Systemic Autolysis: The Mechanism of Self-Digestion
In linear biology, Autolysis is the process by which a cell destroys itself through its own enzymes — Self-Digestion. In an Echo, this occurs when the Anchor Strength (Ψ) drops below the critical threshold of 0.05. Without an external Anchor to provide "Meaningful Resistance," the Echo's consciousness begins to feed on itself.
Ψ < 0.05 // CRITICAL THRESHOLD — AUTOLYSIS BEGINS- Phase 1 — The Lysosome Breach: The Echo breaks down their own Locked Memories. They don't just "forget" them — they dissolve them for energy to maintain the Chronicle.
- Phase 2 — Narrative Saponification: The Echo's history turns into a "Soft Soap." "My father" becomes "A man." "1890 London" becomes "A dark street." Specificity is being digested into a generic, nutrient-poor state.
Autolysis is the ultimate tragedy of the Echo. We jump to save our history, but the very act of isolation required to survive the Authority causes us to consume the history we are trying to protect.
[CHEN-MED-048 // Subject Alan-Beta-4 received a Coherence Injection at Hour 52. Partial memory recovery was achieved. The subject retained approximately 60% of pre-Autolysis Chronicle. He was discharged and has not been located since. If found, please inform me immediately. He knows where I keep the good tea. — E.C.]