While Aquaman mourns the destruction of Mercy Reef, the other Atlanteans prepare their defenses against a possible strike from Black Manta. Aquaman approaches Poseidonis, but Manta intercepts him. He launches a device that attaches itself to Aquaman's head, sending a steady charge of electricity into his brain. From another dimension, a mysterious madman monitors the battle and laughs maniacally while whispering, "You are mine!"