Death of Alberic
Alberic of Cîteaux, a revered monastic leader and co-founder of the Cistercian Order, lies on his deathbed in the infirmary of Molesme Abbey. The monks gather around him, offering prayers and witnessi
Setting
The infirmary of Molesme Abbey, a small, dimly lit room with stone walls and a vaulted ceiling. The space is sparsely furnished, with a narrow bed at its center where Alberic lies, surrounded by a few monks. The room is adjacent to the abbey's cloister, with a small window allowing the last light of the evening to filter in.
Characters
Alberic of Cîteaux
primary
A gaunt elderly man with deep-set eyes and a prominent nose, his skin pale and translucent from illness. His white hair is thin and wispy, his hands bony with prominent veins. His lips are dry and cracked, and his breathing is shallow and labored.
Prior
primary
A gaunt middle-aged monk with a deeply lined face, sharp cheekbones, and piercing blue eyes that reflect both wisdom and severity. His hands are rough from years of manual labor and prayer, yet move with precision during the sacred rites.
Novice Monk
secondary
A slender young man in his late teens with a closely shaved tonsure and delicate features. His pale complexion suggests he spends most of his time indoors, and his large, earnest eyes reflect both reverence and nervousness. His hands are smooth, showing little sign of hard labor yet.
Infirmarian
secondary
A middle-aged monk with a lean, wiry frame and hands roughened by years of preparing herbs and tending to the sick. His face is gaunt with deep-set eyes that reflect both fatigue and quiet devotion. His tonsured head shows signs of graying hair at the edges.
Dialog
Prior
Per istam sanctam unctionem... May the Lord pardon thee all thy sins, Brother Alberic.
Alberic of Cîteaux
Deo gratias... The weight lifts, Brother Prior... Like millstones removed from my shoulders.
Prior
Remember Cîteaux, Father. The vineyard you planted must not wither. Who shall tend the vines when you are called to God's bosom?
Alberic of Cîteaux
The Rule... the Holy Rule will guide them... As the stars guide sailors...
Prior
(clears throat sharply) Novice! The paxbread - bring it now, and do not fumble the paten as you did at Matins.
Alberic of Cîteaux
Softly, Brother Prior... Even the sparrow's fall is noted...