The fascination Gras found in the heliocentric theory is left in the hands of Oczy. Clinging to faint hope in heliocentric theory, Oczy visits the brilliant, aloof monk Badeni with the stone box newly in his possession. Oczy and Badeni seek a new collaborator to help prove the theory. Also entrusted with the research of Count Piast, a luminary of the geocentric theory, Badeni digs yet deeper into his efforts to prove the heliocentric theory. But even as they each pursue their respective hopes, overwhelming despair comes creeping up to them. Collects volumes 3-4.