The narrative unfolds around a young man, Victorien, who becomes embroiled in the mysterious and tragic events surrounding his uncle, Noel Dorgeroux, a brilliant inventor. The story begins with Victorien's return to his uncle's home, where he finds his uncle in a state of distress, consumed by a groundbreaking discovery involving strange geometrical figures he refers to as "the Three Eyes." These figures seem to possess a life of their own, and Noel believes they are connected to a series of extraordinary visions he has witnessed. As the plot progresses, Victorien becomes increasingly entangled in the mystery, which involves his uncle's goddaughter, Berangere, and a shadowy figure named Theodore Massignac. The narrative reveals that Berangere has been living with Noel since childhood, and her relationship with Victorien is complicated by his growing feelings for her and the secrets surrounding her past. Noel's experiments culminate in a series of public demonstrations of his invention, which draw crowds eager to witness the miraculous projections that appear on the wall of his yard. However, the excitement is marred by tragedy when Noel is murdered, and Berangere goes missing. Victorien is left to unravel the mystery of her disappearance and the circumstances surrounding his uncle's death. The story takes a darker turn as Victorien discovers that Massignac, who has been posing as Berangere's father, is involved in a conspiracy to exploit Noel's invention for profit. The tension escalates as Victorien races against time to save Berangere and uncover the truth behind the apparitions, which are revealed to be more than mere projections; they are connected to a deeper, possibly supernatural phenomenon. As the narrative unfolds, Victorien grapples with themes of love, betrayal, and the quest for truth. The climax builds towards the grand opening of the amphitheater, where the public is eager to witness the spectacle that Noel's invention promises. However, the event is fraught with danger, as the forces behind the conspiracy threaten to overshadow the legacy of Noel Dorgeroux. Ultimately, the story explores the intersection of science and the unknown, the consequences of ambition, and the lengths to which individuals will go to protect their secrets and those they love. The resolution remains ambiguous, leaving readers to ponder the implications of the discoveries made and the fates of the characters involved.
By Maurice LeBlanc · First published 1919 · Genre: Mystery, Adventure, Crime · 19 chapters