Aquaman #44

Issue Details

Synopsis

Aquaman's search for Mera takes him onto dry land, where he stumbles onto the aftermath of a murder. The boss of the gang responsible believes the hero knows the truth of the crime and puts out a hit on Aquaman's life!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. The gunman searches the streets for Aquaman, but can find no trace of him. He finally gives up the chase, opting instead to report the situation to his boss. The syndicate leader is furious to learn of Aquaman's involvement. That his underling has failed to remove the aquatic hero as a threat only adds fuel to his fury. The word goes out. A price is put on Aquaman's head. As Aquaman slowly recovers, a shaft of light pierces the basement darkness, followed by the sound of footsteps.The lights come up. Aquaman finds himself face to face with an attractive brunette. One who is very puzzled to discover the Sea King in her basement. Aquaman reveals that he witnessed a murder, and that he, himself, has been targeted for execution. He gives the woman a personal note, instructing her to deliver it to the head of the local police's homicide division, personally. Long out of water, Aquaman finds himself growing weaker by the second. He exits the woman's home and makes his way back...