The Genesis Illusion

Chapter 55

Across the placid pond the chalk-white amphitheater shell and stage appeared to be a floating against a lush green backdrop of dense tropical foliage. Exquisite sound projected out to the audience seated on the manicured grass slopes in front of the stage around the watery mirror of the sheltered pond. I must go to the stage at 7 o'clock. Paul strolled slowly around the seated crowd attentively listening to the speakers on the mostly empty stage. A large banner covering the rear of the amphitheater behind the platform was the only adornment. That's the Arcadia symbol Suke described from the meeting...

"Not every nation is like Singapore," a speaker said. "On the contrary, most countries are governed by corrupt leaders and use systems of government that enrich a very few and impoverish many. Most either mandate a single religion or ignore religion and allow unrestrained persecution by the majority. The health and welfare of the masses are not important to leaders that have all the privileges and wealth. They keep the best for themselves, their families, and their close associates. The millions that toil for survival and pay unmanageable taxes to their overlords have no way to improve themselves. The system traps them in their place, and often pushes them even deeper into poverty, making them unnamed slaves to those in power. Arcadia will stop this sad cycle."

"Our new society, led by an intelligent and benevolent leader, will end servitude without reward and create a civilization where everyone can enjoy the same amazing advantages. Our cerebral leader will create a health system that is the envy of the world. The citizens of Arcadia will enjoy its unequaled technological advancements. Join us in this noble quest, to create this world and live in it with our families and our friends. Follow our magnificent leader, Bright Sun, who will shine her incredible light of superior knowledge, so that all can grow and prosper."

"There will be no more poverty, no more work without reward, no more pain for the sick, and no more fear of the powerful. The most advanced technology, created by Bright Sun, will protect the Arcadian citizens from those who wish to steal what this fantastic civilization has to offer."

"All the followers will benefit from its protective shield. All the followers will benefit from its superior advanced medicines and health advancements. All the followers will have their labor rewarded with these advancements. All the followers will live in peace and safety with their families."

"The supreme leader, Bright Sun, will protect them and lead them forward to a better life."

Cheers erupted from the crowd that chanted the words projected on the large screens on both sides of the stage.

Arcadia, Arcadia it's our salvation,

Arcadia, Arcadia the world's most advanced nation,

Arcadia, Arcadia Bright Sun is our Queen,

Arcadia, Arcadia the best country the world has seen.

"Arcadia will be your salvation, advanced healthcare, and plentiful food for everyone. Become a citizen and you will have these and more. Here are just a few of the advancements Arcadian's can enjoy. See a window into the future of our new society."

"Those of you who have attended before will recognize Lee Koh." The speaker stepped aside and motioned toward Lee who approached the front of the stage. Paul was now nearing the rear of the amphitheater but he could still hear clearly. "Unfortunately, Lee contracted a serious genetic disease. Although he still suffers greatly from its effects, Bright Sun has created a revolutionary method of delivering life altering medicine to Lee. Without the need for daily injections, because of this discovery, Lee lives a productive life while still dealing with this incurable disease." Lee stood next to the speaker raising his arm as a symbol of his battle. The audience clapped and stood in support.

The speaker continued, "The life-changing Arcadian innovations are not limited to medicine. It is critical for our citizens to have plentiful nutritious food. Arcadia will make sure the supply is bountiful. To demonstrate this ability cast your eyes on the bounty, you see here." A motorized cart appeared from behind the stage piled high with rice, fish, and chicken. The heavy cart stopped next to the speaker at the front of the stage so everyone could see.

"This rice was grown using no land or water from polluted rivers," the speaker struggled to hold up a large bag of rice. "Instead, pure water from the air grew the rice plants hanging upside down from the ceiling of massive inflatable domes." Massive projection screens shown photos of the innovative farming method. "This technology eliminates bacterial growth we all know can infect our sustaining rice. This method accelerates the growth of these plants increasing harvests at least five fold. This reduces the space and time needed to produce our most favored food." Another standing ovation erupted from the crowd.

"Also on this cart you see these remarkable fish, grown in sea corrals and harvested efficiently using machines. The advanced Arcadian methods greatly increased the growth rate so they can sustain our new society."

"These dinosaur-size chickens are five times the size or normal ones. These revolutionary methods ensure Arcadian citizens a healthful and plentiful food supply." The crowd stood again clapping wildly.

Ushers circulated among the crowd handing out small Arcadian flags, an orange sun with three bright yellow rays emanating down. The crowd waved their flags like they were at a soccer match.

Paul stood behind the amphitheater stage where production personnel were applying makeup to someone, facing away, was preparing to go on stage. Lee, who was sitting nearby, noticed Paul standing motionless while frenzied activity went on around him. He lurched from his chair to greet Paul. Ian Carlson, who was now backstage as well, spoke to Paul as Lee approached, "I see you made it, Paul. I knew you would." Paul stared at Carlson but didn't respond. "We want to introduce you to the Arcadian's."

"Yes, everyone needs to know who you are and how you can help our movement," Lee said.

Paul again didn't respond. What are they talking about? What am I doing here?

Lee and Carlson each grasped one of Paul's arms and led him to the front of the stage. Lee stepped to one of the microphones and announced, "Meet Paul Jacobs an important new citizen of Arcadia. He is a genius in mathematics, science, and many other things. Arcadia will prosper because of contributions of citizens like him." Citizen? Me?

Lee, Carlson, and Paul stood at the front of the stage bowing in gratitude for the crowd's ovation. When the audience quieted Lim and Wong joined them on stage. Then three disciples of Bright Sun outstretch their arms toward the crowd motioning for them to rise.

Something important must be about to happen.