Scene 1: A Peaceful Village
EXT. SAINT-FLORENT-DES-BOIS - DAWN
The sun crests the horizon, painting the
quaint village of Saint-Florent-des-Bois
in golden light. A rooster crows.
Children chase each other through the
village square, their laughter bright
and carefree. The imposing stone church
dominates the landscape, its spire
reaching towards the heavens. Washing
hangs from lines strung between houses,
billowing gently in the morning breeze.
The air is filled with the scent of
freshly baked bread.
FATHER MICHEL
Father Michel, a kind-faced priest in
his late fifties, emerges from the
church, a worn prayer book clutched in
his hand. He smiles gently at the
children.
Good morning, my little lambs!
The children scatter, some waving,
others bowing politely. Father Michel
adjusts his robes, a slight frown
creasing his brow.
Such joy... a fragile thing these days.
He looks towards Paris, a distant smudge
on the horizon. A villager, MARIE, a
woman in her early forties, approaches,
her face etched with worry.
MARIE
Father, have you heard? More unrest in Paris.
They say... they say they're coming for our faith.
calmly
We must pray, Marie. Pray for peace, for
understanding. Our faith is strong, it will not
be broken by whispers of rebellion.
But Father, the whispers are growing louder. And
they carry the wind of violence.
Then let our prayers be louder still. Let our
faith be our shield.
He pats her hand reassuringly, but his
eyes hold a deep concern. The church
bells begin to toll, a solemn sound that
contrasts sharply with the earlier
cheerful atmosphere.
Come, Marie. It is time for Mass.
FADE OUT.