VolodymyrKonshin

Set in the 16th century in southern Bohemia, this poetic play follows the adventures of Kazimir, a cunning rogue who roams the world, assuming the identities of others to conceal his true self. Along his journey, he encounters a pure angel descended to Earth, embodying innocence and virtue. Contrasting this celestial being is a lustful and envious pastor, whose desires and jealousy drive much of the conflict. The story weaves a tapestry of love, hatred, and fiery passion, exploring the depths of human emotion.

Deus Vult

(Kazimir arrives at the church in Zlata Koruna, his horse's hooves echoing in the empty courtyard as he dismounts and steps forward. The heavy oak doors swing open, and he walks inside, the silence enveloping him like a shroud. Incense fills the air, mingling with soft murmurs of prayer.)

Narrator

Upon his steed with silent tread,

Kazimir's heart weighed down like lead.

Through ancient doors he crossed alone,

Where sin and faith alike are sown.

(Kazimir looks around, his gaze falling on the dark figure of Pastor Ondrej, who stands waiting by the altar, his face obscured by shadows.)

Pastor Ondrej

(with a polite but cold smile)

"Welcome, stranger, do you seek grace?

Or merely shelter in this place?"

Kazimir

(bowing slightly, his tone carefully respectful)

"A knight am I, of noble kin,

I come to seek release from sin."

(His words flow smoothly, yet there's a glint of disquiet in Pastor Ondrej's gaze, as though he sees through the knight's polished veneer.)

"Our chapel doors they welcome all,

Be they humble souls or ones who fall.

In troubled times, we guide and lead;

Our Lord accepts each broken creed."

(Kazimir studies Ondrej, feeling the unsettling, sharp gaze resting upon him, but remains composed. His eyes wander to the aisle, where a young woman, Anežka, kneels beside an elder, helping them with quiet care.)

Beside the old, she knelt in grace,

A gentle hand, a peaceful face.

Each movement filled with light so rare,

A soul untouched by darkness' snare.

(Kazimir watches, caught off guard by her serene, radiant presence. Something stirs within him—a flicker of awe and wonder.)

(murmuring under his breath)

"What strange enchantment takes my breath?

What warmth so pure defies all death?"

(He forces himself to look away, shaking off the strange feeling, but Ondrej notes his interest, a sly smile curving his lips.)

(leaning closer, voice a low murmur)

"She's new in town—a novice pure,

With spirit bright and heart demure.

A rare gem in a world so grim,

Yet naïve enough to sway and spin."

(Kazimir nods with feigned indifference, yet a spark has ignited within him, unsettling and unfamiliar. He leaves the church, but as he steps outside, the image of Anežka remains vivid in his mind.)

In silence left, the Pastor stayed,

Watching Kazimir's shadow fade.

His eyes alight, his thoughts fell keen,

To shadows of what he had seen.

(The stage darkens, leaving Pastor Ondrej alone as memories stir in his mind, giving way to an unsettling recollection of his first encounter with Anežka.)

II