It seemed that all Trigan City was gathered on the great plain outside the walls. The announcer’s voice stilled the multitude to silence. Now for the most thrilling sporting event of the lunar year! I give you . . . Lukaz Rann! . . . Champion rocketeer of the Trigan Empire and the planet Elekton! And today, Lukaz Rann will attempt to break his own height record of thirty-thousand fromms! Rocketeering was the most dangerous sport known, and Lukaz Rann was its most intrepid hero. Three—two—one—zero—fire! The living projectile streaked skywards. He’s done it! He’s broken his own record! The height indicator gives thirty-one thousand—thirty-two thousand fromms! Now he’s parting from his rocket! He . . . he’s in trouble!Before the horrified gaze of thousands of upturned eyes, the rocketeer’s rescue equipment failed on opening. Lukaz fell thirty-three thousand fromms into the waters of Trigan Bay. By great good fortune, he was picked up by a pleasure boat. Careful with him, wife. When news of the mishap was brought to the Emperor, Trigo summoned Peric, Elekton’s top scientist. The surgeons are operating on Lukaz Rann immediately. I should like you to be present and give them the benefit of your vast knowledge of the healing arts. Gladly, Imperial Majesty. Throughout the rising and setting of many suns, the rocketeer’s life hung in the balance. The surgeons’ skills seemed to bring success. Before long, Lukaz Rann was able to take a few steps. Do you see me, Peric? In no time at all, I’ll be riding a rocket again! Lukaz, I have news for you. Lukaz, you are possibly the bravest person on this planet. But steel yourself! What I am going to tell you is going to test your courage to the breaking point!
This instalment was originally published in Look and Learn issue no. 699 on 7 June 1975.
