# At the Gale's Mercy explained — The Chessmen of Mars

> Chapter companion for The Chessmen of Mars by Edgar Rice Burroughs.

## 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.

## Character check-ins

### 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 lines

> 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._

## Links

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- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_chessmen_of_mars_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_chessmen_of_mars_se/chapters