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FACT:

All art, architecture,

locations, science, and

religious organizations in

this novel are real

PROLOGUE

AS THE ANCIENT cogwheel train clawed its way up the dizzying incline, Eded mountaintop above him In the distance, built into the face of a sheer cliff, the ically fused to the vertical precipice

This timeless sanctuary in Catalonia, Spain, had endured the relentless pull of gravity for inal purpose: to insulate its occupants from the modern world

Ironically, they will now be the first to learn the truth, Kirsch thought, wondering how they would react Historically, the erous ods beca spear into a hornets’ nest

When the train reached thefor him on the platform The wizened skeleton of a man was draped in the traditional Catholic purple cassock and white rochet, with a zucchetto on his head Kirsch recognized his host’s rawboned features froe of adrenaline

Valdespino is greeting me personally

Bishop Antonio Valdespino was a forure in Spain—not only a trusted friend and counselor to the king himself, but one of the country’s most vocal and influential advocates for the preservation of conservative Catholic values and traditional political standards

“Edmond Kirsch, I assume?” the bishop intoned as Kirsch exited the train

“Guilty as charged,” Kirsch said, s as he reached out to shake his host’s bony hand “Bishop Valdespino, I want to thank you for arranging this ”

“I appreciate your requesting it” The bishop’s voice was stronger than Kirsch expected—clear and penetrating, like a bell “It is not often we are consulted by men of science, especially one of your prominence This way, please”

As Valdespino guided Kirsch across the platform, the cold mountain air whipped at the bishop’s cassock

“I must confess,” Valdespino said, “you look different than I i a scientist, but you’re quite …” He eyed his guest’s sleek Kiton K50 suit and Barker ostrich shoes with a hint of disdain “‘Hip,’ I believe, is the word?”

Kirsch so