Writer Kurt Busiek and artist Greg Ruth team up to give you the story of Conan's early life, from his birth on a Cimmerian battlefield to his coming-of-age as a warrior in the pivotal Battle of Venarium. Sewing the seeds of the Barbarian's momentous career, this chronicle of Conan's youthful conquests - both martial and carnal-also showcases master storytellers Busiek and Ruth's work at its finest. '[Ruth's art] is gorgeous to look at, conveying a different but equally lush vision of Cimmeria and the rest of Hyborea.' - The Fourth Rail 'Ruth captures both the beauty of the unspoiled land and the ugliness of such a rugged life in perfect measure.' - The Fourth Rail • Direct Market exclusive hardcover! The origin of the barbarian!