The Moon Pool · Chapter
XXVII: The Coming of Yolara explained
Larry and Goodwin are in a chamber of the Silent Ones when Yolara and her invisible followers attack.
What happens
Larry and Goodwin are in a chamber of the Silent Ones when Yolara and her invisible followers attack. Yolara uses the Keth to render herself and her warriors unseen, captures Larry, and threatens to harm Lakla. After a tense standoff, Lakla arrives with the frog-men, who kill Yolara's dwarves. Yolara escapes, and the cone of the Keth is lost.
Themes in this chapter
Science vs. the Supernatural
The Keth cone and invisibility cloaks represent advanced technology that blurs the line between science and magic.
Love and Loyalty
Larry's devotion to Lakla is tested by Yolara's threats and temptations.
Sacrifice and Redemption
Larry offers to surrender himself to Yolara to spare Lakla and the Silent Ones.
Characters to notice
- Larry O'Keefe
Dreams of Lakla, then struggles against invisible attackers and confronts Yolara.
- Yolara
Leads the invisible assault, uses the Keth, taunts Larry, and threatens Lakla.
- Lakla
Arrives with frog-men to rescue Larry and Goodwin.
- Dr. Walter T. Goodwin
Observes the attack, is restrained by an invisible foe, and later searches for the lost Keth cone.
- Akka
Mentioned as being slain by Yolara's Keth.
Key passages
“Never was there such a girl!”
Larry declares that Lakla is incomparable.
Expresses Larry's deep admiration and love for Lakla.
“In my hidden hand I hold the Keth cone... Before you can raise the death tube I can smite you—and will.”
Yolara warns Larry that she is armed with the Keth and will kill him if he tries to attack.
Demonstrates Yolara's control over the situation and her willingness to use lethal force.
“Do not Siya and Siyana grieve that the rite I pledged them is but half done—and do they not desire it finished?”
Yolara reminds Larry that the priestesses Siya and Siyana want to complete the ritual she promised them.
Highlights Yolara's manipulative nature and the unfinished dark ritual.