C.B. Cebulski

In this story we follow Conan leading the embassy from Aquilonia to the mysterious land on the East - Khitai. Here Khitai is a country that is basically blend of Chinese and Japanese in our "universe". We can see some elements of wuxia kung-fu but also samurai warriors and ninja's. In any case blending was done in excellent and seamless way.

Art is very good and scenes of battle are very well done. There is no confusion for the reader and it is very clear what goes on.

Only thing that is missing here is a more thought-out story. Story is ... how to say it, underwhelming. We have our deal of monsters and wizards so that the story resonates with readers of Conan's adventures but they remain nothing else than a prop - even the story climax seems like an afterthought. Also mysterious tribe that helps Conan's escort seems like something that was planned to be used in a more constructive way but was left out for whatever reason. If only the story was presented in a better way.

In general very interesting story recommended to all fans of Conan's universe. Alas due to the rather underwhelming story this adventure seems to be on the list of marginalized less-known ones. Which is a shame because main characters are very interesting.… (altro)