In "The Beekeeper's Apprentice" by Laurie R. King, a character encounters a coded message represented by the sequence XVXVI or 10-5-10-5-1, which translates to the letters H-E-H-E-A. The meaning behind this sequence eludes her, as it doesn't convey any sensible or coherent message. Rather than providing clarity, it appears to invoke confusion and perhaps mockery.
This cryptic passage showcases the intricacies of codes and ciphers, highlighting how they can often lead to misunderstandings. The character's struggle to find meaning underscores the themes of communication and the challenges of interpretation that run throughout the narrative, reflecting on the broader complexities of language and human interaction.