Non-Linear Time

With the possible exceptions of temporal distortions and the whims of the Dark Powers, time exists for most people in the Demiplane of Dread as it does other campaign settings. That is, time flows in a linear fashion (that is, a series of events with beginnings, middles, and endings.) This is not necessarily true for the Vistani, more specifically the Manusa Tasque and especially the Zarovan Tribe. That is to say, their existences is not measured by the progression of the timeline as giorgios (Non-Vistani). The Manusa can manipulate and travel through time as they wish, even visiting times and places past their apparent deaths. (As is the case with Madame Eva's appearance in the modern day Ravenloft timeline despite falling victim to the knife of Jacqueline Montarri). The existence of this power over time does not mean it will be used or even abused, as the Manusa remain unable or unwilling to peer through the veil beyond the presence in matters relating to themselves. They will not use it for purely selfish gain, and they are loathe to grant favors to giogoros.

Example of Nonlinear Time

• In 495 BC, Jacqueline Montarri murders Madame Eva and is horrifically cursed. Madame Maruschka becomes the new raunie of the Zarovan tribe. (Note that Madame Eva is still seen after this; this can be accounted for by her tribe’s existence in non-linear time.)

Nonlinear Time and Prophecy

According to tine in-character description given by Andrianna Cardarelle in Van Richten's Guide to the Vistani, the Vistani gift for prophecy (or the raunie gift for prophecy, as the case may be) comes from Vistani perception of nonlinear time. According to her theory, time is merely perception, a theory created by the mind. Most perceive time as a linear flow. Not so for the Vistani seers, whom are able to view the past and the future just as if they were looking through windows.