The Chessmen of Mars · Chapter
At the Gale's Mercy explained
Tara of Helium, angered and humiliated by Gahan of Gathol's presumption and Djor Kantos's failure to seek her, defies her father's wishes and flies alone into a violent storm.
What happens
Tara of Helium, angered and humiliated by Gahan of Gathol's presumption and Djor Kantos's failure to seek her, defies her father's wishes and flies alone into a violent storm. The tempest carries her far from Helium, past the ancient city of Torquas, leaving her lost and helpless. Meanwhile, Gahan learns of her disappearance and expresses his determination to win her, while John Carter and Dejah Thoris discuss her future.
Themes in this chapter
Courage and Resilience
Tara's defiant flight and her refusal to admit hopelessness despite the storm's fury exemplify her bravery and stubborn spirit.
Love and Sacrifice
Uthia's devotion to Tara, even at the risk of her own safety, and John Carter's immediate concern for his daughter's welfare highlight themes of love and sacrifice.
Identity and Disguise
Tara's internal conflict over her feelings for Gahan and Djor Kantos reflects a struggle with her own identity and desires.
Characters to notice
- Tara of Helium
Defiantly flies into a storm after feeling humiliated by Gahan and ignored by Djor Kantos; becomes lost and helpless.
- Uthia
Tara's loyal slave who tries to dissuade her from flying alone but ultimately obeys.
- Gahan of Gathol
Visits the palace, learns of Tara's disappearance, and reveals his intent to win her despite her rejection.
- John Carter
Anxious about Tara's safety, arranges search ships, and discusses her future with Dejah Thoris.
- Dejah Thoris
Advises patience regarding Tara's marriage and reassures John Carter about Barsoomian longevity.
- Djor Kantos
Mentioned as the one Tara expected to seek her; his absence triggers her anger and flight.
- Olvia Marthis
Mentioned as a friend of Tara, possibly a rival for Djor Kantos's attention.
Key passages
“Tara of Helium did not return to her father's guests, but awaited in her own apartments the word from Djor Kantos which she knew must come, begging her to return to the gardens.”
Tara stayed in her rooms, expecting Djor Kantos to summon her back to the party.
Shows Tara's expectation and subsequent disappointment.
“I have the disposition of a thoat, Uthia. Forgive me! I love you and there is nothing that I would not do for you and nothing would I do to harm you.”
Tara apologizes for her temper, comparing herself to a thoat, and reaffirms her love for Uthia.
Highlights Tara's volatile but affectionate nature.
“She knew that her buoyancy tanks might keep her afloat indefinitely, but she had neither food nor water, and she was being borne toward the least-known area of Barsoom.”
Though her flier could stay aloft, Tara faced starvation and dehydration as the storm carried her into uncharted territory.
Emphasizes the direness of her situation.
“I still live!”
Tara defiantly declares her survival despite overwhelming odds.
Reflects her indomitable spirit, inherited from John Carter.
