Malazan Book of the Fallen · Character
Hounds of Shadow
- Minor
- First seen · Book 2 · Ch. 20
There is something ancient and terrible about these massive hounds, their presence filling the space like storm clouds gathering. Each carries the weight of old power in their scarred forms, moving with the terrible grace of predators who have hunted across ages.
- First appears
- Book 2 · Ch. 20
- Books
- 1 of 2 read
The Hounds of Shadow first manifest in Deadhouse Gates as ancient, otherworldly entities whose loyalty can be commanded by those with sufficient power. Their pack—comprising Shan, Rood, Gear, Baran, and Blind—appears battle-scarred yet formidable, serving as both weapons and guardians in the desperate struggles of the Seven Cities uprising. Across the series, these hounds evolve from enigmatic allies into pivotal forces whose ancient power and mysterious origins become increasingly central to the metaphysical conflicts that span the Malazan world.
Description · as of Book 2
The Hounds of Shadow appear as formidable allies in the desperate struggles of the world, their ancient power serving those who can command them. Shan bears the marks of recent battle across her flanks, while Rood's pale mottled form reveals the raw strength beneath. Together with Gear, Baran, and Blind, they form a pack whose loyalty and ferocity make them invaluable in the darkest hours, their presence a reminder that some powers transcend the mortal realm.
Story so far
BOOK 2Deadhouse Gates
- Appear as formidable allies during the struggles of the Seven Cities uprising
- Shan bears visible marks of recent battle across her flanks
- Rood's pale mottled form reveals raw strength beneath battle damage
- The pack (Shan, Rood, Gear, Baran, Blind) demonstrates loyalty and ferocity in darkest hours
- Serve as a reminder that some powers transcend the mortal realm
Appearances
Meet Hounds of Shadow in Bookworm
Meet Hounds of Shadow in your EPUB — spoiler-safe to Book 2.