Synopsis: In the days following Bêlit’s tragic demise, Conan travels through jungles in the southern kingdoms but there’s no time for grief – a deadly hunter stalks the Cimmerian, bent on bloody vengeance. Who is this strange foe and what do they know about the ancient power rising in Stygia?
The Story
Following the death of Bêlit and her pirate crew, Conan traverses the jungles of the southern kingdoms, but there’s little time for grief. A relentless hunter stalks the Cimmerian, showing no signs of giving up.
After a clash with a crocodile, Conan stumbles upon a village of Kush people and attempts to bargain for supplies and water. However, the tribe’s leader is deeply wary of him, insisting he move on—claiming he is cursed.
While resting in a rocky clearing, Conan is attacked by a wild panther—but it quickly becomes clear this is no ordinary beast.
The Artwork
Doug Braithwaite and Diego Rodriguez deliver outstanding artwork in this issue. Braithwaite’s art perfectly captures the taut, tense paranoia Conan feels as he navigates the humid jungle, while Rodriguez’s colors enhance the setting, adding depth to every panel. The sequence where Conan battles a crocodile is just a warm-up for an even more stunning visual showdown later on, as he faces off against a panther. And the final page? Absolutely brilliant—a perfect way to close out the opening chapter of this new story arc.
Artwork
The new arc, with Conan being hunted by a strange force, works really well. I enjoyed how it’s set shortly after Bêlit’s death, adding an emotional layer, especially after the previous arc focused on her. The artwork is fantastic, with both the artist and colorist fully immersing you in the jungle, making it feel like a character in its own right.
Overall, it’s a strong start, with a fantastic final page that sets the stage for what’s to come in future issues.
- Covers9.0
- Story9.6
- Artwork10
- Lettering9.4
- Colours10
