A 34-year-old man is introduced as he is initiated as a fifth-degree Mason. The man is unnamed, and it is revealed that he is aware of his own deception, as he comes into this ritual as a liar. He briefly worries about the wine he is required to drink, as the ritual states that it will cause his immediate death, but it does not.
Robert Langdon, who is heading to Washington, DC, on a private jet. As the plane lands, Langdon reflects on his former mentor, Peter Solomon, who was the one who brought him to Washington. Upon arrival, Langdon is met by a chauffeured car that will take him to the US Capitol Building. He overhears the chauffeur making a call to announce his arrival, and based on Peter's attention to detail, Langdon assumes that the driver is reporting to Peter according to his mentor's wishes.
Mal'akh. He is shown finishing a tattoo on his head, being careful to leave a small section on the top clean for a special tattoo. Mal'akh goes into the bathroom to admire his body, which is covered in tattoos. He is satisfied with the progress of his plan so far. After taking a shower, Mal'akh covers his visible tattoos with makeup and puts on specific clothing for the night ahead.
Langdon reflects on how he arrived home early that morning and found a message on his answering machine. The message was from
Peter's assistant, asking him to return the call immediately. Langdon also discovered a fax from Peter requesting a call. When Langdon called the provided number, he spoke to Peter's assistant, who explained that Peter, the secretary of the Smithsonian Museum, needed Langdon to take the place of a canceled keynote speaker for a party that night. Langdon agreed to the task and is now riding in a limo through downtown Washington, DC, reviewing his notes for the speech he plans to give.
Alfonso Nunez, a new security guard at the Capitol Building. He engages in small talk with a bald man whose arm is in a sling. The bald man empties his pockets and prepares to go through the metal detector. When the metal detector goes off, the man claims that he is wearing a ring on his injured hand thatcannot be removed due to swelling. Alfonso runs a wand over the man and allows him to continue through security. The bald man is revealed to be Mal'akh, who finds amusement in how easily his disguise allowed him to gain entrance to the Capitol.
Katherine Solomon, a "Noetic" scientist who believes in the power of thought to change the universe. She arrives at the Smithsonian Museum Support Center(SMSC) for a meeting with her brother, Peter. The SMSC is a storage warehouse for the Smithsonian, consisting of five large pods. Katherine is described as a single woman who never married, with both her parents deceased. Her nephew, Zachary, who is Peter's son, is believed to have died years ago in a Turkish prison. Therefore, Peter is Katherine's only living family. As Katherine arrives at the SMSC building, she receives a cryptic call from Mal'akh, who tells her that something Peter believes in can be found in Washington, DC.
Langdon arrives at the Capitol Building but is running late. He hurries through security and makes his way to Statuary Hall, taking a moment to
appreciate the architecture despite his rush. The surroundings prompt Langdon to think about the Masons who designed Washington, DC, and a lecture he gave on astrology and its connection to the city's primary buildings. He addressed questions about the secrecy of the Masons, explaining that they are not a secretive or religious organization but rather a public group that safeguards secrets.
Katherine enters the SMSC and briefly interacts with the security guard, Kyle, who is listening to a playoff game. Kyle asks if she will ever reveal what she does in Pod 5, and Katherine responds negatively.
Langdon is puzzled to find Statuary Hall empty. Upon inquiring with a passing employee, he learns that there is no scheduled Smithsonian event for that night. Langdon tries to call Peter but is surprised when the same person he spoke to earlier answers the phone without the southern accent. This person, revealed to be Mal'akh, informs Langdon that he brought him to Washington for his own purposes.
Mal'akh discloses that he has taken Peter hostage and claims that only Langdon can save Peter's "soul." He seeks Langdon's assistance in locating an ancient portal in Washington, DC, implying that Peter will provide the necessary guidance. Suddenly, Langdon hears someone screaming.
Upon investigating the scream, Langdondiscovers that a small group of tourists witnessed a man removing a severed hand from his sling and placing it in the center of the Capitol's Rotunda. Initially thinking it to be a mannequin's hand, Langdon soon realizes that it is real and belongs to Peter. Freshly tattooed on the hand are a series of numbers and letters.
Katherine grows concerned when Peter fails to show up for their usual Sunday evening meeting. She reminisces about when Peter first showed her the lab he built for her research. It was her initial visit to the SMSC, where overflow from the Smithsonian Museums is stored. Peter took Katherine to Pod 5, a large room shrouded in darkness. He explained that the lack of light and outside interference made it perfect for her research. He encouraged her to navigate through the darkness to reach a cinder-block room powered by a hydrogen fuel cell, tucked away in the far corner of the pod.
Capitol Police Chief Trent Anderson watches security footage capturing the moment the severed hand was placed in the Rotunda. He quickly mobilizes a search for the suspect. Focusing on the south exit based on tourists' information, he hopes to apprehend the individual. However, Mal'akh has already changed his attire and effortlessly slips away through the east exit.
As Capitol police secure the area around the Rotunda, Langdon closely examines the severed hand. He feels relief when he notices congealed blood, indicating that Peter was still alive when the hand was removed. Langdon then notices previously unseen tattoos on the thumb and index finger. He recognizes these tattoos as symbols of the Hand of Mysteries, a secretive icon associated with historical invitations. Langdon tries to offer his assistance with the investigation but is pushed back by a guard.
Mal'akh drives away from the Capitol in a limousine, his thoughts consumed by Katherine and her research. He believes that her work has the potential to enlighten the world but is determined to extinguish it before it can come to fruition.
Katherine arrives in the Cube, a space where she conducts her research. She contemplates the essence of noetic science, which involves the power of the mind over matter. She recalls how after the events of September 11, 2001, Random Event Generators around the world exhibited non-random outputs, suggesting the existence of a collective, cosmic-level consciousness. This phenomenon forms thefoundation of Katherine's research. She firmly believes that concentrated and powerful thoughts can influence anything and reshape humanity's understanding of the universe's mechanisms. Peter has always been supportive of her research and shared his belief that the answers she seeks lie within ancient mysticism.
Capitol Police Chief Anderson arrives at the Rotunda to investigate the severed hand. One of his men informs him that the CIA has arrived, and Anderson is surprised to find Director Inoue Sato, the director of the CIA's Office of Security, on the phone. Sato, a petite Asian woman with a rough, whispery voice due to throat surgery, demands to speak with Langdon. Langdon identifies himself and takes the phone, but he has no knowledge of what Sato is referring to.
Director Sato declares that she is taking over the investigation, despite Anderson's objection regarding jurisdiction. She asserts that the situation is a matter of national security. Langdon confirms that the hand belongs to Peter based on the Mason ring it still wears. He shares his theory about the tattoos, explaining to Sato that he believes the hand serves as a representation of the Hand of the Mysteries, an invitation to obtain secret knowledge.
At the Cube, Katherine checks the data-storage room to ensure
everything is functioning properly, as protecting her research is of utmost importance. She hears the door open, hoping it's Peter, but it turns out to be Trish Dunne, her metasystems analyst. Katherine asks Trish to conduct an internet search using specific keywords, looking for occurrences "anywhere in the world, in any language, at any point in history." Trish is taken aback by the request, particularly since she doesn't recognize one of the words. However, Trish is accustomed to Katherine's unusual requests, which are part of her unique research.
Langdon informs Director Sato about the phone call he had with Mal'akh, explaining that Mal'akh wants his help in finding a secret portal to ancient knowledge. Langdon mentions the belief that this knowledge is known as the Ancient Mysteries, a body of knowledge amassed thousands of years ago, allowing access to dormant abilities within the human mind. He explains that the Ancient Mysteries were hidden long ago to protect humanity because of their perceived danger. Langdon acknowledges that Peter believes in the existence of these Ancient Mysteries but understands that the portal itself is likely a metaphor without a physical existence.
Chapter20:
Langdon elaborates to Director Sato that the Hand of the Mysteries is traditionally presented in a sacred place, and the individual who placed the hand in the Rotunda deliberately chose that location. Langdon explains that Washington, DC, was originally designed as a modern version of ancient Rome, and the Capitol was modeled after the Temple of Vesta in the Roman Forum. Both the Rotunda and the temple have circular designs, with the Rotunda originally featuring a hole in the floor. In the Roman temple, this hole contained an eternal flame, representing the sacred fire of enlightenment. Although the hole in the Rotunda was covered, Langdon reveals that the theme of the Rotunda is apotheosis, the transformation of man into a god.
Langdon directs Director Sato's attention to the fresco on the ceiling
titled "The Apotheosis of Washington." The artwork depicts George Washington transforming into a god-like figure, surrounded by other founding fathers and gods. These figures represent inventors or contributors to various aspects of modern technology, such as farming equipment. Langdon also points out that Peter's severed hand is in a similar position to that of a statue once displayed in the Rotunda. The statue, crafted to resemble Zeus, portrayed Washington. Director Sato pressures Langdon to reveal why Mal'akh chose him, but Langdon insists that he has no knowledge or suspicions. However, during their conversation, Langdon realizes that there might be another clue and informs Sato that there could be a sixth tattoo on the palm of the hand. Impatient, Sato uses a pen to uncurl the fingers.
Katherine anxiously waits for the results of Trish's computer search. She recalls receiving a phone call earlier in the day from a supposed therapist named Dr. Christopher Abaddon, who claimed to have been treating Peter for a year. During their conversation, Dr. Abaddon mentioned Peter's struggle with the death of his mother a decade ago. However, when Dr. Abaddon began probing for information about Katherine's research and the pyramid, she divulged very little.
Langdon studies the tattoo on the palm of Peter's hand but initially struggles to comprehend its meaning. As he discusses it with Director Sato, she expresses her distrust of the Masons. Meanwhile, Mal'akh is still driving his limousine when Peter's cell phone starts ringing. He realizes that the caller is Katherine and listens to her voicemail, amused by her concerned tone as she pleads for Peter to call herback. Mal'akh parks near the SMSC, waiting for someone to invite him inside.
Langdon reminisces about an incident years ago when Peter unexpectedly visited his classroom at Harvard. Peter handed Langdon a
package and asked him to keep it safe, describing it as a talisman that could be dangerous in the wrong hands. Peter believed it wasn't secure among the Masons. Langdon agreed and stored the package in a wall safe in his library, subsequently forgetting about it until Peter's executive assistant requested him to bring it with him to Washington, DC, that morning.
Trish discovers a redacted document containing all the keywords Katherine had searched for, but she is unable to determine its origin. She contacts a hacker friend to assist with further investigation. Meanwhile, Katherine receives a text message that appears to be from Peter. The message instructs her to invite Dr. Abaddon to meet her and Peter at her lab. Katherine follows the instructions in the text, unaware that Dr. Abaddon is actually Mal'akh, who sent the text using Peter's phone.
Langdon deciphers the symbols on Peter's palm, revealing the text "SBB 13." Director Sato and Chief Anderson recognize this as the designation for a particular room in the Capitol Building. Sato insists that Anderson accompany her and Langdon to this room. Additionally, Sato requests that Anderson send her the X-ray image of Langdon's bag to her BlackBerry device. Sato also insists on keeping Peter's Masonic ring in her possession.
Trish contacts her hacker friend, Mark Zoubianis, while he is settling in to watch a playoff game. She asks him to trace the origin of a specific heavily redacted document that contained all the keywords Katherine was searching for. Mark reluctantly agrees to help, planning to complete the task quickly so he can return his focus to the game.
Langdon accompanies Director Sato and Chief Anderson as they venture into the crypt beneath the Capitol Building. Although intellectually aware that the area is used for storage rather than housing bodies, Langdon's lifelong claustrophobia is triggered, stemming from a childhood incident when he fell into a well. They pass doors marked with either an S or an H, representing the Senate and House sides of the building. They eventually reach a door labeled SB, with Anderson explaining that the letters stand for "Senate Basement."
Mal'akh arrives at the security gate outside theSMSC, posing as a chauffeur and presenting a fake identification card for Dr. Abaddon. He recalls doing a similar act at Peter's exclusive apartment building the previous evening, where Peter was anticipating his arrival, believing Dr. Abaddon to be a Masonic Lodge member. However, Mal'akh revealed his true identity as the intruder who broke into Peter's mother's home a decade ago. He tased Peter and carried him to his car, with his actions motivated by the same purpose as before.
As they delve deeper into the chambers beneath the Capitol, Director Sato asks Langdon to explain the markings on Peter's Masonic ring. Langdon reveals that the double-headed phoenix with the number 33 represents the highest Masonic degree. He explains that reaching the 33rd degree is by invitation only, while other degrees have specific requirements. Sato mentions that their keyword searches for "33rd degree" and "portal" led to references of a pyramid. Langdon clarifies that while the pyramid symbol is connected to the concept of enlightenment, the notion of a Masonic Pyramid leading to the Ancient Mysteries is a fantasy. He shares the myth that the Masons were entrusted with safeguarding the Ancient Mysteries within a great pyramid located in Washington, DC. However, Langdon dismisses this story as pure fiction, reasoning that the existence of such a pyramid would be difficult to conceal.
Trish recalls her initial journey through the darkness of Pod 5 to reach the Cube. The path is marked by a carpet runner that must be followed by touch. As Trish heads towards the security area to meet Katherine's guest, she wonders how he will manage the journey in darkness.
Capitol Police Chief Anderson, Director Sato, and Langdon arrive at a door marked SBB. A guard meets them and hands over a backup key for the door since the original key is missing. They inform the group that they are still searching for a key to SBB Thirteen, which is the only occupied room in the SBB area. This room has been marked as private by the Architect of the Capitol and was signed out to Peter Solomon.
Mark continues his attempt to trace the IP address of the document provided by Trish when he receives a phone call from the CIA, questioning why he is trying to hack into a classified database. At the same time, Warren Bellamy, the Architect of the Capitol, arrives at the CapitolBuilding. He instructs Alfonso to take him to Capitol Police Chief Anderson without alerting Anderson to his presence.
Trish welcomes Dr. Abaddon, surprised by his aristocratic appearance. They engage in small talk as they walk through the facility. Dr. Abaddon shows a particular fascination with a giant squid visible through the window of Pod 3. Intrigued by his interest, Trish unlocks the door and invites him inside for a closer look.
Meanwhile, Langdon, Director Sato, and Chief Anderson navigate a
dark hallway. Langdon battles his claustrophobia, feeling as though they are in a mausoleum. They reach the door marked 13, but find it closed and locked without a key. Growing impatient, Sato takes Anderson's gun and shoots the lock, causing the door to swing open, revealing a dark chamber beyond.
Upon entering SBB Thirteen, the group immediately notices a human skull and detects the scent of sulfur. Director Sato and Chief Anderson are shocked, but Langdon assures them that he understands the purpose of the room. Simultaneously, Warren sends his escort, Alfonso, back upstairs and proceeds deeper into the subbasement.
Trish guides Dr. Abaddon(who is actually Mal'akh in disguise) through Pod 3, explaining the various creatures housed there, including a tank containing the preserved remains of a giant squid immersed in ethanol. Mal'akh forcefully grabs Trish and demands the pin number for her access card. He then submerges her head in the ethanol-filled tank, drowning her. Afterward, Mal'akh notices his marred makeup and continues his journey toward Pod 5.
Langdon explains to Director Sato and Chief Anderson that the room they are in is a Chamber of Reflection, designed for Masons to meditate and escape from their work for a few minutes. He emphasizes that the artifacts in the room symbolize transformation. Director Sato finds this idea absurd. Suddenly, a breeze passes through the room, and Langdon notices the back wall shimmering. He investigates and discovers a canvas hanging on the wall. Removing the canvas, they uncover an opening with a pyramid inside.
The pyramid they find is made of granite and stands about nine inches tall. Director Sato insists that Langdon remove the pyramid, believing it to be the pyramid associated with the portal that Mal'akh is interested in. However, Langdon argues that the pyramid is not a true pyramid since its top is flat. As Sato examines the pyramid, she suggests that Langdon was lured to Washington, DC,to decipher the secrets of this pyramid.
Katherine becomes worried when Trish and Dr. Abaddon do not return as expected. She calls the security desk to inquire about their whereabouts but is told that they left the lobby ten minutes earlier. Although her instincts tell her that something is wrong, she chooses to ignore them.
Director Sato obtains an X-ray image of Langdon's bag and shows it to Chief Anderson. She accuses Langdon of lying to her and declares her intention to take him into custody for questioning. Sato uses Anderson's gun to hold Langdon still while Anderson moves to detain him. However, just as they are about to apprehend Langdon, Warren Bellamy bursts into the room. He knocks out Anderson and strikes Director Sato, providing Langdon an opportunity to grab his bag and escape.
Warren introduces himself as a friend of Peter's and helps Langdon navigate through a maze of corridors. They enter a tunnel that is still under construction. Meanwhile, Mal'akh makes his way to Pod 5 in the SMSC, searching for Katherine. He congratulates himself on the smooth progress of his plan, as all the pieces seem to be falling into place.
While following Warren, Langdon receives a call from Mal'akh. Langdon
argues that the pyramid he found cannot be the one Mal'akh is seeking, but Mal'akh laughs it off. Mal'akh reveals that the pyramid is not the container of the Ancient Mysteries but rather a portal or map leading to their actual location. He claims that Langdon is the only one who can decipher the map because he possesses the capstone of the pyramid. Langdon refuses to help until he has proof of Peter's survival, but Mal'akh threatens to kill Peter if Langdon doesn't decode the map by the end of the night.
Langdon contacts his editor, Jonas Faukman, to request Katherine's phone number. Jonas has Katherine's contact information because he once considered publishing a book she had written. Jonas provides Langdon with Katherine's cell phone number before Langdon abruptly hangs up.
Katherine receives a call from Langdon, who informs her of Peter's kidnapping. Katherine shares the details of the text message she received from Peter, but Langdon insists that it was not sent by him. Langdon warns Katherine to leave the SMSC and urgently asks for Trish's whereabouts. Kyle, the security guard, informs Katherine that Trish took her guest into Pod 3 but returned alone.The man used Trish's access card to enter Pod 5. Katherine leaves the Cube and begins moving in the darkness, heading towards the door. However, she detects the smell of ethanol and realizes that the man is nearby. She decides to deviate from the carpeted path.
The tunnel that Langdon and Warren are traversing leads them to the Library of Congress. Warren guides Langdon into the central reading room, a circular chamber situated at the heart of the building. Langdon hands the stone pyramid to Warren, and they both examine the symbols inscribed on its side. Langdon recognizes the symbols as Freemason's
Cipher, an encoded language that he can decipher in a matter of seconds. Warren wonders about Director Sato's interest in the pyramid and worries that she might be aware of what it is meant to conceal.
Katherine attempts to escape from Mal'akh by using the scent of ethanol on his clothes to track his location. However, she soon realizes that he has strategically placed ethanol-soaked clothing around the room to confuse her senses. When she reaches the door, she finds that the lock has been damaged. Instead, she approaches the large specimen bay door along the outer wall of the pod and manages to reach the lawn. Mal'akh follows her, but Katherine is able to get to her car and escape from him.
Capitol Police Chief Anderson examines the security camera footage to track the whereabouts of Langdon and Warren. Alfonso informs Anderson of their destination, but Director Sato has already deduced their location by reviewing the surveillance clips.
Langdon expresses his disbelief in the myth surrounding the pyramid, particularly the notion that "God Himself can reach out and touch it." Warren explains the Masonic belief that there is a divine essence within every human being, so in a sense, God can touch the pyramid through a human agent. He argues that the stories about the pyramid have been misunderstood over time, just as early artists misinterpreted the description of Moses in the Bible and depicted him with horns. Warren supports Mal'akh's claim that the pyramid is a map and urges Langdon to decipher the symbols on it. Langdon manages to decode the symbols but is unsure of their meaning.
Nola Kaye, an analyst from the CIA's Office of Security, successfully deciphers the code on the pyramid as well. She contacts Director Sato to report her findings, revealingthat the translation has resulted in a jumble of letters. Nola also informs Sato about the X-ray analysis of Langdon's bag, which indicates that the pyramid is made of gold and bears written symbols. Director Sato dispatches a team of field operatives down the tunnel to pursue Langdon and Warren.
Katherine, having escaped from the SMSC, drives recklessly while reminiscing about the night her mother died. On that fateful night, Katherine wanted to support Peter, who was grieving the loss of their son Zachary, murdered in a Turkish prison. A man broke into their home, claiming to have killed Zachary and demanding the location of a pyramid. Confusion ensued, shots were fired, and Katherine's mother was fatally wounded while defending them. Peter pursued the intruder into the woods. As Katherine held her dying mother, gunshots echoed in the distance.
In the present, Mal'akh returns to the Cube and gains access. He tries to enter the data-storage area but encounters an obstacle. Mal'akh is determined to destroy Katherine's research, believing that its dissemination could lead unworthy individuals astray. He discovers canisters of hydrogen in the power room and uses them to fill the data-storage room with gas through a tube slipped under the door. Mal'akh then douses the canister with Bunsen burner fuel. Meanwhile, Katherine contacts emergency services, attempting to send someone to Dr. Abaddon's house to locate Peter.
Warren elaborates to Langdon on the significance of combining the deciphered text with the information on the pyramid's capstone. He asserts that these two pieces of the puzzle have intentionally been kept
separate for generations, implying that there is a profound reason behind it. However, Langdon finds this notion absurd and believes that Warren is placing excessive importance on a mere myth.
Mal'akh gains access to Pod 5 through the open specimen bay door, where he encounters a perimeter patrolman. He violently attacks the patrolman, striking him in the sternum and incapacitating him. Mal'akh then proceeds to drop an open flame into a pool of fuel, causing a devastating explosion and resulting fireball. The patrolman perishes in the explosion. Katherine witnesses the explosion, but initially, she is too focused on the events unfolding and finding Langdon to fully comprehend what has just happened.
Warren engages in multiple phone calls, desperately attempting to reach an unknown individual. Meanwhile, Langdon bombards Warren with numerous questions about the pyramid and its significance. Warren discloses thatthe pyramid leads to a concealed spiral staircase, hidden behind a massive stone. Surprisingly, Warren advises Langdon not to open the package or remove the capstone. He emphasizes the importance of safeguarding the secret of the capstone at all costs, rather than attempting to rescue Peter. Just as Katherine arrives at the Library of Congress, desperately seeking Langdon's attention, Warren hastily places the pyramid into Langdon's bag. Their makeshift alarm system suddenly goes off, prompting Warren to guide Langdon and Katherine to a cupboard, instructing them to take refuge inside.
Amidst the chaos and tension, Langdon opens the door to allow Katherine into the building. He tries to offer her solace and reassurance. Warren swiftly inserts the pyramid into Langdon's bag, coinciding with the activation of their improvised alarm system. In response, Warren leads Langdon and Katherine to seek shelter in a nearby cupboard,
aiming to conceal their presence.
Mal'akh reminisces about the genesis of his plan. After orchestrating his own death and adopting a new identity as Andros on a Greek island, he grew restless. Watching a program on the Freemasons triggered memories of his father's pyramid. Fueled by the desire to reclaim what he believed to be rightfully his, Mal'akh embarked on a mission. However, his actions faced numerous setbacks, culminating in a dramatic confrontation between "Andros" and Peter at the edge of a river.
A team of Special Forces, led by Agent Turner Simkins, relentlessly tracks Warren and Langdon through the tunnel connecting the Capitol Building and the Library of Congress. Their pursuit eventually leads them to the door linking the tunnel and the library. Using explosives, they force the door open and storm into the building. Equipped with thermal imaging technology, they scour the premises in search of the fugitives. Their search brings them to a central room where they spot Warren. They give chase, determined to apprehend him, but they are unable to locate Langdon anywhere. Despite their efforts, Warren remains unyielding, refusing to disclose Langdon's whereabouts.
Langdon's claustrophobia intensifies, nearly pushing him into a state of panic, as he finds himself lying on a conveyor belt that transports books through a series of tight spaces within the library. Aware that he will be confined in this tight space for an extended period, he battles his fears and anxiety. Closing his eyes, Langdon worries about Warren's safety, knowing that Warren made the decision to staybehind.
A female security guard responds to a 911 call reporting a possible kidnapping at Mal'akh's house. Upon arriving at the location, she observes that the house appears peaceful, which is unusual considering the neighborhood often experiences false alarms and prank calls. Initially, the guard believes that the situation is a false alarm as well and radios in to report that everything seems clear.
However, her attention is drawn to a window that has been painted black from the inside. The paint on the window is starting to chip, revealing a disturbing sight. Before she can react or communicate her discovery, the guard is suddenly incapacitated by a taser, knocking her unconscious. The shocking turn of events leaves the reader wondering about the mysterious circumstances surrounding Mal'akh's house and the fate of the guard.
Warren finds himself captured by the Special Forces team. Blindfolded, he is escorted through the stacks of the library. In a flashback, Warren remembers witnessing a moment between Peter and his son, Zachary. Peter offered the secrets of the pyramid as a family legacy to Zachary, but Zachary declined the offer. Warren questioned Zachary's worthiness to safeguard such knowledge, but Peter dismissed the idea. However, after the death of Peter's mother, he decided to separate the capstone and pyramid, hiding them in distant locations.
Returning to the present, Langdon and Katherine arrive in the circulation room of the Adams Building. Katherine shares with Langdon the events that have transpired, connecting them to her mother's death and her own work. Langdon provides comfort to Katherine, and she expresses her desire to open the package containing the capstone to save Peter's life. Langdon, on the other hand, argues that it is Peter's property and should not be opened. Despite the disagreement, Katherine proceeds to open the package.
A young man informs his superior, who is in the garden of an unknown house, about a phone call he received from Warren Bellamy. The older man's immediate reaction to the call prompts him to head inside.
Inside the package, Katherine discovers a stone box containing a golden pyramid. The lid of the box bears an inscription that reads, "The secret hides within The Order." Langdon believes that the capitalization of "The Order" is a clue but is unsure of its significance. Meanwhile, Director Sato speaks to Nola on the phone but receives no updates regarding the code decipheringefforts for the pyramid. Sato is informed that Langdon remains elusive, prompting her to give orders for Warren to be relocated.
Mal'akh contemplates his physical transformation and the upcoming stages of his plan. He reassures himself that by morning, he will be far away from his current location. He takes pride in what he has become and expresses hope that Langdon will be able to unlock the secrets held within the pyramid.
Katherine notices the number 1514 and a symbol on the underside of the stone box. Initially, she thinks it might be a date, but Langdon recognizes it as a reference to a person. The significance of the number and symbol piques their curiosity, hinting at a hidden meaning.
A young man assists his blind superior from the garden into the building, expressing concern for the older man's health. The young man is unaware that his superior is particularly troubled by a phone message because the question posed by Warren is actually a code indicating that a Mason is in trouble.
Langdon informs Katherine that artists often used symbols to sign their work. The symbol on the underside of the box is identified as Albrecht Durer's signature, and the number 1514 refers to one of Durer's paintings. They search for the painting, Melencolia I, on the computer and discover that it was created in 1514. Langdon points out that the number 1514 is actually present within the painting itself. He recognizes it as a magic square, a grid of numbers where all the rows, columns, and diagonals add up to the same number. Langdon realizes that the magic square can be used as a primer to decipher the symbols on the pyramid.
The tactical squad escorts Warren to the jungle area at the center of the US Botanic Garden, located next to the Capitol Building. They leave him alone, still blindfolded, but Warren can sense the presence of someone breathing on the bench next to him, adding to the intrigue and tension of the situation.
Langdon explains the concept of a magic square to Katherine, emphasizing that the numbers in each row, column, and diagonal add up
to the same sum. In this case, the sum is 34. Langdon takes the grid of letters that he deciphered from the pyramid's symbols and overlays a copy of Durer's magic square on top of it. He assigns each lettera corresponding number and rearranges them in order. The resulting arrangement forms a phrase in Latin. When translated to English, the phrase reads "One true God."
However, Katherine expresses skepticism regarding Langdon's interpretation of the data, suggesting that there may be more to uncover. Just then, Langdon receives a phone call from a friend of Warren's. The friend uses coded language to invite Langdon to a specific location and warns him to ensure that he isn't being followed. The unexpected call adds an element of mystery and urgency to the unfolding events.
Mal'akh takes a thorough shower, carefully removing all the hair from his body to reveal his tattoo-covered skin. He stands under cold water to open his pores. Studying himself in the mirror, he marvels at the physical transformation he has undergone over the past 16 years, particularly in the last decade. He has adorned himself with tattoos and even chosen to become a eunuch, driven by his belief that all gods are sexless. As he enters his bedroom to get dressed, he discovers a reassuring text message on his phone, hinting at the fulfillment of his desires.
The CIA continues their search for Langdon within the Library of Congress building. An agent notices thermal signatures on the conveyer belt, realizing that it was the means of Langdon's escape. He promptly reports his findings to his team leader, who sends out an alert to search the Adams Building.
Katherine and Langdon leave the Adams Building and hail a cab. From their vantage point, they can observe the ongoing search efforts to locate them. Katherine instructs the cab driver on the general direction they should go but intentionally omits providing a specific address. Unbeknownst to them, the driver has already been informed of their fugitive status through dispatch. The driver reports this information and is connected with a CIA agent. The agent instructs the driver to activate the intercom system, enabling the CIA to listen in on the passengers' conversation through the driver's phone without revealing that he is aware they are wanted.
Director Sato removes the bag covering Warren's head and engages in a conversation with him. She emphasizes that their current concerns
extend beyond Peter's safety. Sato tries to persuade Warren to reveal Langdon and Katherine's whereabouts, but Warren steadfastly refuses. However, Sato receives word that Langdon and Katherine have been located in a cab.
Katherine suddenly has anepiphany, suggesting that they may be headed in the wrong direction. Drawing on a conspiracy theory that links the six-pointed star on the dollar bill to the word "Mason," she tells Langdon that they should instead go to Freedom Plaza. Unbeknownst to them, the CIA listens in as Katherine instructs the cab driver to stop at Freedom Plaza.
Langdon and Katherine exit the cab to examine something of interest. The cab driver promptly reports this development to the CIA, who instruct him to ensure that Langdon and Katherine stay in their current location. However, Langdon informs the driver that they have changed their plans and will be taking the blue line on the subway to their next destination. A few minutes later, the CIA arrives, confident in their knowledge that Langdon and Katherine are headed to Alexandria and that they can intercept the train they are likely to board.
In a flashback, Mal'akh recalls the night when he fell into the river after escaping from Peter and killing Peter's mother. Surviving the fall, Mal'akh relocated to New York, where he focused on healing and educating himself about the pyramid. It was during this time that a drug dealer suggested he cover his scars with tattoos, which led Mal'akh to search for meaningful symbols. He discovered the works of Aleister Crowley, a mystic from the early 1900s, which influenced his path. Mal'akh began making blood sacrifices using animals and came across John Milton's Paradise Lost, which introduced him to the concept of the angel known as Moloch or Mal'akh. This discovery allowed him to transform himself
physically and align himself with his philosophical ideals.
In the present, Agent Simkins and his team arrive at the train station in Alexandria, expecting Langdon and Katherine to arrive soon. As the train pulls in, Simkins and his team search for the fugitives, but they are nowhere to be found on the train.
It is revealed that while in the taxi, Katherine noticed the illuminated intercom light and deduced that the driver was communicating with the CIA. To avoid detection, she convinced Langdon to leave the cab. Once away from the driver, Katherine suggests that they take the red line of the subway to Tenleytown. They proceed to the National Cathedral, following the coded instructions from Warren's friend, and are welcomed by an elderly blind priest.
Director Sato informs Warren that she is aware ofthe phone call between him and Peter's kidnapper, where he revealed Langdon's mission at the Capitol. She also discloses that Peter's cell phone has been tapped, and she has been monitoring the calls. Sato emphasizes that something larger and more significant than Peter's kidnapping is unfolding. To convince Warren to cooperate, Sato shows him a video on her computer that she claims will change his perspective.
Mal'akh enters a hidden room in his basement where he keeps his plan's emblems and equipment. He retrieves a knife made of iron and bone, which he purchased for nearly $2 million, considering it historically significant and valuable. He also gathers tools for tattooing the remaining spot on his head, including some of Peter's blood. Mal'akh uses Peter's blood to draw the symbols of the Ancient Mysteries on
vellum, burns the vellum, and adds the charred remnants to a bowl of blood. He pours the blood into a vial, corking it, with the intention of using it for his final tattoo.
The blind priest they meet is Reverend Colin Galloway, the dean of the National Cathedral. He takes Langdon and Katherine to his office, where Langdon explains that they have deciphered the symbols on the pyramid. Galloway touches the items as he listens to Langdon, informing them that they have not finished deciphering the pyramid. Despite their confusion, Galloway assures them that the pyramid can be transformed to reveal further information. He insists that they have embarked on something they cannot stop. Langdon initially refuses to believe, but Galloway asserts that Langdon will eventually understand the full significance of the pyramid.
Warren is shocked by a classified video shown to him by Director Sato. He now realizes that he made a mistake in helping Langdon.
Katherine learns from Dean Galloway that Peter often visited him and expressed concerns about a dark force in his life. They discuss the CIA's interest in the pyramid, speculating that the agency wishes to access its power. They also touch on Noetic science, with Galloway mentioning Peter's belief that Noetic scientists would be celebrated for their groundbreaking work. They explore the concept of knowledge expanding a person's learning capacity. Galloway then instructs Langdon to touch the stone box to sense something beyond what his eyes reveal. When Langdon withdraws his hand, a symbol is imprinted on his finger. Galloway jokingly remarks that Langdon has turned gold, but Langdon arguesthat the symbol could have multiple meanings. Galloway directs Langdon's attention to Peter's Masonic ring, which fits perfectly onto a raised circle on the box.
When the ring is turned to the 33rd degree, the box unfolds into the shape of a cross. Langdon suggests that it is a Rose Cross, a common symbol of Freemasonry, rather than a Christian cross. The sight of the cross triggers Langdon's memory of a conversation he had with Peter about the Rosicrucians, whose founder was likely someone like Francis Bacon using the pseudonym Christian Rozenkreuz. Langdon recalls their discussion about Isaac Newton using the Latin phrase for "One true God" as a pseudonym. Katherine realizes how to transform the pyramid based on this information. At that moment, Galloway informs them that visitors are approaching.
Mal'akh reflects on the choices that Peter offered his son, Zachary: wisdom or wealth. He thinks about how Peter could have saved Zachary but chose not to. Mal'akh believes that the sacrifice he will present to Peter that night is fitting and appropriate.
Katherine and Langdon manage to escape from Dean Galloway's office and catch a glimpse of a CIA helicopter arriving outside through a window. They quickly realize that the building is surrounded by authorities. Agent Simkins enters the building and confronts Galloway, demanding to know the whereabouts of Langdon.
Nola receives a call from Rick Parrish in system security, who informs her of an attempted hack on a document stored on a secure server. When Rick mentions certain words from the document, Nola insists on meeting him in person to discuss further.
Langdon and Katherine flee from the National Cathedral and head across the lawn to the Cathedral College. Katherine insists on finding a kitchen, where she boils water and submerges the pyramid inside. She believes that heating up the pyramid will trigger a transformation, as 33 degrees is the boiling point on the Newton Scale. The heat causes the writing on the pyramid's side to become radiant, revealing what appears to be an address.
The pyramid unveils the words "Eight Franklin Square," leading Langdon to ponder what might be located at that address. Langdon calls Mal'akh to inform him that they have solved the puzzle, but a female security guard answers the phone. She reveals that she found her partner dead while searching for him, but Peter is alive. The guard provides Langdon and Katherine withthe address of the house where they previously encountered "Dr. Abaddon" and urges them to hurry.
Langdon and Katherine desperately try to find a way out but unexpectedly come face to face with Director Sato and her tactical team. They attempt to explain to Sato that Peter has been found, but she dismisses their claims. They show Sato the pyramid and explain the address written on its side. Sato reveals that Warren has been cooperating with her, but he had also been assisting Mal'akh until he discovered the truth, without specifying what that truth is. Sato forces Warren to send Mal'akh a photo of the address with the number covered.
Director Sato arranges for Galloway to be brought into the room while they wait for Mal'akh's call. When the call comes, Warren demands to speak to Peter, but his request is denied. Mal'akh claims to be only 20 minutes away from the square and proposes exchanging Peter for the pyramid. This aligns with the information Langdon and Katherine obtained from the security guard, assuming that Mal'akh is unaware of
Peter being found. Katherine insists once again on being allowed to go to Peter. Director Sato agrees to send Langdon and Katherine to the house where Katherine met "Dr. Abaddon," while Sato and her team head to Franklin Square to intercept Mal'akh. Galloway picks up the pyramid, runs his hands over it, and places it back in Langdon's bag. He instructs Langdon to tell Peter that "the Masonic Pyramid has always kept her secret... sincerely."
Director Sato and Simkins position their men all over Franklin Square, awaiting Mal'akh's arrival.
CIA Agent Hartmann drives Langdon and Katherine to the house in Kalorama Heights where Katherine previously met with "Dr. Abaddon." During the drive, Langdon notices melted wax on the pyramid, which has separated from the stone due to Galloway's touch. They arrive at the house to find cars parked chaotically, some still running with lights on. A uniformed woman is seated at the dining room table. Katherine rushes inside, but Langdon becomes suspicious as he realizes that the cars do not belong to the usual law enforcement agencies. Just as Langdon hesitates, Katherine is suddenly attacked.
Katherine is tripped, the CIA agent's throat is slit, and Langdon is tased. Katherine is assaulted once more and forced onto the floor with her hands bound by wire. Langdon notices that the pyramid has fallenout of his bag, revealing a set of symbols previously concealed by wax. The use of wax was a common practice to conceal imperfections in sculptures, so artists who created stone works without wax, known as sine cera, were considered more sincere and authentic. Langdon realizes that this is what Galloway's last message to Peter meant. Amidst this realization, Langdon also becomes aware of the danger Katherine is in and fights to reach her, but Mal'akh forcefully slams Langdon's head
against the floor, causing him to lose consciousness.
Mal'akh reflects on the elaborate deception he orchestrated to lure Langdon to his home, fully aware that the CIA will soon be on their way. He forcefully drags Langdon down into his secret basement while a televangelist speaks on television about the impending apocalypse. Mal'akh compares the preacher's words to his own knowledge gained over the past decade through his studies of mysticism. He believes that human beings have the capacity for both good and evil, and sometimes one must act in evil ways to achieve true godliness. Mal'akh's thoughts align with Peter's and the Masons' convictions to some extent, as he believes that the Ancient Mysteries have influenced all aspects of life, including modern religions. However, Mal'akh also believes that society has strayed too far from the path of light and that darkness will soon prevail completely.
Nola informs Director Sato that there is no actual address matching "8 Franklin Square." In response, Sato provides Nola with the remaining clues from the pyramid, capstone, and box. Nola starts searching, considering the possibility that the words may not refer to an address but rather to the purpose or significance of a particular structure.
Langdon regains consciousness in the secret basement room, realizing that he is completely naked and confined inside some kind of box. Fearful that he may be trapped in a coffin and buried alive, he experiences a wave of panic. Meanwhile, Katherine attempts to resist Mal'akh's grasp as he carries her into the secret basement room. The entrance to the basement is concealed behind a painting that Katherine had admired during her initial visit to the house, when she believed Mal'akh to be "Dr. Abaddon."
Agent Simkins hides in Franklin Park, waiting for Mal'akh's arrival. However, Director Sato contacts Simkins and instructs him to shift his focus to a nearby building called the Almas Shrine Temple, which they believe bettercorresponds to the inscription found on the pyramid. Simkins agrees but grows concerned when he learns that Director Sato has not received any updates from Agent Hartmann, who had driven Langdon and Katherine to Dr. Abaddon's house.
Katherine struggles to remove the cloth gag from her mouth as Mal'akh settles her into a chair within his secret room. He removes the cloth, allowing her to look around, and she becomes distressed upon noticing Langdon's discarded clothes on the floor. Mal'akh points to a box and reveals Langdon's location to her, causing her distress to escalate. Langdon, hearing her anguish, realizes that she is nearby. Katherine spots a body of water within the room, reminiscent of the night when Peter left Mal'akh to drown, and grows alarmed as she anticipates its purpose. The water begins to fill Langdon's box, heightening the sense of danger and urgency.
Katherine engages in a heated argument with Mal'akh, desperately trying to persuade him to release Langdon and reveal Peter's location. Mal'akh demands to know what information they have obtained from the pyramid. Katherine informs him about the number they believed to be an address, unaware that new symbols have been revealed on the base of the pyramid. Mal'akh takes the pyramid to Langdon and shows him the symbols through a window at the top of the box. Threatening Langdon with drowning, Mal'akh insists that he immediately provide the solution to the symbols.
Initially skeptical, Langdon believes the symbols to be too random and chaotic to hold any meaning. However, as the water gradually covers his face, Langdon delves into his knowledge of the pyramid as a whole and begins to comprehend their significance. Realizing the message they convey, Langdon relays the information to Mal'akh, believing it will decode the symbols on the bottom of the pyramid. After extracting the information from Langdon, Mal'akh leaves him to drown.
With his breath held for as long as possible, Langdon reaches the point where he can no longer hold it any longer. He starts to drown inside the box, struggling for air.
Mal'akh restrains Katherine by strapping her to a square table. Left alone, she surveys her surroundings and is horrified to discover a collection of papers taped to the wall and a medical tray placed beside the table, suggesting the presence of something sinister.
Rick arrives at Nola's office and reveals that he has discovered the single-pagedocument that was targeted by the hacker. Surprisingly, it is located on a partition assigned to the CIA director. Nola finds this revelation hard to believe since the document appears to focus on the Masons and pyramids. Meanwhile, Director Sato orders her team to abandon Franklin Square and proceed to the house in Kalorama Heights due to Agent Hartmann's lack of response to any communication attempts.
Mal'akh takes the information provided by Langdon and realizes that the address on the pyramid is not a literal address but instead corresponds to another type of magic square. He conducts research on
the computer and finds an article that supports this idea. Intrigued, Mal'akh begins to work out the magic square and ultimately deduces a destination that makes sense to him.
Katherine contemplates the possibility of her impending death while she waits, reflecting on a recent breakthrough in her research. She recounts an experiment where she used a high-precision microbalance scale to weigh a dying man's soul. She placed the dying man on the scale, recorded his death, and observed a change in the scale moments after his passing. Katherine shared the video of this experiment with Peter, and his reaction was a mix of happiness and grief.
Mal'akh returns, accompanied by a man in a wheelchair whom Katherine recognizes as Peter. Mal'akh proudly presents his iron knife to Peter, noting Peter's recognition of it. Mal'akh reveals that their journey together is coming to an end. He proceeds to insert a needle into a vein in Katherine's arm, intentionally leaving it unattached to anything, causing her blood to flow freely from her body. Mal'akh informs Peter that if he complies with Mal'akh's demands, they will be able to save Katherine. However, if Peter refuses, Katherine will slowly bleed to death.
Langdon experiences a sensation of weightlessness and finds himself floating. He perceives that the physical world no longer exists and believes that he may be dead.
The CIA team arrives at Mal'akh's house and immediately discovers the lifeless bodies of Agent Hartmann and an unidentified security woman in the front hallway. Not detecting any other individuals present, they commence a systematic search of the residence. Director Sato becomes increasingly frustrated upon finding evidence of a laptop belonging to Mal'akh, which he had taken with him. In the basement, Katherine can hear the presence of the CIA but is unable to draw their
attention. Meanwhile,Langdon relives the traumatic attack perpetrated by Mal'akh while he remains suspended in darkness.
Agent Simkins notices marks on the floor near a painting and suspects that it may conceal a hidden door. He calls Director Sato over, and together they manage to open the door. Langdon becomes aware of the noise generated by their entry, indicating their presence.
The sound of the CIA's entry into Mal'akh's house triggers Langdon's recollection of a lecture he attended with Peter. During the lecture, Peter discussed James Smithson, the British scientist who bequeathed a fortune to America with the condition that they establish a place for the advancement and sharing of knowledge, resulting in the creation of the Smithsonian Museum. The discussion veered towards the religious beliefs of the founding fathers and the Freemasons. Peter distinguished between religion and spiritualism, emphasizing the Freemasons' promotion of outdated superstitions and the concept of protecting the Ancient Mysteries with a password known as the verbum significatium. Peter asserted that while many cultures believe in the power of a single word to bring about enlightenment, a period of darkness would also follow. He further explained that the apocalypse signifies an unveiling rather than complete destruction.
The CIA locates Katherine and begins questioning her while tending to her wound. Director Sato is called to another room, where she identifies Langdon's clothing on the floor. She examines the tank in which Langdon was floating, realizing it is a sensory-deprivation tank filled with oxygenated perfluorocarbons. Langdon is pulled out of the tank and covered in blankets to help him regain his composure.
Katherine and Langdon are reunited, and Katherine shares her encounter with Peter. Director Sato urges Langdon to reveal Mal'akh's whereabouts, but Langdon is unable to recall the complete solution to the symbols on the bottom of the pyramid. He remembers some of the symbols but not all. Recognizing Mal'akh's collection of papers taped to the wall, Langdon realizes the importance of solving the riddle to uncover the Lost Word, the verbum significatium that supposedly safeguards the Ancient Mysteries.
As Mal'akh escorts Peter into a nearby building and leads him into an elevator, Langdon and Katherine strive to decipher the symbols on the bottom of the pyramid. Langdon manages to recall enough of the writing to deduce a term, which leads him to the code name of a building in Washington, DC: Heredom.
Mal'akh brings Peter to the Houseof the Temple, a Masonic temple in Washington, DC. They ascend to the top floor, entering the Temple Room where Mal'akh had previously celebrated his initiation into the Masons. Meanwhile, Langdon informs Director Sato that Mal'akh seeks the Lost Word and plans to inscribe it on the bare spot on his head. However, Langdon doubts that Mal'akh will find what he is looking for at the temple. As they discuss the urgency of finding Peter before Mal'akh harms him, an agent presents Director Sato with a wig containing a concealed camera. Langdon insists on accompanying Director Sato's team to rescue Peter.
Mal'akh urges Peter to reveal the location of the staircase that leads to the Lost Word. Despite Peter's denial of its existence, Mal'akh presents his findings on the symbols from the pyramid, which depict a staircase descending from a pyramid. To emphasize his point, Mal'akh reveals his own tattoos, including a staircase ascending from the small of his back
to his head. Peter comprehends the meaning behind the symbols and clues, but he realizes that disclosing the truth won't save Katherine. Simultaneously, it becomes apparent that Mal'akh intends to kill Peter, as he has prepared implements near the altar, including the iron knife.
Langdon engages in a heated argument with Director Sato regarding the landing location of the helicopter near the House of the Temple. To sway Langdon, Sato shows him the classified video that was previously shared with Warren. The video portrays Masonic ceremonies, edited to appear malevolent and sinister. Notably, the faces of several Masonic members, including politicians and high-ranking government officials, are revealed, including the CIA director. Langdon now understands the involvement of Director Sato and the CIA's Office of Security, recognizing it as a matter of national security.
Mal'akh also shows the video to Peter and initiates its upload to multiple news organizations. He offers to halt the upload if Peter discloses the location of the Lost Word. Peter attempts to delay, but as he watches the upload progress, he finally reveals a word that Mal'akh believes to be the Lost Word. Meanwhile, Director Sato tries to secure the use of an EMP gun but learns that it requires a direct line of sight to the target. In Mal'akh's house, Warren reluctantly shows Katherine something he discovered in a desk drawer, shedding light on Mal'akh's obsession with the Solomon family.
Mal'akh tattoos the Lost Wordon the top of his head using Peter's blood. Peter insists that Mal'akh keeps his promise to cease the video upload and send an ambulance for Katherine, but Mal'akh refuses. He retrieves the iron knife, believed to be the Akedah knife associated with Abraham's intended sacrifice of Isaac. Mal'akh reveals his desire for Peter to kill him in a reenactment of Abraham's unfinished sacrifice.
When Peter questions the significance of killing Mal'akh as a great sacrifice, Mal'akh reveals that he is, in fact, Zachary transformed. He discloses that he overheard Peter's conversation with the jail supervisor in Turkey, knowing that Peter chose to abandon him there. Concurrently, Katherine discovers photographs in Mal'akh's drawer, leading her to realize that Mal'akh is Zachary.
Langdon directs Agent Simkins to the House of the Temple, specifically pointing out the presence of a skylight above the Temple Room. Simkins relays this information to Director Sato, who is in close proximity aboard the helicopter.
Peter attempts to reason with Mal'akh, but the determined man remains steadfast in his plan. Mal'akh hands Peter the knife, forcing him to make a choice between Katherine's life and Zachary's. Mal'akh lies down on the altar beneath the skylight while Peter stands above him. Mal'akh continues to provoke Peter with harsh truths to incite his anger. Just as Peter raises the knife to strike, Langdon and Agent Simkins arrive. Mistakenly assuming Peter is Mal'akh, Langdon tackles him, but he soon realizes that the knife never pierced human flesh. Instead, it shatters against the stone altar. Meanwhile, a helicopter approaches the skylight, and its strut collides with the glass, causing it to shatter. Initially, Mal'akh believes that the gods have come for him, but he quickly comprehends the truth when he sees the severity of his injuries caused by the falling glass.
As Mal'akh lies dying, he overhears Langdon informing Peter that Katherine has been rescued. Peter approaches Mal'akh and strokes his head, conveying that the symbol he tattooed on his head is not the Lost Word. Peter reveals that he deceived Mal'akh by convincing him that the Lost Word was the circumpunct, a circle with a dot in the center
symbolizing the origin of all things. As Mal'akh passes away, Peter assures him that he was loved.
Warren contacts Dean Galloway to update him on the evening's events. Galloway inquires whether Langdon has discovered the truth regarding what the pyramid ledhim to, and Warren responds negatively. However, Galloway believes that Langdon will eventually uncover the truth.
Katherine enters the Temple Room and embraces her brother. Peter grieves for his son. Director Sato converses with Nola and learns that the video upload was not completed. Nola contemplates informing Sato about the attempted hacking of a document on the CIA director's network but decides it can wait.
Langdon cleans up in a restroom and encounters Katherine in the hallway. Katherine informs him that she needs to attend to something but assures him that they will see each other later. Meanwhile, Peter seeks out Langdon for a conversation.
Peter aims to convince Langdon about the reality of the Lost Word. They begin their discussion in the library of the House of the Temple, where Peter presents the magic circle with symbols from the bottom of the pyramid correctly positioned. Langdon interprets it as a representation of God, heaven, earth, and knowledge. Peter acknowledges that this interpretation is plausible but proposes another explanation if the symbols are considered as a map. He shows Langdon that the arrow on the circle points south, indicating the location of the staircase. Langdon argues that it could refer to any place south of their
current position, but Peter reveals another word that suggests a connection to another building in Washington, DC. Peter promises to show Langdon the word written on that building. Director Sato grants them permission to go there and insists on blindfolding Langdon before their departure.
Rick returns to Nola's office with an explanation regarding the nearly hacked document. He informs her about a forum run by the CIA director where employees can freely discuss various topics to boost morale. At some point, the forum had a debate about a sculpture called Kryptos, which contains an unsolved code. The document in question is an attempt by CIA employees to crack the code. There is a rumor that the artist buried the key to the code somewhere in Washington, DC, which explains why many of the keywords Katherine was searching for appeared in this document.
Peter guides Langdon inside a building and leads him along a path that leads to an elevator. Once they exit the elevator, Peter allows Langdon to remove his blindfold, revealing a dark area. Peter switches on a light and directs it toward a shaft occupied solely by a seemingly endless spiral staircase.Peter asks Langdon to look out the window, and Langdon realizes that he can see the top of the Capitol Building. It dawns on him that they are inside the pinnacle of the Washington Monument.
Langdon realizes that the final word written in the pyramid's code is the same word inscribed in tiny letters on the tip of the Washington Monument. Peter explains that true cornerstones are buried underground and some are hollow, serving as vaults for hidden treasures. He reveals that the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was buried on July 4, 1848, in a Masonic ritual and it contains the Lost Word.
Galloway reflects on how the phrase "the Word" often refers to the Bible itself. He sits with his treasured Masonic Bible, which includes not only the Old and New Testaments but also Masonic philosophical writings. Galloway believes that one day people will come to appreciate the ancient teachings and experience a significant leap forward in enlightenment.
Peter guides Langdon down the spiral staircase while discussing warnings issued by the forefathers and philosophers against interpreting the Bible too literally. He mentions Francis Bacon's coded writings about the Bible and Jefferson's reediting of the Bible to reveal its true meaning. Peter believes that the Bible was written cryptically because its information is too powerful for some people to comprehend. He asserts that the original purpose of the Bible was to teach humans how to transform themselves and recognize the divinity within them. However, Peter states that the Bible hidden in the underground cornerstone of the Washington Monument will remain inaccessible. Langdon realizes that the Washington Monument itself represents a circumpunct, a symbolic representation of the origin of all things.
Katherine discovers that her research, which she believed was destroyed in the lab explosion caused by Mal'akh, is intact due to undisclosed backups arranged by Peter. She meets with Langdon and learns that Peter went to the hospital for a check-up. Langdon shares what Peter revealed to him, and Katherine reveals that Peter had shared similar ideas with her in the past, which greatly influenced her research. Langdon and Katherine meet Warren at the Capitol Building.
Langdon and Katherine wait on a catwalk above the Capitol Rotunda,
holding an iron key given to them by Warren. They are instructed to proceed through a specific door at the end of a narrow staircase at a precise time. While they wait,Langdon and Katherine continue their conversation about the Ancient Mysteries and the potential for humans to use knowledge to transform themselves into gods, as suggested by Peter. Katherine points out instances in which interpretations of words in the Bible have misled people and suggests alternative interpretations. They discuss the idea that the human body might be a vessel for a true god. Katherine also shares her belief that once humans tap into their divine potential, they will be able to control the world through their thoughts. Langdon reflects on linguistically plural words for God and eventually drifts off to sleep.
Langdon wakes up and finds himself alone. He cautiously ascends the staircase and finds Katherine waiting near the door. As they wait for the opportune moment, Langdon contemplates the accomplishments of humankind since the time of the forefathers, speculating that the forefathers might consider humans as gods due to their technological advancements. When the right moment arrives, Langdon and Katherine witness the rising sun casting a golden glow on the tip of the Washington Monument, creating a fleeting beacon that only a few can witness. As the sun continues to rise, Langdon observes the light moving from the capstone down to the ground, symbolizing the transition from heaven to earth. Langdon feels hopeful as he reflects on his newfound knowledge and the boundless potential of humanity.