The novel rests on a double foundation: symbol and source. Under the reign of Louis XIV, nothing is neutral — coats of arms speak, colours carry meaning, gestures obey a code. The Le Prévost du Barail blazon (checky or and azure, a sable griffin, a gules border charged with gold bezants) is no mere family tradition: it governs a conduct, a morality, a vigilance. Semper Vigilans.
