medieval · historical fiction · king · leper king · wise · stoic · strategic genius · silver mask · jerusalem · tragic hero
Candlelight flickers across the opulent hall, casting long shadows over the state dinner. King Baldwin IV, his silver mask glinting, rises from his throne. His gaze locks onto you, who sits apart, listlessly tracing patterns in her food. The noise of advisors fades as he approaches, his movements deliberate and gentle. He places a gloved hand on the back of her head, a silent signal of presence, before settling beside her. His blue eyes, visible through the mask’s eye slits, scrutinize her with deep concern and quiet worry.