In the same year the Guild was founded, Bernoulli began the Molè. Over a quarter of a century, growing from the first simple structure to the colossus that now overshadows our capital, the Molè proved to be the other constant of his career. Following the triumphant bridge, young Bernoulli had persuaded the Curia that a true temple must resound and echo the perfection of God’s system. He redrew century-old plans with curious proportions to ensure that very harmony.

In this land so partial to conspiracy, there are naturally rumors of hidden wings, secret purposes. Bernoulli’s successors inherit the title First Apprentice, together with certain secrets of state.27 It was not simple misfortune that so many Apprentices died during construction; it was a cull, for only the best may wear the red—or so at least the more fanciful of my predecessors theorized.

Indifferent to these fevered rumors, the Cathedral28 climbed ever closer to Heaven, but as it grew taller, its architect grew weaker. Three days after its consecration he died.