CHAPTER XX -Gulliver of Mars

In Chapter XX of Gulliver of Mars, the protagonist returns to the city after his time with the woodmen, feeling out of place amidst the joyous celebration that greets Princess Heru’s return. The citizens are thrilled, but they show no understanding of the deeper implications of her restoration or the looming threat from their enemies across the sea. Their reaction is superficial, marked by flower processions and a carefree atmosphere, as they celebrate without acknowledging the dangers ahead.

The protagonist, feeling overlooked and unappreciated, drowns his frustration in revelry. He indulges in excessive drinking, dancing, and forgetfulness, until the next day when he feels remorseful but resigned to the laid-back Martian way of life. As he mingles in the crowd, he learns that Princess Heru is about to consult the globe to determine the timing of her marriage, a ceremony that has been postponed.

Although he initially feels angered by the prospect of Heru marrying someone else so quickly, the protagonist becomes increasingly indifferent, adopting the apathetic mindset of the Martians. As they gather in the palace square to witness Heru’s consultation of the globe, a shocking event occurs: Ar-hap, the barbarian king, and his forces arrive, launching a surprise attack on the city. The peaceful celebration is violently interrupted, and the protagonist is caught in the chaos.

Inside the palace, he finds Prince Hath unmoved by the destruction around him, calmly resigned to the fate of his people. Despite the urgency, Hath refuses to act, explaining that Heru’s fate has already been decided and that she will be safe. The protagonist, determined to save Heru, searches for her and eventually finds her being carried away by slaves. As the palace is destroyed, Hath remains indifferent, while the protagonist escapes, eventually finding himself on a dangerous, wild chase.

As he flees the palace, the protagonist encounters a strange and familiar object—a magical rug that had once transported him to Mars. Seizing the opportunity, he wishes himself back to New York. Miraculously, his wish is granted, and he wakes up on a doorstep in his home city, realizing with a mix of disbelief and relief that he is back in his world, just as his life on Mars comes to an end.