Conan The Cimmerian #25
Despite the fact that this issue is both the final issue in this storyline and the final issue in this series it can still be read and enjoyed on its own. This accessibility stems from the fact that the issue focuses on two action packed sequences that wrap everything in this storyline up in one neat bundle. SPOILER WARNING The nature of the first of these two action packed sequences is revealed as soon as you open the cover Conan must fight for his life against a man eating gray ape. In the other action sequence, which makes up the rest of this issue, the Pirates of the Red Brotherhood must battle the supernatural menace that lurks in the ancient ruins on this island. Needless to say, they do not fare well against these unholy monsters and many, if not most, of the buccaneers are killed. Conan fairs better against his savage opponent but only by the slimmest of margins. END SPOILER WARNING
The Red Brotherhood’s battle is covered through a few quick glimpses while Conan’s fight for life is covered in intimate detail. Tomas Giorello’s fine artwork and the skillful layout of the fight keep Conan’s life or death struggle tense and interesting from beginning to end.
SPOILER WARNING In the end, after both of the separate battles have played out, the two very different out comes result in Conan becoming the new leader of the Red Brotherhood. With his new position one phase of Conan’s life has come to an end and a new phase begins. At the end of the issue, Conan also finally seems to have taken notice of the woman, Olivia. END SPOILER WARNING Leave it to Conan to lose everything he has, to fall as low as possible, only to bounce back and raise to the top again, while at the same time, winning the heart of another gorgeous woman. In the end, if you are looking for a solid action filled story then this issue is for you. If you are looking to read something with more substance then check out the whole Conan series.
Keith Forney