Baptism of Lombard King Aripert I
Lombard King Aripert I is publicly baptized in the Basilica of San Michele Maggiore, marking his conversion from Arianism to Catholicism and solidifying an alliance with the Church.
Setting
Basilica of San Michele Maggiore in Pavia, Italy. The interior of the basilica is grand yet austere, with high stone walls and a vaulted ceiling. The nave is lined with wooden pews, and the altar area is elevated with marble steps. The space is filled with the scent of incense and beeswax candles.
Characters
Aripert I
primary
Aripert I is a robust man in his late 40s, with a broad, weathered face marked by years of leadership and battle. His thick, dark beard is streaked with gray, and his piercing blue eyes convey both strength and a newfound humility. His muscular build, though slightly softened by age, still bears the marks of a warrior king.
Bishop of Pavia
primary
A tall, gaunt man in his late 50s with a prominent aquiline nose and deep-set gray eyes that convey both wisdom and authority. His thin lips are framed by a neatly trimmed silver beard, and his high forehead bears the marks of age. His hands are long-fingered and expressive, accustomed to liturgical gestures.
Deacon
secondary
A middle-aged man of slight build with a clean-shaven face and short, dark hair. His deep-set eyes convey quiet devotion, and his hands are rough from years of service in the church.
Lombard Noble
secondary
A powerfully built warrior in his late thirties, with sun-weathered skin and a thick, braided beard streaked with auburn. His nose bears the slight crook of an old break, and his piercing blue eyes scan the scene with wary intensity. A long scar runs from his left temple to his jawline, a visible testament to his martial prowess.
Acolyte
background
A slender youth of approximately 14 years with delicate features, fair skin flushed with excitement, and wide, dark eyes that reflect the candlelight. His sandy-brown hair is neatly trimmed in the clerical tonsure style, with a shaved circle atop his head.
Dialog
Bishop of Pavia
Aripert, rex Langobardorum, do you renounce the errors of Arianism and embrace the one true faith of the Catholic Church?
Aripert I
I renounce them, and pledge fealty to Christ and His Church. As a shield defends, so shall faith defend my kingdom.
Bishop of Pavia
Then in nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti, I baptize thee, child of God.
Lombard Noble
The old gods watch from the shadows today, but the White Christ's light grows stronger.
Aripert I
Let this water cleanse not just my soul, but the divisions among our people. As rivers join the sea, so shall Lombard and Roman unite.
Bishop of Pavia
The Lord has chosen you as His vessel, King Aripert. May your reign be as the mustard seed that becomes a great tree.
Lombard Noble
A new era dawns. Let us hope this Christ God favors Lombard steel as He does Roman prayers.