A key trait of any hero is willingness to sacrifice for others. Often, this means putting others’ needs before their own, and sometimes even risking their life. Recently, a member of the Justice League made a sacrifice, though thankfully not one involving their life. However, this act has noticeably reduced their abilities.
A major event unfolded early in issue #16 of the Emperor Aquaman comic, written by Jeremy Adams and illustrated by John Timms. The story began with Arthur Curry unexpectedly gaining the water-bending abilities of his wife, Mera. This was just one of several changes to characters’ powers following the ‘Absolute Power’ storyline.
Throughout the series, Arthur lost contact with both Atlantis and his teammates in the Justice League. But he gained incredible new abilities, becoming the latest host for The Blue – a powerful cosmic energy that connects all water and aquatic creatures. These powers now rival those of Swamp Thing, who embodies the Green, and give him the strength to challenge even Superman.
The latest issue of Emperor Aquaman starts with Arthur Curry successfully giving Mera back her powers. Mera is overjoyed to have both her abilities and her husband, Aquaman, safe. But regaining those powers comes at a cost, and Arthur finds he’s paid a price for restoring them.
The main cover and first four pages of Emperor Aquaman #16 may be viewed below.
How is Aquaman weaker now?
Aquaman tells Mera that although he’s still connected to the ocean’s power, his abilities are now limited. He can still control water whenever he wants, but he’s lost the precision to create complex shapes and designs with it, something Mera can still do.
Although it might not appear significant, this limitation could become a problem. Currently, Aquaman is powerful enough to create a massive tidal wave, like to put out a forest fire. But he struggles with more delicate tasks – he couldn’t create a small stream to extinguish a campfire before it grows out of control. This extreme power level risks making Aquaman seem less human, a trait he’s already starting to lose in the comics.
Emperor Aquaman #16 arrives in comic shops everywhere on April 8, 2026.
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2026-04-03 23:16