Robert Langdon, #2
The Da Vinci Code
by Dan Brown
Contents
CHAPTER 51
Overview
After escaping Vernet, Langdon and Sophie assess the danger of holding the keystone and realize the Priory may be compromised, leaving them without a safe way to return it. Sophie tests the cryptex unsuccessfully, confirming that Saunière's puzzle remains unsolved.
Langdon decides they need expert help and directs Sophie toward Sir Leigh Teabing, a wealthy Grail scholar near Versailles. The decision shifts their flight from improvisation toward a risky appeal to an outside authority who may unlock the meaning of the Grail.
Summary
Langdon drives the damaged armored truck through deserted roads while its dangling front bumper throws sparks. Sophie, shaken by Vernet's betrayal, questions whether Vernet only wanted to protect his bank or may have wanted the keystone for himself. Langdon argues that people usually pursue the Grail either from naïve devotion or because they know the truth and feel threatened by it.
Langdon pulls over to remove the bumper before the truck attracts attention. While inspecting the wrecked front end, Langdon reflects that the report of three additional murders means the Priory of Sion has likely been infiltrated or compromised. Because Saunière may have entrusted the keystone to outsiders for that reason, Langdon concludes that he and Sophie cannot safely return it to the brotherhood.
While Langdon works outside, Sophie studies the rosewood box and cryptex. Remembering her grandfather's habit of tests and riddles, Sophie tries several five-letter solutions, including GRAIL, VINCI, and VOUTE, but the cryptex remains sealed. Sophie realizes Saunière likely included Langdon because she lacks the knowledge to understand the keystone alone, though that has made Langdon a target as well.
Once they are driving again, Langdon proposes seeking help from Sir Leigh Teabing, a wealthy former British Royal Historian living near Versailles. Langdon explains that Teabing has devoted his life to the Holy Grail, moved to France to search for the Priory keystone, and may be able to help them interpret the cryptex. Sophie worries that Teabing could betray them, especially once Fache publicizes their faces, but Langdon insists Teabing is trustworthy, rich enough not to need a reward, and hostile to French authorities.
Langdon recalls working with Teabing on a BBC documentary that presented a controversial alternate history of the Grail, confirming Teabing's expertise and obsession. Sophie remains cautious about how much to reveal, so Langdon suggests using Teabing's home first as a refuge and only deciding later whether to disclose the keystone. Sophie identifies Château Villette as nearby, and they head there, with Langdon promising that Teabing can explain the Grail better than anyone outside the Priory.
Who Appears
- Robert LangdonRemoves the truck bumper, assesses Priory infiltration, and proposes seeking Teabing's help.
- Sophie NeveuQuestions Vernet's motives, tests cryptex passwords, and cautiously agrees to visit Teabing.
- Sir Leigh TeabingAbsent but introduced as a wealthy Grail scholar and potential refuge near Versailles.
- André VernetRecently betrayed them; his motives are debated as they flee.
- Bezu FacheRemains the pursuing police threat likely to publicize Langdon and Sophie's identities.
- Jacques SaunièreHis choices guide Sophie and Langdon, suggesting he trusted outsiders with the keystone.