READ THE NOVEL- Chapters 1-31 - ERBzine

Tarzan on Mars
will be moving upon the undefended cities of the enemy while
we engage his main forces here at Tarnath."
"As soon as the enemy fleet is forced to the ground by
the nullifier," said Sardon Dhur, "their ground forces will
disembark and approach overland."
"And that will be the signal for our well trained millions
of fighters to rise up out of the Valley and meet them head
on!" exclaimed Zithad.
Sardon Dhur smiled at the other members of the Council.
"It would be embarrassing to Tarnath," he said, "if fully
half of its defenses in ships and men should suddenly raise
neutral colors and refuse to fight."
Tario and Zithad glared at him.
"What do you mean by that?" demanded Tario.
"I am referring to the loyal forces of the Thern Empire,"
he replied, watching them keenly.
Zithad placed a hand on his long-sword, glowering darkly.
"You speak of the deadliest form of treason!" he warned.
"Weigh your words carefully, Sardon Dhur!"
"In a sense," said Tario, in icy tones, "you have threatened
us as effectively as if you had drawn your sword. Not
that you have revealed yourself, you had better explain—carefully
and well!"
The Thern Hekkador maintained his calm smile. "It is
you who threaten me," he returned. "I speak only of defending
my interests. Zithad, you are a superstitious and emotional
fool who actually has faith in the Legend of Issus. This blinds
you to the realities of life."
"Do not add sacrilege to treason," warned the Dator, "or,
by Issus, I shall silence that poisonous tongue of yours!"
Ranas Ghol raised his brows slightly as he looked first at
Zithad and then at Sardon Dhur. He said nothing, but there
was the faintest trace of a prophetic smile about his lips,
which Tario alone observed.
"Do you wish to be merely a self-sacrificing tool of
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