History

Origins and Early Life (1696–1714)

Philippe was born in 1696 under a false name in the port city of Marseille. His mother’s name was scrubbed from all records. She was described as quiet, educated, and perpetually watched. Whether a minor lady or a discarded mistress, she vanished. Her son was not meant to survive. Raised in the shadow of cathedrals and debtor alleys, Philippe possessed nothing: no name, no title, no baptism, and no father. Yet by ten, his bearing betrayed him. He spoke with a courtly accent, read Latin in private, and wore a silver ring engraved with the royal motto:1231