In Tarnsman of Gor, the Caste of Assassins is presented through its distinctive black helmet, dark garments, banners, and position within the political and military landscape of Gor. Through the figure of Pa-Kur, the Master Assassin of Ar, the novel also reveals the caste’s influence, its rivalry with other powers, and the consequences faced by those who served under him after his defeat.

“A member of the Caste of Assassins,” said the Older Tarl, gazing at the retreating speck in the distance. “Marlenus, who would be Ubar of all Gor, knows of your existence.”
Page 59

“The spies of Ar are effective,” I said.

“More effective than the Assassins of Ar,” she said.

“Pa-Kur, Ar’s Master Assassin, was dispatched to kill you, but failed.”
Page 107

I noted with satisfaction that Pa-Kur, Master Assassin, proud leader of perhaps the greatest horde ever assembled on the plains of Gor, had need of Mintar, who was only of the Merchant Caste.
Page 131

I had noticed that there was among the crowd one tall, somber figure who sat alone on a high, wooden throne, surrounded by tarnsmen. He wore the black helmet of a member of the Caste of Assassins.
Page 133

“Were it not for the daughter of Marlenus,” said Pa-Kur, his metallic face as placid as the quicksilver behind a mirror, “I would have slain you honorably. That I swear by the black helmet of my caste.”
Page 138

“On the highest ground in camp,” said Mintar, “near the second ditch and across from the great gate of Ar. You will see the black banner of the Caste of Assassins.”

Page 175

I dyed my hair black and acquired the helmet and gear of an Assassin. Across the left temple of the black helmet I fixed the golden slash of the messenger.
Page 176

Above them, at several places, flew the black banner of the Caste of Assassins.
Page 182

It was as a warrior of Gor that I arose and donned the black helmet and the garments of the Caste of Assassins. I loosened my sword in its sheath, set my shield on my arm, and grasped my spear.
Page 190

I wore the garb of the Caste of Assassins, and on the left temple of the black helmet was the golden slash of the messenger.
Page 192

And, dark among these shapes, like shadows, I could see the somber black of members of the Caste of Assassins.
Page 204

I had expected to be fired on immediately but suddenly remembered that I still wore the garb of the messenger. No Assassin would fire on me, and no one else would dare.
Page 204

Those members of the Caste of Assassins, the most hated caste on Gor, who had served Pa-Kur, were taken in chains down the Vosk to become galley slaves on the cargo ships that ply Gor’s oceans.
Page 215

Identity and Recognition

The Caste of Assassins is associated with distinctive black helmets, dark garments, and black banners. These visible symbols identify the caste, while the golden slash on the helmet marks the special disguise of a messenger.

Authority and Leadership

Pa-Kur is identified as the Master Assassin of Ar. His position places him among the significant figures in the political and military struggle surrounding the city. His leadership is reflected in the large force assembled under his command.

Political and Military Influence

The Assassins appear within the wider conflict for power on Gor. Their activities intersect with espionage, political ambitions, military campaigns, and the struggle for control of Ar.

Defeat and Consequence

The defeat of Pa-Kur has direct consequences for those who served him. The members of his faction who are captured are taken in chains to become galley slaves, demonstrating the severe fate that awaits them after the fall of their leader.