even screwed that up. That’s was red from crying. She hugged him lightly. probably what Mera was trying to get across when “We found you floating near Atlantis. Some she was teasing me in the Banquet Hall. She didn’t dolphins had bought you home.” Mera attended to his want some stupid toy for my son. She just wanted bandages. “You were wounded and ill.” me.” “I’m sorry, Mera. I messed things up. I “Oh son. You were always a little slow on the should’ve stayed home,” Aquaman moaned. tide.” The captain smiled. He had finished the boat and was inspecting it. “But you have a good woman She stroked his blond hair. “You couldn’t help it. there and I know if she loves you as much as I think You had to stop the Ocean Master. You came back to she does, she will understand.” us is all that matters. He held out the wooden boat. “Take this, it’s for Aquaman felt confused. “You’re not mad at me my grandson.” for leaving just before the party?” Aquaman took it and felt its weight. “It’s just Mera smiled amused. “Husband, what party?” like the one you made for me when I was a child. I “Our son’s first birthday. I forgot a present for used to spend hours trying to pull out the wooden him. So, I went to Metropolis…” he rambled, “my plug to get at the rock inside,” Aquaman reminisced. father appeared and gave me a toy.” “I never did figure out what you used to hold it in place.” Mera held her finger to his mouth, “Shh..... You need to relax.” “Pitch is good for more than just sealing the hulls of boats, you know,” Tom said. “I have to be She turned to Halvor, who had been standing by. going. Remember, son, what I told you.” He rose to “Please get the doctor.” leave. The servant quickly left the room. Arthur seemed puzzled. “Why can’t you stay and Mera turned up the bedcovers. “Arthur, you must give this to him yourself? You said being there is be delirious. Your son’s birthday isn’t until next worth more than anything in world. Mera would week. As for Metropolis, as far as I know, you probably want to meet you.” He went after him. haven’t been there since our vacation. That was Tom started walking back toward the crates. He several months ago. then stopped and turned. Aquaman sighed. “It was all a dream. A very bad “The dead should be with the dead and not with dream.” He turned his head on his pillow. Looking at the living,” He shouted. Suddenly, a fog rolled in off the nightstand, he saw a familiar wooden toy boat, the water obscuring the area. As quickly as the fog sitting atop of it. Or was it?... appeared, it disappeared. His father seemed to have 72

by John Schwirian

I could tell you about how I first discovered Aquaman while watching syndicated cartoon shows...

But I won't.

I could tell you about my first Aquaman ...

But I won't.

I could tell you that, for a long time, Aquaman was my second most favorite hero - first behind Batman and later behind Spider-Man...

But I won't.

Instead, I will tell you about Murray R. Ward and the Official DC Comics Index Series from the Independent Comic Group (ICG).

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The Official DC Comics Index began in 1985 and tried to provide an in-depth guide to the history of certain characters and series.. Entries included story titles, credits for writer, artist, etc., lists of characters, plot synopses, and notes of special interest. ICG produced several indices before DC cancelled the project, starting with the and including All-Star Comics, Crisis on Infinite Earths, , Hawkman, Justice League of America, Legion of Super-Heroes, and . Inspired by ICG's thoroughness, I compiled all my data on Aquaman, developed a proposal for an Aquaman Index, and wrote a letter to Murray R. Ward. About a month later, I received a detailed reply (see next page).

Wow! My first rejection letter! I was a little disappointed, but not deterred. Infected with the desire to document Aquaman's history, I sat down and started working my way backward , from Crisis on Infinite Earths and the blue outfit Aquaman mini-series all the way back to Adventure Comics #167. Unfortunately, I lacked access to anything prior to that issue, so the project got shelved in favor of more achievable pursuits.

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Years passed, and then, in 1994, Peter David's Aquaman series stirred me to do something I hadn't done since I was twelve years old in 1976 - write a letter to a comic book! The letter did not see print as I used the nom de plume Aquamaniac instead of my real name, but Kevin Dooley did respond to it in the letter column for Aquaman #4 (see below).

Encouraged by my near success, I penned another missive and mailed it off with my fingers crossed. Hurrah! Despite its incredible length, the entire letter saw print in Aquaman #12. I sent one or two more, but failed to impress Dooley enough to make the letters page again. Then came the landmark year of 1998, during which I made two vital discoveries: fanzines and the Internet! Now I had heard of fanzines before (Alter Ego and the Legion Outpost to be specific), but I'd never actually seen one or knew ho w to get a hold of one. Then, one night, while skimming through an issue of Magazine, I spotted an interesting note in the letters column. I quickly jotted down a note of inquiry and mailed it off to Alex Cahill in San Diego with no idea of what would happen next. Before long, I received a note of encouragement from Alex.

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I don't think Alex knew what he had just let himself in for. He asked me to contribute to his fanzine, and contribute I did. I sent a minimum of two columns for each issue, was cancelled, quickly followed by the news often accompanied by sketches that never that Alex Cahill was abandoning Just Us saw print. My articles appeared in four Leaguers. To say that I was frustrated was issues of Just Us Leaguers (#20-23) before an understatement. Alex had to drop the project in 2001. Busy However, I soon decided that it was time with his job and other real-life concerns, he to finally step up to the plate. The time was no longer had the time to dedicate to right. It was now or never. With the producing JUL and had to let it go. approval and support of Tegan's chat line AAAAAARRRRRGH! group, I dove head first into creating the first issue of the Aquaman Chronicles. Flashback to my earlier statement about 1998. This was the year I learned how to There have been a lot of growing pains navigate the Internet. I spent hours doing along the way, but the 'zine has constantly searches on "Aquaman" and any other aqua- grown and improved. Many wonderful related term I could think of. While most of things have grown out of this venture. what I found was fairly useless, I did First of all, I have come to know a wide discover the Unofficial Aquaman Website range of wonderful and marvelous people I managed by Tegan (who many of us know never would have met otherwise. as Laura Gjovaag). I joined the chat group Secondly, this led to my being on this site and quickly became addicted to interviewed by TV Guide! Awesome! it. Imagine, other Aquaphiles to gab with Thirdly, my hard work here opened the about all things Aquaman! My new found door to my getting hired to do articles for but unseen friends (including several Back Issue Magazine (look for my latest on invisible silent lurkers) helped me fill my Man-Wolf coming out in October 2012). need to share data from my Aqua- And finally, this led me to contacting encyclopedia. Two Morrows Publications in an effort to All seemed well until 2001. In two fell create an Aquaman Companion trade swoops it came. First, the Aquaman comic paperback. This initiative introduced me to

77 many people in the comics business and has  Jim Calafiore, my first interview as well even gotten me passes into conventions as a as a friendly face at every convention comics professional. I've attended.

There are far too many people I want to  Shaun McLaughlin, my Hollywood thank for their participation in the creation informant and all around nice guy. and continuance of this fanzine, but there (oops, I think I just outted him). just isn't enough room left to list everyone. Besides, I'm sure to forget someone, so  Ken Hooper, who rescues me with instead, I'm going to stick to those people amazing artwork when I need a special whose contributions were the greatest. piece done and resists payment for his work. My thanks and gratitude are extended to:  Rob Kelly, whose Aquaman Shrine  First and foremost, Laura Gjovaag. Her constantly amazes and inspires me. inspiration and support not only helped me launch this endeavor, but continues  Russell Burbage, frequent contributor to keep me going. and the man who let me crash at his aqua-pad.  The late , the father of comic fandom. He wrote frequently, always  Roy Thomas, comic book legend who with praise and never failing to mention actually takes the time to READ my how each issue was better than the last. stuff!!!

 Alex Cahill, who published my initial  John and Cathy Workman who adopted efforts in Just Us Leaguers. me and have introduced me to more people in the comic industry than I can  Rick Duncan, who was there from the count. beginning with contributions, ideas, and support when I felt I couldn't go on.  All of my subscribers over the years, the majority of whom have never missed an  Eric Nolan-Weathington, who so issue. generously offered to share his Aquaman Companion project with me  All the people who have taken the time and helped me connect with comic book to write up an article or story, develop a professionals in the days before puzzle, or provide artwork for inclusion FaceBook. in an issue.

 Steve Skeates, who also was there from  And finally to all the comic book the beginning and who let me become professionals both past and present who his "official" biographer. took time from their busy schedules to talk to me about Aquaman.  Andy Mangles, who referred me to Back Issue Magazine when editor Michael To paraphrase Bob Hope - Eury wanted to run an article about "I thank you, so much!" Aquaman.

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Consider this fair warning. Soon, very soon...

The villains are taking over!!

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