Aquaman's search for his abducted wife has brought him to the surface world. As he emerges from the ocean, he hears a gunshot ring out from a nearby pier. Investigating, Aquaman discovers the victim of a gang land slaying. The dying man mutters something before he dies, but Aquaman cannot comprehend the gurgled words. Resolving to inform the police, before resuming his search for Mera, Aquaman finds himself the target of gunfire. The murderer has doubled back, and set his sights on Aquaman. The Sea KIng attempts to maneuver around behind the gunman, only to place himself back in the crosshairs, narrowly avoiding a second shot. Aquaman hurls himself through an open basement window. As he leaps into the darkened room, he slams headfirst into a low hanging pipe, knocking himself unconscious.