Linked Bond

Introduction

Linked Bond is the ability to establish a deep, interdependent connection between two or more individuals, where the fate or life of one is closely tied to the other(s). This connection can be physical, emotional, spiritual, or metaphysical, meaning that the well-being of one party affects the others. In some cases, users of this ability may become virtually immortal, as their life forces are bound to one another. If one linked individual dies, the others may be brought back to life as long as the remaining link remains intact, requiring both parties to die for the bond to be severed permanently.

The bond may have various effects depending on the individuals involved, but it typically results in shared experiences, emotions, or even physical consequences. This ability allows for profound unity, but can also result in vulnerabilities if the life or well-being of one individual is compromised.

Examples

Linked Bond varies greatly in fiction, and the following are just some examples of how it can manifest.

• Basic Linked Bond: The bond between individuals is primarily emotional or spiritual, such as mutual feelings of love or friendship. Damage or emotional trauma to one individual can affect the other, though this may not have physical consequences unless the bond deepens.

• Physical Linked Bond: This bond links individuals physically, meaning injuries, illnesses, or even death of one party can directly affect the other. In extreme cases, if one individual dies, the other may be resurrected through the connection, or will perish alongside them.

• Spiritual Linked Bond: The bond is metaphysical, often affecting the soul or essence of the linked individuals. It may extend beyond the mortal plane, enabling the connection to survive even after death. In some cases, the bond may allow the resurrection of the deceased as long as the other party remains alive.

• Power-Linked Bond: This bond enables individuals to share and amplify each other's abilities, transferring power, knowledge, or skill between them. It may enhance the abilities of both parties, especially in combat or high-stakes situations.

• Telepathic Linked Bond: The individuals are mentally connected, allowing them to communicate telepathically and always sense each other's location, even across vast distances. This bond can also allow for sharing memories or experiences in real-time, and the individuals may always be aware of each other’s state of being.

• Destiny or Fate Bond: The individuals are bound by a preordained connection that ties their destinies together, meaning that their lives and actions are intricately linked by fate. The actions or events affecting one individual can influence the other in profound ways, and their paths are often seen as inextricable. In some cases, this bond might dictate that one must fulfill certain roles or missions together, and their fates are often interwoven in a way that transcends normal choice or control.

• Conceptual or Abstract Bond: The bond is built around a deeper, often metaphysical connection between individuals that transcends physical or emotional ties. This could involve shared concepts or abstract ideas, such as shared purpose, goals, or ideals. This bond can influence the characters’ interactions or decisions in a way that isn’t tied to their immediate actions but to a larger conceptual framework that guides their fates or relationships.

Possible Applications

• Shared Fate: The individuals' lives and fates are intertwined. If one is harmed or killed, the other may experience the same fate or be revived through the bond.
• Shared Strength: The abilities or strength of one linked individual may be transferred to the other, creating a synergy that enhances their performance or abilities.
• Emotional Link: Linked individuals can sense or share emotions, thoughts, or experiences, creating a deep emotional connection.
• Resurrection: If one linked individual dies, the bond may allow the other to be resurrected as long as the connection remains intact.
• Life Exchange: Linked individuals can share their life force, allowing one to heal or transfer vitality to the other, potentially reversing injuries or sickness.
• Telepathic Communication: The individuals are linked by thought, allowing them to communicate silently and instantly, and be aware of each other's actions and whereabouts.
• Destiny-Fueled Actions: Certain tasks, challenges, or missions may be tied to the linked bond, requiring both parties to face them together or fulfill a joint purpose dictated by fate.
• Conceptual Influence: The bond is rooted in shared ideals, beliefs, or concepts, meaning the linked individuals may be guided by common goals or values, influencing their behavior or decision-making.
• Fate Protection: The bond ensures that both parties cannot be permanently separated by death or misfortune. If one linked individual is in danger of dying, the other may share that fate or act in such a way to protect them, making it nearly impossible for one to perish without the other.
• Narrative Protection: The linked individuals' roles are so intertwined that events within the narrative are unlikely to separate them or cause one to face a tragic outcome alone. Their fates are often protected by the plot or the universe’s laws to ensure that their bond remains intact, even in dangerous or precarious situations.

Possible Limitations

• Vulnerability to Death: If one linked individual dies and the other is still alive, the other may also die or suffer severe consequences. If the link is broken, one or both individuals may be left vulnerable.
• Link Dependency: The bond relies heavily on the strength and stability of the connection between the individuals. If the bond is severed or weakened, the ability may be rendered ineffective, and the individuals may lose their connection entirely.
• Emotional Trauma: Emotional distress or trauma in one linked individual can cause the same negative emotional or psychological effects in the other, making the bond a potential source of harm.
• Power Imbalance: In cases where one individual is significantly stronger or weaker than the other, the linked bond may create an imbalance, with the weaker individual suffering more from injuries or weaknesses of the stronger one.
• Fated Conflict: The bond may force the individuals into certain roles or predestined events, limiting their freedom of choice or putting them at odds with their own desires.

Users

• Mario and Luigi (Super Mario): Mario and Luigi share a telepathic bond that allows them to always know each other's location and communicate silently, a connection that strengthens their teamwork in both everyday and perilous situations.