CHAPTER VI -Thuvia, Maid of Mars

In Chapter VI of “Thuvia, Maid of Mars” titled “The Jeddak of Lothar,” Carthoris and Thuvia encounter the enigmatic city of Lothar and its inhabitants led by Tario, Lothar’s ruler. Initially skeptical of their surroundings, they witness thousands of warrior apparitions who mysteriously vanish after defending them against a common enemy. Despite Thuvia’s unique control over fierce creatures known as banths, both are unsettled by the city’s inexplicable occurrences and decide to seek refuge and answers within its walls.

Upon their approach, they are confronted by inexplicable phenomena. Corpses of fallen enemies disappear, and Thuvia displays an uncanny ability to command the respect of ferocious banths, securing their safe passage. This intriguing ability stems from an inherent power she cannot fathom, reminiscent of her prior encounter with such creatures in the company of John Carter.

The city of Lothar itself presents a wealth of marvels and mysteries. Spectacular in its architecture and adorned with treasures, it yet appears eerily deserted. Their encounter with a Lotharian who invites them into Tario’s domain only deepens the mystery. Carthoris is particularly puzzled by the city’s apparent lack of defense and the sudden manifestations of soldiers where none were thought to exist.

As they navigate through Lothar, both Carthoris and Thuvia are baffled by the illusion of a bustling city that moments before seemed deserted. Their guide hints at the illusionary prowess of Lothar’s inhabitants, capable of conjuring warriors to decimate their enemies without real presence.

Finally ushered into Tario’s palace, they observe a transformation that defies their understanding, presenting a vibrant scene starkly contrasting the silent approach they initially encountered. Carthoris’s skepticism is met with the guide’s cryptic acknowledgment of Lothar’s true nature—a city without physical warriors, defended by illusions.

This chapter intricately weaves suspense and speculative elements, setting the stage for an exploration of Lothar’s secrets and the powers governing it. The enigma of Thuvia’s influence over beasts and the phantom defenders of Lothar challenges the protagonists’ perceptions, subtly aligning with the broader narrative of adventure and mystique that characterizes their journey on Barsoom.