Valerian

Valerian is a stereotypical hero, and an agent for the Spatio-Temporal Agency. He goes on various missions for the agency and winds up in an array of adventures. He is handsome, strong, and resourceful. In this novel of the series, he successfully pilots a large flying bug that is used by the native people of Zahir. He has an inherent sense of who is trustworthy. He is also a bit of a daredevil and scoffs at danger.

Unlike some heroes, he does have his flaws. He is often arrogant to the point that he puts himself and Laureline in unnecessary danger. As this novel begins, he drinks a great deal and winds up so inebriated that he cannot make good decisions. Despite these flaws, he is always successful in his endeavors. As the novel comes to a close, he comes up with a plan to set off a...