Night of Knives - Ian Esslemont

The tranquil island of Malaz, from which the empire takes its name, now stands as a modest and quiet harbor town. Yet, on this particular night, the atmosphere is anything but calm. The city is alive with tension and bustling activity. Residents hurry through the streets, securing their homes, closing shutters, and avoiding eye contact with strangers. Tonight marks the rare convergence of a Shadow Moon, an event fraught with danger, bringing forth demon hounds and ominous entities that haunt the people of Malaz.This night is also steeped in prophecy, predicting the return of the enigmatic Emperor Kellanved. Various factions, eager to control the imperial throne, are ready to go to great lengths to prevent his comeback. Amidst the turmoil within the empire, the Shadow Moon summons an ancient and formidable force set on launching a full-scale attack on the island.Among the witnesses to these formidable events are Kiska, a young girl desperate to break free from the city's confinements, and Temper, a weary veteran hoping to leave his past behind. Both find themselves drawn into a struggle that will shape the destiny not just of Malaz City, but the wider world.Inspired by the prologue of "Gardens of the Moon," Steven Erikson's acclaimed fantasy series, "Night of Knives" is a pivotal episode in the intricately-crafted saga of Malaz.