Synod of Hertford
The Synod of Hertford, convened in 673 AD, gathers church leaders under Theodore of Tarsus to debate and establish the future structure and doctrine of the English Church. The moment captures the tens
Setting
A modest yet solemn wooden church in Hertford, England, with a thatched roof and simple stone altar. The interior is dimly lit, with wooden beams supporting the structure and a dirt floor covered with scattered rushes.
Characters
Theodore of Tarsus
primary
An elderly man in his late 70s, with a tall but slightly stooped frame. His face is lined with wisdom and years of contemplation, framed by thinning white hair and a neatly trimmed beard. His eyes are sharp and observant, reflecting both kindness and authority.
King Ecgfrith of Northumbria
primary
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a warrior's build. His face is weathered from battle and courtly duties, with piercing blue eyes and a neatly-trimmed blonde beard. His hands bear callouses from swordplay.
Northumbrian Bishop
secondary
A middle-aged man with a stout build and greying hair trimmed in the monastic tonsure. His face is weathered from years of travel, with keen eyes that betray both wisdom and weariness. His hands, clasped before him, are calloused from holding both a crozier and a sword in defense of his flock.
Scribe
secondary
A middle-aged monk with a lean, wiry frame, his face marked by deep lines of concentration. His hands, though calloused from years of writing, move with practiced precision. His tonsured head is surrounded by a fringe of graying brown hair, and his eyes are sharp, constantly darting between the speakers and the parchment before him.
Guard
background
A tall, broad-shouldered man in his late 30s with a weathered face, a thick beard, and piercing blue eyes. His muscular build suggests years of combat training. He has a prominent scar running from his left temple to his cheekbone, a testament to past battles.
Dialog
Theodore of Tarsus
Brethren, we gather under God's providence to unify our church. Let us not falter in this holy task.
King Ecgfrith
Unify, aye—but under whose rule? Rome’s hand grows heavy on Northumbria’s neck.
Northumbrian Bishop
My lord, the unity of Christ’s flock strengthens all kingdoms—even as the shepherd’s crook guides the fold.
Theodore of Tarsus
Rome offers not chains, King Ecgfrith, but the bonds of apostolic tradition—as Saint Peter himself received them.
King Ecgfrith
Tradition? My warriors know another tradition—steel decides what endures.
Northumbrian Bishop
Yet even steel rusts, my king, while the word of God abideth forever.
Theodore of Tarsus
Let us pray, before tempers outpace wisdom.