CHAPTER 14 -The beasts of Tarzan

In Chapter 14 of “The Beasts of Tarzan,” Tarzan is led through the jungle by Tambudza, an old woman, towards the camp of the Russian, Rokoff. They move slowly due to Tambudza’s age and rheumatism. Meanwhile, Rokoff learns of Tarzan’s approach through messages from M’ganwazam’s runners and prepares to confront him. Rokoff has already faced a tumultuous day; he discovered Jane Clayton, his captive, had escaped and in his fury, alienated his own camp. His reaction to Jane’s escape and his subsequent aggression towards his team lead to his isolation as his companions, fearing both Rokoff’s wrath and Tarzan’s impending vengeance, desert the camp, taking valuable items with them.

Confronted by one of his own men, Rokoff flees into the jungle, just as Tarzan arrives at the deserted camp. Tarzan, missing both Rokoff and Jane, decides to head back to M’ganwazam’s village. Unaware of Jane’s whereabouts, his journey quickly becomes a race to find her before it’s too late.

Jane, surviving alone, recalls Anderssen’s sacrifice for her and reclaims a hidden rifle for protection. As she navigates through the jungle, she encounters a scene that shakes her understanding of the jungle’s hierarchy—a group of apes, a panther, and a man (Tarzan, unknown to her at this moment) peacefully interacting. This encounter highlights Tarzan’s unique position within the animal kingdom and plants seeds of doubt about her perceived reality.

Jane eventually attempts to escape down a river but finds herself momentarily halted by Rokoff, who surprisingly pleads to join her, fearing Tarzan’s animals. As Jane manages to free the boat and escape, Rokoff’s desperation underscores his isolation and the turning of tables—where once he held power over Jane, he now finds himself powerless, his threats empty as Jane sails away, leaving him behind.

This chapter melds suspense and revelation, portraying Tarzan’s relentless pursuit of Jane, Rokoff’s descent into desperation, and Jane’s burgeoning resilience and resourcefulness. The jungle, with its untold dangers and unexpected alliances, serves as a backdrop to this unfolding drama, emphasizing themes of survival, power dynamics, and the unpredictable nature of both human and animal interactions.