Expulsion of the Guelphs from Florence
The Ghibelline faction has seized control of Florence and is forcibly expelling the rival Guelphs from the city. The Ghibelline Captain stands atop the proclamation platform, reading the decree of exi
Setting
Piazza della Signoria, Florence, Italy. The grand square is framed by imposing stone buildings with high arches and crenelated rooftops. The center is dominated by the roughhewn wooden platform where political proclamations are made, now surrounded by armed Ghibelline soldiers.
Characters
Ghibelline Captain
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 40s with a weathered face marked by a long scar running from his left temple to jawline. His steely gray eyes survey the scene with military precision, and his short-cropped salt-and-pepper beard adds to his authoritative presence. His muscular build is evident even beneath his armor, and his hands are calloused from years of wielding a sword.
Guelph Noblewoman
primary
A noblewoman in her late thirties, with a slender but strong build, high cheekbones, and striking green eyes that are currently filled with tears. Her dark brown hair is partially covered by a fine silk veil, though strands have come loose in her distress.
Ghibelline Soldier
secondary
A battle-hardened foot soldier in his late twenties, with a sinewy build from years of military training. His face bears the faint scars of past skirmishes, and his hands are calloused from gripping weapons. His dark hair is cropped short under his helmet, and his piercing eyes scan the crowd with practiced vigilance.
Guelph Merchant
secondary
A middle-aged man with a sturdy build, his face weathered by years of travel and trade. His dark hair is streaked with grey, and his hands are calloused from handling goods. He has a prominent nose and deep-set eyes that burn with defiance.
Street Urchin
background
A scrawny boy of about 10 years old, with tousled dark hair and a smudged face. His sharp brown eyes dart around constantly, scanning for opportunities. His bare feet are calloused from running on cobblestones.
Dialog
Ghibelline Captain
Do not waste my time, madam. Your house is forfeit by decree of the Consiglio degli Otto.
Guelph Noblewoman
By the mercy of San Giovanni Battista, at least spare the reliquary of my grandfather! It holds no value but to our family.
Guelph Merchant
You'll take my wool over my dead body! I paid good florins for that bolt!
Ghibelline Captain
Decimate his goods, then the man if he resists. We purge this cancer from Florence.
Guelph Noblewoman
Our families broke bread together last Christmastide! Has all honor fled with this accursed victory?
Ghibelline Captain
Honor? Your Guelph dogs brought Pistoia's army to our gates. This is mercy compared to what you deserve.
Guelph Merchant
Come then, you thieving bastards! See how Florentine steel bites!