Taking readers back to the turbulent early history of what would become the Malazan Empire, the enthralling fourth chapter in Esslemont's acclaimed epic fantasy series 'Path to Ascendancy'. After decades of warfare, Malazan forces are now close to consolidating the Quon Talian mainland. Yet it is at this moment that Emperor Kellanved orders a new campaign far to the north: the invasion of Falar. Since the main Malazan armies are otherwise engaged in Quon Tali, a collection of orphaned units and broken squads has been brought together under Fist Dujek - himself recovering from the loss of an arm - to fight this new campaign. A somewhat rag-tag army, joined by a similarly motley fleet under the command of the Emperor himself. These are bloody, turbulent and treacherous times for all caught up in the forging of the Malazan Empire.