Summary

Valerian and Laureline wake the next morning to find themselves on a ship. There is no wind on Syrte, so the ships have solar panels instead of sails. Soon after they wake, the ships gets underway. The guards are dog-like people, covered with hair and wearing loincloths. The guards release Laureline and Valerian. Valerian discovers that the guards are mute, meaning he cannot get information from them. From the ship's rail, Laureline sees they are approaching an “isolated temple.” (11) From their earlier research, Valerian says the Enlighteneds live here and he refers to it as their “sanctuary.” (11)

The guard makes a gesture and a huge door opens. Valerian and Laureline climb an extensive set of steps. At the top, Laureline predicts someone is going to talk about her watch again. Valerian believes the watch is the reason they are there. One of the...