INT. RUNDSTEDT’S ESTATE – LIVING ROOM – DAY
Field Marshal Gerd von Rundstedt and his son, LEUTNANT HANS-GERD VON RUNDSTEDT, sit together in the dimly lit living room. Gerd, looking weary and tormented, shares his recent revelation.
GERD I’ve received an anonymous document. Hans, the rumors about the concentration camps…they’re true. They’re horrifyingly true.
Hans looks shocked, disbelief in his eyes.
HANS That… That can’t be. That’s… monstrous.
Gerd nods, his face pale. The weight of the truth seems to physically age him.
GERD With this information, I can’t help but think about my actions condemning those officers involved in the coup. I’ve realized, with deep regret, that they might have been right. Hitler’s decisions, the atrocities… We were blind, Hans.
Hans is silent for a moment, his mind racing.
HANS I’ve been alienated from my colleagues ever since the Court of Honor. They avoid me, refuse to cooperate. I’ve been considering a transfer, but I fear it will be the same wherever I go.
Gerd nods, his eyes filled with understanding and sympathy.
GERD I see. The fanaticism of the Waffen-SS, their blind obedience to the regime… it’s choking us. Our Fatherland is in danger, not just from the enemies outside but from within. We must find a way to side with the resistance. But how?
Hans, after a thoughtful silence, offers a suggestion.
HANS The purge couldn’t have wiped out every last resistance member. With your position and network within the Army, surely there must be some contact left. We need to be patient and dig deeper.
Gerd’s eyes light up with hope and determination. This heartfelt conversation between father and son brings a renewed sense of purpose, and the two men vow to do everything in their power to save their nation from further destruction.