Temporal Entities

Temporal Entities are enigmatic forces or beings prominently associated with the widespread temporal instability and chaotic phenomena that characterize the period known as the Chronospoorium of the Bleeding Mold. Their exact nature, origins, and motivations remain largely unknown, subjects of intense speculation among scholars and survivors of the era. What is clear from accounts documented during the Chronospoorium is that these entities, or the disturbances they generate, profoundly affect the flow of time, spatial relationships, causality, and even identity, contributing significantly to the era's pervasive sense of disorientation and peril.

The manifestations attributed to Temporal Entities vary wildly, ranging from subtle inconsistencies in memory and history to dramatic, localized shifts in time, the appearance of duplicates of individuals, and connections to strange biological and material phenomena. Their influence appears to be a fundamental component of the upheaval that has destabilized major powers like the Drossian Empire and the remnants of the Dragon King territories, and has intersected with other major threats such as the devastating Fungus Plague and coordinated military actions.

Manifestations and Observations

Reports and direct encounters during the Chronospoorium of the Bleeding Mold provide the primary, albeit fragmented, evidence for the existence and effects of Temporal Entities. These manifestations rarely present as clear, distinct beings in the traditional sense, but rather as disruptions to the expected order of reality. Time itself can behave erratically in areas of high temporal influence, exhibiting properties that defy conventional understanding of linear progression.

One of the most common indicators of Temporal Entity activity is the occurrence of localized Temporal anomalies. These can include moments where time seems to loop, slow down, speed up, or even briefly reverse. Eyewitness accounts from various regions affected by the Chronospoorium describe instances where individuals or small areas experienced time passing differently than the surrounding environment. Such events are often unpredictable and can have disorienting or dangerous consequences for those caught within them. The strange maneuver at Vultis Bluff, though attributed to an individual's actions, is sometimes speculated to have been influenced by or occurred within a localized temporal distortion field, allowing for an outcome that defied conventional tactical possibilities. While concrete proof linking the Vultis Bluff incident directly to the entities is lacking, the era's pervasive instability invites such retrospective analysis.

Chronal Disturbances

The temporal disturbances linked to these entities are not uniform. Some reports detail instances of "Temporal bleed," where moments from different points in time appear to overlap or briefly manifest in the present. This can lead to sightings of figures or events from the past, or glimpses of possible futures, adding to the confusion and psychological strain experienced by the populace. The phenomenon known as "Temporal Echoes" describes lingering imprints of past events or individuals in certain locations, appearing as fleeting visual or auditory anomalies that seem to replay moments in history. These echoes are not merely passive recordings; some accounts suggest they can exert minor influences on the present environment or the emotional states of those who witness them.

More severe disturbances can involve the temporary or permanent displacement of individuals or objects in time, or the creation of localized paradoxes where conflicting states of reality coexist for a brief period. These events are often violent and destructive, capable of tearing apart the fabric of reality in their immediate vicinity. The energy released by such disruptions is immense and poorly understood, sometimes leaving behind residual effects or attracting other strange phenomena. The area around the Starting cave, later devastated by the "nuking of the start cave," was a nexus of such instability, featuring a generator device that seemingly amplified or interacted with the temporal forces at play.

Associated Phenomena

Temporal Entities appear to be associated with, or perhaps even responsible for, several other unsettling phenomena observed during the Chronospoorium. The emergence of the Cloning Phenomenon, where apparent duplicates of key individuals manifest with their own agendas, is frequently linked to the entities. The nature of these clones – whether they are temporal duplicates pulled from other points in time, constructs created by the entities, or something else entirely – is a central mystery. The appearance of individuals like the Dr. D clone, the Alyx clone, and the Brinda clone, often acting in concert towards a seemingly coordinated goal (such as the infiltration of Dross vassal states), points towards a deliberate manipulation of identity and presence that could be orchestrated by or through temporal means. The unsettling discovery of a 'Ruk' embedded in stones in the starting cave, long after the original Ruk's death during the Dross Southern Seafort Infiltration, suggests that temporal displacement or duplication can affect even those believed to be deceased, blurring the lines between past and present, life and death.

Another phenomenon frequently encountered in proximity to temporal disturbances is the presence of the strange insects found in the starting cave. These creatures exhibit unusual behavior and a disturbing connection to the pervasive mold, suggesting a biological component to the temporal chaos. Furthermore, the enigmatic Silver Liquid Dragon Creature, encountered by Minio during the Seafort Infiltration and later seen in the starting cave alongside clone conspirators, is also believed to be tied to the temporal instability. This amorphous, metallic substance or entity appears to possess the ability to shift form and potentially manipulate other matter, and its presence in areas of high temporal flux suggests a deep, possibly causal, relationship with the entities. The fact that clone conspirators expressed concern about "it found them" implies that the silver goo might be an independent force within the temporal landscape, possibly even a predator or counter-agent to the entities themselves or the clones they generate.

Relationship to the Cloning Phenomenon

The intricate and disturbing relationship between Temporal Entities and the Cloning Phenomenon is one of the defining mysteries of the Chronospoorium of the Bleeding Mold. While a definitive causal link has not been proven, the simultaneous emergence and apparent coordination of these phenomena strongly suggest a connection. The clones are not merely physical copies; they often possess aspects of the original individual's memories, skills, and even personality traits, though frequently twisted or redirected towards unknown goals. This suggests that whatever process creates the clones is capable of manipulating or replicating complex aspects of identity and personal history, abilities that align with the suspected capabilities of Temporal Entities to distort or replicate aspects of time itself.

One prevailing theory posits that the clones are temporal duplicates, individuals plucked from alternate timelines, past moments, or potential futures and brought into the present. If Temporal Entities are beings capable of navigating or manipulating these temporal pathways, they might be the agents responsible for selecting and deploying these duplicates. Another hypothesis suggests that the cloning is a form of temporal projection or manifestation, where the entities cause a past or future version of an individual to momentarily stabilize in the present, potentially giving the appearance of a physical clone. The case of Alyx declaring himself the clone after encountering his duplicate in the Seafort bar highlights the profound psychological impact and confusion that this phenomenon induces, blurring the lines of selfhood and reality.

Theoretical Connections

Several theoretical frameworks have been proposed to explain the link between temporal disturbances and cloning. One involves the concept of Aevum Distortion Fields, localized areas where the normal flow of time is significantly warped. These fields are theorized to weaken the barriers between different moments in time or even different potential realities, allowing for "bleed-through" or direct transfer of material and informational states. Under this theory, clones might be individuals pulled through these weakened barriers. Alternatively, the entities themselves might be beings that exist outside of linear time, perceiving all moments simultaneously. From this perspective, creating a "clone" might be as simple for them as isolating and manifesting a specific past or future iteration of an individual in the present moment.

Another theory suggests that the cloning is a deliberate act by the entities, possibly as a means of infiltration, disruption, or resource acquisition. By creating duplicates of influential or capable individuals, the entities could gain leverage within existing power structures, sow confusion, or manipulate events from within. The observed actions of the clones – infiltrating the Dross Southern Seafort, commanding its navy, positioning themselves within key locations like Frigir and Vultis Bluff – support the idea of a coordinated, strategic purpose behind their creation and deployment. The fact that the clone conspirators discuss "the other creature finding them" and "the interlopers" implies a self-awareness and strategic planning that points towards either the clones possessing independent, if perhaps programmed, intelligence, or being directed by a higher intelligence, possibly the Temporal Entities themselves.

Psychological and Identity Impact

The psychological ramifications of encountering one's own clone, or of being a clone, are profound. Individuals like Alyx, who declared himself the clone, experienced a fundamental crisis of identity, questioning the authenticity of their own existence and memories. This disorientation can lead to unpredictable behavior, detachment from past relationships, and a susceptibility to manipulation. For those who encounter their duplicates, the experience can be deeply unsettling, forcing them to confront an unsettling mirror image that may share their face but harbor entirely different intentions.

The cloning phenomenon, whether a direct action of Temporal Entities or a related symptom of chronal instability, introduces a layer of existential horror to the Chronospoorium. It undermines trust, makes identification difficult, and raises fundamental questions about what constitutes a person's unique identity in a world where duplicates can appear. The fate of individuals like Mark, trapped within a picture, or the possibility of a deceased individual like Ruk manifesting as a duplicate, further complicates the understanding of selfhood and the permanence of physical form in this unstable era. The entities' potential ability to manipulate identity in this way represents a threat not just to physical safety, but to the very concept of self.

Proposed Origins and Nature

The true nature and origins of the Temporal Entities are among the most debated topics among those who have studied or survived the Chronospoorium of the Bleeding Mold. Lacking concrete evidence or direct communication, most understanding is based on observed effects and speculative inference. Theories range from the entities being ancient, primordial forces of the cosmos to being the unintended byproduct of magical or technological catastrophe.

One prominent hypothesis suggests that the Temporal Entities are not "beings" in the conventional sense, but rather fundamental forces of the universe that have become unbound or agitated. Perhaps they are aspects of time itself, made manifest or chaotic due to external interference. This interference could stem from powerful magical rituals gone awry, the irresponsible use of reality-warping technology, or even the collective trauma and destruction wrought by conflicts like the Gelphar Eradication or the widespread suffering caused by the Fungus Plague. Under this view, the entities are less malicious agents and more akin to a natural disaster of causality, a storm in the fabric of time unleashed by events that have pushed reality beyond its limits.

Theoretical Frameworks

Within this framework, different theoretical models attempt to describe the entities. Some propose they are like "time currents," powerful flows of chronal energy that have become turbulent, dragging elements from different points in time into contact. Others suggest they are distortions within a larger "time-space continuum," akin to ripples or tears that manifest as localized anomalies. Some scholars, drawing parallels to concepts in theoretical physics regarding the nature of reality, speculate that the entities are emergent properties of complex interactions at the fundamental level of existence, only becoming apparent when those interactions are severely disrupted.

Alternatively, some theories propose that the Temporal Entities are indeed sentient, possibly extra-dimensional beings that exist outside the linear time of the known world. They might be observers, manipulators, or even predators that feed on temporal energy or the disruption of causality. Their motivations could be incomprehensible by conventional standards, driven by alien imperatives or a desire to reshape reality according to their own design. The coordinated actions of the clones, seemingly working towards a strategic goal, lend some credence to the idea of a guiding intelligence, though whether that intelligence resides within the entities, or if the entities are merely tools of another power, remains unknown. The Kraken's warning to Dr. D about killing all Genies, potentially linked to the generator device near the cave, hints at a larger, possibly ancient conflict involving powerful entities that could predate or utilize the temporal disturbances.

Potential Sources

Several potential sources for the emergence of Temporal Entities have been suggested. The generator machine found in the starting cave is a prime suspect, believed to be either a device that attracts, generates, or stabilizes temporal phenomena. Its destruction in the "nuking of the start cave" had immediate and drastic effects, including portal creation and teleportation, reinforcing its connection to reality-warping forces. The area itself, having been the site of the group's chaotic emergence, may possess inherent properties or have been subjected to a prior event that predisposed it to temporal instability.

Another potential source could be ancient artifacts or forgotten magical practices. Myths and legends sometimes speak of devices or rituals capable of manipulating time, often with catastrophic results. The weakening grip of the Dragon Kings, ancient beings tied to the fundamental forces of the world, might also play a role, their decline perhaps releasing or disrupting energies that were previously contained or balanced. The possibility exists that the entities are not a new phenomenon, but an ancient one reawakened by the tumultuous events of the Chronospoorium, such as the scale of destruction during the Gelphar Eradication or the pervasive biological chaos of the Fungus Plague.

Impact on the Chronospoorium

The influence of Temporal Entities is not merely a backdrop to the events of the Chronospoorium of the Bleeding Mold; it is a fundamental driving force behind the era's pervasive instability and the breakdown of established order. By disrupting the predictable flow of time and reality, the entities erode trust, complicate communication, and undermine strategic planning for all factions involved. It becomes difficult to rely on intelligence when information might be outdated before it is acted upon, or when the identity of allies and enemies is uncertain due to the presence of clones.

The temporal chaos exacerbates existing crises. The Drossian Empire, already reeling from military setbacks like the Battle of the Loroth Sea, the economic strain of the Fungus Plague, and internal dissent, finds its authority further weakened by unpredictable temporal events within its territories. Vassal kingdoms like Palrose, already feeling neglected and exploited, face additional challenges from phenomena that defy conventional defense or understanding. The Elven realm centered on Frigir, a place of ancient stability, is suddenly confronted not only by external military threats but also by insidious temporal infiltration and the unsettling presence of duplicates at the highest levels of society.

Destabilization of Powers

The ability of Temporal Entities to manifest clones of key figures directly targets the leadership and command structures of major powers. The Dr. D clone commanding the Seafort navy, the Brinda clone infiltrating Frigir's political landscape, and the Alyx clone potentially manipulating events at Vultis Bluff demonstrate a clear strategy of disruption at the highest echelons. This internal sabotage, coupled with the external pressures of war and plague, makes effective governance and coordinated resistance incredibly difficult. The lack of a visible Dragon King, coupled with rumors of their decline, might be linked to the temporal chaos, suggesting that even these powerful ancient beings are not immune to its effects.

The unpredictable nature of temporal anomalies also impacts military campaigns and logistics. Forces can arrive at a destination only to find that time has passed differently there, or that events they expected to occur have already happened, or not happened at all. Supply lines can be disrupted by localized time distortions, making timely delivery impossible. The psychological toll on soldiers and commanders operating in such an environment is immense, leading to fear, paranoia, and a breakdown in discipline.

Interaction with other Threats

The interaction between temporal phenomena and other threats of the Chronospoorium is complex and likely synergistic. The Fungus Plague, a biological agent causing famine and economic collapse, may have its spread or virulence influenced by temporal factors. Perhaps localized time dilation in affected areas accelerates the mold's growth, or temporal distortions facilitate its transmission in unexpected ways. The connection between the strange insects in the cave (linked to both temporal phenomena and the mold) suggests a possible link.

Furthermore, the temporal instability might create conditions favorable for other malevolent forces, such as the Underfey boss Feyr or the cult operating near the Drossian capital. These groups, perhaps possessing knowledge or abilities that allow them to navigate or even exploit the chaos, might be able to operate more freely or achieve their goals more easily in an environment where conventional laws of physics and causality are unreliable. The fact that Feyr relocated to Gelp, a town built on the site of a temporally erased city and now a hub of refugee chaos and strange activity, reinforces the idea that some entities thrive on or are drawn to temporal disturbance.

Interactions and Countermeasures

Direct interaction with Temporal Entities is rare and often indistinguishable from experiencing the temporal phenomena they generate. Individuals and groups primarily interact with the effects of the entities, such as navigating temporal anomalies, confronting clones, or dealing with the strange phenomena associated with their presence. Attempts to understand or counteract the entities and their influence have been largely reactive and experimental, often undertaken by individuals rather than organized powers, given the scale of the regional collapse.

The core group at the center of the Chronospoorium narrative has repeatedly found themselves entangled with temporal phenomena. Their very emergence from the starting cave, following a period of disorientation and memory loss, suggests they may have been subjected to or emerged from a temporal event. Subsequent encounters, from the subtle oddities in Gelp to the profound disruptions near the generator and the unsettling presence of clones, have forced them to adapt to a reality where time and identity are fluid. The use of the 'Portal to Anywhere' mirror, a device that functions based on desire and allows travel to locations the heart "most desires," hints at a connection between internal states and temporal/spatial manipulation, perhaps a technology or artifact that interfaces with the same underlying principles the entities exploit.

Group Encounters

Specific encounters highlight the unpredictable nature of dealing with entity-linked phenomena. The trans-dimensional trip taken by Dr. D and Jinn after the cave's destruction, finding themselves in a strange hive-like dimension with a drugged Beholder, suggests that temporal instability can lead to breaches into other realities or planes of existence. Their subsequent unexpected return to Seafort Castle, specifically at a moment where clones were plotting, indicates that these temporal jumps are not necessarily random but might be influenced by external forces or internal desires, or even guided by the entities themselves for their own purposes.

The confrontation with the generator device near the starting cave was a direct interaction with a potential source or amplifier of temporal effects. The decision to destroy it, leading to the "nuking of the start cave" and further uncontrolled teleportation, illustrates the danger and unpredictability of attempting to manipulate or destroy the sources of this instability. Even seemingly minor interactions, like Brinda's brief, troubled attachment to one of the strange insects from the cave, underscore the pervasive and unsettling nature of the phenomena linked to the entities.

Attempts at Control or Mitigation

Formal attempts by established powers to control or mitigate the effects of Temporal Entities have been largely ineffective or non-existent, overwhelmed by the scale of the Chronospoorium's other crises. Instead, countermeasures have often been localized and pragmatic. Efforts to manage the pervasive mold in Gelp, while primarily a response to the biological threat, might inadvertently mitigate temporal effects if the mold is indeed linked to the entities or the cave's instability. Dr. D's scientific investigations into the mold, sharing notes with Dr. Potamus, represent an attempt to apply rational understanding to an irrational phenomenon, potentially shedding light on the interconnectedness of the plague and temporal issues.

The group's actions against the clones, such as Brinda confronting and imprisoning her double in Frigir, represent direct attempts to neutralize agents potentially created or controlled by the entities. The capture and "shrinking" of the drake's body snatcher (Mini Droonscale) by Jenny the Genie suggest that powerful magical abilities can potentially contain or alter creatures linked to these phenomena, offering a glimmer of hope for localized control. However, the overall picture remains one of individuals and small groups struggling to react to forces they barely understand, in an era defined by chaos and the profound disruption of time itself.