The opening of the novel introduces Vernier's sordid beginnings in the alcoholic beverage industry, detailing his initial foray into wine selling and ultimately his decision to produce a highly toxic concoction targeted at alcoholics. We learn of Vernier's reckless disregard for the health of his customers, seeing monetary gain as paramount. As he begins to find success, Vernier partners with Mareuil to expand their operations, revealing a world rife with social corruption influenced by alcohol dependency. Despite the success of their business, hints of personal tragedy loom as Vernier's wife experiences foreboding about their morally questionable empire, setting the stage for a complex narrative where personal and societal downfall intertwine. (This is an automatically generated summary.)