Dust of Dreams (Malazan Book of the Fallen, #9)

by Steven Erikson

‘And as every Malazan soldier knows, a life before joining the ranks has no bearing once the vows are sworn and the kit is issued. There exist no barriers to advancement beyond competence—’ ‘And sometimes not even that, sir.’

‘By all means. This has proved most fascinating.’ ‘What has? I haven’t started yet.’ ‘Just so. Proceed, then, sir.’

‘Where are we?’ ‘The Wastelands.’ ‘Ah, that explains it, then.’ ‘Explains what?’ ‘Why, all this . . . waste.’

Henar Vygulf hated crowds. He probably hated people. Could be he hated the world.