In a dense jungle, black warriors dig a concealed pit along a game trail, preparing a trap for elephants. Observing them is a gray-eyed youth, Tarzan, who harbors resentment towards these men for having killed his beloved Kala. Intrigued by their actions, he watches as they cover the pit, leaving no trace of their work. After they depart, Tarzan inspects the pit but cannot decipher its purpose. As Tarzan swings through the trees, he encounters Tantor, a timid elephant. Their bond is strong, with Tarzan often riding Tantor and communicating with him. While Tarzan forages for food, he reflects on the black warriors and the pit, unable to shake his curiosity. Suddenly, he senses danger and races through the jungle, realizing that Tantor is in peril from the warriors who are hunting him. The warriors, having spotted Tantor, chase him towards the hidden pit. Tarzan, desperate to save his friend, calls out to Tantor, but the elephant, in a panic, does not hear him. Just as Tantor is about to fall into the trap, Tarzan leaps in front of him, warning him of the danger. The elephant turns away, escaping the pit, but Tarzan loses his footing and falls into it, striking his head and losing consciousness. The warriors discover Tarzan at the bottom of the pit and, recognizing him as the feared "white demon," capture him. They bind him and carry him towards their village, where the villagers, terrified of the creature that has haunted them, gather to witness his capture. Mbonga, the chief, decides to keep Tarzan alive until nightfall for a ritualistic execution. As preparations for the feast begin, Tarzan works to free himself from his bonds. He hears Tantor's distant call and feels a flicker of hope. When the time comes for his execution, Tarzan breaks free and fights back against the warriors, but he is outnumbered. Just as he is about to be speared, Tantor bursts into the village, trampling the warriors and creating chaos. In the ensuing turmoil, Tantor rescues Tarzan, lifting him onto his back and fleeing into the jungle. The bond between Tarzan and Tantor is solidified, showcasing the deep connection between the two despite the odds against them. The story concludes with Tarzan and Tantor escaping into the wild, their friendship stronger than ever, as they navigate the dangers of the jungle together.
By Edgar Rice Burroughs · First published 1914 · Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Action