CHAPTER V – Thuvia, Maid of Mars opens with Carthoris of Helium cautiously making his way through a dark and winding subterranean tunnel. Behind him lurks a silent but deadly banth, its low growl a chilling reminder of the ever-present danger in Barsoom’s wild places. As he emerges from the narrow passage, Carthoris finds himself in a breathtaking valley—lush, sunlit, and seemingly untouched by time. However, this paradise is anything but safe. Almost instantly, he is thrust into a conflict between green Martians and a mysterious group of bowmen accompanied by lion-like beasts. In the heart of this chaos, he spots Thuvia, whose presence jolts him with relief and confusion, only for her to recoil in distrust, still under the impression that he is responsible for her abduction.

Thuvia’s uncertainty weighs heavily on Carthoris, especially as his every gesture is shadowed by the manipulation of events beyond his control. Though his devotion is clear, the doubts planted in her mind continue to cloud her judgment. Their conversation is restrained, emotionally charged, but without resolution. Just as tensions between them begin to mount, the city’s defenders engage in a fierce skirmish against Hortan Gur’s green warriors, interrupting the moment and revealing more about the strange people of this hidden place. Their auburn hair and pale skin distinguish them from other Martian races, hinting at a long-lost lineage tied to Barsoom’s ancient past. The air hums with the energy of ancient traditions clashing with current crises.

Carthoris stands firm amid the confrontation, proving his valor as he aids in repelling the invaders. Even in battle, his mind lingers on Thuvia, though he hides his affection out of respect for her betrothal to Kulan Tith. Thuvia, watching him, begins to question the harshness of her initial judgment, though she says little. The warriors and bowmen fight with near-silent precision, giving the entire battle a surreal quality, while the banths move like living shadows under their command. The coordination of this defense suggests not only skill but a deeper spiritual or mental bond between these warriors and the creatures they fight beside.

Following the clash, Thuvia and Carthoris are brought to the city by its mysterious inhabitants, who speak little and observe much. Within the city walls, Carthoris senses a deeper enigma—this place is not just a fortress but a remnant of a civilization thought long gone. The bowmen, statuesque and disciplined, bear no insignia of the modern Martian city-states, and their customs evoke an older time. As Carthoris tries to gather intelligence, Thuvia remains reserved, caught between gratitude and lingering suspicion. Still, her eyes linger on him longer than before, and her questions become more pointed, suggesting her internal struggle to reconcile her heart and her duty.

The city itself is silent but not lifeless—filled with signs of order and legacy. Thuvia, drawn by the presence of the banths and their curious obedience to her will, begins to suspect that her mysterious influence over them may be more than coincidence. Carthoris quietly watches her command the beasts with mere thought or glance, wondering if she possesses a gift rooted in Barsoom’s forgotten powers. The city’s elders hint at ancient lore, implying that Thuvia’s gift may hold significance even they don’t fully understand.

As night falls, the uncertainties grow. The green Martians may regroup and return, and questions about the city’s origins and Thuvia’s abilities remain unanswered. Carthoris and Thuvia are safe for now but know that safety on Barsoom is fleeting. This chapter deepens the mystery and emotional complexity of their journey, layering ancient history with emerging affection and shifting loyalties. The shadow of misunderstanding still looms, but the seeds of trust begin to take root—nurtured not just by circumstance, but by the strength of character each reveals under pressure.