Johns covers a lot of ground in this issue, but, I have to say, he somehow really manages to do so without making it feel rushed. The Justice League holds back the Atlanteans, Arthur reclaims the throne of Atlantis from Orm, and then the combined forces of the Justice League and Atlanteans hold off the Trench, all in the span of 20 pages or so. He is significantly helped in this endeavor by Reis, who really manages to make the fast-paced story flow seamlessly, using the chaotic action scenes to show just how fast events moved.
Reflecting on this event, I still feel vaguely perplexed by the behavior of the Trinity towards Aquaman and Atlantis. Although Orm is held for his crimes here, it seems beyond doubt that the situation got as bad as it did because the Justice League didn't give Aquaman enough time to negotiate with Orm. Superman and Wonder Woman are somewhat contrite in this issue, but only in the sense of absolving Arthur of Orm's crimes. They don't really accept any responsibility for their role in the events that transpired, something that Bruce did in the last installment, acknowledging that mistakes were made on both sides. I'm not sure if it's just a reflection of the more aggressive Superman and Wonder Woman that we have in the DCnU, but, even considering that factor, you would assume that they would give a guy with whom they've worked for five years the benefit of the doubt.
One of the more effective parts of this issue is Johns conveying the tragedy of Orm. He seems little more than a boy once he's defeated and his heart-breaking cries for his brother from his prison cell really convey the weight of the crown that Arthur now wears again. I picked up "Aquaman" #17 because I'm intrigued to see where Johns takes Arthur and Orm.
Looking ahead, I wonder where Johns is going to go with the League. Given that Cyborg is really nothing more than a computer interface and transportation service, we're left essentially with just the Trinity at the end of this issue. Flash is presumably returning, but, as Batman says, it's time for them to open their ranks. But, Johns need to bring in some characters that work a little better in blending together the team. Aquaman and Green Lantern served mostly to fuel conflict and that era probably needs to end.
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