# Pursuit explained — At the Earth’s Core

> Chapter companion for At the Earth’s Core by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## What happens

David Innes, Ghak, Perry, and Hooja escape Phutra disguised in Mahar skins. After a harrowing flight through Pellucidar's dangerous wilderness, they reach the foothills of Sari only to spot Sagoth pursuers. Ghak refuses to abandon Perry, carrying him to hasten their escape, while Hooja is sent ahead to warn the Sarians.

## Themes in this chapter

### Survival and Adaptation

The characters use Mahar skins as disguises, adapt to the dangers of Pellucidar, and rely on each other to survive the pursuit.

### Heroism and Sacrifice

Ghak's refusal to abandon Perry, despite the risk to himself and David, exemplifies selfless heroism and loyalty.

## Character check-ins

### David Innes

Narrates the escape from Phutra and the flight toward Sari; wounded in the arm, he uses a Mahar skin disguise and a dead Mahar head to intimidate a Sagoth guard.

### Ghak

Leads the group out of Phutra and toward Sari; refuses to abandon Perry, carrying him in his arms to speed their flight.

### Abner Perry

Exhausted from the journey, he is carried by Ghak; his presence slows the group, but he is not left behind.

### Hooja the Sly One

Joins the escape from Phutra; sent ahead to warn the Sarians of their king's danger, he is distrusted by David.

### The Sagoths

Pursue the escapees; a guard notices David's bleeding foot but is deceived by the Mahar disguise.

### The Mahars

Four Mahars are killed for their skins, which the escapees use as disguises; their amphibian habits are described.

## Key lines

> I once had seen a great Mahar freeze a presumptuous Sagoth with a look. It seemed my only hope, and so I tried it.

David recalls seeing a Mahar intimidate a Sagoth with a stare, and attempts the same tactic to avoid detection.

_Demonstrates David's quick thinking and use of observed behavior to survive._

> I will not desert a companion, was Ghak's simple reply.

Ghak refuses to leave Perry behind, showing his loyalty and honor.

_Highlights Ghak's noble character and the theme of heroism._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_earth_s_core_se/chapters/xii-pursuit
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_earth_s_core_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/at_the_earth_s_core_se/chapters