The Zallus were a race of warriors living on the borders of Vorg Province. One day, their dreaded cavalry poured over the frontier and attacked!

Death to all Trigans!

Although the Trigan forces were taken by surprise, the Zallus really had no hope, in the long run, against the might of the Trigan Empire. They were surrounded and cut to pieces.

The last Zallu warrior hurled himself into the abyss, with defiance still on his lips.

Death to all Trigans!

So it was that, for the sake of future peace, the Trigans were obliged to occupy the country of the Zallus.

I have a feeling that we are not wanted here.

You know the old saying—Make an enemy of a Zallu and he stays your enemy.

Back in Trigan City, Janno the Emperor’s nephew was taking up his sleek fighting craft for what seemed to be his last flight for a long time.

Who wants to go to Zallusia of all places?























Later, the Emperor Trigo explained matters.

As heir presumptive to the throne of the Trigan Empire, it is high time you had some experience in the running of it. So I am sending you as Governor-General of Zallusia. It is a tough assignment, but I think you’ll make a success of it.

And so, a lunar month later, Janno departed.

Good luck!

Landing in Zallusia, the new Governor-General became immediately aware of the hatred directed at him.

They look a  sullen lot, Colonel.

I’ve been here a long time, Excellency, and not once have I seen a Zallu smile.

Janno’s first task was to address the five elders of the Zallu nation.

My friends, it is my wish to help to bring our two peoples together in peaceful co-operation for the greater good of the Trigan Empire.

The senior elder replied.

Why should we listen to your words, Trigan? You speak as a leader, but you should know that no-one is accepted as a leader among the Zallus till he has performed five tests of courage to prove his worth.

Janno replied without hesitation.

Very well! I myself will perform any five tasks you choose to set me.

The young fool fell neatly into our trap.

He is as good as dead! The tasks we shall set him would break the courage of a wild Zargot!

This instalment was originally published in Look and Learn issue no. 761 on 14 August 1976.