Conan The Barbarian #12: "The Blood Of The Dragon!"

Conan The Barbarian #12

 "The Blood Of The Dragon!"
 December, 1971

 Roy Thomas: Writer
 Gil Kane: Artist
 Diverse Hands: Embellishment
 Artie Simek: Letterer

 Roy Thomas finds those Conan stories a blast to write -- but figures there must have been much more going on during Robert E. Howard's mythical Hyborian Age of 12,000 years ago. The writer finds it a shame that someone hasn't written and drawn one of those adventures. Gil Kane says they will and tells the writer to imagine himself on a cloudy day in Aquilonia -- Poitain's province -- the clash and clangor of a tourney between two knights -- and then a shout above the timult--!

 With Valannus down, the day belongs to Kalligor!

 It is a time of chivalry -- many millennia before there will be a French language -- and a France--! Valannus yields to his friend, the noble knight named Kalligor... He tells Valannus to rise and that he will collect his laurels tomorrow. Now he is heading for the castle... and fine dining with the baron himself. No hero is Kalligor to his squire -- who scolds him for the lack of fresh linen and clean vestments upon his return. When the hapless squire claims to have been immersed in the tourney, Kalligor tells him to make haste to retain his vows, and his ears, too. Only Kalligor knows he loosened Valannus' cinch-straps and that he is eyeing the baron's daughter -- and the son, who will never reach thirty years of age! There are names for those such as Kalligor in time to come -- and none of them are pleasant ones --

 This evening, there is talk at the castle of more serious matters--! The baron learns from one who has come from the Bossonian Marches that the Hydragon has appeared once more -- and has taken the lives of everyone in a nearby village! Although the frontier is far away, the baron owes King Numedides defense of Aquilonia borders. It is said that the Hydragon may be slain by a lone warrior, and indeed one did leave the village... never to be seen again. As others volunteer to be sent to slay the Hydragon, the baron asks Kalligor if he would care to be sent on this important mission. Kalligor prefers to keep his sword ready for battles closer to home. The baron's own son volunteers and since he is a knight who has been promised any boon he craves, this quest shall be that boon. As the others warn the baron's son about the Hydragon's cursed blood, Kalligor reasons that he may fight the dragon himself -- in his own time, and in his own manner.

 The time comes when news from the marches make mention of the baron's son's disappearance. This is the moment Kalligor has been waiting for -- the moment when he makes his own fortune. When he informs the baron that he will ride against the Hydragon today, the baron offers his daughter's hand in marriage and half his barony while he lives, and all of it when he dies! For himself, Kalligor claims to avenge a fallen friend.

 Days later, Kalligor and his horse have reached the Bridge of the Accursed, the marker of the westernmost border of Aquilonia -- If any were present to hear, one would almost imagine the sound of mirthless laughter. Now ahead of him -- coming out of the swirling mists -- RRRRRR THE HYDRAGON! Although this be a formidable slayer of men, the Hydragon has conquered those who came at it armed with spear -- sabre -- and with scimitar. They never thought to use, what Kalligor is about to use now --

 RRRRR Kalligor hurls a poisoned blade at the Hydragon! The creature has fallen but still lives! Kalligor urges his horse onward before they are crushed. The Hydragon has breathed its last and the barony now belongs to Kalligor! His triumph is suddenly interrupted when Kalligor notices the Hydragon's corpse beginning to shrink --! It changes shape before his very eyes --

 It is now the body of the baron's own son and Kalligor's plans are now undone! He can bring no proof to the baron that he has slain the Hydragon whose blood now permeates his own armor -- without revealing that he slew his lord's heir. If he were to do that, his own life would be forfeit! Even death is to be denied him as the blood which touched his brow -- causes him to suddenly change -- into the HYDRAGONNNNNNNN Now Kalligor knows the truth about the Hyrdragon's cursed blood -- he knows that each lone warrior slew the Hydragon, and became the dragon in return--! Roy Thomas finds this to be a real gory story -- right from the old Weird Tales! As the Rascally One wonders if Conan ever ran into the Hydragon when he went to the Bossonian Marches, Gil Kane can't say, but he knows if he ever were to come across a bleeding dragon -- he would call the Red Cross first!

 I first read this story when it was reprinted in Giant-Size Conan #5.

 This was the first and last installment of Tales Of The Hyborian Age!

 Roy Thomas once told me he first met Gil Kane when they collaborated on Captain Mar-Vell and became lifelong friends.

 The diverse hands embellishing this Tale Of The Hyborian Age belong to Gil Kane, Tom Palmer and Berni Wrightson.

 Gil Kane inked page 1, Tom Palmer inked pages 2,3,6, and 7, and Berni Wrightson inked pages 4 and 5.

 Kalligor resembles a young Doctor Strange and shares the same personality as Stephen Strange before he lost the use of his hands to perform surgery, and met the Ancient One.

 Tom Palmer's inks flesh out Gil Kane's pencils, enabling the reader to pay closer attention to the characters' individual facial expressions and body language.

 Berni Wrightson's inks over Gil Kane's pencils follows every line faithfully and the reader pays closer attention to the angles used in each panel.

 The Hydragon is a snake-like dinosaur with a crown of snakes atop its head.

 Kalligor sought to send the Hydragon a poisoned pen letter, but the creature answered his letter in blood.

 Kalligor had sought an inheritance and gained one... only not the one he had originally sought.

 Steve Chung
 "The Review Of The Dragon!"

Conan The Barbarian #12: "The Dweller In The Dark"

Conan The Barbarian #12

 "The Dweller In The Dark"
 December, 1971

 Roy Thomas: Writer
 Barry Smith: Artist
 Sam Rosen: Letterer
 Stan Lee: Editor
 Based on the hero created by Robert E. Howard

 None may drink from Zahmahn's springs -- until they have paid tribute to their queen. Conan thirsts -- and when he thirsts -- either he drinks deeply -- or else his blade does!

 As the captain commands the stranger seized, swords clash here in Corinthia -- one of the numerous city-states across the border from Zamora -- one guard falls, his head half-severed from his fallen body -- and then another -- Seeing that this is no ordinary man they have flushed out, Yulek himself intends to do the carving personally -- and the Cimmerian leaps forward -- and Yulek falls silent. Now it is Conan who bemoans the unfair odds and scimitars at his sides. He is lucky their queen will let him keep his head!

 One guard is all for leaving the barbarian to the vultures and the other reminds him they will haul this rogue in for slaying the queen's favorite paramour. The one who slew Yulek learns that he was the queen's lover, not her beloved! When asked by Fatima what he has to say for himself, the Cimmerian asks that his bonds be loosened, and that a sword be handed to him so they can all share the trip to hell. Seeing the barbarian's courage, Fatima orders Yaila to fill a wine flagon for their -- guest. By the law of gods and of men, Fatima could have him killed -- but the queen who makes the law may also break them. She needs a new guard captain, now that the previous one is dead. Conan makes no bargains while his hands are tied.

 His hands are now free and he would have some wine. When the handmaid asks if she may show the new captain of the guards his palace quarters, it is Fatima herself who dismisses the others, and who shall show the Cimmerian to his rooms. when they are alone, he asks why she bristled when the handmaid touched him. She replies he is now captain to a queen. He must guard their springs -- and his other duties will be told to him... as Fatima thinks of them --

 Days become weeks and the Cimmerian becomes a fixture of the palace --- His every movement is watched by the other fixture, a sword-wielding eunuch. There comes a time when even his guardian must sleep -- and the Cimmerian becomes determined to test the boundaries -- and finds them at spear point! Fatima has given orders to slay him -- if he ever tried to leave the palace. He lives the life of a lap-dog now and should enjoy it while it lasts. When he goes in search of Fatima, he finds Yaila in the royal bath-chamber. He may think of himself as the captain of the guard, but the handmaid knows Conan is that in name only. Before she speaks further, Yaila asks for yon robe for protection against chilling drafts.

 She has longed for the Cimmerian ever since she first saw him. Conan has no love for the cold fish of a queen and loves life -- and whatever he needs to do to preserve it. Yaila knows when Fatima becomes bored with him, she will discard him as she has with so many others. Fatima has arrived with the palace guard. The queen informs them the moment he touched another -- when their eyes met, and Yaila's fingertips brushed his cheek -- they both signed their death-warrants in blood. Conan finds it better to die quickly than to suffer the slow embrace of a mad-woman.

 The Cimmerian and the handmaid are led at spearpoint downstairs -- to the castle dungeon -- Conan wonders if they are to slowly starve or to serve as food for the rats. Fatima regrets that the barbarian was unable to keep his hot young blood and devote himself to her only -- They are both left -- for the dweller in the dark. The queen and her guards leave and the dweller is coming. As Yaila prays to Mitra, Conan mentions his god is Crom, and all he needs is a strong sword-arm. No one has ever seen the dweller and lived to tell the tale. The Cimmerian decides to test his chains -- they are new -- but the links which hold them to the wall are not. The splashing is coming closer by the moment.

 The Cimmerian knows he is truly doomed -- when he lays down to die -- and not before! "HUNNGHH!" The handmaid sees the chains did not break, but Conan knows Shadizar was not corrupted in a single day. After bidding Yaila to keep silent -- and still, the young Cimmerian pulls at his chains! The metal bites into his wrists -- and the waters churn at the sight of blood -- Yalia gasps --as Conan braces his legs against the stone wall -- wrenching forward, with one last effort -- FREE--

 The Cimmerian has done it! The handmaid can only stare at his wrists...! The only way for them to leave is by heading where the splashing sounds are coming from. If they went the other way, the queen's guards would hack them to bits! Conan would rather face the dweller than with his back to him -- while seeking to breach a steel door in vain. He does wish to Crom that he had a -- A SWORD!? Maybe there is something to be said for the power of prayer! The sounds are getting closer. As the Cimmerian retrieves the sword from the skeleton, Yaila spots the dweller in the dark!

 It had once been a man like any other. One who lived, loved, laughed, and fathered children. Now he was stripped of his humanity by the cruel gods -- and was now a writhing, gurgling obscenity! The dweller tries to speak -- to explain that it had once been as human as they! The words die, in a throat not made for human speech -- and in its madness, it lashes out as it has done before! Conan yells for Yaila to run, but the handmaid's feet-- will not move! As the Cimmerian reaches for her, he sees her caught in one of its tentacles!

 Conan is coming for her, but Yaila insists that it's too late!! As he is caught in one of its tentacles, Conan bemoans the fact that women are no good because they tease you -- caress you -- promise you the moon on a platter -- but when it comes to fighting, they go off in the corner -- and leave him to hack their way out -- or die in the trying!

 When the handmaid points out they are both about to be devoured -- the barbarian replies he will strike first with his sword -- and wish it were the queen instead! The dweller has gone mad from the pain of having a sword thrust into its misshapen orb, and thrashes about in its wild throes! Now, the Cimmerian climbs the niches of a pillar, the way he would scale the cliffs in his native Cimmeria. Conan urges Yaila to remain quiet, but the sight of the dweller's arm so close to them is too much to bear! Half-blind, it will certainly get them -- unless there is something at the top of the shaft -- besides further darkness.

 The handmaid feels something brushing her foot and the barbarian tells her to remain still. He -- can make his way upward -- by bracing his back against the side of the stone shaft -- but if she squirms once more -- he will drop her. The stone sides are slashing his back to bloody ribbons. There is a trapdoor above him. As he pushes it open, she wonders what could possibly be on the other side -- and Conan doubts it could possibly be worse than what's below them. One more push -- and they'll "CROM!" They now find themselves in the throne room itself! The queen has just witnessed someone successfully escape from the dweller. Now the eunuch will give him his reward! Fatima is sadly mistaken if she thinks he just fought off the dweller's harsh embrace -- to die beneath this eunuch's sword.

 The others are in no mood to rush him now that he has got a sword in his hand. The first one who would die for their queen is Fatima herself! She has learned much about him from their nights together. She knows he would never stab a woman -- no matter what. Perhaps -- not -- but there's more than one way to flay a she-cat! The others are kept back at swordpoint and Fatima is asked what she sees in the shadows of the pit below! The sight of the dweller is enough to make the queen plead for her own life! She offers Conan the chance to reign by her side -- or make her his slave -- she promises him anything --!

 The barbarian knows that promises are cheap and are far easy to break. "NNOOOOO" Fatima's screams go on -- or were they merely -- echoes against stone --? With their queen dead and her loyal subjects well-armed, the Cimmerian asks if he must fight them one at a time or all at once. It makes -- little difference to him. Conan The Barbarian is hailed as their deliverer! They live by the rules of losing one ruler and choosing another.

 These people are far more sensible than he had thought. He dreamt once he would be king some day -- perhaps here? Unfortunately for the young Cimmerian, Zahmahn has never had a king -- only queens. Still, he may choose the next queen -- and chooses -- YAILA! She was born a slave and knows not what to say! Conan is out of breath -- with several scars -- to reply. ALL HAIL QUEEN YAILA! She would have her hero stay in Zahmahn as her consort. For his own part, Conan has many wounds to lick -- and a throne of his own to find. He has had enough of queens for two weeks -- and he doe not know -- if he could possibly survive another --!

 The Cimmerian was thirsty for water and his blade was bloodthirsty for those who would keep him from the springs.

 Talking a good fight in the Hyborian Age is about as effective as it is in our current age.

 Conan finds his hands are tied as captain of the palace guards.

Slave girls are a touchy subject for the queen of this particular palace.

 The barbarian manages to find the weakest link in the chain and ends up meeting the missing link that is the dweller in the dark.

 Crom makes wishes come true for those who keep their sword arm strong.

 One wonders what Red Sonja would say if she heard Young Conan spouting off about women the way he was against the dweller.

 The queen should have known it wasn't a good idea for her to pit herself against a barbarian.

 Steve Chung
 "The Dweller In The Review"

Conan The Barbarian #8: "The Keepers Of The Crypt!"

Conan The Barbarian #8

 "The Keepers Of The Crypt!"
 August, 1971

 Roy Thomas: Writer
 Barry Smith: Artist
 Tom Sutton and Tom Palmer: Inkers
 Sam Rosen: Letterer
 Stan Lee: Editor
 Based on an original synopsis by
 Robert E. Howard, Creator Of Conan

 The moon is overhead... as six Corithian soldiers with torches search for a thief -- unaware that both he and death are overhead as well!

 Captain Burgun urges his men to make less noise and reminds them Corinthia's treaty with Nemedia, and they must search for the barbarian who stole from a house of relics... As the soldiers begin to wonder if they will catch up with the savage, they are caught in a man-made avalanche of rocks!

 As the Cimmerian youth climbs down for a closer look, he soon learns that one of the Corinthian soldiers has managed to survive! He knows Conan from two years ago -- at Venarium -- Gunderland's northernmost outpost -- The Gundermen had pushed their borders further north -- and were prepared to use their crossbows against the oncoming Cimmerians. It was the Gundermen who learned a bitter lesson that day -- and several would never live to learn another.

 The Cimmerian youth was the most reckless of his people's horde -- The Gunderman hacked his way through his own men to reach him -- and they would have crossed swords then, if he could have reached him through the bloody sea of human flesh -- Venarium fell -- and the Gunderman left the Aquilonian army -- where he ended up with the Corinithian one. He urges the Cimmerian to stand ready and have his words sliced out of him! The Gunderman has no desire to duel against a shadowy opponent and he has no defense against one who lets his own broadsword do his talking for him.

 Conan heads east towards the approaching dawn -- which reveals a city in the distance. Since he is thirsty, he is going in through a breach in the wall. He has never seen this city on any maps and wonders if the Corinthian cartographers are a match for their soldiers. The bravado dies and a tingling begins at the back of his neck after climbing over... in a silent city with sand-swept streets... He spots a stone gargoyle seated atop a fountain and knows the water-bearers will never come. Conan hears a whisper and turns towards the columns... for a sight that momentarily stops him in his tracks.

 The Cimmerian youth has heard of dragons and regarded them as tales to frighten children at night... He is not ready for a thirty-foot creature with spear-like teeth and man-rending talons. For a moment, Conan considers this to be a mirage -- created from fatigue and thirst... As the creature's claws crushes the former fountain... he knows otherwise! He is certain his sword will be useless against the dragon's scaly hide -- but there must be something in the city capable of doing just that.

 His desperate search leads to naught but a dead end -- and nearly to his own death! It will not be able to reach him atop his perch -- where slow starvation will prove to be his undoing! It has chased him and was about to reap its reward...

 Conan serves it some rocks through its open maw and as it rolls over with indigestion, the Cimmerian uses his blade on its soft underbelly -- Its crimson blood runs beneath the sun... and all is still. He does not wonder where the dragon came from -- as long as others do not appear in its place -- Conan head for a stone temple in the center of the city -- for where there is a ancient temple --

 There may be other things of value through the unlocked door. The Gunderman has reunited with him, having only had his armor sliced, and not his own neck. When the Gunderman asks why he shouldn't run him through and be done with it, Conan points out there may be enough jewels for both of them to carry. This makes the Gunderman intent on slaying him and making a return trip. If there is a second guardian as deadly as the first, he will need a sword protecting his back. The Gunderman urges him to enter first and to draw his weapon. The Cimmerian youth swears he will not stab him -- in the back. Even with the doors open, it is pitch black within -- until they both reach the light!

 There is another door ahead of them. As Conan wishes he knew what was beyond them, the Gunderman sees the light is coming from the ceiling! If there is neither water or gold, the barbarian will head to Argos, and the Gunderman may have to stop him. After kicking in the rotted door, they find enough gold and jewels to appease all the thieves in Zamora!

 The Gunderman recognizes this place as the Treaure-Crypt of Lanjau. Lanjau was the wealthiest of the ancient cities -- until the gods drove its citizens insane. All of this treasure is guarded by six Stygian mummies! Conan reminds him of the dragon and eyes the gold -- the jewels -- and a jade serpent. He would take the jade serpent for himself -- and leave the Gunderman with the rest. The Gunderman fancies the snake for himself -- and since it cannot be divided between them -- he decides to take him on for the entire item! It will be a game of cubes. The high thrower gets the jade serpent and its gems -- the loser takes anything else. The Gunderman throws -- a twenty. Conan throws -- a twenty-two and likes this game. As he reaches for the jade serpent, the barbarian can feel other eyes upon them.

 The gems by themselves will be enough for Conan when he reaches the rich seaports. The Gunderman knows of a girl who might with favor upon him -- that is if the Corinthians do not slay him for losing an entire troop. A rich deserter lives better than a poor captain and perhaps this sudden wealth will provide him with safety. Unfortunately, it has brought them -- sudden death!

 These two trespassers have disturbed the sacred serpent -- then call upon their gods for help -- but neither Crom nor Mitra will keep them safe from the Keepers of the Treasure-Crypt of Lanjau. The Keepers were ancient, when their gods were yet to be in the heavens -- and they shall return to their deep slumber once again -- when the two trespassers are dead!

 The young Cimmerian would run or scream if it did any good -- but since it would not, he lashes out -- only to be surrounded by four Keepers! The Gunderman finds one Keeper barring his way. These guardians of the crypt are about to deal with the human blasphemers when Conan finds their weak spot! AIEEEEE He tells the Gunderman to ignore their dead flesh and concentrate on severing their spines! As the Gunderman takes his advice, the Cimmerian is grazed by a thrown spear --

 The Gunderman urges him to run if he can! He -- can -- and he will--! There is something -- he must do first -- and the Cimmerian youth uses the spear to bowl over the Keepers!! There are no further words and barely enough time for escape -- Cimmerian and Gunderman emerge from the crypt's portals to their freedom -- and their very lives if they manage to run quickly enough -- and if there are no more guardians in their way -- The Keepers are the next to emerge, eager to make the two men pay with their own souls for -- and they are watched by the sun overhead!

 The two men watch as the Keepers crumble to dust outside the crypt. No sooner do they fall that an earthquake strikes the city! Cimmerian and Gunderman strive to avoid the walls of the city and the flames on either side! This city of the damned has begun to burn!

 They will meet by what remains of the gate -- if they do manage to meet again! Stone and flame continue their destructive dance -- until all is still. From the stillness emerges the sole survivor. Conan lives... and the nameless Gunderman -- does not. He is still trying to recall the captain's name, as he makes his way into a nearby village. Inside a tavern, it is Jenna who catches young Conan's eye --

 She had fled from Shadizar to Corinthia with his gold. The last of it was used to purchase this tavern. He had saved her from a bat-god and was happy to see a friendly face -- and he is now rich enough to forgive what Jenna had stolen from him. It is not gold the bag is filled with -- but neither is it filled with precious gems -- only dust?! The five gems-- have turned to dust. His other bag contains the true prize. When Jenna asks to see what is inside, she is taken aback when it... it moves! The magistrate and his men have found the barbarian they had sought. From the look of him, this is the Cimmerian they must extradite back to Nemedia.

 It's a swordless barbarian against four armed men. Will he surrender to them -- or do they send his carcass to the Numalian governor -- whose niece he slew? It was a man-headed serpent that killed the niece -- so said Demetrio, but the Nemedians still want his head -- Since Jenna seems to know him, the magistrate thinks maybe she should join him -- and then he notices the fallen bag. It's obviously contains some stolen goods from Numalia -- but even he and his men are unprepared for the sight of a live venomous green viper! The startled magistrate is bitten -- and is now dead! Before they can be seized, Conan urges the girl to run --

 Jenna has lost her tavern -- if not her life! With the magistrate's men on their heels, or not since none in the tavern would weep over the dead pig, and they know that it's one of their own who rides the dark winds this very night! Horse hooves thrum upon the dirt road -- the strong and firm hand is upon the rein -- and who can say if the one in the saddle is fleeing from unseen terrors that threaten to pursue him -- or heading towards an unknown tomorrow -- a time and a place of solace for a born wanderer--?

 The young Cimmerian knows that sticks and stones will break their bones, but Captain Burgun will hurt him.

 The Gunderman talks a good fight, but Conan prefers to let his own broadsword do the talking.

 The dragon resembles a giant gila monster.

 It was given something to chew on and the reptile soon had one heckuva bellyache.

 This story adapted by Roy Thomas, with art by Barry Smith, inks by Sutton & Palmer, and lettered by Rosen is treasure in itself.

 The Cimmerian is known to have diced with death and is not bad when it comes to a game of cubes.

 Rich deserters live longer than poor captains, but not while they're still in the crypt with the Keepers.

 The Keepers of the Crypt saw the light at last and the city of the damned was also shaken by the sight.

 The magistrate found terror in a handful of dust.

 He was shaken by the booty in the sack.

 Steve Chung
 "The Keepers Of The Review!"

Conan The Barbarian #21: "The Monster Of The Monoliths!"

Conan The Barbarian #21

 "The Monster Of The Monoliths!"
 December, 1972

 Roy Thomas: Writer/Editor
 Barry Smith: Layouts
 Dan Adkins & Craig Russell & Val Mayerik & Sal Buscema: Embellishers All!
 Artie Simek: Letterer
 Inspired in part by the story "The Black Stone" by Robert E. Howard, creator of Conan

 Dawn rises against Makkalet's shadowy spires. After a disastrous land and sea defense against invading Turanians, the citizens of this proud Hyrkanian city-state begin the task of constructing makeshift barricades... Construction ceases... as a man slowly pulls himself from the water at the foot of the marble steps of Makkalet's main wharf... and the Cimmerian knows he has walked into hell!

 Seeing the wounded barbarian at their feet, they take him for one of Turan's mercenaries! As Conan slowly rises and starts to explain, he comes under attack from these workmen who have lost their friends and relatives... armed with the tools of their various trades -- only for them to learn he is capable of fighting back! Now armed with a smithy's hammer, Conan has no chance to wield it, as he is struck from behind by a miller's staff!

 As the others hold the Cimmerian's arms... the miller is readying his next blow -- and is himself struck down from behind by an arrow. The barbarian is claimed as the king's prisoner! If any dare to answer back to Haram-Pyr, the guard commander -- their bodies will float today in the Vilayet Sea! The wounded barbarian is brought over and placed upon Haram-Pyr's horse. They know to be the king's prisoner is to be the captive of the high priest, as well! Better for the Cimmerian if he had been struck down by Akkif's staff -- than to be left at the mercy of Kharam-Akkad!

 The barbarian sleeps through the sounds of slaughter and the cries of those who are about to die are heard in his dream. Conan awakes at last. His shoulder blade is throbbing where a shaft had recently been... and he wonders why he is still alive! The high priest is breaking his fast with the queen... who is curious about the young Cimmerian they had seen in his temple. The barbarian had escaped... and was found later ashore at sunrise... with a Turanian arrow jutting from his back! Their highness has arrived and the talk turns to how their enemies have not dared to attack since the failure of their initial landing attempt. As long as the Tarim is theirs... they will try again. That evening... the Cimmerian youth watches the Hyrkanians at work and wonders why Yezdigerd has not resumed his attack. A shrug of his shoulders and Conan sleeps once more. In the morning, the court physician has come to check his wound. The queen has commanded their leech to treat him personally and to escort him to their presence.

 When Khurusan tells him to move, he learns the guard's name, and promises to meet him again. The hooded figure of the Tarim passes along in a procession and when the Cimmerian youth seeks to learn more about him, Khurusan curses him for his blasphemy! If his chains were off, Khurusan would become the newest arrival in Hyrkanian heaven! The guards bring the barbarian in, where he is made to bow before King Eannatum, Queen Melissandra... and Kharam-Akkad! Conan gazes upon one in particular...

 He has known Melissandra as the temple-maid who called herself... Caissa. They learn he is Conan, a Cimmerian who slew a Turanian when his friend was slain. This particular Turanian was a friend of Yezdigerd... and it was time to jump ship. The city of Makkalet has need of him at this time. All he wants in return is a swift horse and the shortest route towards the west. As the high priest agrees, the Cimmerian youth asks that his chains be removed, and Khurusan is to inform him of the task ahead.

 They are to sneak past the Turanians and ride to the city of Melissandra's father, who is obliged by the marriage to aid Makkalet. She is glad the Cimmerian has joined them and admires the look of the Hyrkanian helmet on him... The queen gives him a rune-carved armlet to keep him safe... until he returns to... them. After a hidden gate has been raised... four horsemen gallop beneath a moonless and starry sky...

 The Turanian war camp completely surrounds Makkalet and cannot endure for longer than a few weeks. Within that self-same camp, Yedigerd is the most somber of men, and is determined to avenge himself upon the barbarian who gave him the scar he now wears... and Makkalet will soon be covered by the shadow of the vulture! Half a mile between Makkalet and the Turanian campfires, Conan's horse knows to keep its hoofbeats unheard... so that they pass by the tents of Yezdigerd... and approach a darkened glade... which is located between a forest which allows them safe passage through the Turanians. Eyes wide open, the four horsemen enter the glade... no birds or animals are heard...

 They soon come upon two Turanian scouts armed with flaming arrows! The initial advantage appears to be theirs, but Conan thinks little of their unmanly weapons, and prefers to trust in his broad-sword -- and a running start -- to render the bow useless--

 Their hands are now stilled!! When Khurusan begins to thank him, he reminds them that he has done his work, and that he knew these two when he was a soldier with the Turanian army... and both of them were worth more than him... On the fifteenth day of relentless riding, they come upon a steep path... and they are to follow the queen's directions... to perform certain rites for Makkalet to have their victory. The proper place for these rites is... THERE!!

 In the center of the wide glade are the Black Monoliths of Xuthltan! Justin the blind hermit has brought his young daughter along and is to help them ready the sacrificial braziers! Tonight when the moon is right, they will make their prayers to the nameless god! Khurusan and the blind hermit know what night this is. The Cimmerian youth guides his horse closer to the stones... their carvings look familiar to him... but he does not know why... "They say foul things of olden times still lurk in dark forgotten corners of the world... and gates still gape to loose on certain nights...shapes pent in hell!" Justin has said what he had to say! When Conan asks the old man what he meant by certain nights, his non-Hyrkanian gives him away!

 As the blind hermit tells his daughter to follow him to their village, Khurusan strikes him down with his sword. Yaar and Akhaan use their sword handles to knock the barbarian senseless. The moon has risen higher... and the Cimmerian gazes once more into Hyrkanian eyes... He is about to join the Turanians... in death.

 The rulers of Makkalet have commanded this, for the Hyrkanians are an ancient race... descended from those who once ruled in ancient Lemuria. They have known other gods than the Living Tarim... and will tonight make sacrifice to these gods! Khurusan bids Yaar Ali and Akhaan to step forward to bear witness to this unholy rite -- and they come close enough for Khurusan to cut them down! The daughter is to become the opener of the way. He calls upon the taloned lords who yet lurk in nameless gulfs -- for the middle eve of summer is close at hand--! Tonight when they enter our world from theirs --

 They swim upon crimson rivers -- the life's-blood of a freshly slain maiden! As Khurusan bids the nether-lord come, something shimmers above them... and blots out moon and stars! It congeals and clots like blood...! Conan strains to see -- a giant toad-like creature... who squats atop the two monoliths! The young Cimmerian ceases struggling for a moment, his barbarian mind frozen with fear... and as the toad-like creature makes its way down the stone monolith... his barbarian muscles react against his bonds...!

 These hasty ties are unable to withstand his determination to be free. Even as he reaches for a fallen sword and leaps towards Khurusan, his legs are still bound. The barbarian has reached the end of his rope -- in the worst of ways. The toad-creature is still making its way down the monolith... and Khurusan is still mouthing his forgotten words! Conan knows that those who call up demons... often cannot retain control over them. He is eager to see what happens when it is Khurusan who is standing nearer to the unearthly creature!

 The toad-creature's form is now clearly seen against the moonlight... its unblinking eyes reflecting all the lust, the greed, and other cruelties that have dogged man since their distant ancestors swung from the treetops! In those unholy eyes are secrets that sleep in the sunken cities, and that cannot withstand the light of day. All of this the barbarian has grasped -- and has forgotten in a single instant! He has seen that the toad-creature is coming for him! It has bypassed Khurusan... the dead Hyrkanians and the daughter who have served as blood-sacrifice... IT IS COMING FOR HIM!!

 Khurusan taunts him to flee for the glade -- before it can catch him! He knows he will never reach the glade in time! He returns his gaze toward the slithering monstrosity... and sends his scimitar up to its hilt into its head -- and still it comes! As the Cimmerian youth curses the gods who have brought him here... he suddenly remembers... that the carved runes upon the monoliths... match those on the armlet given to him by Melissandra!

 At the last possible moment, Conan removes the armlet, and hurls it to the startled Hyrkanian -- who catches it! Now they will both see which of them the toad-creature wants to play with! Khurusan gazes at the armlet. His gaze falls upon what is fast approaching, and is now upon him! "AAAAEEEEAAAAAHH!"

 Following a thunderous croak, the toad-creature suddenly turns, and leaps into black swirls of smoke which writhe down from the twin monoliths. It leaps... its monstrous form engulfed... and vanishes from sight... Conan is now alone... with the dead. The girl should have stayed at home... had a family... She had asked why before she died... but never got an answer. She and Conan are not ones to understand the why and wherefore of things.

 Each of them merely live and die at their own appointed time. With the coming of dawn, he spots the armlet which attracted the toad-creature first to him and then to Khurusan... as flies are drawn to carrion. The Cimmerian youth remembers the one who gave him the armlet, with her sad eyes and sweet honeyed words... The queen will think it has done its work... for he will not return. The barbarian will keep his word and relay the message to gather allies for Makkalet. Once that has been completed, he will part ways, and return to the Hyborian lands... where there are those who stalk with their bloody sword in hand, and honest hatred in their eyes... not with fair skin, and softness of the morning dew...!

 I've enjoyed the art of Craig Russell on Killraven in Amazing Adventures.

 I especially enjoy how Mr. Russell renders the background with a variety of textures.

 I've enjoyed the art of Val Mayerik on Man-Thing, Frankenstein, and Howard the Duck.

 I especially enjoy how Mr. Mayerik renders the characters' facial features and expressions.

 From the Grand Comics Database Entry: "According to an interview with Craig Russell in Conan: The Jewels of Gwahlur, only the first page and a couple of separate panels were fully drawn by Barry Smith, Val Mayerik did the completed figure work and Craig Russell did the backgrounds. It was Inker Dan Adkins who fell behind and called on them to do finished inks."

 "In Back Issue #67, Craig Russell stated he along with Val Mayerik did the finished pencil work, with Craig Russell, Val Mayerik and Mark Kersey completing the inking."

 An arrow in the back is worth a smithy's hammer in hand and a miller's staff in the head!

 Conan should beware queens bearing gifts.

 When the Cimmerian comes a'running, it's the Turanian scouts who are the ones to be startled out of their saddles.

 Monoliths were big in 2001.

 The barbarian and the toad creature were not going to be friends.

 Conan played his scimitar to its hilt.

 In accepting Mellisandra's gift, it was now Khurusan's turn to croak.

 Steve Chung
 "The Review Of The Monoliths!"

Conan The Barbarian #17: "The Gods Of Bal-Sagoth"

Conan The Barbarian #17
 "The Gods Of Bal-Sagoth"
 August, 1972

 Roy Thomas: Writer
 Gil Kane: Artist
 Ralph Reese: Inker
 John Costanza: Letterer
 Adapted from the story by Robert E. Howard
 creator of Conan

 The sound of thunder on the sea and the clashing of sword against mace... the screams of those who are going to die cuts through the roaring of waves and of wind... and in the center of it all: Conan the Barbarian! If they manage to kill the Cimmerian youth -- the others will follow as sheep beneath the axe!

 The Turanian galley crew fight desperately against pirates made up of Zingaran corsairs, Zamoulan nomads, naval deserters... and an armored Aquilonian army deserter... who has come so far to die beneath Conan's sword! Fafnir's voice thunders behind the Cimmerian and the flat of his great axe plays momentarily upon the barbarian's skull... and Conan's world fades into darkness! His consciousness slowly returns... his head throbs against the swaying deck... until his eyes behold the one from Shadizar -- who was run through by his fellow thief! Blackrat did not have enough strength to thrust his sword properly!

 Fafnir's men would have gladly slain the Cimmerian along with the rest of the crew... and let him spare him only if he were tied to the mast. The ship is being blown ever onward by the wind and Fafnir would rather have remained in his native Vanaheim. The Cimmerian youth has had his experiences with them on the Aesgaard borders! He will be loosed from his bonds if he swears to help them steer the ship. Before Conan can speak his defiance, they see the white mist, and the ship strikes a hidden reef! They must abandon ship and Fafnir heads for Conan with knife in hand!

 His hands are now free to risk the shark-infested waters with the rest of them. Before he enters Dagon's cellar, Conan decides to arm himself with a sword! The Cimmerian youth sees the white mist ahead and in that moment, the ship strikes the hidden reef once again... its masts snap and the prow breaks like glass! As the ship shudders against the reef, Conan has already dove over the side, and the waters close in on him... with his lungs close to bursting.

 He has found air once more and spots a man laying on a piece of wreckage... Mere yards away from the limp forms approaches a shark's fin! The Cimmerian youth dives... and his Hyrkanian sword cuts into the shark's underbelly... time and time again... until there is a crimson stain where a sea creature once swam! It is Fafnir who was saved and they are now even. They are now inside the mist -- where none have gone before! They hear the breakers and see an isle within the mist... They are about to hit it hard!

 Minutes later, the dawn sun bears witness as two men drag themselves to shore... The Cimmerian youth has got a score to settle with the Vanirman. Fafnir has no quarrel with him, but Conan is determined that only one of them will walk away from this beach. Many corpses were left in Cimmeria and the youth would extract payment from the Vanirman! Fafnir does not find this to his liking, but Conan's sole regret is that Vanaheim does not have only one breast for his sword to cleave!

 Fafnir's axe swings first, but Conan avoids it, and his own sword slashes wildly... Fafnir is unable to make headway, then lowers his axe...! When the Cimmerian youth bids him to raise his weapon, the Vanirman refuses! It is only when Conan gazes into Fafnir's face and sees his respectful smile... his sudden bloodlust leaves him. They are now friends.

 SKRAW They both hear the fiendish sound and wonder if there are devils here -- A fleeing girl needs their help and the Cimmerian youth obliges her by leaping to her defense against her pursuer -- but he is unable to get a firm grip on the reptile... whose serpentine neck jerks free...

 SKRAWWWW Conan leads his past Fafnir -- who vows by Bragi -- by Ymir -- and by all the gods to break its neck -- or his own heart!! SKRAWWKKK* Unlike Cimmeria's Crom, the Vanirman's gods heeded his oaths! Fafnir will sacrifice a caribou to them -- if he ever gets back to Vanaheim--!

 As Conan vows to get Fafnir home, the Vanirman is grateful he had weakened its neck. The girl would know why they are on the isle of the gods and Conan would learn more about this girl -- of some beauty. She is a Vanir like Fafnir! This is Bal-Sagoth, the oldest land in all the known world! Even Hyrkania -- Khitai -- and Atlantis are as babes compared to it. She is Kyrie, the daughter of Rane the Reaver. Fafnir ran with Rane's band when he was younger. Years ago, Rane and his daughter journeyed East -- but the pirate was no match for the white mists! After the storms, Kyrie was swept ashore by the gods. She was thought to be the sea-goddess Aala by those who found her --

 She was placed in the temple and worshipped with reverence! The child soon learned their language -- and how to use their own childish beliefs --! Only Gothan the high priest knew she was no goddess -- but a mortal woman -- The time came when Gothan stirred the other priests and their warriors against her! Those who had been faithful to her were slaughtered! Because she was thought of as a goddess, she was not slain by Gothan. They rowed her across the lagoon which splits the isle in two -- and left her to her fate! Groth-Golka was the last of the lizard-gods and was now as dead as the past! It is time to speak of the future and she wants them to come with her to win back her kingdom! If they do, they will receive honors! If she leads them to food, Conan vows to hack his way through a horde of priests and warriors to fill his own belly! Fafnir agrees, then wonders what the three of them could do against an entire city!

 There is a legend about the arrival of two men from the sea causing the fall of Bal-Sagoth! She thinks their arrival will cause the citizens to rush to her for aid! Kyrie vows to hurl both Gothan and his puppet king from the highest battlement, and to sleep in her own palace this evening! The three of them pass through the shadowy forest. They are soon across the lagoon separating them from the ramparts of Bal-Sagoth! Even as they gaze upon the sight, they are also being watched!

 As a slave runs off to alert Gothan, Kyrie bids them to build a raft, and get across the shark-infested waters. When asked why she did not slay Gothan, they learn that the high priest is regarded as a god himself. Bal-Sagoth is a city of many gods, the greatest being Gol-Gorth, the god of darkness. She forbade the worship of his image -- and even ordered her men to destroy it. The doors to his temple were bolted -- but Gothan must have opened them once more -- and slain her own priests on the ebon altars! They are three against a nation of fools! The gate is smited and the portals swing inward--!

 Once inside, Kyrie becomes Aala, and now speaks in a loud voice -- There are no words for the goddess' return. The Cimmerian youth gazes upon a very old man who seems more like a lean serpent. In that selfsame moment, the Cimmerian knows he has gazed upon Gothan -- the dark god's priest! Fafnir and Conan wait for the girl to make her move! She sees Gothan wearing the jade amulet of kingship and asks why his puppet king not wear it for a while! As for Ska -- he remembers she was doomed by decree to be placed beyond the lagoon!

 She has returned from there with those who slew the lizard god Groth-Golka! These are the two men who have emerged from the sea!! They have come to fulfill the ancient prophecy and to overthrow Bal-Sagoth, whose people worship false gods! She will forgive them if they give her the head of the high priest Gothan! They must rise up against him -- restore the amulet of royal power to her -- or else the sun shall set on what remains of this once-city! Ska remembers the tradition which states that a king must fight a challenger's champion for his crown -- or else be hurled from the highest parapet, in the coming dawn! Gothan bids Ska to stop, but the puppet knows that he is still the king!

 Gothan did not place the crown upon Ska's head to have him lose it upon a whim! It is up to the high priest to handle this, for Ska has gotten quite fond of both crown and his own head! As Aala prepares to select her champion, Gothan reminds the false goddess that a friend of the king may fight in his stead -- if he rises unbidden! Ska has no friends that have not been paid off in gold -- but the king's defender has come! Vertorix has arrived! The wholly-armored figure of Vertorix descends the stairs -- his stride more of an executioner than a warrior! In that moment, the Cimmerian youth knows which of them must face him! Across the abyss, Conan faces off against Vertorix -- and the eyes of Gothan are upon them both.

 They silently circle one another -- the Cimmerian's eyes ablaze with hatred -- the other with eyes of obsidian! It suddenly begins! The armored one's blade sings past Conan's ear, slowed by its wielder's sheer weight! The Cimmerian youth sees his chance and takes it! His opponent has got a jaw of iron! Vertorix's sword whistles once more and the barbarian is backed into a corner -- The blood-rage consumes Conan -- who strikes ever harder -- until his armored opponent must give ground -- as silently as he has held it!

 As Fafnir wishes he could have a go against Vertorix, Aala eyes Gothan, and sees that the wizard does not move while Vertorix does just that! Although his head is well-shielded, the Cimmerian is curious to see the effect of his sword upon his opponent's -- neck? Conan can only gape at the sight of his now-headless opponent and the sword which threatens to sever his own head from his body! The barbarian ducks in time and the others see the armor is empty!

 The Cimmerian's sword strikes again and a severed forearm drops to the floor -- there are now beads of sweat upon Gothan's brow, and Vertorix arcs his sword -- to shatter Conan's own blade -- The Cimmerian is rooted to the spot by his own fear of the unknown -- Just as the headless Vertorix is about to strike the death blow -- the crimson-haired goddess strides across the marble court -- and turns to face both the high priest -- and the sun's baleful glare! With the sun in his eyes, Gothan can no longer see!!

 The Cimmerian youth watches as the high priest shields his eyes -- the mighty Ventorix and his armor have come undone! It was Gothan's gaze that moved him! As the people crave their goddess and their queen, Conan searches the crowd for both Gothan and Ska! They must have gone into the shadows to brew up more trouble! It is time to celebrate -- and Conan remembers a dream that told him he would become a ruler one day -- so why not here?

 On the cover of Conan The Barbarian #17 by Gil Kane and Frank Brunner, the Cimmerian must hold his own against an armored opponent, and carry an unconscious maiden at the same time!

 Fafnir knows how to play a mean tune on Conan's skull with the flat of his axe.

 Conan knows Fafnir from the story, "Devil Wings Over Shadizar!"

 Thanks to his Hyrkanian sword, the Cimmerian youth did not end up in the belly of the sea-beast.

 Although the armor of Vertorix was empty, he was far from an empty threat for Conan.

 Gunfighters and swordfighters know enough to never let the sun get into their eyes.

 The Cimmerian witnessed the prophecy of his becoming a ruler in the very first issue of his Marvel mag.

 Conan the Barbarian would one day rule the kingdom of Aquilonia.

 Steve Chung
 "The Review Of Bal-Sagoth!"