HENRY II, King of England – 50, strong, active, concerned about which of his sons will succeed him.

ELEANORE OF ACQUITAINE, Henry’s wife – Mature, beautiful, mother of Henry’s sons and his equal in royal intrigue.

RICHARD LIONHEART, The oldest son – 26, A great warrior, ambitious, eager to succeed his father.

GEOFFREY, The middle son – 25, Highly intelligent, a plotter, feels he is overlooked.

JOHN, The youngest son – Late teens, more innocent than his brothers, Henry’s favorite.

PHILIP, King of France – Youthful, attractive, accustomed to the intrigue surrounding 12th Century monarchs.

ALAIS, A French Princess – 23, lovely, Henry’s mistress and in love with him.