The Air Fleet base near Trigan City was a scene of colourful activity. An inspection by no less than Marshal Rossu, chief of the mighty Trigan Air Arm.

It was the occasion of the Emperor’s birthday. The Marshal paused for a word with the Emperor’s nephew, Janno.

Ah, Lieutenant Janno. You will, of course, be attending the reception at the palace after the fly-past. Join me after we land, and accompany me in my automobile.

Yes, Excellency. Thank you.

Later, led by Marshal Rossu’s all-red fighting craft, Janno and his companions flew in tight formation over the Imperial Palace . . .

. . . where the Emperor Trigo took the salute.

After the fly-past, the Marshal’s craft was first to land.























And then, as it came to a halt . . .

Hey! Where’s the pilot?

The Marshal! He—he’s disappeared!

Nothing here but his flying kit!

News was brought to the Emperor.

He can’t have disappeared!

It’s true, Uncle! One instant his Excellency was at the controls, the next there was nothing left but his helmet and gravity-suit.

The Air Fleet High Command held an enquiry some days later. Ten mechanics gave evidence and all told the same tale.

You were the first to point out that there was no pilot in the craft as it taxied to a halt?

Yes, sir. And when we looked inside, he’d vanished!

Other enquiries—of a more confidential nature—were made at the Emperor’s orders. But to no avail.

The Marshal has a happy family life. His financial affairs are in good order, his health excellent. There is no reason, in the opinion of the secret police, why he should choose to disappear.

Then he must have been taken by force, unwillingly. But . . . how?

That morning, at the other side of the city, the owner of a weapons shop made a casual remark to his assistant.

I shall be in my office if you require me.

Yes, sir.

Some time later . . .

‘Scuse me, sir. A gentleman here wants to buy a . . .

By all the stars!

What’s the matter?

My boss has vanished, that’s what! And left his clothes behind!

This instalment was originally published in Look and Learn issue no. 753 on 19 June 1976.