"Deep in a research complex in San Diego, California, the lights on many instruments and machines beeped warmly in the empty night. The halls were hollow and vacant, that day's researchers gone home towards the end of a long day. The walls and floors beamed and pulsed, as Dr. Arnold Vaulkner remained behind running tests in his own private laboratory. His lab assistant, Theresa Palmer, eyed him questioningly from the side. 'Should we run a few more?' Dr. Vaulkner smiled griml