Posted on December 20, 2025December 21, 2025 by YarriThe Ultimate Collection (continued . . .) The fiendish cunning by which the diadem had been taken was the most sensational aspect of the news story. Following on an unsuccessful attack upon the temple, one of the thieves posed as the Abbot of Zemf, switched the diadem for a fake and made off with the true jewel ! The Emperor Trigo summoned an extraordinary session of the Imperial Council. Janno’s kidnapping and the various thefts are clearly the work of one will. But what is the reason behind it all, Peric ? Majesty, it is difficult to say. The great scientist pondered on his sovereign’s question. It is simple to guess the motive behind the kidnapping of a member of the Imperial Family. But what connection does that have with the theft of a pile of ancient fossilised bones ? Trigo’s retort was short and brutal. You will find that connection, Peric ! And you will work day and night till you do ! It was night. The great ocean liner “Emperor Trigo” was heading for port with a host of passengers. Danger lurked nearby. Prepare to surface and fire a warning projectile. The first warning of peril came with a thunderclap of sound, followed by a streak of lurid flame. They’re signalling us to halt, or else they’ll sink us ! Stop the ship ! A party of masked and ruthless raiders soon boarded the ship. See here, you animals ! I protest . . . Aaaaghh ! Silence ! Down into the palatial dining saloon, among the horrified passengers, they marched. They halted by a mild-looking individual who was eating alone. Get to your feet ! It’s you we’ve come for ! News of the outrage reached Trigan City before dawn. It was immediately passed to Peric, who had spent a sleepless night in his laboratory, puzzling his brain. What did you say ? Repeat the name of the kidnappers’ victim. A great light dawned in Peric’s mind. I’ve got it ! I’ve found the connection ! This instalment was originally published in Look and Learn issue no. 727 on 20 December 1975.
