The story, set in 1662, revolves around the musketeers Athos, Porthos, and Aramis as they navigate the complexities of the French monarchy. King Louis XIV, portrayed as selfish and womanizing, is more concerned with his own interests than the welfare of his people. The musketeers, who had retired, are drawn back in when they discover that the king is not fit to rule and plan to replace him with his twin brother, Philippe, who has been imprisoned and forced to wear an iron mask to conceal his identity.
As the story unfolds, the musketeers work to free Philippe and eventually succeed in switching him with the king. However, their plan is soon discovered, and they must fight to survive against the king's army. In a surprising twist, it is revealed that the musketeer D'Artagnan is the father of both Louis and Philippe, the result of an affair with the queen.
Ultimately, the musketeers emerge victorious, and Louis is imprisoned, forced to wear the iron mask. Philippe becomes the new king and vows to be a just ruler. The story concludes with the musketeers being hailed as heroes, and D'Artagnan passing away, content in the knowledge that he fought for what was right.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The story takes place in 1662 in Paris, governed by Louis XIV.
2. Three musketeers, Athos, Aramis, and Porthos, are now retired and living with their son Raoul.
3. D'Artagnan is the King's personal guard and the only musketeer who is not retired.
4. The King orders Aramis to find the leader of the Jesuits and kill him.
5. The musketeers meet secretly to discuss a plan to replace the King with his twin brother, Philippe.
6. Philippe is the rightful heir to the throne, but was hidden away by the King due to fear of family conflicts.
7. The musketeers plan to replace the King with Philippe at a party.
8. The plan is successful, and Philippe becomes the new King.
9. The former King, Louis, is imprisoned and forced to wear an iron mask.
10. D'Artagnan reveals that he is the father of both Louis and Philippe, and that he had an affair with the Queen.
11. The musketeers fight against the King's army, and D'Artagnan is killed.
12. Louis is imprisoned and forced to wear the iron mask, while Philippe becomes the new King.
13. Philippe promises to always see Athos as a father figure.
14. Louis receives a royal pardon and lives quietly in the countryside.
15. Philippe becomes a just and fair King, loved by his people.