Merciless Parliament
The Merciless Parliament convenes to prosecute and condemn the favorites of King Richard II, effectively stripping him of power and asserting the authority of the Lords Appellant. The king, seated on
Setting
Westminster Hall, the vast stone hall where Parliament convenes. The high ceilings are supported by massive oak beams, and the walls are lined with tapestries depicting royal and biblical scenes. Frost clings to the edges of the narrow windows.
Characters
Richard II
primary
A young man of 21 years, slender yet regal in bearing, with shoulder-length golden hair meticulously combed. His pale complexion contrasts with piercing blue eyes that betray a mix of defiance and vulnerability. His clean-shaven face and delicate features give him a youthful, almost ethereal appearance.
Thomas of Woodstock
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 40s with a commanding presence. His face is weathered from years of military campaigns, with a strong jawline and piercing blue eyes that seem to miss nothing. Dark brown hair, streaked with grey, is cropped short in a practical style. His hands are calloused from swordplay, and he carries himself like a seasoned warrior, though his fine clothing marks him as nobility.
Henry Bolingbroke
secondary
A well-built nobleman in his early twenties, with sharp features, a strong jaw, and piercing blue eyes that betray a sharp intellect. His dark brown hair is neatly trimmed, and his bearing is that of a man accustomed to both courtly refinement and military discipline.
Royal Guard Captain
secondary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a well-groomed beard and short-cropped dark hair. His face bears a few scars from past battles, and his piercing blue eyes scan the room with wary vigilance. His hands are calloused from years of wielding weapons.
Noble Observer
background
A middle-aged nobleman of slight build, with a sharp, angular face framed by neatly trimmed chestnut hair streaked with gray. His keen, dark eyes are watchful beneath thick brows, and a neatly kept beard adds to his dignified appearance.
Dialog
Richard II
By the grace of God's anointed, we see before us not loyal subjects... but serpents who dare coil about the throne.
Thomas of Woodstock
God's bones, nephew! A king who beggars his realm to feed favorites deserves no better than open rebuke!
Henry Bolingbroke
My liege, the Commons murmur of wasted levies and neglected defenses. These grievances... require remedy.
Richard II
Remedy? The crown shall determine what remedies are fitting... when petitioners recall their place.
Thomas of Woodstock
Your royal grandsire would have drawn steel for less! Must we name you tyrant before you'll hear reason?