# II: The Tree of Death explained — Conan Stories

> Chapter companion for Conan Stories by Robert E. Howard.

## What happens

Conan is crucified by Constantius outside the walls of Khauran after being betrayed and captured during a coup. He endures torture and thirst, but is eventually rescued by Olgerd Vladislav and his nomads, who cut him down and test his endurance.

## Themes in this chapter

### Survival and Individualism

Conan's endurance on the cross and his rescue by Olgerd highlight the theme of individual toughness and survival against overwhelming odds.

### Power and Corruption

Constantius's seizure of power and the false queen's betrayal illustrate the corrupting influence of power.

### Honor and Loyalty

Conan's loyalty to the true queen and his defiance of Constantius underscore the theme of honor.

## Character check-ins

### Conan

Crucified and left to die; rescued by Olgerd's band; shows immense fortitude.

### Olgerd Vladislav

Outlaw chief who orders Conan cut down and tests his toughness.

### Constantius

Voivode who orchestrated the coup and crucified Conan.

### Taramis

Queen of Khauran; mentioned as having been replaced by an impostor during the coup.

### Djebal

Nomad who cuts down the cross and removes the spikes from Conan's hands.

## Key lines

> If he's worthy to ride with me he'll survive it. If not, then he doesn't deserve to live. Cut!

Olgerd declares that Conan must prove his worth by surviving the fall of the cross.

_Demonstrates Olgerd's harsh code of merit and Conan's trial by ordeal._

> I am sorry, captain, that I cannot remain to ease your last hours, but I have duties to perform in yonder city—I must not keep your delicious queen waiting!

Constantius mockingly bids Conan farewell, hinting at his liaison with the false queen.

_Highlights Constantius's cruelty and the political betrayal._

> The city had betrayed him—trapped him into circumstances that left him hanging to a wooden cross like a hare nailed to a tree.

Conan feels betrayed by Khauran, which led to his crucifixion.

_Captures Conan's sense of betrayal and desire for vengeance._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/conan_stories_se/chapters/ii-the-tree-of-death
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/conan_stories_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/conan_stories_se/chapters