Chapter 14 – A Priestess But Yet a Woman follows La as she navigates her feelings for Tarzan, torn between love and her desire for vengeance. Throughout their perilous journey through the jungle, La finds herself relying more on Tarzan and growing closer to him, despite the internal conflict she faces. Her emotions are a mixture of affection for him and the burning need to avenge her people, reflecting her dual nature as both a priestess and a passionate woman. When the duo is confronted by Tantor, Tarzan’s strength saves them, deepening La’s admiration and respect for him. After reaching the safety of the ground, La’s earlier fears of being killed by her followers are soothed by Tarzan, who reassures her that he will speak to them and resolve the situation.

La’s encounter with her people highlights the tension between her responsibilities as a leader and her relationship with Tarzan. When summoned, her followers show resistance, hesitant to accept her back, and they express a desire to continue pursuing the sacrificial plan for Tarzan. However, Tarzan steps in with authority, using his presence and negotiation skills to create a compromise, ensuring La’s safety among her people. Despite some reluctance, especially from Cadj, the High Priest, Tarzan’s ultimatum is ultimately accepted, and a fragile peace is achieved. Before parting ways, La confesses her hopes for Tarzan’s return, her words revealing her deeper affection for him. As Tarzan departs, reflecting on the transient nature of his encounters and his primal existence, La returns to Opar, her heart heavy with longing for him. This chapter delves into the emotional complexities of La, portraying her as both a powerful priestess and a woman deeply moved by love.

In the latter part of the chapter, Tarzan’s relentless pursuit of the thief who stole the jewels of Opar takes center stage. His determination to recover the treasure is evident as he uses his remarkable tracking skills to follow the thief through the jungle. The obstacles that he faces only fuel his resolve, as Tarzan’s bond with the natural world enhances his ability to navigate and survive in the jungle. Despite the passage of time and the challenges that arise, Tarzan’s dedication to reclaiming the stolen jewels remains unwavering, showcasing his commitment to justice and his sense of duty. This pursuit is not just about the treasure, but also about righting a wrong, further emphasizing Tarzan’s honor and relentless spirit.

The narrative shifts to Tarzan’s infiltration of the thief’s village, a task that demands both cunning and patience. As he moves stealthily through the village, Tarzan uses his knowledge of the jungle and his instincts to search for the stolen jewels. Even though Tarzan is skilled in these types of encounters, he faces significant challenges within the village, testing his resourcefulness and adaptability. This moment highlights Tarzan’s ability to overcome obstacles, whether they are physical or mental, reinforcing his status as a hero in the story. The chapter reaches a turning point when Tarzan discovers the thief’s scent in a tent, indicating that his quest is approaching its climax. The discovery builds suspense and sets the stage for the resolution of his pursuit, while also highlighting his primal instincts and determination.

The juxtaposition of Tarzan’s survival instincts with his emotional depth is a key element in this chapter. His pursuit of the thief is driven by a strong sense of justice, yet it is also framed by his complex feelings and the relationships he has formed. Tarzan is not just a hero battling against external forces, but a multifaceted character grappling with the emotional and moral complexities of his world. His actions in the jungle, from rescuing La to hunting down the thief, reflect his unwavering commitment to both his sense of duty and his own internal code of ethics. As the chapter progresses, readers are given a deeper insight into Tarzan’s nature, showcasing the balance between his primal instincts and his more noble intentions. The ongoing pursuit and the resolution of the treasure hunt promise to continue weaving together action, emotion, and moral challenges as Tarzan’s journey unfolds.