Summary

There are lots of soldiers waiting for them. One soldier says Valerian can see the Governor, but “strangers” have to go for an inspection (20). Argol objects to the word “strangers.” Laureline goes with Gumun, promising to rejoin the others later. While Valerian heads to his meeting with the Governor, the soldiers rudely send the others on their way.

The Governor's office is in the top of the tallest building. The Governor's first words are to berate Valerian for taking so long to arrive. Valerian announces that Alflolol's natives have returned. The Governor asks how many and Valerian says he has transported a family of five. The Governor thinks that means it is a small problem, but Valerian says other families are following. Valerian says the Galactic Code requires that they give the natives their planet back. The Governor counters, saying the code has...