The Silver Surfer is attempting to penetrate the barrier of Galactus once more, when the Champion (an Elder) arrives to kill him. Winning the battle, the Champion tells the Surfer his goal was to prevent the Surfer's escape to aid Galactus against the Skrulls who have captured Frankie Raye. The Surfer and the Fantastic Four realize this means there is a way through the barrier, and finally figure out what it is. Free, the Silver Surfer offers Galactus a deal: permanent freedom in exchange for saving Frankie Raye. Both individuals uphold the bargain, and the Surfer goes free.