# On Board the Sofal explained — Pirates of Venus

> Chapter companion for Pirates of Venus by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## What happens

Carson Napier and Kamlot are captured by Thorist sailors and brought aboard the Sofal, where they are imprisoned with other captives. They learn that Duare has been taken to a larger vessel. The next morning, they are put to work cleaning guns, and Carson is questioned by the ship's captain, who is suspicious of his origins. Carson claims to be a Vepajan and a doctor, and he and Kamlot are assigned duties. Carson befriends Honan, who reveals that Duare is 'the hope of Vepaja.'

## Themes in this chapter

### Freedom vs. Tyranny

Carson and Kamlot are prisoners of the Thorists, who represent a tyrannical regime; the chapter highlights the struggle between individual liberty and oppressive authority.

### Survival and Resilience

Despite harsh conditions and captivity, Carson and Kamlot adapt, work, and maintain their resolve, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity.

## Character check-ins

### Carson Napier

Imprisoned on the Sofal, he works cleaning guns and lies about being a doctor to gain better treatment.

### Kamlot

Captured and separated from Carson, he is assigned to the galley; he is devastated by Duare's capture.

### Duare

Mentioned as having been captured by the klangan and taken to a larger ship; she is described as 'the hope of Vepaja.'

### Honan

A Vepajan captive who befriends Carson; he was captured while trying to protect Duare.

## Key lines

> I saw the klangan strutting around, their tail feathers erect.

Carson observed the bird-like klangan walking proudly with their tail feathers raised.

_Highlights the alien nature of the klangan and their arrogant demeanor._

> They captured Duare!

Kamlot exclaims in horror upon learning that Duare has been taken by the klangan.

_Reveals Kamlot's deep concern for Duare and sets up a key plot point._

> I am Carson of Napier, I replied, using the Amtorian form.

Carson introduces himself using the Amtorian naming convention, identifying as 'Carson of Napier.'

_Shows Carson's adaptation to Amtorian customs and his attempt to blend in._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pirates_of_venus_se/chapters/viii-on-board-the-sofal
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pirates_of_venus_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/pirates_of_venus_se/chapters