monarchy amid a tumultuous revolutionary backdrop. The opening of this volume outlines the historical context of the late 1790s in France, discussing the aftermath of Robespierre's fall and the ambitions of royalists to assert influence over the government. It introduces key figures, such as Louis XVIII and his advisors, as they navigate complex relationships with foreign powers and internal factions aiming to restore monarchic rule. Daudet highlights the disarray and strife among royalist factions, as well as attempts to organize uprisings and negotiate with revolutionary leaders, setting the stage for the broader narrative of royalist aspirations and struggles during a pivotal moment in French history. (This is an automatically generated summary.)