After being dethroned by his own people and sent into exile, Aquaman discovers a conspiracy within his Kingdom. Rather than reclaim his birthright, he decides to become a super-hero. But even Aquaman cannot escape tragedy as Black Manta kidnaps and kills his infant son! The crushing blow threatens his relationship with his beloved wife, Mera. How Aquaman copes with these crushing blows comes to define him as the hero we know today. Collects Adventure Comics #435-437, 441-445 and Aquaman #57-63.