Cosmology

The foundational principles of the Bound Souls universe — the nature of gods, souls, and the cycle that sustains all existence.

Core Concepts

  • Gods — The highest known forms of life. Physical, present, and huntable.
  • Soul — Finite, conscious beings permanently bound to a single god.
  • Service — The natural condition of mortal existence. To exist is to serve.
  • Divine Bonds — Every soul inherits aspects of its god.
  • Divine Temperaments — Gods are individuals with infinite variety in nature and personality.
  • The Living Heavens — Mortals see gods as celestial bodies. The heavens are alive.
  • Reality — Existence is sustained by the cycle between gods and souls.
  • Outer Gods — Tears in the fabric of existence, beyond known reality.

Mechanics of Power

  • Soul Gems — Crafted crystals used to hunt and capture souls.
  • Allegiance — Bonds between souls and gods. Allegiance can be traded.
  • God Evolution — Gods grow stronger through defeat and retreat, changing permanently.

Known Gods

Key Figures

  • The Player — A newly minted soul with no past life. Mother’s intentional creation.
  • Shopkeeper — Child of Mother.
  • Innkeeper — Child of Mother.

Souls