opening of the novel introduces Thor as he contemplates his homeland while traveling back to Germany. He is weighed down by the memories of war and loss, having had to leave behind his wife and child during turbulent times. Upon arriving in Hanover, he unexpectedly reunites with an old friend, Jacob Grotthauser, who shares his own experiences since the war. Through their conversation, the stark contrast between their lives—a military hero versus an industrialist—is revealed, hinting at Thor's internal conflict regarding duty and personal life. The narrative sets the stage for an exploration of the characters' pasts, their damaged relationships, and the broader challenges facing Germany as it rebuilds from defeat. (This is an automatically generated summary.)