This paper proposes a framework in which time is not fundamental but emerges through local quantum evolution. A new physical quantity, Evoltropy, is introduced as a universal measure of physically realized local quantum evolution. Gravity is interpreted as suppression of local Evoltropy progression by energy density. A quantized microscopic basis, termed the Evolton, is introduced as the smallest irreducible causal evolution event. Relativistic time dilation, photon timelessness, gravitational slowing of clocks, and black-hole saturation are reinterpreted as consequences of local Evoltropy suppression. Testable predictions involving photon spheres, black-hole shadows, and horizon echoes are discussed
Amar Naik (Tue,) studied this question.