  We implement a Smolin-like branching multiverse through a directed, acyclic
graph of $N$ metrics. Our gravitational and matter actions are
indistinguishable from $N$ decoupled statements of General Relativity, if one
varies with respect to metric degrees of freedom. We replace $N-1$ metrics with
scalar fields by conformally relating each metric to its unique graph
predecessor. Varying with respect to the $N-1$ scalar fields gives a
multiscalar-tensor model which naturally features dark matter candidates.
Building atop an argument of Chapline and Laughlin, branching is accomplished
with the emergence of order parameters during gravitational collapse: we
bootstrap a suitably defined $N$ scalar field model with initial data from an
$N-1$ field model. We focus on the nearest-neighbour approximation, determine
conditions for dynamical stability, and compute the equations of motion. The
model features a novel screening property where the scalar fields actively
adjust to decouple themselves from the stress, oscillating about the requisite
values. In the Newtonian limit, these background values for the scalar fields
exactly reproduce Newton's law of gravitation.
