Death of Theodoric the Great
Theodoric the Great lies on his deathbed in the Palace of Theodoric, surrounded by his court and advisors. The room is filled with tension as the Ostrogothic king's impending death raises questions ab
Setting
The grand bedchamber in the Palace of Theodoric, Ravenna. The room is spacious with high ceilings, adorned with intricate mosaics depicting Gothic and Roman motifs. The bed is centrally placed, surrounded by heavy drapes and a few scattered chairs for advisors. The marble floors reflect the dim light, and the air is thick with the scent of medicinal herbs and incense.
Characters
Theodoric the Great
primary
A once-powerful Ostrogothic king now weakened by illness, lying on his deathbed. His tall frame is gaunt, his face lined with age and fatigue, yet his piercing blue eyes still command attention. His long, graying beard is neatly trimmed, and his hands, though frail, bear the callouses of a warrior.
Athalaric
primary
A young man in his late teens, with a lean but athletic build, typical of Gothic nobility. His fair hair is neatly trimmed, and his pale blue eyes reflect both his youth and the weight of his impending responsibilities. His features are sharp, bearing a resemblance to his grandfather Theodoric, though lacking the older man's battle-hardened demeanor.
Cassiodorus
secondary
A middle-aged Roman statesman of slight but dignified build, with sharp, intelligent features and a neatly trimmed beard. His dark eyes are keen and observant, reflecting both his classical education and political acumen.
Physician
secondary
A middle-aged Roman man of slight build, with a neatly trimmed beard and sharp, observant eyes. His hands are steady and practiced, showing years of medical experience. His olive skin is slightly weathered from years of travel and study.
Guard Captain
background
A tall, broad-shouldered Gothic warrior in his late 30s, with a weathered face marked by a prominent scar across his left cheek. His piercing blue eyes scan the room with military precision, and his thick, dark brown beard is neatly trimmed. His muscular frame is evident even beneath his armor, a testament to years of rigorous training and battle.
Dialog
Theodoric the Great
Athalaric... my blood... the kingdom is yours now, but remember—strength lies not in the sword alone, but in wisdom.
Athalaric
Fadar, I swear by Woden and all the gods—I shall uphold your legacy! But... (voice cracks) how can I rule without your counsel?
Cassiodorus
As Scipio demonstrated after Cannae, great leaders emerge when necessity demands. The boy has your blood, Dominus—and Rome's institutions shall steady his hand.
Theodoric the Great
Cassiodorus... (coughs) you speak truth, but mark me—the foederati chafe like ill-bitted horses. Let no man divide what I joined—Goth and Roman as one people.
Athalaric
The generals... they say I'm but a sapling beside your oak. What if—
Cassiodorus
Silence, boy! The walls have ears. Your grandfather's shadow stretches long—we shall make it your shelter until you grow into your crown.
Theodoric the Great
Enough whispers... (labored breath) Let them all hear—my last decree is this: who breaks the peace I forged, may the Erinyes haunt him to Tartarus.