6 – The Arab Raid

Following the devastation of an earthquake, Basuli and his warriors, after initially fleeing in terror, return to search for their missing master, Tarzan, and two of their comrades. Their efforts to clear the passage prove futile when they uncover a fellow warrior’s body, leading them to reluctantly conclude that Tarzan and the other Waziri are also dead. Mourning, they retrieve the gold intended for their master’s wife and embark on a sorrowful journey back to their distant home, unaware of the imminent danger approaching from the north.

Achmet Zek, a notorious raider alongside his band of renegade Arabs and cannibalistic followers, advances towards the Greystoke bungalow, spurred by the promise of plunder. Mugambi, a valiant Waziri warrior left in charge during Tarzan’s absence, discerns the threat from afar and promptly organizes a defense. Despite the bungalow’s lack of fortifications, the Waziri prepare to defend their lady with fierce loyalty.

The ensuing confrontation sees the raiders initially repelled by the Waziri’s arrows, but Achmet Zek’s tactics eventually breach the bungalow’s defenses. Jane Clayton, Tarzan’s wife, displays commendable bravery, fending off attackers with precise rifle shots. However, despite their valiant efforts, the defenders are overwhelmed. The raiders storm the bungalow, leading to a bloody melee where many Waziri and raiders fall.

Mugambi, defending Jane Clayton to the end, makes a final stand against the intruders. Just as victory seems in grasp for the raiders, Achmet Zek aims his jeweled musket at Mugambi, sparing Jane for capture. The musket fires, resulting in Mugambi’s fall, marking a tragic turn in the defense of the bungalow. The chapter closes on a scene of despair, as Jane Clayton and her remaining protector face the horde, underscoring the fierce loyalty of her defenders and the grave peril that now befalls her.