T'lan Imass

An undead race that once dominated the world before humans, represented by Onos Toolan accompanying Adjunct Lorn.

The T'lan Imass appear in Gardens of the Moon as an undead race that once dominated the world before humans. In the novel, Adjunct Lorn is accompanied by Onos Toolan, a member of this ancient people sent to uncover secrets east of Darujhistan. They are described not merely as monsters but as a force from a time prior to human civilization, possessing immense power and a connection to the deep history of the Malazan world. Their presence signals a shift in the campaign's scope, bringing magical and mythical elements directly into the struggle for Genabackis.

Quick Facts

Race: Undead race
Key character mentioned: Onos Toolan
Association: Accompanied Adjunct Lorn

Lore & Background

The source identifies the T'lan Imass as an undead race that once dominated the world before humans. In Gardens of the Moon, they are introduced through the character Onos Toolan, who accompanies Adjunct Lorn on her mission east of Darujhistan. It only establishes their status as undead beings with a historical dominance over the world prior to humanity's rise. Their role in the narrative is primarily functional: they serve as powerful allies or agents sent by higher powers to influence the unfolding conflict between the Malazan Empire and the forces of Darujhistan.

Reader's Guide

The T'lan Imass serve as a plot device representing the deep, pre-human history of the world. When encountering them in Gardens of the Moon, readers should note their connection to Adjunct Lorn's mission and the broader involvement of supernatural entities like Cotillion and Oponn. They are defined by their ancient dominance and their current status as an undead force, acting as extensions of the wills that deploy them in the struggle for power across Genabackis.

Origins and Development

The Malazan world was initially created as a backdrop for a table-top role-playing game by Steven Erikson and Ian C. Esslemont. Dissatisfied with the lack of adult-oriented fantasy movies, they attempted to write a movie script titled Gardens of the Moon, which failed to sell due to being deemed too risky. Erikson reworked this script into a novel between 1991–92.

Narrative Scope and Setting

The narrative takes place during the campaign to conquer Genabackis, specifically focusing on the siege of Pale and the invasion of Darujhistan. The T'lan Imass are introduced as part of the forces sent by Adjunct Lorn, operating in the hills east of Darujhistan. This setting highlights the convergence of military strategy and ancient magic, with Onos Toolan serving as a key figure linking the mortal conflict to the deeper history of the world.

Character Dynamics and Subplots

Onos Toolan is the only T'lan Imass character explicitly named in the source for Gardens of the Moon. He acts as a companion to Adjunct Lorn, contrasting with other characters like Whiskeyjack and Paran who are involved in the Bridgeburners' infiltration of Darujhistan.

Thematic Depth and Genre Innovation

The inclusion of the T'lan Imass supports Erikson's theme of dismantling fantasy conventions by introducing a race that defies typical hero/villain dichotomies. Their presence adds to the ambivalence and ambiguity of the story, where ancient forces intervene in mortal affairs without clear moral alignment. The source notes that reviewers praised the novel for avoiding 'fairy tale distinctions between good and evil,' a theme reinforced by the enigmatic nature of the T'lan Imass.