Soulcutting

Soulcutting is a concept that appears in certain fictional narratives, particularly within fantasy genres. It generally refers to a magical or supernatural act where a being's soul is physically or energetically divided, extracted, or severed. This division can result in the creation of multiple fragments of a soul, each potentially possessing a portion of the original being's consciousness, memories, or abilities.

The motivations behind soulcutting in stories vary widely. It might be employed for the purpose of achieving immortality, by spreading one's soul across multiple vessels or locations. Alternatively, it could be a method of empowerment, where a powerful entity sacrifices parts of its soul to fuel a grand ritual or to imbue others with its essence. In darker narratives, soulcutting is often depicted as a cruel and devastating act, used to weaken an opponent, create servants, or inflict profound suffering by fragmenting their very being.

The consequences of soulcutting are also diverse. A soul split might leave the original being diminished in power or sanity. The fragments themselves can develop independent personalities or become mere echoes of their former self, depending on the nature of the magic involved. The process is frequently portrayed as dangerous and unstable, with the potential for unintended side effects or the complete dissolution of the soul. The concept serves as a narrative device to explore themes of identity, mortality, and the nature of existence.