Aquaman: Kingdom Fall 👑

Film 27 of the official Underworld Productions DC Cinematic Universe

Kaldur—the second Black Manta, once Arthur’s student and the former Aqualad, was believed to have died alongside Orm Marius. When a sudden attack strikes Atlantis, Arthur Curry orders a lockdown. Mera urges caution, sensing a trap, but Arthur leaves the kingdom to confront the threat. He discovers a brutal truth—the attackers serve Black Manta, and Kaldur is alive. Kaldur declares war. He visits Atlantis, warning Arthur and Mera not to resist. Garth, the new Aqualad and Vulko, try to stop him, but Kaldur overwhelms them and kills Vulko. His message is clear—he has returned, and mercy is no longer an option. Haunted by guilt and love for his fallen protégé, Arthur leads one last assault. In a fierce battle beneath the sea, he begs Kaldur to return home. But Kaldur severs Arthur’s hand and whispers, “It’s too late.” Bleeding, Arthur reaches out, saying he won’t fight anymore—that Atlantis can fall with them, together. Kaldur softens—until Arthur drives a coral shard into his stomach using the waves. “You chose your father’s path,” Arthur says, “not mine.” Arthur walks away as Kaldur dies. At Vulko and Orm's graves, Arthur weeps. A vision of Orm appears. “Feel the water,” he says. “Life runs through it. No one is truly gone. Rise, King Arthur.” Arthur reaches to embrace him. But Orm is gone. And Arthur stands, king not just in name… but in soul.

Story added by underworld_stories on August 1, 2025