her identity. The opening of the novel sets the scene in a misty cathedral where M. Victorien Ardel, a newly appointed history professor, and his daughter Pauline are exploring the architecture. While M. Ardel critiques the religious significance of the structure through a historical lens, Pauline experiences conflicting emotions; she finds both beauty and a sense of discomfort in the sacred space. Their relationship reveals layers of tension as they discuss art, religion, and familial expectations, showcasing Pauline's desire for connection in contrast to her father's cold rationalism. The novel artfully lays the groundwork for further exploration of these dynamics as Pauline encounters new friendships that challenge her views and possibly her beliefs. (This is an automatically generated summary.)