Act One - City of the Damned — Chapter 24

David takes a taxi to Park Güell for Corelli’s invitation. At the locked gates he is menaced by three black dogs until lights flare from a nearby house, driving them off. He climbs to the angular tower at Calle Olot and San José de la Montaña and steps into a silent, sepulchral interior lined with old photographs.

Corelli appears without a sound, offers wine, and engages David in a pointed conversation about choices and satisfaction. He restates his year-old proposal: one hundred thousand francs for a year’s work on a book. Then he unveils the true brief—David must create a religion, not theology but a powerful narrative capable of governing belief and action.

David scoffs, claims ignorance, and moves to leave. Corelli presses the emotional stakes, offering to grant David what he most desires. When David refuses the money and admits he is dying with only weeks or days left, Corelli pivots, suggesting he can help cure the illness.

Unnerved by Corelli’s shifting presence yet desperate, David allows himself to be led back. Confronted with his own longing to live, he breaks down. Corelli promises help and asks for trust; David accepts the offer.

Corelli comforts him, gives a handkerchief, and urges him to rest in the house. Exhausted and lulled by dusk and wind, David remains in the armchair and drifts toward sleep, bound to Corelli’s pact.