The People of the Black Circle

"The People of the Black Circle" by Robert E. Howard is a story chronicling the last days of Vendhya's king, Bunda Chand, and his sister Yasmina's frantic quest to rescue him from a perceived magical curse. Yasmina's fears of sorcery, instead of poison, propel her into a world of treachery and dark magic. The narrative explores themes of revenge and betrayal. Conan and the nobles bring a political element by introducing a major side plot about tribal leader captures, and the possibility of war, which builds an atmosphere of suspense. The story ends on an increasing note of peril, hinting at future conflicts involving magic, retribution, and old loyalties, as Yasmina embarks on her mission for justice.