The Last Scroll Rise of the Seven: A Novel

By James Fricton

A chance meeting with an old classmate leads Ryan Laughlin, a dedicated young physician, to an ancient Roman spa in a medieval village of Italy where researchers are studying two remarkable events that could change the course of history & mdash; a new technology that claims to measure the essence of life itself, the human spirit, and the final Dead Sea Scroll which was recently discovered in the West Bank.

The Last Scroll reveals universal truths about the nature of life through Seven Blessing but warns of Seven Plagues of the Beast that are emerging this century causing alarm and protests around the world.

While visiting the spa to learn these secrets and enjoy the food, wine, and culture of Italy, Ryan finds himself the target of a killer who claims the project is heresy and will do anything to stop it. In a deadly race through ancient Italy, he is desperately trying to save the only woman he has loved since the death of his wife.

What insight and power lies within the fragmented pieces of the Last Scroll?

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Dec 6, 2022
• ISBN: 9781663245922

James Fricton

James Fricton is an author, researcher, and professor. He also maintains a clinical practice for patients with pain. He lives in Minnesota with his family.

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Copyright © 2022 James Fricton.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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ISBN: 978-1-6632-4591-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-6632-4593-9 (hc)

ISBN: 978-1-6632-4592-2 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2022917828

iUniverse rev. date: 12/06/2022

Contents

Praise from readers…

Chapter 1. The Controversy

Chapter 2. The Tower

Chapter 3. The Lecture

Chapter 4. The Beasts

Chapter 5. The Call

Chapter 6. The Revelation

Chapter 7. The Race

Chapter 8. The News

Chapter 9. The Gala

Chapter 10. The Scholar

Chapter 11. The Dilemma

Chapter 12. The Vacation

Chapter 13. The Researcher

Chapter 14. The Conversation

Chapter 15. The Attraction

Chapter 16. The Terme

Chapter 17. The Seven Realms

Chapter 18. The Beasts

Chapter 19. The Investigation

Chapter 20. The Rules of the Blessings

Chapter 21. The Blessing of Health

Chapter 22. Energy Thieves

Chapter 23. The Reception

Chapter 24. The Lessons

Chapter 25. The Deep Calm

Chapter 26. The Lunch

Chapter 27. The Boost

Chapter 28. The Visit

Chapter 29. The Conflict

Chapter 30. The Suspect

Chapter 31. The Omen

Chapter 32. The Doubt

Chapter 33. Le Feste

Chapter 34. The Fear

Chapter 35. The Detective

Chapter 36. The Departure

Chapter 37. The Shopping Trip

Chapter 38. The Pope

Chapter 39. The Threat

Chapter 40. The Dilemma II

Chapter 41. The Beach

Chapter 42. The Blessing of Prosperity

Chapter 43. The Confrontation

Chapter 44. The Train

Chapter 45. The Passenger

Chapter 46. The Tour

Chapter 47. The Blessing of Love

Chapter 48. The Leaning Tower

Chapter 49. The Energy of Seven Realms

Chapter 50. The Return

Chapter 51. The News

Acknowledgments

Praise from readers…

A book for the ages. Wisdom for a lifetime. A must read. It will change your life. Dr. Joseph Barber, Author, Clinical Psychologist, Bush Pilot, University of Washington, Seattle

This book had me totally enthralled from the first pages. Beautifully written, I could see the story unfold in my mind. The beauty of the country, people, and culture combined with romance and suspense of this thrilling book was inspiring to read. David Wagner, Best-selling author of Life as a Daymaker

Beginning with murder, this book will surprise and excite you as it touches the boundaries of suspense, spirituality, love, science, and reality. It’s an eye-opening opportunity to view and ponder the depth and breadth of our lives and the world we live in. Grab this book, it’s well worth the ride! Dr. Jeffrey Crandall, Underhill, Vermont

A rare breed of a book that blends fiction and non-fiction with seamless transition. A masterpiece. Thomas Doyle, Teacher and Author, Nashville, Tennessee

The words and people come to life. Some pages gave me chills and others tears. But all gave me insight. Susie Farquharson, Minneapolis, Minnesota

This book is deftly layered with romance, humor, insight, history, and adrenaline set in a beautiful village of Italy. It will keep you turning the pages! Roberto Bandini, Faenza, Italy

A great book with intelligence, science, spirituality, and a sensitivity that is rarely found together in one author. I loved this book. LeeAnna Kalscheur, Edina, Minnesota

Intelligent and powerful—Didn’t want to put it down! I love the energy of it. Lana Wickberg, Edina Minnesota

Fascinating story that kept me filled with anticipation. I couldn’t put it down as it keeps the pace moving quickly. The details are thought provoking and intriguing. I absolutely recommend to one and all...you will not be disappointed! Kitty Couto. Amazon Review.

I loved this book. The character development, suspenseful story, romance, vivid Italian settings, and powerful messages are all so intriguing. I could not put it down. Claudia Wagner, Minnesota

Great fiction! A suspenseful mystery that brings together science and spirituality! Plus, a delightful tour into the beauty of Italy. This is a must read for those of us who love a good novel. Bill Manahan, MD Family Medicine, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN

Chapter 1. The Controversy

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ST. PAUL HOTEL

ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

SUNDAY MORNING

J ulia Stone bites her lip as she stares out the window of the elegant, old-world St. Paul Hotel. It’s June, and the first signs of summer are appearing, tree buds giving way to light green leaves. The birds are chirping, and the sun is warming the cool, misty morning. She watches the protestors gathered across the street from the hotel, their chant of RESIST! RESIST! RESIST! muffled by the plate glass. They have gathered in the park for the past few days to protest new legislation that will defund social programs. The newly-elected government aims to slash the bloated federal budget by shutting down programs that assist children and the elderly in need, as well as the poor, the disabled, and the unemployed.

Julia quickly turns away from the window, preoccupied by her own mission. She hurries to get dressed so she can catch Dr. Jack Killian before his landmark lecture this morning. He will be presenting the results of research into the ancient Golden Scrolls, in a highly-anticipated keynote address before the annual meeting of the International Society for Medical Research. She grabs her cell phone, briefcase, computer, and black jacket, and then heads for the elevator.

As she steps off the elevator on the ground floor, she sees Dr. Killian in the distance. She hurries toward the lobby of the ballroom, hoping to catch him before his presentation.

An attractive petite blonde with intense blue eyes, Dr. Julia Stone is dressed in a disarming black business suit, the one she wears for course evaluations at Harvard University, where she teaches Medical Anthropology. A white silk shirt, partially unbuttoned beneath the jacket, a silk scarf, and glossy white heels complete her alluring wardrobe. Her compelling appearance and charisma distinguish her as someone who knows exactly what she is doing and where she wants to go. Smiling magnetically, she squeezes into the buffet line behind Dr. Killian. He is knee-deep in conversation with a couple standing ahead of him in line, but she wastes no time interrupting.

Excuse me. Dr. Killian! She extends her hand to shake his, Julia Stone. Do you remember me? I would like to meet with you after your presentation today? Would you have time?

His handshake is firm and official. Jack Killian is an imposing older gentleman, with full white hair, an upright posture, crisp, clear voice, and a penetrating stare. He projects vitality, clarity, and good looks unusual for a man of sixty-five. One of the forces that transformed healthcare into a patient-centered practice, the doctor has always relied on data — thirty-eight percent of U.S. adults and twelve percent of children use some form of alternative care. Consumers have spent thirty-five billion dollars on visits to these practitioners and purchases of alternative health products and classes. The rising out-of-pocket costs for traditional medical and surgical care in the United States have led to crippling medical debt, forcing consumers to pursue cheaper alternatives. Because of this, Dr. Killian demands more funding for transformative research, and usually gets what he wants. Julia Stone worked with him this past year on a grant review committee, determining which research proposals should receive funding in the next year.

Jack Killian steps out of the crowded line for a minute to talk to her. Dr. Stone. Nobody can forget someone as charming as you. I enjoyed working with you last year. Thanks for your efforts. We reviewed so many wonderful grants, and I’ll have you know that several of the grants you reviewed did receive funding. I’m glad you’re here; you’ll like this meeting.

Julia is surprised that he remembers the grants she reviewed, and even more surprised they received funding, considering how competitive the process is.

Dr. Killian, please call me Julia, she says cordially. I’ve been following the research involving the Golden Scroll with great interest. The ideas behind this prophetic knowledge are compelling, and of course the controversy can’t be ignored.

Jack Killian does not shy away from controversy; unlike most of his peers, he is known to embrace it. You already know all about my work; don’t bother coming to the lecture, he laughs. But seriously, the knowledge from the ancient scroll is surprisingly universal and timeless. My research into it has been pretty compelling, albeit controversial.

Yes. I’ve actually visited the Terme Project in Italy; I’ve witnessed firsthand how this knowledge enhances health and well-being. But, the research has stirred up a hornet’s nest with the pharmaceutical industry?

Killian replies sarcastically, So be it. Self-care and enlightenment? Who would think that could help anyone? They view my work as a challenge to their monopoly on regulating people’s lives through addiction.

A few minutes later, Dr. Killian strides through the lobby of the hotel beside Julia, gesticulating wildly to emphasize a point. He stops short as Julia smiles, this knowing smile, so silent and disarming - as if she had put her finger to his lips. Though he had been talking to her for a minute, Jack Killian suddenly feels as if he were seeing Julia for the first time.

Suddenly he finds he cannot look away, staring into her hypnotizing blue eyes, mascara lashes sparkling; his gaze drifts down her body, noticing the way the smooth curve of her dimples is reflected in the shape of hips packed tight into a form-fitting suede miniskirt…

Dr. Killian?

Yes! Where was I? Startled back into awareness, Jack meets Julia’s eyes again. He laughs and glances down at his watch. Tell you what, let’s grab some breakfast and keep talking.

Of course, Doctor. I don’t want to make you late, she replies, flashing a smile at him.

Together, they step into the breakfast line. He grabs some coffee and a whole-wheat muffin; she selects a cup of orange juice and a fresh plate of cut fruit. They carry it over to one of the tall coffee tables in the lobby. They really outdid themselves with this breakfast, Jack offers.

Only thing that keeps me coming, Julia laughs. He watches her stride ahead of him across the marble floor, trying not to stare, but seeing nothing else.

You know, I nearly gave up coffee this past - ahhh- Jack stops short as a large gentleman with messy blond hair stumbles into him, spilling his coffee across the marble. Speaking of. Maybe it’s a sign.

The man stops in his tracks and turns, revealing a pocky, mortified face. I’m so sorry, sir; I wasn’t watching where I was going. Hang on, I’ll grab you another.

Oh, no need — well, if you insist, actually, Jack replies as the man hurries off back to the breakfast table. He turns to Julia and laughs. I was going to give it up, but what can I say? I love the stuff.

The pockmarked man returns with a steaming cup of espresso. So sorry, sir. Hope you have a better rest of your day. He hands over the cup and saunters away awkwardly.

Well, there’s a strange fellow! Jack proclaims when the stranger is out of earshot. Nice enough, though. Let’s go sit down, shall we?.

The pair seat themselves at the coffee table. Julia — and please call me Jack — as much as we know about treating disease, we know correspondingly little about enhancing health. It seems like we’re fighting a losing battle. This last of the Golden scrolls discovered, the Prophecy Scroll, may wake people up to the advancing problems in almost every domain of our lives, and the slow, dramatic decline of our planet. It provides tangible actions for individuals to prevent this demise and usher in a whole new era of promoting health and wellness, as well as, support peace and prosperity. But this will occur only if we prove it with science. I welcome the conversation, and the controversy.

Dr. Killian - ah, Jack - the research you’re funding is radical. You’ve even had threats.

It’s true. Jack took a sip of his coffee.

But over what? Measuring the human energy… or spirit, as some would call it? Leveraging the knowledge in ancient documents? I don’t understand what the controversy is. The researchers are simply applying the wisdom of texts from a different era to modern methods to promote the health and well-being of both people and help save the planet. The research has clearly shown that simple steps, when done together, actually, increase our daily energy and access to the vast knowledge we have within our brains. Yet some call the research pseudoscience. Others say the results are actually harmful. Aren’t you afraid of -

Excited, Jack interrupts her. Julia, I welcome skepticism, and the threats are empty; they’re a publicity stunt. Many scientific advancements have been met with the same sort of criticism. But these critics — they’re missing the point. We are teaching self-care to boost positive energy, insight, and knowledge. Who would criticize that? Most of them are just afraid of change.

They’re fanatics, Julia concludes as she sips her juice. And most of them are pushing an agenda to control the world.

Yes, perhaps. It’s simply an age-old conflict between scientific discovery and the comfort and stability of the status quo. I hope so. Killian takes a bite from his muffin and washes it down with another sip of coffee. Galileo, Newton, Darwin, and many other scientists were all persecuted when their ideas conflicted with the ideology of those in power during their time. Advancements in science, either validate or refute long-held practices and beliefs, and the pharmaceutical industry has taken these most recent advancements as a challenge.

I understand, but death threats?

People get their undies in a bundle for many reasons, he laughs. Then, he says more seriously, You’ve seen the results at the Terme Project. The human spirit is a powerful force, and these days it is weaponized by anyone with a social media platform. People are so volatile right now, particularly with the pandemic. Nearly every city has violent protests, even here…just look outside. People are desperate for change, and social media amplifies this desperation at lighting speed. We live in turbulent times– pandemics sweeping across the world; global warming, drought, and superstorms; divisiveness, hate and terrorism; poverty, hunger, and homelessness; despair, depression, and suicide; ignorance, corruption, and dishonesty. I can go on and on. They’re like beasts devastating the world we live in by those who live here. We cannot ignore these man-made global catastrophes. We need to wake up…but change is hard. Everyone wants a simple pill to solve all of our problems.

She responds, I’m not surprised that the pharmaceutical companies have manufactured major criticism towards your research. They want to sell more pills.

And they are doing just that! He shakes his head, They circumvent the people’s own power to solve their problems. Our research can transform not only the healthcare system but the world by empowering people to improve their lives and the health of our planet at the same time.

And, this is about discovery, she says through a bite of peach. Most people want a greater understanding of the universe. I don’t think most people are going to be convinced by a company that manufactures so-called miracle drugs.

You’d be surprised, Jack laughs, draining his coffee. One of my most powerful detractors, Circle Pharmaceuticals, has spent millions in advertisements to convince people that their medications are the revolutionary answer to end their suffering and bring power to their lives, he exclaims as he bites into his muffin. The Terme Project is answering one of the greatest questions in the history of mankind: what makes life? What makes us, as living beings, different from a collection of chemical reactions? And what exactly leaves us in death, relegating living things to inanimate dust?

As Julia listens intently to the doctor, her thoughts travel at a million miles an hour. This is exactly the research she wants to dedicate her career to.

Jack swallows the last of his muffin, eyes locked to hers. She imagines he is trying to catch a glimpse of the cogs spinning behind them. We all recognize the existence of the living spirit, the soul, the life force, the chi. What is this quintessential force that defines life? Just as important, how do you measure and enhance this energy? Nobody has done so until now. I’m not talking about Star Wars here, he chuckles. This isn’t ‘let the force be with you.’ This is Nobel Prize-type research. The researchers in Italy have demonstrated that this life energy and its fluctuations are real and measurable.

Other attendees, standing at tables close to the pair, begin to listen in.

Julia stops eating, listening intently, saying nothing. He looks her directly in the eyes and states emphatically, Listen! I know this research is ‘out there.’ I’d be the first to debunk these ideas without a scientific basis. That’s why we need to conduct more research to improve our understanding of the human life force and develop strategies to enhance our well-being even if they fly in the face of established methods of treatment. The wisdom unveiled in these ancient manuscripts is surprisingly insightful, and the results of the research into their scientific value are impressive. I’m excited to present some of those results today, and open a few more minds.

I agree, the research is really remarkable, Julia replies as she finishes her breakfast, dabbing her lips with a napkin. The measurement of life energy as it correlates to our habits and behavior is astounding. I found the wisdom in the Prophecy Scroll to be not only profound, but also surprisingly contemporary and universal. And the Terme Project has only touched on four of the ten manuscripts so far. The Seven Realms of Life, the Seven Beasts, the Rules of the Blessings, and the Blessing of Health are each remarkable in their own way. Do you know when they will obtain the others?

Remembering that he still needed to put the final touches on his slides and meet with the moderator before his presentation, Jack Killian looks at his watch. Oh my, it’s already ten past. I’m sorry, Julia, but I really must go. I relish the opportunity to be the first speaker to wake up the audience and set the tone for the conference. He rises from the table.

Of course, she agrees. You must go. Thank you for the conversation.

They gather their things and walk into the ornately decorated grand ballroom as he answers her last question. The remaining manuscripts are being translated by scholars around Italy proficient in ancient language. When we have translations of all ten scrolls, I believe it will provide us with a set of universal truths to better understand our human energy, bring health, well-being, and insight into our daily lives, and end the global crises that are devastating our world.

I’m with you, she responds with sparkly enthusiasm. I have a grant in preparation right now, and will need your advice before I send it in.

Of course. And I welcome your participation in this research. I’ll present some of the results in the next hour; that should give you more to think about. We can talk later about your grant. Does lunch work?

Lunch works fine for me.

Nice talking to you. Jack shakes Julia’s hand before walking through the giant double doors toward the front of the spacious lecture hall. See you in the lobby at noon.

Yes! Thank you, Dr. Killian. It will be a pleasure to hear you speak today. Good luck with your presentation.

She watches him stroll to the podium stage and considers what a great setting this is for a great man. The ballroom is illuminated by three wrought-iron chandeliers, sparkling with crystal and gold leaf that span the recessed ceiling. Sconces set at regular intervals across the walls cast dramatic shadows down the rows of seats, and gold-trimmed mirrors framed by red velvet drapes reflect the radiance of the chandeliers and the brilliant energy of the conference.

There is much anticipation for this lecture, as the audience begins to enter and find their seats. They have all heard about the controversy surrounding Jack Killian’s research. Now, they want to hear about these divisive ideas from his perspective.

Julia stands in the middle aisle watching him shake hands with the moderator. She is beyond excited to have finally opened up this conversation with Jack Killian. Of all the scientists employed by the National Institutes, the doctor’s support would be the most valuable in promoting her own research.

As Killian ends his conversation with the moderator, the pockmarked muscular man with messy blond hair watches them from the back of the ballroom. He nervously tucks his polo shirt neatly into his jeans, pushes his hair back, and gulps down his coffee. He watches Jack Killian ascend the stage. Sudden nervousness engulfs him; fumbling in his pants pocket, he withdraws a purple prescription bottle labeled CIRCLE PHARMA’’ and hurriedly unscrews the lid. Shaking the bottle into his hand, his palms close around three oval-shaped purple pills. He impatiently pops these into his mouth; the relief comes almost immediately. Tucking the bottle back into his jeans, he feels his pocket emanate with safety, relief, and then, euphoria. The past week had been torturous without them; but enough of that. He was back again. All the anxiety he had felt about this assignment had finally abated, and everything was going to be fine. After a week of cold sweats and nervous tension, he could finally sit back and relax. The bottle in his pants pocket seemed to call from him from afar, like the crackling of a phonograph from across a long, echoing hallway. Aaaaaanton, Aaaaaantoooooonnnnn… love me.. touch me..." Maybe he should take another one.

Chapter 2. The Tower

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MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA

SUNDAY MORNING

R yan Laughlin is frozen in fear, his heart beating like a jungle drum. He peers up the circular marble staircase in panic. He hears the sound of threatening footsteps from below and races up the slippery, worn stone stairs. His pursuer’s footfalls echo through the narrow stairwell just behind him, and he can almost feel their steaming breath on his legs. But when he looks back, all he can see is a shadow growing across the wall. The steps are tilted and awkward, lit by narrow slits of windows. The staircase never seems to end. The pursuer never seems to stop.

The passageway narrows, as if the walls are closing in on him. Ryan feels a nauseating unsteadiness as the steps begin to tilt sideways; the whole structure seems ready to topple like a fallen tree. He continues running up the stairs as the echoes behind him grow louder, but with each step the building seems to shift, inching closer to collapse.

Ryan’s laces have come undone and he trips over them, nearly slipping on the polished stone. He braces himself against the wall, pausing to catch his breath for a second before he races on up the stairs. Sweat streams down his forehead; his mouth is dry and his heart pounds. He moves up and up, two steps at a time. The steps feel shaky, unsteady beneath his feet, and soon the entire staircase seems to sway back and forth. His legs ache beneath him and he gasps for air. Surely he must be near the top. But then his ankle twists as a step shifts beneath his foot, and he tumbles down the staircase, nearly crashing into his adversary. Just as their hand closes over his shirt collar, Ryan manages to push himself up, lurching away. He flails madly, breaking their grasp, then turns toward the remaining stairs, crashing up them on hands and feet. Soon he can hardly fit between the narrow walls, and the steps shake as the staircase wobbles.

In a wild, fear-stricken panic, Ryan leaps up the last few steps and finds himself in blinding sunlight on an open balcony overlooking a city of red-shingled villas, cathedrals, and a maze of narrow stone alleyways. The balcony feels unstable, shaking in the wind. He gasps for breath that never comes. Shielding his eyes from the sun, he turns back toward the stairs just as his pursuer arrives at the top. He can’t see who it is, blinded by the glare of the sun. He backs up against the edge of the balcony, heart bursting from his chest. In a sudden motion, the tower sways beneath him. He slips over the cast-iron railing, his sweaty left hand closing over it at the last moment.

Dizzy with fear, he dangles from the railing high above the rooftops below, desperately trying to pull himself up. He manages to grab the railing with his right hand, but his grasp is slippery, and he feels his fingers loosen over the railing. His fingers strain, but they cannot hold him, and soon he slips off and tumbles downward. As if from a distance, he hears himself screaming, falling in slow motion toward the stone surface below. His body whips around, and for a second he stares up and locks eyes with the face peering over the balcony at him with an expression of horror. He knows this face: it is his late wife, Sophia. She reaches out her hand to save him, but it is too late. Nobody can save him now.

Ryan Laughlin crashes into his pillow, waking abruptly. The room is dark and silent; the digital clock reads four-fifteen in the morning. His heart is racing, and his face is sticky with sweat. He can’t seem to catch his breath. In the darkness around him, Sophia’s face appears ghostlike. He sits up, turns on the bedside lamp with shaking hands. In the light, the face disappears. But he knows the nightmares won’t stop, and the racing thoughts will not slow down. The guilty lump in his throat only seems to tighten when he is awake, even as the details of the dream subside.

It is Sunday, the day of the Lifetime Fitness Triathlon, and Ryan feels exhausted; but he cannot go back to sleep. He thinks about his patients who use his prescription drugs for insomnia, for anxiety, for depression, for pain. Every day at work, he tries to cure these illnesses in others, but he cannot even cure himself. He lays awake for hours, the same thoughts running over and over again through his mind like a never-ending tape. He tries to forget, but he cannot lie to himself. It’s over… He failed.

Ryan gets out of bed and drags himself to the bathroom. It is early, five in the morning now, and the last thing he wants to do is a triathlon. But pushing himself to extremes is what Ryan does best; in everything he does, including his remorse.

Today, though, he just wants to be alone in his misery. He turns on the television and checks the Weather Channel, secretly hoping for bad weather so that the triathlon will be cancelled. But of course, the weatherman predicts the day will be sunny and cool; no rain, and no cancellation. Perfect weather. Damn it. Why the hell did he even sign up for this punishment? He could pull out, but his friends are counting on him to show up, and he doesn’t want to let them down. Shit! He just has to buck up and do it.

Ryan takes a quick shower and starts some coffee. He begins to put on his gear when the phone rings.

It’s Randy. Hey Buddy. Get your skinny butt out of bed. Are you ready for the big event today?

To tell the truth, I’m a bit sluggish this morning. Let me apologize now before I let you down.

You always say that, and then you go out and bust your butt. I don’t expect you’ll let us down. Just pour down a couple cappuccinos and you will be raring to get down here.

I’ve had my first one already. I better have another. See you in a few minutes.

Chapter 3. The Lecture

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ST. PAUL, MINNESOTA

SUNDAY MORNING

I t’s 8:20 am, and the St. Paul Hotel ballroom is buzzing, just minutes away from the beginning of a landmark conference on cutting-edge research into the application of ancient philosophy and knowledge to modern medicine. Just outside the hotel’s swinging double doors, protestors swarm through the streets shouting and twirling signs. Change is in the air today.

The organizer of the conference and President of the Society, Dr. James Jacobs, arrives at the podium. He shuffles his notes and signals to the audio-visual staff to start the recording. He waits a few minutes, then waves to get the attention of the audience. He asks them to be seated.

Welcome to the tenth annual meeting of the International Society for Medical Research. We have an exciting program this year. Today, we will discuss compelling breakthroughs in medical science, as well as a few very fascinating, but also very controversial, theories advanced by some of our leading scientists and physicians. Our first speaker is sure to generate much lively discussion to kick off the conference.

Dr. Jacobs looks around the room at the eclectic international audience of scientists, doctors, professors, and reporters. It is my great pleasure to introduce to you my distinguished colleague and friend, Dr. Jack Killian. He has been with the National Institutes of Health for the past twenty-five years. He has received multiple national awards including the Merit and Director’s Awards, the Public Health Service Special Recognition Award, and the Superior Service Award. He is board-certified in internal medicine, and has pursued additional training in mind-body medicine. His talk today is entitled When Treatment and Medicine Clash: The Truth and Consequences of the Golden Scroll Prophecy.

Jack Killian, dressed in a sharply cut beige camel-hair suit, crisp white shirt, and scarlet tie, walks across the stage bearing a large collage composed of several photos of the last Golden Scroll, a map of the Mediterranean Region, an illustration of the seven-headed beast depicted in the scroll, and the seven-sided symbol of the Seven Realms.

The recent article in The New Yorker about the controversy surrounding the research on the Golden Scrolls has generated strong interest in the conference, attracting a diverse group of publicity seekers, true academics, public policy geeks, and representatives of the press. Dr. Killian looks out over the audience. They are buzzing in anticipation. He scans them carefully; He feels some may be guarded by angels, and others are haunted by demons. He imagines a few beady red demon eyes and smiles. This may be an active group today.

Good morning, colleagues. It’s a real pleasure to be here today and present some of the most cutting-edge research coming out of our Institute. We sponsor research to study innovative strategies to improve our health. These strategies include a group of healthcare practices that are beyond conventional medicine. Some tap into ancient knowledge. And some are even considered futuristic in nature. But none, to the dismay of our science fiction enthusiasts out there, are inspired by Star Trek.

There are smiles, and quiet laughter ripples through the room.

Before I present my research, I have a simple question that I want you to answer.

He pauses, looks around the audience, and then asks, How do you define a good life? He waits for someone to respond. No hands go up. You mean we have a whole room filled with the brightest minds of our age, and none of you have any idea? Come on! Either you’re all shy, or you’ve not had your coffee yet.

Figures in the crowd sit up straight, leaning out of their seats toward the podium. Jack Killian asks them again. Anyone? What factors comprise a good life? Please, tell me. He scans the ballroom for signs of life among the diverse array of people there.

Some younger members of the audience are dressed fashionably in colorful dresses, shirts, and jeans, while a broad swath of people have on plain professional suits and ties. There is a hand raised at the back of the room by a young woman in a pastel jacket.

He walks from behind the podium and points to the woman who raised her hand. Thank you, my bold friend.

Happiness. If I’m happy, my life is good; and I suppose the opposite is true, too.

Happiness. Excellent. Anybody else?

Another hand goes up in the middle of the room, an older man with a full head of gray hair, dressed casually in a contrasting black sweater. Dr. Killian points toward his outstretched hand, and all eyes turn to focus on his response.

Along the same lines, health. When I feel healthy and robust, my life is good.

Yes, health. I agree. Anyone else? What makes life worth living?

A young woman wearing a beige Sochi sweater and black tights stands up. She’s smiling as she says, Getting my sweetheart back.

Where is he? Dr. Killian asks.

He’s in the military, stationed abroad right now, the woman replies.

I hope he’s safe. Love is an important part of a good life, he replies. What else?

The crowd begins to relax as more hands go up. One desires peace in his life, another craves prosperity and financial security, and others aspire to eat well, have secure meaningful jobs, entertain family and friends, feel beautiful, live in a healthy environment, and help others. When Jack Killian was finished, he had a long list to present back to the group.

Thank you. We know that we all strive to have a good life. Interestingly, the ancient manuscript called the Prophecy Scroll, recently discovered but written two thousand years ago, lists seven strategies, called Blessings, necessary to achieving a good life — and you mentioned them all. These seven Blessings include wisdom, health, happiness, prosperity, beauty, peace, and love. You may think not much has changed in two thousand years. But it does beg the question — is there a universal knowledge that transcends time, place, and humanity? A knowledge which, if discovered, would grant all people the capacity to achieve each of these Blessings and a good life?

The whole audience, both strong believers and skeptics, listens intently to what Dr. Killian has to say. The room is still while Dr. Killian introduces an entirely new era of insight and understanding of the human condition. But he knows that this effort will not go unopposed. There are powerful forces trying to keep this knowledge hidden from the masses for their own reasons. But he ignores the potential threat. For this is his moment, his time of glory, and he speaks with conviction and confidence. This keynote will blow people’s minds.

The research I’m about to present, if successful, will not only contribute to improving the well-being of people around the world, but it may shake the very foundations that form the basis of understanding illness and health, and even our humanity. Why? Let me explain. Historically, most innovation in the diagnosis and treatment of disease has focused on the biochemistry of the body and resultant pharmacological or surgical manipulation of tissues. But now, research funded by the Institute provides a scientific basis for a new approach to understanding ourselves that is based on...

The room of hundreds is silent as Jack Killian presents a set of slides that capture a glowing energy field surrounding a smiling boy, then an older lady, and finally a happy dog. He pauses and then continues, …the measurement and manipulation of the electromagnetic energy fields of living things. Let me explain. Ancient civilizations believed the world was made of four core elements—earth, air, fire, and water. But the heavens were said to be made of something very different. They called it the ‘fifth essence.’ Recent research in nuclear physics on the Higgs boson, the so-called God particle, has revealed that everything, from the chair you are sitting in here on earth to the space of the farthest galaxy, is made of atoms that are, in essence, energy. Thus, the core of our molecular make-up is all energy. This energy, the fifth essence, may be a living being’s equivalent to the life force, or the living spirit. Recent developments in technology allow us to measure life force using dimensional frequencies that correspond to the different Realms of our lives, He presents the next slide, then stops to watch the audience as they ponder its significance. One word, synchronicity, appears centered on the wall.

After a minute, Jack Killian raises his voice and addresses the audience once again. Do you ever wonder why there are certain coincidental events that are beyond chance, or why you connect with some people and not others? Why do some people drain you and others uplift you? Why is there love at first sight? Each of these phenomena can be explained by a force called synchronicity. We have evidence that synchronicity is related to the electromagnetic waves we emit, a form of energy that only a few can sense. Perhaps this is the elusive sixth sense, the ability to perceive the subtle intuitive dimensions of the unseen world that often go undetected.

The audience bristles with quiet anticipation, hanging on every word. Jack Killian flips to the next slide, a kaleidoscope of monarch butterflies migrating south. A monarch butterfly can sense the magnetic fields of the earth, allowing it to travel thousands of miles during the winter and end up in the exact same place in Mexico every year. All energy has vibration, measured as a frequency. If two people are vibrating at the same rate, they form a connection, an attraction to each other, without realizing the underlying reason. If we could better understand, perceive, measure, control, and enhance our own energy levels, we would gain unprecedented insight into ourselves. And, if we broaden our understanding of our spiritual essence — the life force, the chi, the light — I believe our species has a much better chance of surviving the next few millennia.

Jack Killian turns back to the audience, pleased at their stirring interest as he presents his next two slides, the recently discovered historical Scrolls. Many in the audience are eager to hear about the controversy surrounding his research, and although he cannot help but feel excited to dive into it, Julia’s words echo back to him from their conversation over breakfast: Aren’t you afraid?.

Jack Killian flips through the slides and lands on an image of a sheer rock wall dotted with caves, coupled with a photograph of an ancient urn, black with swirling hexagons and yellow triangles bordering an elaborate engraving. Of all the scrolls discovered, the Prophecy Scroll is the most unique. It was found within the most beautiful of all golden urns, decorated with masterful artwork depicting a seven-headed beast dueling with angels from heaven and laden with a treasure of jewels, gold, and silver for the ages.

Almost like an entertainer, Jack Killian walks out in front of the podium and personally directs his next comment to each member of the audience. You need to know about the Prophecy Scroll! This manuscript not only forecasts the demise of our current world from seven negative trends, they call them the Seven Beasts, an apocalypse that has indisputably already begun. This final scroll also speaks of a path of salvation through the divine knowledge of the Seven Blessings.

He directs their attention to the next slide, a photograph of a man lying down within a piece of equipment that resembles an open magnetic resonance scanner. We are validating the wisdom of this manuscript by correlating it with the findings of our own research. We conduct this research using new technology that measures the electromagnetic energy fields produced by living things. Jack Killian points to the photograph. Shown here is the spin-exchange relaxation-free, or SERF, atomic magnetometer. The SERF measures electromagnetic fields by using lasers to detect the interaction between alkali metal atoms in a vapor and the surrounding magnetic field. This highly sensitive equipment can detect static and fluctuating electromagnetic fields which may become a more accurate and sensitive measure of changes that occur between health and illness.

Killian scans the room to appraise the initial reaction of the audience, pleased with their attentiveness and the energy they display. Like most speakers, he picks out a few in the audience to look at directly. He finds Julia in the third row and smiles at her. At first she looks embarrassed to be singled out, but then she smiles back at him. He then scans down the first row, past big staring eyes in all colors: a long-haired man of middle age, dark eyes, horn-rims, and tight tweed; a pale, freckled old lady bundled up for a different time of year, probably a European transplant; a large man dressed in a purple polo shirt tucked into jeans, muscular arms, and unkempt blond hair framing a nasty grin on a pockmarked face… Jack recognizes him as the odd fellow who bumped into him earlier outside the cafeteria. Slouched in his chair with legs stretched out and arms folded, the strange man returns his gaze. But rather than staring at Jack, he seems to be staring through him, with little needlepoint pupils that the doctor recognizes immediately as the dilated eyes of someone under the influence. He takes no notes, and unlike many in the audience, carries no briefcase, laptop, or program pamphlet. This strange man just sits there, alone with his thoughts. For a moment, Jack imagines that the auditorium is empty except for the two of them. Dark and empty; just the two of them, separated by a couple meters, staring at one another in silence.

A plump middle-aged woman in a blue velvet dress raises her hand. She begins talking before Jack can call on her. Excuse me for interrupting, but what you are saying is astonishing, if it is true. Just how do you know that it’s the spirit you’re measuring?

Killian smiles and switches to the next slide, a graph showing energy field measurements represented by colored parallel lines. Good question. You decide for yourself. The lines in this graph represent the strength, direction, and flow of electromagnetic energy fields generated by lab animals and measured with our new SERF technology. The coils in this scanner are sensitive enough to measure fields as low as 10−18 Tesla. For comparison, a typical refrigerator magnet produces 10−3 Tesla, and some processes in humans and animals produce fields between 10−9 T and 10−6 T. The SERF magnetometer can operate at room temperature and eliminates interference of the earth’s magnetic field. This technology has been applied to animals, and now, for the first time, to humans.

He extends his hand toward the woman who asked the question and continues with a slow and clear articulation. So your question is quite relevant. Are the energy levels simply a reflection of the biochemical changes in the body? Or are we measuring something more than just chemistry? Are we measuring the human spirit? That is the question that needs an answer.

Dr. Killian takes a drink of water, pausing to let this sink in as he flips to the next slide, a graph composed of colored lines with seven distinct peaks. The bright ballroom is buzzing with side conversations. He directs the red laser pointer at each of the seven peaks and tells the story with the excitement of a kid.

Look at this spectrum of SERF energy scans from a series of animal experiments. Note the seven primary energy concentrations reflected by the different frequencies and colors. These scans measure the level of energy at each center, as well as the flow of energy in and out of the center. These fields appear to indicate the presence of dysfunctional or diseased tissue much earlier than traditional methods involving biochemistry and physiology. Look at this next series of slides.

He switches to the next slide, a selection of graphs composed of three parallel colored lines, and explains in a more serious tone, On this first graph, note the overall mean scores of energy levels in the healthy rats. Now, look at this next graph comparing these scores to those of rats with experimentally-induced tumors, before the tumor shows up and then after the tumor appears. The differences between the energy levels of these three stages are dramatic. The implications of these findings are significant. First, using changes in our energy fields, we can detect conditions such as cancer, heart disease, and even depression earlier in its development, before physical or chemical changes occur. Think about this: our energy levels, our spirit, tell us when we are falling ill, well before our illness shows up on any test. This will revolutionize prevention strategies and dramatically enhance our perception of what health is. The next series of experiments have focused on the specificity of this energy within each of the seven realms of our lives, and the ways in which our life activities affect these energy levels.

Killian’s lecture is interrupted by another question coming from an older man near the front of the room wearing a jacket and tie. Standing to speak, he points a shaking finger at the graph and stammers, But, sir, your results only suggest a correlation exists between, um, the energy.... and the pathological condition. However, this fluctuation in energy could be generated from... from biochemical and physiological changes. How do you validate that it is in fact the energy of the human spirit?

Excellent point, sir! Dr. Killian smiles, hoping more of these probing questions arise. The validation process involves time-consuming measurements conducted first on animals, and later on humans. We measured energy in and energy out of rats, both during life and after death. The total energy calculated using body physiology remained relatively constant and did not correlate with the total energy produced by the electromagnetic fields we measured. Both the strength and frequency of the energy fluctuated considerably based on many factors, including when we simulated behavioral, social, environmental, and pathological states. But after death, the energy we call life force, measured using the SERF magnetometer, disappeared entirely, while the total energy measured from the animal’s physical carcass remained constant. There is a life force beyond biochemical changes occurring—and it is measurable.

Feeling his throat tighten, Jack Killian finds the glass of water on the podium and sips it. This happens sometimes when he drinks coffee; he should have avoided it. He clears his throat and continues with his lecture. Another man on the left side of the room, with a balding head, directly under the glowing light of the chandelier, raises his hand. Killian notes to himself that the glow of his head matches that of his energy and smiles to acknowledge him. The man stands up to ask, Dr. Killian, this does seem a bit like the Star Trek tricorder to me. There is a laugh from the back of the room, and an increase in buzz between members of the audience. Perhaps this can be applied to laboratory animals, but that is a far stretch from saying it will work with the complex physiology of humans. Can this be done?

Good timing, sir. Your question brings me to my next set of slides.

He shows them a colorful picture which presents the results of two SERF scans side by side. See this scan of two human subjects, both women in their thirties. Note how the energy level is different in subject Linda, on the left, compared to subject Ruth. Ruth’s scan reflects lower energy in the Emotional Realm. She suffers from clinical depression. This finding has been repeated in a pilot study of a larger sample of people with depression.

He clicks the controller