AN: This is for a contest and it has the following elements (in addition to being historical in some way):
Dialogue only.
Each paragraph begins and ends with the same word.
"Is that what I think it is?"
"Yes. Well, I think it is. It's a trebuchet. It rotates and flings stones at the castle in the hopes that we can break down the walls. So if that's what you meant, then yes."
"Is it hard to use? It looks like it is."
"It isn't too hard; all you need to do is flip this lever, keep it moving and supply it with projectiles. The hardest part is rolling the stones up to it."
"That would be hard. It looks like you could use horses to pull the stones into place. Do you do that?"
"Well, we have some pretty strong guys. We only use the horses if someone gets killed off in battle, since the horses aren't as easy to use as the men. The men are more interesting conversation as well."
"I am to be executed, aren't I?"
"You will be executed. We will place your head in a net with other people's heads and fling them at your comrades in the castle. It'll be a shame, though, I liked talking to you."
"Here, I will not put up a struggle. You should kill me now so it is not so hard later. Shall I put my head here?"
"Right there is good. Hold still. If you wish to look at the sky before you die, that would be all right."
"That is a very big sword, and very rusty. Is it sharp? I think I would prefer an ax to that."
"Well, all the axes are in battle and they are duller than an executioner's sword. Besides, this does the job just as well.
"Are there any other swords you may use? I would die a happy man if there are."
"Do you not enjoy the intricate designs on this sword? It is an etching I did myself in the idle hours. It is the death of the Christ. If it is not pleasing, however, I will get another sword. Whatever you want me to do."
"Take my head swiftly then, lest I am deemed ungrateful of the promise of heaven. Oh Lord I pray my soul to take."
"Have you made your peace? I will refrain until you have."
"I have made my peace. You said I might look to the sky. May I?"
"You may. God save you."
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