Steven Erickson is the pseudonym of the Canadian writer Steve Rooney Lundin, known for the fantasy cycle “The Malazan Book of the Fallen,” which began with the novel “Gardens of the Moon” in 1999. The story was written in 2010 and belongs to this cycle. There were five of them - tired, exhausted soldiers of fortune, defeated in battle. Fate brought them to a village forgotten by the gods, located near a dilapidated fortress. All they need is a little respite, shelter for one night, even if it is a night in an abandoned stronghold. many years ago. But why are local residents sure that foreigners cannot survive this night?..