Overview
Two complementary memory systems: World Memory stores sealed perspectives from one or more individuals, while the Infinitree Timeline Log records unbiased events as they truly occurred.
- World Memory is subjective and tied to witnesses; often captured in Varthum memory crystals.
- Timeline Log is objective and rooted in the Infinitree; functions as an incorruptible record of history.
- Reconciling both is required to resolve discrepancies between perception and fact.
Narrative role
World Memories drive character POV quests (e.g., Hitomi’s flame messages trapped in a temporal loop), while the Timeline Log underpins main-story truth-seeking and Bonsai Sage interventions.
Known facts
- World Memory can be sealed or extracted; it reflects biases, gaps, and emotions of its sources.
- Infinitree Timeline Log persists across timelines; immune to individual bias and preserves event order.
- Hitomi sought Varthum memory crystals to recover Hanzo’s trail; Ninth Wave ambushed her and confined her loop.
- Memory crystals and Timeline Log excerpts can conflict; both are needed to assemble canon truth.
Mechanics impact
- World Memory retrieval may unlock POV flashbacks, flame projections, or side-quest leads.
- Timeline Log access gates main-plot verification, anomaly diagnostics, and Infinitree-guided decisions.
- Design guideline: player-facing truth requires cross-referencing both systems.
Relationships
- Linked to Infinitree (Timeline Log anchor).
- Linked to Varthum memory crystals and Varthum/World Overview.
- Tied to Hitomi’s arc (flame messages from looped World Memories) and Hanzo investigations.
- Intersects with anomalies/time rifts when perspectives diverge from recorded fact.
Sources
- docbase/kb/universe/world_memory_vs_timeline_log.md
- docbase/kb/infinitree.md
- docbase/notes/pois/mirror_bastion.txt (Hitomi loop context)
Open questions / conflicts
Define in-game interfaces for accessing Timeline Log vs. World Memories, and how contradictory entries are presented to players.