Quantum shift

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## Definition

A quantum shift, or 'Jump' as it is colloquially known, is when an individual travels from one timeframe (generally their present time) to another.

Returning to the time-traveller's present time is often referred to as a 'Home Jump. ("Berlin" et al)

## Limitations

The ability to perform quantum shifts, which is biologically an innate ability within the abilities of all human brains, was discovered following the 2008 incident. Currently, only a fraction of humans are able to perform quantum shifts, and the vast majority of those who can must undergo extensive training in order to do so.

According to Miranda Davenport, a Hub Chamber is required for most people to Jump, since its pillars - arranged in an oval shape - generate a psychic signal that stimulates tje brain in the right way to allow the shift, while the attached computer allows the Keeper to fine-tune the actual destination. ("Rupa")

It was established in "Paris" that quantum shifts cannot be used to Jump to another location within the same timeframe (i.e. teleporting).

It was established in "Walker" that quantum shifts depend on the Hub being active.

In "Reclamation", it was established that if one were to make a Jump within a Jump, and then 'Home Jump', they would return to the Hub used for the second Jump. For example, Tom Burt and Eryn Gray Jumped from London, 2020 to Nigeria, 2017, and from there they used a Hub to Jump to Malaysia, 1978. When Tom then Home Jumped, he returned to Nigeria rather than London.

## Naturals

There does exist a very small minority of time-travellers who require little training or experience; these are known as Naturals. It was established in "Home" that Naturals are able to perform quantum shifts without the need for technology such as a Hub; this was later explored in "Dubai".

## Side Effects

Although female QIA agents do not seem to be made aware of this when signing up, it is possible that performing quantum shifts, which already have a wide range of physiological effects, can disrupt menstrual cycles and in rare cases can stop them altogether, thereby preventing afflicted agents from ever conceiving a baby. ("Ethan")

## Future Travel

Quantum shifting into the future was theorised back in 2009, but given the risks, and the fact that doing so was irrelevant to the QIA's remit, the prospect was abandoned. When the need arose, however, after Jacob Dorody gave the London Field Team an opportunity to arrest and therefore interrogate a high-ranking member of the Reclaimers from the year 2263, Agent Ethan Taylor theorised that the calculations for the co-ordinates would take weeks. However, Agent Enora Gallou disagreed, and although it indeed took her around two weeks, she was indeed able to do so, and on 24th January 2020, the Field Team became the first people since the 2008 Incident to travel into the future ("Dorody").