Zagor LU #120: Ključevi pakla

In Ključevi pakla, a blizzard cuts Burgess Castle off from the outside world as a series of terrifying deaths unfolds within its walls. Zagor, Chico and detective Bat Batterton are among those unable to leave. With each new victim, fear strengthens the belief that a supernatural force is responsible.

At the centre of the mystery lies the castle library and a supposedly hidden book, De Clavibus Inferi, believed to hold the means of summoning Satan. A sect seeks its power, but Zagor must examine the evidence, the guests’ behaviour and the circumstances of the deaths before accepting an explanation shaped by terror.

Moreno Burattini combines detective fiction with Gothic atmosphere and occult themes. The isolated setting, restricted circle of suspects and threat of another killing recall the classic country-house murder mystery. Zagor’s powers of observation and deduction become as important as his courage.

Gaetano Cassaro illustrates the conclusion of the two-part adventure begun in Ludens #119, Demonska knjiga. Batterton’s clumsiness offers moments of humour without dispelling the danger: every new crime reduces the time available to uncover the truth. Both issues are recommended for the complete story.