# II explained — Voodoo Planet

> Chapter companion for Voodoo Planet by Andre Norton.

## What happens

Dane and the crew arrive at the fortress of Khatka, a palace half fortress and half frontier post. Chief Ranger Asaki discusses the legend of the graz graveyard and the taming of animals for the Zoboru preserve. Tau confronts Lumbrilo, the witch doctor, in a display of magic, summoning an elephant shadow to counter Lumbrilo's cat-dog illusion. Asaki reveals his concern over Lumbrilo's growing power and asks Tau to determine if his magic is trickery or genuine.

## Themes in this chapter

### Colonialism and Cultural Clash

The off-worlders confront Khatkan traditions and magic, highlighting the friction between their scientific worldview and local beliefs.

### Power and Corruption

Lumbrilo's ambition to expand his influence beyond traditional bounds threatens the established order, raising questions about the use of power.

### Illusion vs. Reality

The magical duel between Tau and Lumbrilo blurs the line between trickery and genuine supernatural power, challenging perceptions of reality.

## Character check-ins

### Dane Thorson

Observes the fortress and the confrontation between Tau and Lumbrilo, feeling the tension and the power of the magic.

### Medic Tau

Engages in a magical duel with Lumbrilo, summoning an elephant shadow and challenging the witch doctor's authority.

### Chief Ranger Asaki

Explains the legend of the graz graveyard and the taming process, and expresses concern about Lumbrilo's ambitions.

### Lumbrilo of Khatka

Appears as a cat-dog illusion and later as a man, challenging Tau's magic and asserting his power.

### Captain Jellico

Present during the discussions and the magical confrontation, ready to act if needed.

## Key lines

> The demon graz prepare for battle.

The thunder is like the graz sharpening their tusks for a fight.

_Asaki uses a local legend to describe the lightning._

> To find the graveyard of the graz herds would make any man wealthy beyond dreams.

Discovering where the graz go to die would bring immense riches.

_Asaki explains the allure of the graz graveyard legend._

> Lumbrilo does not accept his proper place in the scheme of things!

Lumbrilo refuses to stay within his traditional role.

_Asaki expresses his frustration with Lumbrilo's ambitions._

> You have challenged me, off-world man.

You have issued a challenge to me, outsider.

_Lumbrilo accuses Tau of challenging his authority._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/voodoo_planet_se/chapters/ii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/voodoo_planet_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/voodoo_planet_se/chapters