Execution of Simon Sudbury and Robert Hales
The execution of Simon Sudbury, Archbishop of Canterbury, and Robert Hales, Treasurer of England, by the rebels during the Peasants' Revolt. The courtyard of the Tower of London is filled with a volat
Setting
The courtyard of the Tower of London, a vast stone enclosure surrounded by towering walls and battlements. The cobblestone ground is uneven, worn by years of foot traffic and weather. A makeshift execution platform has been erected in the center, hastily constructed from rough-hewn wood. The air is thick with the scent of sweat, blood, and damp stone.
Characters
Simon Sudbury
primary
A man in his late 60s, portly with a pale complexion. His once well-groomed appearance is now disheveled, his face lined with age and fear. His gray hair is matted with sweat, and his hands tremble slightly.
Robert Hales
primary
A middle-aged man of slight build, with thinning brown hair and a gaunt face marked by deep-set eyes and a prominent nose. His hands, once accustomed to counting coins, now tremble slightly with fear. His skin is pale from years spent indoors managing the kingdom's finances.
Rebel Leader
secondary
A burly man in his late 30s with a weathered face marked by deep lines from years of labor and hardship. His dark, unkempt beard is flecked with grey, and his piercing brown eyes burn with righteous fury. His hands are calloused and strong, accustomed to wielding tools—and now weapons.
Rebel Soldier
secondary
A burly man in his late 20s with a weather-beaten face, unkempt brown hair, and a thick beard. His muscular build speaks of years of hard labor, while his calloused hands grip his weapon with practiced ease. A fresh scar runs across his left cheekbone, a recent battle wound.
Tower Guard
background
A middle-aged man of solid build, with a weathered face marked by years of service. His short-cropped hair and beard are streaked with grey, and his eyes are sharp but weary. His posture suggests a lifetime of discipline, though his shoulders slump slightly under the weight of failure.
Dialog
Simon Sudbury
Deus miserere mei... O Lord, into Thy hands I commend my spirit, though this rabble knows not what they do.
Robert Hales
This is no proper reckoning, Simon. They take our heads without tally or audit.
Rebel Leader
Proper? Ye bled us dry with yer cursed taxes—now ye'll pay in blood! Bring 'em to the block!
Simon Sudbury
If you must take my life, at least allow me to shrive this poor soul beside me. Even the thief on the cross was granted—
Rebel Leader
Silence, priest! No last rites for tax-lords. The axeman waits!
Robert Hales
Then let it be swift. Even a beggar's debt comes due.
Rebel Leader
Aye—and paid in full this day!