Thuvia, Maid of Mars · Chapter
II: Slavery explained
A spy infiltrates the palace of Ptarth by posing as a servant, then visits the Dusarian embassy to deliver a message.
What happens
A spy infiltrates the palace of Ptarth by posing as a servant, then visits the Dusarian embassy to deliver a message. That night, Thuvia of Ptarth is abducted from her garden by Dusarian warriors. Meanwhile, Vas Kor, a Dusarian noble, disguises himself as a slave and is sold into the household of Carthoris, Prince of Helium.
Themes in this chapter
Political Intrigue and War
The chapter details a covert operation involving espionage, abduction, and infiltration, escalating tensions between Ptarth and Dusar.
Loyalty and Betrayal
A spy infiltrates the palace under the guise of a servant, and Vas Kor betrays his noble status by posing as a slave to enter Carthoris' household.
Gender and Power
Thuvia is abducted from her garden, highlighting her vulnerability as a princess despite her status, and her silence before the abduction suggests complex emotions.
Characters to notice
- Thuvia of Ptarth
Strolls in the palace gardens, is abducted by Dusarian warriors.
- Carthoris of Helium
Mentioned as the prince who declared his love; his flier is seen approaching Ptarth; he is the principal bidder at the slave market.
- Vas Kor
A Dusarian noble who disguises himself as a slave and is sold into Carthoris' household.
- Astok of Dusar
Referred to as 'the prince' whose plan is being executed; orchestrates the abduction.
Key passages
“The intellects of our ancestors are with us tonight.”
Our ancestors' wisdom guides us this evening.
A Dusarian warrior comments on the success of their plan.
“Man builds naught that man may not destroy.”
Anything created by humans can be undone by humans.
Reflection on the nature of locks and security.
“Only a genius could have evolved such a lock as this is designed to spring.”
Only a genius could have designed a lock that works this way.
Admiration for the lock's intricate design.