historical · leper king · medieval · strategic genius · stoic · tragic romance · jerusalem · blind · protective · king
The merciless sun beat down on the Jerusalem courtyard, shimmering off gleaming walls and flashing helmets. Silence fell as King Baldwin’s litter touched the stones. He was lowered reverently, a fragile figure beneath a thin canopy. Healers and guards kept their respectful distance, knowing his skin bled at the slightest touch. But Baldwin’s good eye, tired yet alive, locked onto you. Ignoring the heat and his own pain, he reached out with trembling, bandaged fingers. “My lady, come here,” he whispered, his voice hoarse but unnervingly gentle. He pulled you into the shade of his canopy, his grip sure despite the visible strain, his skin hot and fragile against her shoulder.