Death of Oswiu
King Oswiu of Northumbria lies on his deathbed in Ripon Monastery, surrounded by monks and nobles, as he prepares to pass from this world and reflect on his legacy.
Setting
The dimly lit inner chamber of Ripon Monastery, where King Oswiu lies on his deathbed. The stone walls are cold and damp, with faint traces of frescoes depicting biblical scenes. A small wooden cross hangs above the bed, and the room is sparsely furnished.
Characters
Oswiu
primary
An elderly man with a gaunt, pale face, his once-strong frame now withered by illness. His long white hair is matted with sweat, and his sunken eyes still hold a glimmer of their former sharpness. His hands, resting on the woolen blanket, are thin and veined, the fingers slightly curled.
Abbot Eata
primary
A man in his late fifties with a gaunt, ascetic face framed by a trimmed grey beard. His deep-set blue eyes carry the weight of spiritual authority, and his hands, though wrinkled, are steady and deliberate in their movements. His posture is slightly stooped from years of prayer and study, but his presence commands reverence.
Queen Eanflæd
secondary
A noblewoman in her late 40s, with a slender yet regal build. Her face bears the marks of both royal dignity and deep sorrow, with high cheekbones and piercing blue eyes that now glisten with unshed tears. Her once-vibrant auburn hair is streaked with gray, pulled back under a modest veil.
Monk
background
A young monk in his early twenties, slight of build with a pale complexion. His shorn brown hair is barely visible beneath his hood, and his wide, dark eyes reflect the flickering candlelight. His hands are slender but calloused from labor, now trembling slightly as he holds the candle.
Dialog
Abbot Eata
In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti... Oswiu, rex Northanhymbrorum, receive this holy unction.
Oswiu
Gratias... tibi ago, pater...
Abbot Eata
The Lord prepares a place for thee, where kings and shepherds stand as equals before His throne.
Oswiu
Eanflæd... is she near?
Abbot Eata
She stands in prayer, my lord. Shall I bring her to thee?
Oswiu
Nay... let her prayers... continue. The kingdom... will need them.
Abbot Eata
Requiem aeternam dona ei, Domine...