Preservation

Preservation is a Shard of Adonalsium in residence on Scadrial. Along with Ruin they power the Metallic Arts.

History
Previous to the story in the first mb, Leras had come into an agreement with Ati (bonded to Ruin), to create the planet, in agreement that one day Ruin could have his way with the planet. But Leras wished for more, and so "gave up part of himself" in order to give sentience to the humans on the planet. He knew that Ati would take advantage of this and so imprisoned Ati, reducing his influence on the world.

In the years leading to the formation of the Final Empire, Ruin subtly affected the Terris prophecies, indicating that the person who takes the power at the Well of Ascension should give it up, for the betterment of humanity. Alendi attempts this, but is stopped by Rashek when Kwaan discovers Ruin's alterations. Rashek 'touches' Preservation, and uses the power at the Well to reshape the world, making lots of mistakes.

After a thousand year reign over the Final Empire, Rashek the Lord Ruler is slain by Vin, as both Leras and Ati prepare for the refilling of the Well. Vin accidentally releases Ati from the prison before Sazed discovers Kwaan's warning about the alterations, and when Leras finally perishes, in front of Elend Venture, Kelsier looks after Preservation and guides Vin into Ascending to become the new personality. After Elend's death, Vin and Ati fight to their deaths, and Sazed takes control of both shards.

It is theorised that Hoid sends a letterto Sazed sometime between the Mistborn trilogy and .

People
A number of people have come in contact with the shard Presevation. Leras presumably became bonded at the shattering. After Rashek uses the power held in the Well of Ascension he is given the title of Sliver of Infinity, and Vin becomes a Sliver when she releases Ruin. Upon the death of Leras, Kelsier guides the shard and maybe encourages Vin to bond it. After Vin and Ati destroy each other, Sazed bonds with both shards.