Pellucidar · Chapter
A Pendent World explained
David Innes is freed by the Mahars but warned to stay away from their cities.
What happens
David Innes is freed by the Mahars but warned to stay away from their cities. He journeys to Sari, where he is joyfully reunited with his people and Ghak the Hairy One. A stranger named Kolk arrives from Thuria, seeking the emperor and reporting that Hooja the Sly One has gathered a band of outcasts on an island, aided by the Mahars. Innes learns that Hooja has taken Dian, and he resolves to combine the search for her with rebuilding the federation. Despite Ghak's advice, Innes grows restless and decides to personally pursue the trail of his lost love.
Themes in this chapter
Power and Empire Building
David's return to Sari rekindles the vision of empire, and he plans to rebuild the federation while countering Hooja's threat.
Deception and Betrayal
Hooja's ongoing treachery—stealing Dian, allying with the Mahars, and undermining the federation—is a central conflict.
Survival and Resilience
David's journey across dangerous Pellucidar and his determination to rescue Dian despite overwhelming odds highlight his resilience.
Characters to notice
- David Innes
Freed by the Mahars, he returns to Sari and is recognized as emperor. He is determined to find Dian and rebuild the federation.
- Ghak the Hairy One
King of Sari, he joyfully welcomes David back and helps plan the search for Dian and the rebuilding of the empire.
- Hooja the Sly One
Reported to have stolen Dian and gathered a band of outcasts on an island, allied with the Mahars.
- Kolk
Son of Goork, a Thurian warrior who arrives at Sari seeking the emperor and provides information about Hooja's activities.
- Dian the Beautiful
David's mate, taken by Hooja; her rescue is a primary motivation for David's actions.
- Abner Perry
Mentioned as safe with the Mezops; warriors are sent to fetch him and the prospector's contents to Sari.
- Dacor the Strong One
Mentioned as the ruler of Amoz, to whom Kolk was originally sent.
Key passages
“The Mahars set me free as they had promised, but with strict injunctions never to approach Phutra or any other Mahar city.”
The Mahars released David but warned him never to come near their cities again.
David's conditional freedom from the Mahars.
“Our emperor has come back,' he announced. 'Come hither and—' But he got no further, for the shouts that broke from those savage throats would have drowned the voice of heaven itself.”
Ghak proclaimed David's return as emperor, and the Sarians erupted in deafening cheers.
The emotional reunion and reaffirmation of David's leadership.
“It is always the Sly One!' he cried. 'It was Hooja who caused the first trouble between you and the Beautiful One.”
Ghak blamed Hooja for the ongoing strife between David and Dian.
Ghak's frustration with Hooja's repeated betrayals.