The Company of Shadow was an 'army' composed of some thirteen hundred orphaned Malazan children (crucifixion victims of the renegade Korbolo Dom) who had travelled with the Malazan 7th Army on its retreat to Aren during the Seven Cities rebellion. These children were trained and commanded by Minala, assisted by the Aptorian demoness, Apt (who had been instrumental in saving the children and having them healed/resurrected by Shadowthrone) and Kalam Mekhar. This Company of Shadow was then tasked by Shadowthrone with protecting the Imass First Throne from being taken over by enemies of Shadowthrone and Cotillion.