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Conan Stories · Chapter

IV: The Attack from the Air explained

Conan, alone on a pyramid amid the ruins of the accursed city, waits for his unseen foes after the death of Bêlit.

What happens

Conan, alone on a pyramid amid the ruins of the accursed city, waits for his unseen foes after the death of Bêlit. He is attacked by a pack of supernatural hyenas, which he fights off with his bow and sword. The pyramid collapses, pinning him, and a winged monster rushes at him. Bêlit's spirit appears to save him, and Conan slays the monster. He then cuts the galley adrift and watches over Bêlit's pyre on the Tigress.

Themes in this chapter

  • Supernatural and Ancient Evil

    The winged monster and the supernatural hyenas embody ancient, diabolical forces that Conan must confront.

  • Love and Sacrifice

    Bêlit's spirit returns from death to shield Conan, demonstrating a love that transcends the grave.

  • Survival and Individualism

    Conan stands alone against overwhelming supernatural foes, relying on his own strength and will to survive.

Characters to notice

  • Conan

    Sits on the pyramid awaiting attack, fights hyenas and the winged monster, and mourns Bêlit.

  • Bêlit

    Lies dead on a pyre aboard the Tigress; her spirit appears to save Conan from the winged monster.

  • N'Gora

    Mentioned as having fled in panic from the winged monster and fallen over a cliff.

Key passages

  • “Were I still in death and you fighting for life I would come back from the abyss—”

    Even if I were dead, I would return from the underworld to help you in battle.

    Bêlit's passionate vow to Conan, fulfilled when her spirit intervenes.

  • “The oldest race in the world was extinct.”

    The ancient winged creature, the last of its kind, was killed by Conan.

    Conan's slaying of the winged monster ends a primordial lineage.

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