The people of Skaland believe that fate is determined by three goddesses, stating, “All that is and all that will be is already woven by the Norns” (23). In this fictional world, however, there is one notable exception. Children of the gods, including Freya, are Unfated; her path is unknown until she walks it, and she can rearrange the threads of fate for those around her. The terms “fate” and “destiny” are used interchangeably in the novel to describe a predetermined future that can only be changed by those who are Unfated. When Freya considers a warning about her future, she thinks, “Maybe I could alter my destiny and escape this. […] I could weave a new fate for myself” (129). Her use of both terms to connote the same idea supports their interchangeability. With a prophesied destiny that promises both greatness and hardship, and the rare ability to change that destiny, Freya seeks to understand how much control she has over her own life, while others battle fiercely to take that control from her.

The many challenges that Freya encounters prompt her to weigh the costs and benefits of autonomy and destiny. The shield maiden prophecy reveals a destiny that aligns with several of Freya’s desires, such as ridding herself of Vragi, fighting as a warrior, and achieving glory in battle.