Malazan Book of the Fallen, #1
Gardens of the Moon
by Steven Erikson
Contents
Prologue
Overview
Amid riots and uncontrolled sorcery in Malaz City’s Mouse Quarter, young Ganoes Paran observes imperial tensions from Mock’s Hold. A Bridgeburner commander clashes verbally with Surly, who now claims the name Laseen, signaling her rising power. Rumors of Dassem Ultor’s death deepen uncertainty as Ganoes vows to be a soldier.
Summary
From Mock’s Hold above Malaz City, twelve-year-old Ganoes Stabro Paran watches smoke and magical explosions engulf the Mouse Quarter. He studies a Bridgeburner commander on the wall and asks about rumors that First Sword Dassem Ultor has died at Y’Ghatan. The commander, wary and scarred, cautions Ganoes about the dangers of being noticed by the gods and dismisses heroism.
A younger Bridgeburner with a broken, scorched fiddle arrives, noting the panic among inexperienced mages and hinting that some obey other orders. Their exchange suggests internal divisions and foreshadows political shifts, including Surly’s adoption of the name Laseen. The commander remains skeptical but concerned about the chaos below.
Surly appears with two Claw bodyguards, confronting the commander over the riot suppression. She prioritizes enforcing her new anti-sorcery laws, while the commander argues the crackdown is excessive and predicts the Emperor will overturn it. Their cold standoff reveals Surly’s growing authority during the Emperor’s absence and her intent to sideline the Bridgeburners.
After Surly departs, the commander orders Dujek and a wing to assist and calls for sappers to contain the fires, acting to stabilize the situation despite political friction. Ganoes, impressed and defiant of his merchant heritage, declares he will become a soldier. The scene closes with the city’s stench and flames underscoring the Empire’s turmoil and Ganoes’s nascent resolve.
Who Appears
- Ganoes Stabro ParanTwelve-year-old noble observing the riots; questions soldiers; resolves to become a soldier.
- Bridgeburner commanderScarred officer overseeing response; clashes with Surly; orders Dujek and sappers to aid the city.
- Surly (Laseen)Napan power broker with Claw; enforces anti-sorcery laws; asserts authority during the Emperor’s absence.
- Bridgeburner with a scorched fiddleYounger soldier noting panicked mages and hidden orders; warns of Surly’s rise.
- Claw bodyguardsTwo silent enforcers flanking Surly, signaling her growing power and intimidation.