The Gods of Mars

After returning to Helium, John Carter discovers that Dejah Thoris, unable to bear the loss of her husband and son, has gone on a pilgrimage to Issa. Her father and grandfather set out in search of her, and power in the city was usurped by Zat Arras—an zodangan. When John Carter tried to tell about his exploits, he was accused of heresy for attacking the foundations of Martian religion, but he managed to escape.
Returning to the south, he learns that Dejah Thoris has been captured by Issa, along with the white priestess Faydora, who is in love with Carter—daughter of the ruler of the white Martians, Matai Shang. Faydora, Tuvia, and Dejah Thoris find themselves in a secret temple of Issa, the entrance to which will open only after the passing of a Martian year…