fatebound

Fatebound is a term used in fantasy and speculative fiction to describe beings, objects, or situations that are bound by a predetermined destiny. A fatebound individual is often marked by an awareness of an overarching plan or prophecy that guides their actions, sometimes from birth. The term can also apply to artifacts or locations whose nature is defined by inevitability or cosmic design.

Origin and usage: The compound of fate and bound, fatebound appears in modern fantasy writing and role-playing games as a narrative device to explore themes of agency and determinism. In world-building, fatebound status may be described as binding contracts with prophecy, divine will, or a cosmic order, and can be absolute or contingent on choices.

In fiction and games, common motifs include the inevitability of outcomes, internal conflict between free will and destiny, and attempts to rewrite the destined path. Protagonists may seek to fulfill or resist it; antagonists might seek to force or accelerate it.

As a game mechanic, fatebound may grant bonuses that reflect the character's destiny, or impose penalties or triggers when certain conditions are met; it can be temporary or lifelong; it may be possible to break a fatebound bond under specific rites or sacrifices.

See also: Destiny, Prophecy, Determinism, Free will.