Revisit the epic beginnings of the Marvel Comics Conan the Barbarian saga in this special episode of Hither Came Conan! Steeven dives into Conan the Barbarian #22, a reprint of the legendary first issue, and explores why this story remains a cornerstone of Conan lore.

Set amidst the icy clashes between the Vanir and the Aesir, a young Conan proves his mettle as a mercenary warrior with unmatched strength and cunning. But the battlefield is just the beginning. Lured into the mystical cave of Sharkosh the Shaman, Conan finds himself at the mercy of the Star Stone—a relic of untold power capable of summoning winged demons and revealing visions of humanity's distant past and uncertain future.

Will Conan survive betrayal, ancient magic, and the schemes of gods and mortals alike? Or will the Star Stone’s dark prophecy seal his fate? Packed with larger-than-life battles, awe-inspiring art by Barry Windsor-Smith, and the first glimpse of Conan’s rise to kinghood, this episode celebrates the enduring power of sword-and-sorcery storytelling.

Tune in for a journey back to where it all began—complete with fiery commentary, fascinating behind-the-scenes lore, and Steeven’s unfiltered take on this foundational comic. By Crom, this is one you don’t want to miss!

Conan the Barbarian #22, a reprint of Conan the Barbarian #1: The Coming of Conan by Roy Thomas, Barry Windsor Smith, Dan Adkins, and Sam Rosen was published by Marvel Comics in October, 1972.

Enjoy!

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