The Gardeners
Former anomalies who farm the Deeps as a cultivated ecosystem, reaping essence through evolution and death.
The Gardeners are higher powers that treat the Deeps not as a wild frontier, but as a meticulously cultivated ecosystem. Neither human nor monster, they are former anomalies that ascended alone to become keepers of this harvest, viewing the cycle of monster evolution and killing as their primary crop. Their existence is defined by patience and a hierarchy designed solely for maintenance and reaping, operating beyond conventional cruelty.
- Origin
- Former anomalies who climbed alone
- Nature
- Neither human nor monster
- Goal
- Reap essence released by evolution and killing
- Hierarchy
- Stewards, Winnowers, Gleaners, Measurers, Eldest
- Tactic
- Use proxies; avoid direct fighting
- Fate
- Ended as farmers in Book 12
Lore & Background
Operating through a distinct hierarchy of Stewards, Winnowers, Gleaners, Measurers, and the Eldest, The Gardeners maintain their yield by viewing organized cooperation among monsters as a direct threat. They do not engage in combat themselves but instead reap through proxies and agents, ensuring the cycle continues uninterrupted. Unveiled in Book 11, these vast entities offered Cael a place among them as a solitary keeper, highlighting their preference for isolation over alliance.
Did You Know?
- The Gardeners are former anomalies that achieved their status by climbing alone.
- They view organized cooperation as a threat to their agricultural yield.
- Their hierarchy includes specific tiers like Measurers and Winnowers with unique functions.
- By Book 12, some were reasoned with and seated at the table while others were broken.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are The Gardeners human or monsters?
They are neither; they are former anomalies that became keepers of the harvest.
Do The Gardeners fight directly in battles?
No, they do not fight directly but reap through proxies and agents instead.
What is their ultimate goal in the Deeps?
They farm the ecosystem to reap the essence released by monster evolution and killing.
How was The Gardeners' existence resolved by Book 12?
They were ended as farmers; some were reasoned with to join the table, while others were broken.