Zagor LU #122: Zlato braće Ward

In Zlato braće Ward, the search for hidden loot approaches its conclusion among the ruins of Fort Gallows. The gold comes from robberies committed by the Ward brothers’ gang, and whisky smuggler Willie Drink knows its hiding place. Red Archer and his accomplice Sarita want the fortune, but their ambitions become entangled with a conflict among the Delaware and Zagor’s efforts to prevent further violence.

The fort has an ominous reputation, and its ruins are less deserted than they appear. Zagor and Red Archer encounter a mysterious inhabitant whom the local people identify as Tawiskara, the Spirit of Evil. Double Knife’s warriors add another threat to an already dangerous confrontation.

Jacopo Rauch combines a crime-driven treasure hunt with western adventure and horror atmosphere. Greed and past crimes shape the characters’ motives, while the supposedly cursed location introduces a danger that cannot readily be explained. Roberto D’Arcangelo illustrates the concluding chapter as competing interests converge at the ruined fort.

This issue completes the two-part adventure begun in Ludens #121, Delaware. The storyline also marks Rauch’s first published Zagor adventure, making it an interesting early example of his contribution to the series.