Aquaman is rescued from an underwater landslide by Dr. Starbuck, a biologist who has given himself, a gorilla and an eagle the ability to breathe underwater. Aquaman takes them back to Atlantis and makes Dr. Starbuck an honorary citizen. Aquaman is soon called away to handle an emergency. When he doesn't return, Mera leaves to look for him. She leaves Aquababy behind to serve as ruler, appointing Dr. Starbuck as regent. Before she leaves Atlantis, Mera is drugged by Starbuck and locked away.

Dr. Starbuck then declares war of the surface world leading the Atlanteans into conflict. Aquaman finally escapes a trap set for him by Dr. Starbuck and returns to Atlantis. Aquaman is forced to battle Starbuck's animals and is saved from death by Aquababy's hard water powers. Starbuck is then deposed, Mera is released and the war with the surface world is called off.

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