The Multiverse
The Basic Theory
The concept of the multiverse states that there are an infinite number of realities, all of them different. However, this is only the most basic understanding of the concept. There is far more to it than that.
In much the same way that space has three dimensions, those being length, width and height, time also can be said to have three dimensions.
The length of time is already understood, as it is measured in seconds, minutes, hours and so forth.
But time has two extra dimensions which are not so well understood:
- The first of these could be likened to width. Across this dimension are multiple realities connected to our own, where for each decision that has ever been made anywhere by anyone, the alternate choice has played out. This is akin to the dimensional concept seen in the film Back To The Future, where history is altered by the presence of a Sports Almanac from the future, creating an alternate and worse 1985. This is also why, when things go wrong, people tend to say that they have "gone sideways."
- The second of these could be likened to height, and represent completely alternate universes. These alternate realities may incorporate aspects that would be recognizable from one universe to another, or they may represent realities so different that their physical laws may not be even remotely similar to anything currently understood. This is the most difficult dimensional barrier to cross, as the destination may be completely incompatible with whatever universe one might be attempting to travel there from. This is the type of dimensional crossing that the Delos were forced to make, which explains why it nearly didn't work.
Consequently, alternate dimensional travel is considered unwise. However, this has not stopped it from happening. Indeed there are some beings who demonstrate a natural skill for this kind of travel, and who have formed a subculture around it, referring to themselves by the nickname of Trippers.
Some known alternate realities
- The energy universe of the Delos (defunct)
- A post-apocalyptic reality where Cobalt is known as The Keeper Of The Light
- A sword-and-sorcery reality where Cobalt is a wizard, and Twinkle The Foozle is his apprentice
