The Deepness
The all-consuming mist that once threatened Scadrial, later revealed as Ruin.
In the Mistborn series, 'The Deepness' is an official in-world proper noun used to describe the entity or phenomenon that covered Scadrial in a deadly mist, later revealed to be the Shard Ruin. It is not a location such as the Pits of Surin or the Well of Ascension.
- Type
- In-World Entity / Phenomenon
- Associated Locations
- Scadrial (global phenomenon)
- First Appears
- Mistborn: The Final Empire (as concept)
- Status
- Revealed as Ruin
- World
- Scadrial
Lore & Background
The Deepness was a terrifying force that blanketed the world in a thick, unnatural mist, causing crops to fail and life to wither. It was later uncovered to be the Shard Ruin, acting in opposition to Preservation. This phenomenon predates the Final Empire and is a key element in the mythology of Scadrial, distinct from any specific underground location.
In Their Own Story
The air down here tastes of rust and old secrets. Kelsier's boots crunched on ash that had settled for centuries, the only sound in the crushing silence. He looked up; no stars pierced this darkness, only the faint glow of his own metal. The walls closed in, not with stone, but with history. This was where the world ended and began again.
Reader's Guide
When exploring Scadrial's lore, understanding its deep locations is key to grasping the conflict between Ruin and Preservation. The Pits of Surin are infamous for their role in the Lord Ruler's reign, serving as a grim reminder of his absolute control. The Well of Ascension lies at the planet's core, acting as a focal point for divine power. While 'The Deepness' isn't an official map label, it effectively describes these zones where Allomancy and Feruchemy interact with the raw forces of the Shards. Travelers should be wary; these areas are often guarded by powerful magic or dangerous creatures. In the Wax and Wayne era, such places remain largely mythic, though their influence persists in the metalwork and history of Elendel.
Did You Know?
- The Deepness is an official in-world term for the entity later revealed to be Ruin, not a fan-derived descriptor.
- The Pits of Surin were used to imprison those who threatened the Lord Ruler's rule.
- Vin took up the power of Preservation and later fully ascended, but she did not 'choose to become a god' in the imprecise sense often described; her ascension was a deliberate act of taking up a Shard.
- The Deepness refers to the global mist phenomenon, not to locations like the Well of Ascension or the Pits of Surin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Deepness a character?
No, this term is not an official title for any person or entity in Brandon Sanderson’s Mistborn series. Fans use it colloquially to refer to the dark underground locations like the Pits of Surin and the Well of Ascension.
What powers reside in The Deepness?
These deep places contain the residual power of the Shards Preservation and Ruin, which influence Allomancy and Feruchemy. They serve as focal points where characters can access or alter fundamental magical laws.
Does The Deepness have a specific ending?
Because it describes geographical sites rather than a sentient being, the locations persist beyond the events of the original trilogy. Their narrative role concludes when Sazed combines the Shards above them in the Well of Ascension.
Why do fans search for The Deepness lore?
Readers are often confused by the term because it sounds like a proper noun despite being fan slang for specific plot locations. Understanding this distinction helps clarify discussions about the Pits and the Well in official canon.
Where can I find information on The Deepness?
You will not find this exact phrase in the text, but relevant details exist within Mistborn: The Final Empire and Mistborn: The Well of Ascension. Look for chapters detailing Kelsier’s descent into the Pits or Sazed’s journey to the Well.
More in Cosmere History & Mythos
Elsewhere in the Mistborn universe
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