Monarchs and counsellors. Idealism and cunning. Loyalty and deception. Such are the intrigues of kingship and power. Richard II, once innocent boy king, is now 31 and has claimed control from his former councillors. Accusations fly between his cousin Henry Bolingbroke and Thomas Mowbray and they decide to resolve matters in a duel. Fearing Henry’s popularity, Richard commands their banishment - the first of several decisions that will lead to his ultimate downfall.