Sha'lain'a is a tall, Atlantean female with a golden skin tone and wavy, golden hair, which reaches her waist. She has pronounced gills across the sides of her neck, common among residents of Shayeris.
History[]
Early life[]
Sha'lain'a was a native of Shayeris, noted for her golden hair, and skin that was almost as golden. She fell in love with Calvin Durham, a henchman of Black Manta originally sent to infiltrate Atlantis. Calvin abandoned his mission and married Sha'lain'a. They raised a son, Kaldur'ahm,[2] whose biological father was actually Black Manta, whom Sha'lain'a met with nine months before Kaldur'ahm's birth.[3]
Sha'lain'a suffered from depression during Kaldur's early years, and credited the young boy with parenting her. She eventually sought help and recovered.[4]
Sha'lain'a was waiting outside with Delphis when her husband and son came out of the annual conference of the Atlantean city states. She suggested Kaldur and Wyynde show Delphis around Poseidonis.[8]
When Ocean-Master attacked the next day of the conference, Sha'lain'a came into see the commotion. She worried for her son's safety, and was relieved and surprised like everyone else by the stranger that saved the day.[8]
Sha'lain'a and Calvin received a call from Kaldur, as they requested through Delphis. They told him they were worried that he was taking on too much. Kaldur objected, saying he only did what was necessary. His parents reminded him that he had been overly responsible since his childhood, and told him that he needed to take some time for himself. Kaldur insisted on continuing his search for Ocean-Master, then was called away and had to end the call.[4]
Sha'lain'a watched from her home with her husband as Arion gave his coronation speech, and died shortly after donning Arion's crown. By the time Mera was crowned High King and gave her speech, Calvin and Sha'lain'a had left their home to join those celebrating outside.[9]
Powers and abilities[]
Atlantean attributes: Atlanteans, although human, have through scientific and sorcerous means[5] developed several abilities which allow them to live comfortably under the sea:
Underwater breathing: All Atlanteans are capable of surviving the aquatic atmosphere under the sea. Some accomplish this without the presence of visible gills.[10][5]
Temperature resilience: Resistant to low temperatures[11] and the effects of freezing,[12] although notably hindered by high temperatures.[13]