Substratum Field Theory: Living Geometry, First-Principles Derivations, Trans-Dimensional Navigation, and Nine Falsifiable Predictions

Substratum Field Theory (SFT) is a dynamical scalar extension of Causal Horizon Cosmology that introduces twelve key innovations: Living Geometry: The AdS length scale L emerges dynamically from the Ω-field vacuum expectation value via L_eff = L₀ exp(-β⟨Ω⟩/2). First-Principles Derivations: μ_bulk = -(1+1/π)β₀² derived from 5D perturbation theory. Cosmological Anomaly Resolution: σ₈ tension (predicts 0.73-0.78), void lensing anomaly (G_eff/G = 1.18), partial Hubble tension resolution. DESI-Compatible Dark Energy: w₀ ≈ -0.97, w_a ≈ -0.06 from slow-roll dynamics. Nine Falsifiable Predictions: Including unique cross-correlation signature ρ_cross = 0.88. Trans-Dimensional Navigation Physics: Honest distance threshold (>10¹⁵ ly), energy requirements (10³³-10⁴³ J), topological flux tethering for throat stabilization. Swampland Compatibility: All four conjectures satisfied. Key message: "To traverse the cosmos, we need not move faster. We need only learn to move orthogonally."