Robert Langdon, #2
The Da Vinci Code
by Dan Brown
Contents
CHAPTER 24
Overview
Silas locates a hollow space beneath the floor at the base of the Saint-Sulpice obelisk, believing it may conceal the keystone he seeks. Sister Sandrine secretly observes him and realizes his intrusion is a dangerous signal tied to the brotherhood.
The chapter raises the stakes by revealing that Saint-Sulpice has its own guardian and that Silas’s mission has triggered an ancient alarm, widening the conflict beyond Langdon and Sophie.
Summary
At Saint-Sulpice, Silas stands before the obelisk along the Rose Line, convinced that the keystone is hidden beneath its base. Because the information from his victims and the brothers all pointed to this spot, Silas kneels and begins testing the stone floor.
Silas finds no visible sign of a concealed tile, so he taps along the floor near the brass line. One tile gives back a hollow sound, confirming to Silas that something lies beneath it and that his victims told the truth.
Driven by the discovery, Silas rises and searches the sanctuary for an object strong enough to break the floor tile. His mission has shifted from searching to forced entry.
Above him in the balcony, Sister Sandrine secretly watches and realizes the visitor is not merely an Opus Dei monk. His actions confirm her fears that he has come to Saint-Sulpice for a hidden purpose.
Sister Sandrine is revealed to be more than the church’s caretaker: she is a sentry connected to the brotherhood. Silas’s presence at the obelisk signals to her that an ancient emergency protocol has begun, a silent call of distress.
Who Appears
- SilasSearches Saint-Sulpice’s Rose Line and finds a hollow tile beneath the obelisk.
- Sister Sandrine BieilSecretly watches Silas and is revealed as a brotherhood sentry.