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.

FATHER MICHEL

Good morning, my little lambs!

The children scatter, some waving,

others bowing politely. Father Michel

adjusts his robes, a slight frown

creasing his brow.

FATHER MICHEL

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.

FATHER MICHEL

calmly

We must pray, Marie. Pray for peace, for

understanding. Our faith is strong, it will not

be broken by whispers of rebellion.

MARIE

But Father, the whispers are growing louder. And

they carry the wind of violence.

FATHER MICHEL

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.

FATHER MICHEL

Come, Marie. It is time for Mass.

FADE OUT.