7 – The Jewel-Room of Opar

For some time, Tarzan, recovering from a severe blow to the head, finds himself in the depths of a treasure chamber beneath Opar’s ruins, disoriented and bleeding. Amidst the darkness, guided by instinct more than memory, he begins to explore his surroundings, driven by a vague sense that something significant is missing. His quest within the encroaching darkness ultimately leads him to rediscover his trusty war spear, rekindling a sense of purpose and identity.

Venturing further, Tarzan stumbles upon the forgotten jewel-room of Opar, filled with chests of cut and uncut gems. To him, these are mere “pretty pebbles”, prompting him to whimsically fill his pouch with the cut stones while disregarding the rest, unaware of their immense value. This discovery marks only the beginnings of his true journey, as a newfound curiosity pushes him to navigate through Opar’s labyrinthine passages, unwittingly descending deeper into the heart of ancient mysteries.

As Tarzan progresses, navigating slippery paths and steep stairways, he eventually emerges into a sunlit temple, stumbling upon a scene of chaos: men and women fleeing a ferocious lion. In this moment of crisis, Tarzan’s primal instincts surge. He confronts the beast, employing both spear and knife with a ferocity mirroring the lion’s own savagery. This battle, fierce and personal, unfolds under the watchful eyes of La and Werper, presenting a raw display of primal strength and courage.

Ultimately, Tarzan triumphs, his victory solidified as he lets out a fierce cry, standing over the lion’s corpse. This act not only signals his physical dominance but also marks a significant passage in his journey, blending elements of the primitive with those of heroic valor. Amidst this tumultuous backdrop, Tarzan’s evolution unfolds, bridging the gap between his noble origins and the untamed spirit that defines him.